Natural Flood Management (NFM) plays a vital role in Calderdale, helping to slow the flow of water from the surrounding hillsides and reduce flood risk in our valleys. It is also a key priority within the Council’s Flood Action Plan.
Example of NFM measures
- New leaky dams and woody debris structures
- Improved land management to slow surface run-off
- Soil restoration and rewetting
- Expanded tree planting and hedgerow creation
- Peatland and moorland restoration initiatives
Current projects
Take a look at the interactive map to see completed and ongoing NFM projects across the Calder catchment. It details the types of measures, funding sources and partnerships that have made this work possible.
The Council have compiled a number of case studies that show the positive impact of natural flood management across the borough. They showcase the work of landowners, farmers, volunteer groups, and partner organisations who are delivering natural solutions on the ground.
Case studies include
Calderdale’s first community-owned nature reserve is a non‑profit led by Bridestones Rewilded CIC. Their mission is to restore and protect the landscape through conservation, education, and community action in an owned nature reserve.
A cherished Local Nature Reserve and the last expanse of open moorland in the area has recently seen a series of targeted interventions aimed at tackling flooding and erosion.
Perched above Cragg Vale, Annabut Lee Farm sits among historic grazing land and upland views. After experiencing flooding in Mytholmroyd, the landowners set out to reduce downstream flood risk and restore their land’s natural balance.
Hardcastle Crags & Broadhead Clough
Across both landscapes, volunteers from Slow the Flow have been rolling up their sleeves and helping protect Calderdale since 2016. Their NFM work is reducing flood risk by slowing water as it runs from the hillsides into the River Calder.
