Norfolk FWAG have partnered with the Broads Authority, BAWAG and Cranfield University on a DEFRA funded project called the Lowland Agricultural Peat Water Discovery Pilot. The aim of the project is to better understand what the issues might be when water levels on Broads based grazing marshes are changed. Water levels on grazing marshes in the Broads are a complex and highly managed feature. Peat based grassland marshes are of particular concern because they are a significant source of Carbon Dioxide emissions. Raising water levels could help to reduce some of these emissions, but we need to understand what the issues and challenges are to doing this. Together we are working on case studies and water table models, to help DEFRA in their development of policy for peat based grazing marshes.
Working in partnership, the project will bring together farmers to information WLMPs; creating knowledge and networks, to encourage viable farming supporting carbon neutrality and nature recovery.
The Water Project Deliverables
By the end of 2024, the projects plans to:
- Build land and water level data to define water level and storage scenarios.
- Deliver workshops to engage with landowners, farmers and stakeholders to describe an up to date plan to manage water without compromising farm and nature objectives, with focus on carbon capture.
- Test agreed water level scenarios in four farmer collaboration areas using Cranfield Model to identify water volume ranges and potential need for winter storage to supply volumes identified.
How do I get involved?
We’re looking for farmers to participate in the project, so if you have grazing marshes within the Broads National Park area and are interested in changing your water levels, or are interested in the results of the project, please get in touch with Nathan.
