'Natural' approach to tackle flood risk in Leeds

A trial has been completed at Marlfield Farm, Earby, as a pilot project within Leeds Flood Alleviation Scheme, on using natural flood management techniques to help protect Leeds and those living near the River Aire from the risk of flooding.

A team from the Environment Agency worked with the River Stewardship Company and Marlfield Farm on the border of Yorkshire and Lancashire, since last September, to slow the flow of rainwater and provide better habitat for wildlife.

Works included wetland creation, hedge and tree planting, leaky barrier installation and fencing off corners of fields from grazing so that more vegetation grows, to store and slow the flow of water across land.

Farmers interested in installing NFM measures on their own land toured the site, to see the schemes in action.

Jenny Barlow, flood risk adviser with the Environment Agency, said a time-lapse camera recorded how new measures slowed the flow of water during storms Ciara and Denis.

She said: “We are grateful to landowners for working with us to trial these NFM techniques and delighted as the initial results at Marlfield Farm are positive.

"This project will contribute to local flood risk reduction and provide wider environmental benefits, slowing the flow of water locally and to downstream communities including Leeds.

“Natural Flood Management also offers huge potential for climate mitigation, for example, creating wetlands, restoring uplands and planting trees can help to capture tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere.”

Landowners interested in the project should email: [email protected]