The primary role of NFM is to attenuate flood peaks within catchments for flood risk management purposes. However, most NFM measures provide added benefits for the wider environment and this topic collates material surrounding these multiple benefits. This could include, for example, information on measures that have improved water quality, biodiversity, carbon targets cultural activity, farm productivity, low flows, air quality and aesthetic quality, health and well-being.
In early October 2011, a reach of the lower Logie Burn, was reconnected to relict meanders to restore its meandering morphology, river habitat and riparian habitat diversity. Further aims were to reduce downstream phosphorous and fine sediment transfer into Loch Davan by enhancing in-channel storage capacity and raise the profile of this style of restoration to practitioners and stakeholders in the region.
The aim of the Eddleston project is to assess the impact of restoring natural features and processes on both flood attenuation and the ecology of the river, and also to provide empirical evidence with which to assess the effectiveness of the measures implemented. At the same time, a key element is to work with landowners, farmers and the local community so as to maintain the sustainability of land management at all times.
The main focus of this project is to collect empirical data to determine how NFM can be used as a flood management tool and to identify other multiple benefits such as improved habitat.
The UN 2018 World Water Development Report (WWDR), Nature Based Solutions for water was launched via a presentation at the 8th World Water Forum in Brazil on 19th March 2018.