Solutions for the SUNOW
Mapping the best opportunities for Nature Based Solutions to river health in the Swale, Ure, Nidd, Ouse and Wharfe River Catchments
Project Overview
The Solutions for the SUNOW Project has been developed to identify the best locations to work with natural processes, guiding the implementation of long-lasting, cost-effective mitigation measures to address the challenges facing our rivers.
The project's objectives are:
- Keeping Rivers Cool by increasing shade along riverbanks.
- Improving Water Quality by reducing the movement of pollutants into rivers, including:
- Reducing fine silts and sediment erosion
- Reducing agricultural and diffuse nutrient pollutants
- Managing floods and mitigating droughts by retaining water on land.
- Increasing species resilience by connecting habitats.
Identifying Priority Areas
We have collaborated with the national Rivers Trust to develop the Solutions for SUNOW Suitability Modeller. This is a mapping toolbox, designed to highlight the best locations for Nature Based Solutions (NbS) - such as tree planting or wetland creation - across the Swale, Ure, Nidd, Ouse, and Wharfe catchments.
The tool performs a multi-criteria analysis weighing up the following datasets:
- Areas where rivers are most at risk, for example from pollution or erosion
- Locations that offer opportunities for interventions
- Constraints that limit work in an area, for example existing protections or land use.
By combining these factors, we can prioritise areas where interventions are likely to achieve the greatest overall benefit.
Working with Farmers and Communities
Building Farm Resilience
We want to connect with farmers and landowners interested in achieving local water quality, biodiversity, and flood reduction benefits, and helping to restore the services rivers provide.
The project will support the development of local proposals for Nature Based Solutions, and develop delivery plans aligned with the goals of farmers, landowners, and communities.
Working with Communities
Educational workshops and maps will help community groups deliver evidenced-based nature restoration in their local area and promote nature-based solutions.
If you are interested in learning more about these opportunities, collaborating on delivering Nature Based Solutions, or discussing how you or your organisation may be involved, please contact us.
The Solutions for the SUNOW project is funded by the Water Restoration Fund administered by the Rural Payments Agency .
