 |
| Innovative Leaky Wooden Dams in Shropshire Revolutionize Flood Prevention |
Innovative Leaky Wooden Dams in Shropshire Revolutionize Flood Prevention
A groundbreaking initiative in Shropshire is changing the game in flood prevention. Hundreds of intentionally leaky wooden dams have been installed along a stretch of river in an effort to combat flooding effectively. Researchers from the University of Worcester are touting this method as a game-changer, potentially reshaping the landscape for places like Bewdley and Ludlow.
During the severe weather event brought on by Storm Dennis, these strategically positioned wooden dams, spanning a three-mile stretch in Shropshire, demonstrated their worth by holding back millions of liters of water. Professor Ian Maddock of the University of Worcester explains, "Each leaky barrier allows water to flow through and underneath them during low flows, so they don't significantly impact the environment during normal conditions. However, they prove to be critical during floods. These dams effectively retain water and, when implemented in abundance, their cumulative effect is substantial. The primary goal is to reduce the downstream impact of flooding."
Dr. Catherine Wilson, from Cardiff University, highlights that each dam provides an additional storage capacity of approximately 100 cubic meters (3,531 cubic feet) of water. Scaling this up, she notes, "For this specific site near Craven Arms, that's equivalent to four Olympic-sized swimming pools." This means that an astonishing 10,000,000 liters (2,199,692 gallons) of water were retained, preventing it from cascading downstream to Ludlow. Instead, it was gradually released over the course of a week.
The research team collected extensive measurements and data, which have contributed to the development of a computer model. This model aids in identifying the most effective locations for the installation of these eco-friendly leaky dams.
The construction of these dams was carried out by volunteers from the Shropshire Wildlife Trust as part of a Shropshire Council project. For landowners and farmers, this approach to flood defense offers a natural and positive impact on their land and livelihood. Additionally, it enhances the local wildlife habitat without obstructing the path of migratory fish species. These leaky wooden dams are proving to be a win-win solution for flood control and environmental conservation in Shropshire.
إرسال تعليق