Somerset River Restoration: A Bold Ecological Experiment

In a groundbreaking ecological experiment, the National Trust has taken a radical approach to river restoration in Somerset, UK. By completely filling in a river with earth and rubble, they sought to revive the local ecosystem and enable the river to re-establish its natural course, a significant departure from traditional methods that typically involve artificial straightening. One year post-restoration, the area has notably transformed into a complex wetland environment featuring multiple ponds and diverse habitats. Scientists have utilized drone technology to monitor these changes, revealing a thriving bio-network that includes not only a variety of birds but endangered mammals as well. Despite initial concerns regarding potential flooding downstream – particularly given the severe winter that followed the restoration – the project not only mitigated flood risk but also fostered resilience in local communities. The Alford and Bingington villages, often under threat from flooding, reported no significant inundations during the harsh winter, highlighting the success of the initiative in preventing damage during extreme weather. The National Trust emphasizes the importance of wetland restoration, as 90% of the UK's wetlands have been lost in the last century. While river resets like this are not universally applicable, the fruitful results in Somerset are prompting the Trust to consider additional locations for similar projects. This bold ecological experiment exemplifies the potential for rewilding initiatives to enhance biodiversity and serve vital community needs like flood management.