Working with communities to slow the flow in Powys
The Nant Abel and Afon Cain Natural Flood Management (NFM) scheme began in autumn 2023 and runs until spring 2025. Delivered by Severn Rivers Trust with support from Powys County Council and partners, the project builds on work first developed under the Sustainable Management Scheme.
What we are doing
The scheme is funding a wide range of measures across the Cain and Abel Brook catchments, including:
-
70 leaky barriers to hold back floodwater in streams.
-
4 hectares of new woodland planted.
-
1,000 metres of hedgerows to intercept runoff and connect habitats.
-
1,500 metres of fencing to keep livestock away from watercourses.
-
New wetland areas to store stormwater and create wildlife habitat.
Volunteers are also helping to monitor river health by sampling invertebrates as part of the national SMART Rivers scheme.
Why it matters
The focus of the project is on protecting the communities of Llanfyllin, Llansanffraid and Llanfechain. By working with landowners, schools and local residents, the project is putting natural flood management into practice while supporting farming and wildlife.
As well as reducing flood risk, the work will bring wider environmental benefits from creating new wildlife habitats to encouraging more sustainable land management across rural Powys.
Achievements so far
-
Commitments from 10 landowners to deliver measures on their land.
-
Student placements arranged.
-
A schools programme set up to connect young people with the project.
Voices from the project
Powys County Cllr Jackie Charlton, Cabinet Member for a Greener Powys, said:
“We are all aware of the devastating effects of flooding, and are looking forward to working collaboratively with partners and communities to find practical, sustainable, nature-based solutions to reduce the flood risk across Powys. The Natural Flood Management work, whilst providing benefit in flood risk management terms, also supports wider environmental enhancements through the introduction of new and improved wildlife habitats and more sustainable land management practices in our rural areas.”
Charlotte Davies, Catchment Assistant at Severn Rivers Trust, said:
“I am really pleased to help deliver this catchment-wide restoration project which will restore the landscape’s resilience to climate change. These measures will certainly help slow the flow from Powys into the Severn floodplain.”
Looking ahead
Over the next two years, Severn Rivers Trust will continue working with landowners, volunteers and schools to plant trees, monitor rivers and build resilience to flooding. Opportunities to get involved include tree maintenance, water quality monitoring and community events.
