River Basin

The current river basin district (RBD) management plans (RBMPs) published in 2009 have been updated and published today by the Environment Agency.

A RBD covers an entire river system, including river, lake, groundwater, estuarine and coastal water bodies. The RBD RBMPs are designed to protect and improve the quality of our water environment. Good quality water is essential for wildlife, agriculture and business to thrive. And is one of the means for boosting regeneration (both structural and economic), recreation and tourism.

water@leeds has published findings from the EMBER project, a five year research programme which has collected evidence relating to the environmental impact of heather burning.  Publication on 1st October coincides with the first day of the 2014-15 moorland burning season.

This research is very relevant to the Upland Hydrology Group, and no doubt we could usefully consider its implications at a future meeting.