Plant a tree . . . and stop a flood!

Flooding has caused huge damage in recent years and research into using trees to lessen the severity of such episodes has been pioneered in North Yorkshire with a project based around Pickering called Slowing the Flow.

Experts say that woodland acts as a barrier to floodwater, whilst trees also prevent soil erosion, reducing sediment going into rivers and increasing ground water absorption. 

This slows rainwater running off into swollen streams and helps to lower peak flood levels.

Now a mapping exercise carried out by the Forestry Commission and Environment Agency has identified other areas which could benefit from new woodland, including parts of Rotherham. 

Landowners in certain floodplain, riverside and upper catchment zones will be able to take advantage of grants towards planting trees.

Jeremy Dick, Forestry Commission delivery manager, said: “The project will deliver a host of benefits.

“We know that trees can provide an effective eco-friendly method of reducing the severity of flooding and our new mapping data has highlighted key areas.”

Forest chiefs say that new woods will not only provide valuable wildlife havens, but also offer landowners income from timber harvesting in future years—a major attraction as demand for timber is increasing, especially for wood fuel.”

To find out more contact the Forestry Commission on 01904 382300 or go to www.forestry.gov.uk/yorkshireandthehumber