In the article “Natural Engineering offers solutions against future flooding”, it was stated that there are solutions inspired by nature which can prevent flooding in areas affected due to increased rate of water flow upstream (Newcastle University, 2014). One example of this solution implemented in Belford shows how this natural flood management scheme can be applied in other areas around the UK where flooding is prevalent. The scheme is an effective method to prevent flooding in low lying areas by altering the natural flow pathways and reducing the runoff from the land. Managing the downstream flow gives people more time to prepare in the event a flood occurs. This also reduces pollution by adverting phosphorus and nitrates from being washed off the land. The scheme uses soft engineering solutions to prevent flooding by storing water, increasing soil infiltration, increasing resistance to water flow or redirecting water. Implementation of the natural flood management systems can be significantly cheaper as compared to conventional flood management systems.
The article published on Science Daily provides information regarding the implementation as well as benefits of using natural flood management systems, however it fails to address the negative impacts and trade-offs such a system will have when altering the natural flow pathways.
Newcastle University. “Natural engineering offers solution against future flooding” ScienceDaily, 28 January 2014 <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/01/14012809453>
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