The Forth Rivers Trust is pleased to announce the launch of the ‘Greenloaning phase 2’ project, an extension of our ongoing efforts to enhance the Allan Water and its surrounding habitats.
This project follows the successes of ‘Revive the Allan’ and ‘Greenloaning phase 1,’ with the aim of reversing the impacts of historical floodplain drainage, supporting natural flood management measures, and improving the catchment for the benefit of biodiversity. The Greenloaning phase 2 project works will include:
- Cutting rank vegetation to improve biodiversity and show the lie of the land
- Drainage ditch redirection: Adjustment of historic drainage ditches to retain water on the landscape for habitat restoration.
- Leaky dam installation: Placing leaky dams strategically to reduce downstream flood risk, capturing water and aiding floodplain replenishment.
- Drainage ditch breaching: Breaking old drainage ditches to naturally re-wet the floodplain and restore ecological balance.
- To slow the flow of water using locally sourced materials, such as root wads, creating habitat for wildlife.
- Establishing wetland scrapes to boost biodiversity and counteract the historical trend of floodplain desiccation.
This project is supported by the Scottish Government’s Nature Restoration Fund, managed by NatureScot. The project works have kindly been match-funded by the EU MERLIN Project.
Led by Forth Rivers Trust, the project is poised to upscale natural flood management measures, creating vital wetland habitats and boosting biodiversity. The landowner, Blackford Farms, is key to the delivery of these restoration measures and we are delighted to have their support in helping create space for nature. These works will provide a haven for declining species, protecting communities downstream from flood events by redirecting water to the floodplain.
Jonathan Louis, co-director of Forth Rivers Trust, commented on the initiative, stating, “The ‘Greenloaning phase 2’ project is a significant step in restoring the Allan Water. Building on our past successes, this project offers an opportunity to expand natural flood management techniques, strengthen ecosystems, and address climate change impacts. We look forward to working closely with landowners and stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes for both nature and communities.”
For more information about this project, head to the Forth Rivers Trust website.
Nigel Murray, general manager of Blackford Estates commented “Further enhancement of the Allan Water, with the works of Greenloaning phase 2 continuing to reduce flood risk, whilst also encouraging the scope for declining species that need our help, is a definite win-win.”
NatureScot Head of Biodiversity Katherine Leys said: “It’s great to see the floodplain habitat along the Allan Water being revived and enhanced with support from the Nature Restoration Fund. This is one of many NRF-funded projects that are putting Scotland’s land and waters back on the road to recovery, while tackling the nature and climate emergencies.”