This funding is not new, it was initially announced as part of George Osborne’s Spring budget in 2016, however the precise locations for the spending have now been announced. A list and map showing the locations can be found on CaBA's website.
The NFU recognise that there is a place for Natural Flood Management (NFM), but full, early and active engagement with farmers is vital. Discussions with farmers are needed to understand how measures may be able to work alongside pre-existing farm practices and so that discussions and agreements can be sought on where NFM implementation may be viable within the catchment.
Crucially, many academic studies have recently shown that NFM is not the silver bullet or panacea solution and will never be able to replace more traditional flood risk structures or river maintenance. It is vital that the schemes implemented under this £15m are monitored to measure any impact they have on downstream flow regimes. This is so that a fuller and more accurate picture can be built of the relative efficacy of NFM to reduce downstream flood risk.
The NFU has produced a member-only briefing outlining some of the wider considerations for any member choosing to get involved in NFM. This briefing covers issues such as BPS eligibility, riparian rights and responsibilities and liability.
For any further questions, contact NFU’s CallFirst: 0370 845 8458