Volunteers from SuperByte helped plant 400 trees as part of the Severn Rivers Trust work with the SVWMS
Around 400 mixed native woodland trees have been planted in the Guilsfield area through the Severn Valley Water Management Scheme demonstrator programme.
The Severn Rivers Trust, which is delivering the SVWMS project to use nature-based solutions to help inform a new water management strategy for the upper Severn, collaborated with staff from a Shrewsbury firm to plant the woodland.
The software company, SuperByte, brought a team of employees, directors, and staff to plant the trees at Tirnewydd Farm, Guilsfield.
The new woodland, planted on the site of a previous ancient woodland, will serve as a valuable wildlife habitat and a natural flood management solution. The trees will intercept overland flow from rainfall, directing the water through their root systems into the underlying soil, helping to slow down the transfer of rainfall in the upper River Severn valley.
SuperByte’s director and founder, Simon Russell, said:-
“SuperByte’s health and well-being environmental volunteering day went really well and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.
“There was some real pride in our effort knowing the woodland we helped to create will grow a valuable wildlife habitat and natural flood management solution.”
Severn Rivers Trust catchment officer Dewi Morris and catchment assistant Charlotte Davies oversaw the planting.
Dewi added:-
“SuperByte’s staff had a great day out and quickly and efficiently planted a wonderful woodland fuelled by their enthusiasm, teamwork, and the hot drinks and loads of homemade cake!”
The new woodland at Tirnewydd Farm has been planted as part of one of the SVWMS’ eight demonstrator projects, managed by Shropshire Council.
The project is using natural flood management to reduce flood risk to a number of homes as well as the B4392 and A490 roads. It will also provide information on the economic benefits of soil and water management on rural land.
Working with landowners it has provided helpful learning and information on the potential value of future environmental management within farm businesses.
The results and learnings from the project will be vital to developing the wider SVWMS which will incorporate catchment-based approaches to reduce flood risk for up to 3,000 properties and 1,000 businesses across the upper and middle Severn.
About SVWMS: The SVWMS, is a partnership between the EA, Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council and Shropshire Council with the intention to tackle flooding, support thriving communities and create resilient environments through sustainable and holistic water management.
About Severn Rivers Trust: The Severn Rivers Trust is dedicated to the conservation, restoration, and sustainable management of the River Severn and its catchment. Through collaborative efforts and community engagement, the Trust aims to enhance the natural environment and improve the resilience of local communities to flooding.
