Somerset is a rural county and management of the land is largely undertaken by the agricultural community. Through the Farming and Wildlife Advisory Group (FWAG) we provide practical advice for farmers on the contribution they can make to reduce flooding in the catchment through farm visits, practical events and our quarterly newsletter Catchment Matters: Farming Edition.
Somerset’s towns and villages are expanding and there are side-effects that can have an impact on flooding. By pursuing appropriate policies, outlined in our advice pages, urban developers can help reduce the impact of new development.
Education about the local landscape, our communities and water resources is key to the future of flood-management. We understand that providing information and support to schools is essential. Provided in the school section is information about our virtual education pack available to all teachers to download free from this autumn 2005 onwards, plus information about our ponds for schools grant scheme that has been running through the summer and will finish next spring 2006.
There are similar funding opportunities for the construction of ponds by communities as part of our Big Sponge campaign.
Individuals can help in small ways by installing water butts or building ponds. It may not seem like much, but if everyone did it the result would be huge. We also hold a number of major public events each year, including an annual River Festival every May and a Roadshow, taking place this autumn 2005. Take part, show your support and join us for a whole host of fun! See our events page for more information.