BALI welcomes UK Government’s new technology for researchers in pioneering flood and drought warning systems

The Association welcomes the Government's recent announcement regarding the implementation of advanced flood and drought warning technology systems. Utilising high-tech sensors and real-time monitoring, this initiative marks a significant step forward in the nation's ability to manage and mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. The technology will provide early warnings for both floods and droughts, offering critical data to support proactive decision-making in industries that rely heavily on water availability, including the landscaping sector.

The Floods and Droughts Research Infrastructure, led by the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), backed by £40 million, will be the first UK-wide network focused on understanding the impact of extreme weather conditions across the country. The groups will use the latest technologies and data banks to pinpoint where in the UK incidents are likely to occur and plan to limit their impact. It will help key bodies, like local authorities and the Environment Agency, to stem the worst of extreme weather’s impact on communities. It is hoped that this will save lives, homes, businesses, the environment and help to cut the devastating cost of such events to the UK economy, estimated at £740 million a year.

By monitoring water levels in real time, the system will detect anomalies and provide earlier warnings of potential flood or drought conditions. This timely information will enable landscape professionals and wider sectors to anticipate changes, allowing for better planning and resource management throughout the year, particularly during periods of high drought risk. This, in turn, may lower the chances of temporary use bans and other restrictive measures we’ve experienced in the industry in previous years.

Chief Executive, Wayne Grills, expressed strong support for the Government’s initiative, highlighting its potential to transform the landscaping industry's approach to water management:

"This is a great development for our industry. The real-time data provided by these high-tech sensors will allow landscapers to shift from a reactive stance to a more proactive and strategic approach when managing and working with water resources. We will be able to anticipate water shortages and plan, accordingly, ensuring that our landscapes remain healthy and resilient, even during prolonged drought periods."

Defra will also shortly launch a new Flood Resilience Taskforce to turbocharge the delivery of new flood defences, drainage systems and natural flood management schemes, which will ensure the UK is prepared for the future and help grow our economy. This is an opportunity the Association recognises for members to be involved in, surrounding the support in the deployment of sustainable urban drainage systems along with other methods our landscaping professionals provide.

The benefits of early warning systems extend beyond drought management; by anticipating floods, the industry can also take precautionary measures to protect landscapes from water damage, preventing soil erosion and the loss of valuable plant life.

The Association is committed to working closely with Defra and other key stakeholders to ensure the effective use of the data provided by these high-tech sensors. This collaboration will focus on translating the data into actionable insights that can be shared across the landscaping sector. The association will also provide training and resources to help landscapers integrate this new data into day-to-day operations, ensuring that members are fully equipped and confident to make informed decisions based on the latest data.

Wayne Grills further emphasised the importance of this collaboration:

"Obtaining the right information from Defra and the environment agency will be crucial in maximising the benefits of this new technology. By working together, we can ensure that the data collected is not only accurate but also practical and applicable for landscapers across the country. This initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to managing the increasing challenges posed by climate change, and we are proud to be a part of it."

By embracing this technology and fostering strong partnerships with government agencies and other stakeholders, the Association is committed to supporting a more resilient and sustainable future for the UK's landscapes. The early warnings and proactive planning facilitated by this initiative will not only enhance the quality of green spaces but also contribute to the broader goal of environmental sustainability.