River and floodplain management measures involve the restoration of a stretch of river and/or its associated floodplain to a more natural functioning state. This can include channel re-meandering or channel feature reinstatement (e.g. measures to restore channel river bars). Where redundant embankments are present, it may also be possible to breach, set back or remove these embankments, restore floodplain connectivity and re-activate floodplain features. Where naturally occurring wood is absent from a river, leaky barriers can be installed. These help attenuate flood flows by slowing and deflecting flow out of the channel on to the floodplain, thereby increasing water storage.
The need for ‘catchment wide’ management of the Spey was formally recognised in the 2003 Spey Catchment Management Plan, which provided a strategic framework for the wise and sustainable use of the whole water resource. An updated and reviewed Spey Catchment Management plan was published in 2016.
Within the Tarland catchment there are historic problems with both flooding and water quality. Since the year 2000 there have been many projects, carried out by local organisations designed to investigate and solve the problems of diffuse pollution and water management within the catchment.
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.