A new section of the River Parrett is to be dredged for Somerset Rivers Authority, to reduce flood risks to local people, properties, roads and land. Large quantities of silt will be removed from 1.37miles (2.2km) of the river between Moorland and the M5, to increase its capacity to carry flood water.
A new report from Adapting the Levels shows people on the Somerset Levels wanting more action on climate change. Subjects covered include nature, farming, and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS).
14,000 trees are being offered to Somerset landowners and parish councils this winter, as part of a new project called Trees for Water. The initiative is being led by Somerset environmental group Reimagining the Levels, in partnership with Somerset Rivers Authority, the Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group SouthWest and the Woodland Trust.
Three projects to reduce local flood risks and improve the environment have been carried out for Somerset Rivers Authority (SRA) on the Somerset Levels. The works at Egypt’s Clyse on Othery Rhyne and on the Moorlinch and Westmoor Raised Water Level Areas are part of the SRA's overarching plan to enhance the River Sowy-King’s Sedgemoor Drain (KSD) system. Sowy-KSD works are being delivered for the SRA by the Environment Agency.
Volunteers in Ham and Martock have helped to reduce flood risks in and around their villages. For the benefit of people living elsewhere in Somerset, six key figures share lessons they have learned. They point out some of the equipment that can now be used and some of the drainage, flood defence and natural flood management works that have been carried out locally.
Somerset communities who want to get better prepared for emergencies can apply for grants of up to £5,000 for training and equipment. Learn more about how to apply. Hear from people who have been successful.
See the Environment Agency's River Parrett Field Team in action and learn about improvements at North Drain Pumping Station, part-funded by Somerset Rivers Authority in 2020.
A new silt trap has been installed in Barrington, as part of a series of moves by Somerset Rivers Authority to reduce flood risks in the village.
People across Somerset are being offered free interactive online training between Tuesday 20 October and Thursday 22 October to help communities prepare for what could be a challenging winter. Subjects covered include recovering from crises, dealing with flooding and snow, and co-ordinating community volunteers. New short local films will also be shown.
A milestone has been reached with the River Sowy-King's Sedgemoor Drain (KSD) Enhancements Scheme, which is being delivered for Somerset Rivers Authority by the Environment Agency. The Environmental Statement for this scheme's first phase is out now for consultation until 13 September.