Trees and Flood Risk Research

The Environment Agency is seeking research support through this direct award opportunity to expand the evidence base for managing trees in relation to flood risk. The project comprises two research work packages: WP 3.1 will examine how trees affect flood bank stability and flood defence integrity, identifying practical methods to retain and incorporate more trees safely on or near riverbanks and flood defences; WP 3.2 will conduct a systematic literature review of how riparian and floodplain trees impact flood risk to local communities and assets, with the goal of developing improved risk management approaches. The findings will enable the Environment Agency to establish consistent, evidence-based policies for planting and managing trees alongside rivers across all regions.