Evaluating the multiple functions of woodlands for Natural Flood Management.

Natural Flood Management (NFM) is gaining popularity as a tool to help reduce flood risk, particularly in areas where cost-benefit analysis does not support large engineering schemes. NFM works by enhancing natural processes to increase below ground infiltration, water storage above and below ground and slow the flow of water within channels through a range of different measures e.g. leaky barriers in river channels, woodland planting on catchment hillslopes. However, the evidence base to support NFM measures is variable, and particularly gaps exist on how effective different measures are in lowland groundwater dominated catchments compared to upland surface water dominated catchments where most research has been carried out to date. This project aims to improve our understanding of NFM measures within the West Thames area by working on evaluating three community based NFM projects that are currently setting up new NFM schemes.

The specific objectives are to explore the multi-functions of woodlands in NFM, specifically:
• Evaluate the impact of woody leaky barriers on peak flow using field monitoring data
• Evaluate the impact of woodlands on infiltration and soil water storage
• Assess the role of community engagement and knowledge in NFM project design, delivery and monitoring for evaluation.

Training. This project has been funded to enhance work currently underway for the NERC LANDWISE project. The student will join a team of field technicians, post-doctoral research assistants and project scientists working on the project who will provide additional support and training. The student will be trained in field work, particularly state-of-the art flow monitoring equipment and flow gauging, and land-based measurements of soil and vegetation hydrology. Further training in data analysis, participatory methods and public engagement will also be provided.