E
cosystem
servicesdelivered
Provisioning
Regulation & maintenance
Cultural
Abiotic
C
ontribution
topolicyobjectives
Water Framework Directive
Floods Directive
Birds & Habitats Directive
2020 Biodiversity Strategy
P
otential
biophysicaleffects
Runoff
Reducing pollution
Soil conservation
Habitat
Climate Change
High
Low
Medium
None
By allowing the natural functioning of rivers, floodplain restoration measures have high potential to
control runoff
and reduce flood risk, since they should aim to maximise
the capacity of the floodplain to store river water. Breaches in the summer dikes, by-pass channels and oxbow lakes can enhance this function. The roughness of the vegetation
contributes to slowing down water. Floodplain restoration creates
connectivity
between surface flows and groundwater. The associated changes in land use and reduction in surface
runoff can lead to higher recharge of water into the ground. Increased organic matter content can increase soil water retention, while removal of sediment improves soil permeability.
A significant change of land cover can reduce pollution by activating filtration by vegetation and soil. Floodplain restoration enables recovery of natural erosion and sedimentation
processes, therefore
reducing sediment transport
downstream. It contributes to creating terrestrial, aquatic and riparian
habitats
, increasing fish populations, improving
biodiversity and providing natural biomass. The restoration site can be planted with native grasses, shrubs, and trees, which will discourage the establishment of invasive vegetation.
Floodplains are likely to contribute to
climate change adaptation
through the fixation of carbon dioxide by photosynthesis and C-burial. They also provide
recreational
opportunities
and aesthetic value.
