She writes:
A few weeks after the flood scare which caused thousands to be evacuated as the threat of a tidal surge swept down the East Coast, the NFU launched its 2017 Flooding Manifesto at a high-profile event in Westminster.
Attended by MPs, the Environment Agency, Natural England, ADA (Association of Drainage Authorities) and interested NGOs, the launch set out the manifesto’s key priorities and principle asks of government and others in the creation of future flood management strategy.
Opening the meeting NFU Deputy President Minette Batters praised the emergency services and the EA’s quick response and preparations ahead of the tidal surge. In relation to the 2015 winter floods, she pointed out that this was just one in a ‘succession of storms’ which have brought ‘unprecedented damage’ to many homes and families across the country. She supported calls for a broader, longer-term flood management strategy which acknowledges the importance of the farming sector in mitigating flood risk to settlements, and applauded the work of regional groups such as the North Level District Drainage Board which recognises the importance of combining good drainage, the environment and food production in alleviating flood risk.
The highlight of the event was undoubtedly an incredibly moving account of one farmer’s experience of the destruction caused by Storm Desmond in 2015. Following the storm, Cumbrian farmer Steve Dunning has taken the decision to rebuild his farm house and buildings on higher ground. This is in response to the floods and a consequential land slide which caused huge damage and endangered the lives of his family and livestock. Mr Dunning took this drastic measure to ensure his farm business is more resilient and sustainable for future generations. He calls for joined up thinking amongst relevant parties and agencies to aid future flood prevention and help limit the cost of flood clear up – in just the first week following the storm Mr Dunning spent in excess of £23,000.
During the panel discussion this call for joined up thinking amongst government, drainage boards, farmers, water companies and NGOs was strongly reiterated alongside catchment based delivery and practical, low-cost solutions to flood management. Neil Parish, MP and Chair of the EFRA Committee (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs), called for government departments to work closely together and with local government to help alleviate flood risk and ensure support gets to the areas where it is needed most.
With all parties in agreement over the need for closer union and focused support, the overall impression of the launch was one of positivity and coordination moving forwards.