51AVÊÓÆµ

Research highlights role of sediment ponds in boosting nature, biodiversity and flood alleviation on-farm

Farmers are supporting nature restoration and wildlife by keeping sediment on-farm which could also help businesses reclaim and reuse productive soil that would otherwise be lost downstream

Chris Brayford
clock • 3 min read
PhD researcher Charlie Patel on sediment ponds: "We want policymakers to recognise the full value of these systems. This is not just about wildlife – it is about resilience, food security, and protecting people's livelihoods." (Loughborough University)
Image:

PhD researcher Charlie Patel on sediment ponds: "We want policymakers to recognise the full value of these systems. This is not just about wildlife – it is about resilience, food security, and protecting people's livelihoods." (Loughborough University)

A research project in Cumbria has shed light on how sediment ponds could help farmers manage runoff, protect valuable soil, support vital biodiversity and improve water quality. Based at sites in Penrith...

To continue reading...

Already a member? Login for full access.

New to Farmers Guardian? Register for 1 free article per week or become a member for unlimited access to essential farming news and insights.

article-img-580x358

Ìý

More on Environment

Wildfire partnership urged after Green Cleugh Blaze threatened Pentland Hills

Wildfire partnership urged after Green Cleugh Blaze threatened Pentland Hills

The fire could have escalated from 17 hectares to a landscape-scale incident affecting more than 6,000 hectares

Mia Willemsen
clock 03 August 2026 • 4 min read
Farmers under pressure as record-breaking July wipes 18 million litres off milk yields

Farmers under pressure as record-breaking July wipes 18 million litres off milk yields

Met Office says England and Wales on course to be driest for 190 years

Jane Thynne
clock 03 August 2026 • 3 min read
From the editor: Clarity on water policy is needed

From the editor: Clarity on water policy is needed

This week from Farmers Guardian deputy editor Alex Black

Alex Black
clock 30 July 2026 • 2 min read