The Water Meadows
The water meadows are unique and provide a valuable habitat for birds, small mammals, and plants from small aquatic species to mature trees. We have been using computer modelling to survey the area and from the results, this is the most suited location for the works.
Water Quality
Previously we would have removed silt and put it along the banks, which means when a high flow event comes through, the water is constrained and therefore bypasses the filter and flows down into the Queen Pool. This reduces the water quality so it is our aim to intercept the water before it reaches the Pool.
The Project
This project is unique, and we have developed it alongside the Environment Agency, Thames Water and the Evenlode Catchment Partnership. Working collaboratively has allowed us to share learnings which creates better outcomes and a more sustainable, long-term solution.
We’re enhancing the natural processes of the landscape to treat the water in a natural way. When the water is slowed down it will mean the flood won’t be as severe.
The Actions
We will create an area of wetland habitat by blocking the man made drain (previously used for agricultural grazing) at dipwell 1. This will increase the bio diversity of the area with the creation of new habitats, encouraging new species.
- Locking up sediment
- Cycle many more nutrients
- Will lock up more carbon (wetlands are much more effective at carbon storage than trees)