Nature-based solutions such as the construction of leaky dams are central to the SVWMS demonstrator programme managed by Shropshire Council
The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme team will be at this year’s Shropshire County Agricultural Show as the project continues research and the development of water management opportunities for the Upper Severn.
The team will be on hand to talk to show visitors and exhibitors to explore more ways to work with local communities, farmers and landowners and further develop its successful demonstrator programme, which is managed by Shropshire Council.
In total eight projects are currently in progress under the demonstrator programme. Their aim is to test delivery of an integrated approach to water management and the role this can have in unlocking opportunities for growth and improved wellbeing by reinstating natural connections with the floodplain.
Pete Lambert, SVWMS demonstrator programme manager, from the Environment Agency, said:-
“Learning from the development and delivery of the projects is helping inform the broader strategy options and we want to encourage people who are able to take part in these projects to do so.
“We already have case studies where nature-based water management solutions have made a real difference.
“Our intention is to work with people who know their land and to tap into that wealth of knowledge and experience to further develop strategies and attending the Shropshire Show provides us with an excellent opportunity to meet with these people in person.”
The SVWMS is preparing a new round of consultation later this year where it will reveal a number of scenarios involving Land Use Change and Restoration, Natural Flood Management and Engineered Flood Storage which could be implemented to create a final water management strategy.
As well as the Shropshire County Show the team will be attending three more events over the summer, building on the success of the public engagement undertaken in late 2024/early 2025. Members of the team will be at the following locations:
- Welshpool: Monday 16 June, 2-7pm, Town Hall, Corn Exchange Room, 42 Broad Street, SY21 7JQ
- Royal Welsh Show: Wednesday 23 July, 9am-5pm
- Melverley: Monday 18 August, The Royal Hill Pub, Edgerley, Oswestry SY10 8ES
People can also keep up to date with progress of the scheme and all the latest news and events by viewing the SVWMS website, which seeks feedback from those with an interest in the scheme.
The Shropshire County Agricultural Show is at the West Mid Showground, Berwick Road, Shrewsbury on Saturday May 24.
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.
