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# Cumbria Connect

Cumbria Connect is restoring nature at a landscape scale in Cumbria.  Part of the Endangered Landscapes & Seascapes Programme

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [News and blog](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/news/)
- [Wild Beavers confirmed in the Eden Catchment](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/wild-beavers-confirmed-in-the-eden-catchment/) - Cumbria Connect has confirmed the presence of wild Beavers within the Eden Catchment following evidence gathered on the River Lowther.
- [The Attenborough Century: 100 natural wonders to spot in Cumbria from Penrith to Kendal](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/the-attenborough-century/) - As Sir David Attenborough reaches his 100th year, we are celebrating the species and landscapes that define our work at Cumbria Connect. In this corridor between Penrith and Kendal, we are witnessing a remarkable revival. From the return of ancient engineers to the survival of "centenarian" mussels, here is your guide to 100 things to spot in and around the Eastern Fells or the Lowther Valley and Orton Fells.
- [New research to explore hidden fungal networks in Cumbria's uplands](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/hidden-fungal-networks-woodland-creation-cumbria/) - New research in Cumbria will investigate how underground fungal networks influence woodland creation success in the UK's uplands
- [Bringing nature recovery together across Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/nature-recovery-cumbria-landscape-scale/) - Landowners and organisations come together in Keswick to strenghten nature recovery across Cumbria and drive landscape-scale action for wildlife, climate and communities.
- [Farmer-led Owl conservation in Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/farmer-led-owl-conservation-in-cumbria/) - Lowther Valley farmers are leading a nature recovery initiative to support Barn Owls and Tawny Owls through nature-friendly farming. Learn how this farmer-led project is restoring habitats and enhancing biodiversity in Cumbria.
- [Ratty's Revival: Water Voles return to Cumbria's rivers](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/endangered-water-voles-return-to-cumbria/) - 750 Water Voles have been reintroduced across Cumbria over three years. Discover how river restoration and partnership working are bringing this keystone species back to the Lake District.
- [Rural Futures: Elli's Path to Farming with Nature](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/rural-futures-ellis-path-to-farming-with-nature/) - Discover Rural Futures: Elli’s Path to Farming with Nature, a short film following Cumbria’s first Nature-Friendly Farming Apprentice. Explore how Elli Foxton’s apprenticeship blends farming, conservation and nature recovery across three Cumbrian farms, inspiring young people to pursue careers in sustainable agriculture.
- [Shining a light on Glow-worms](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/shining-a-light-on-glow-worms/) - Discover how volunteers helped survey Glow-worms and release 100 larvae to bring these magical beetles back to the Lowther Estate. Sign up to volunteer for 2026.
- [Meet our Community Engagement Officer](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/meet-our-community-engagement-officer/) - Meet Emma Hughes, our Community Engagement Officer at Cumbria Connect. Discover how her love for people, wild places and muddy boots inspires community spirit and drives nature recovery across Cumbria’s stunning landscape.
- [Restoring rare upland hay meadows in the Lowther Valley](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/restoring-upland-hay-meadows/) - Farmers, volunteers and conservationists unite to restore rare upland hay meadows in Cumbria's Lowther Valley through community planting and nature-friendly farming.
- [Wildlife Ranger Traineeship in Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/wildlife-ranger-traineeship-cumbria/) - High deer numbers, invasive American Mink and Grey Squirrels are threatening native species and woodland recovery. This 18-month paid Wildlife Ranger Traineeship gives one trainee the chance to learn hands-on conservation skills, support nature recovery across Cumbria and help shape the first national Wildlife Ranger Apprenticeship.
- [Restoring Cumbria's Rainforest: How we’re using a helicopter to help restore the uplands at Haweswater](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/restoring-cumbrias-rainforest-how-were-using-a-helicopter-to-help-restore-the-uplands-at-haweswater/) - Discover how helicopters are helping restore Cumbria's rainforest in the uplands - boosting biodiversity, water quality and climate resilience.
- [Rare lichens discovered in Cumbria's Naddle Forest](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/rare-lichens-discovered-in-cumbria/) - Two rare lichens, never before recorded in northern England, have been found in Naddle Forest, Cumbria indicating its importance as high-quality, undisturbed rainforest.
- [Saving a Threatened UK Species: How farmers and land managers can help the rare Marsh Fritillary Butterfly](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/marsh-fritillary/) - Discover how conservationists and farmers are helping the marsh fritillary butterfly recover in Cumbria, in the UK.
- [Nature Recovery & Farming Apprenticeships in Cumbria - Applications now open](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/nature-recovery-farming-apprenticeships-in-cumbria-applications-now-open/) - Cumbria Connect's apprenticeship scheme is now recruiting for three paid apprenticeships in nature recovery, nature-friendly farming and land management in the Lake District.
- [Restoring Cumbria's Forgotten Rainforests: A lifeline for Nature and Climate](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/restoring-cumbrias-lost-rainforests/) - The UK was once home to vast temperate rainforests? These ancient woodlands, rich with moss-covered trees and rare wildlife, once covered 20% of the country. Today, only 1% remains, scattered in small, fragile fragments. In Cumbria, one of the largest remaining rainforest sites is Naddle Forest at the RSPB at Wild Haweswater. Now, thanks to a major partnership effort supported by the Government’s Species Survival Fund, work is underway to expand and protect these extraordinary woodlands.
- [Cumbria Connect Launches Pioneering Nature-Friendly Farming Apprenticeship Scheme](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/cumbria-connect-launches-pioneering-nature-friendly-farming-apprenticeship-scheme/) - Cumbria Connect launches first Nature-Friendly Farming Apprenticeship Scheme
- [Cumbria Connect receives major boost from leading ecologist](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/cumbria-connect-receives-major-boost-as-leading-ecologist-endorses-landscape-scale-nature-restoration-efforts/) - Cumbria Connect received a major boost from Professor Sir John Lawton, a renowned ecologist and author of the groundbreaking report "Making Space for Nature."
- [Magical "Wilding Theatre" enchants students at Lowther](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/magical-wilding-theatre-enchants-students-at-lowther/) - Students inspired by Wilding Theatre at Lowther. Shap CE and Lowther Endowed School students enjoyed Miscreations Theatre's "Wilding Theatre" performance at Lowther, part of Cumbria Connect's arts and nature initiative.

## Pages

- [Home](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/) - Cumbria Connect is restoring nature at a landscape scale in Cumbria. Part of the Endangered Landscapes & Seascapes Programme Home
- [Places that Matter exhibition](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/places-that-matter/) - Explore Places that Matter, a photo exhibition in Shap, Cumbria. Share your own photos of meaningful local places from Penrith to Kendal.
- [Cumbria Beavers](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/cumbria-beavers/)
- [Nature-friendly Farming Apprenticeship Scheme](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/nature-friendly-farming/nature-friendly-farming-apprenticeship/) - Discover how the Cumbria Connect Nature-friendly Farming Apprenticeship is shaping the next generation of land managers working for wildlife, people & planet.
- [Our Team](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/who-we-are/our-team/)
- [Events](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/upcoming-events/)
- [Opportunities](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/opportunities/)
- [Artist Residency Opportunity](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/opportunities/artist-residency-lakes-deer-fest/)
- [Restoring Woodland Habitats](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/science/restoring-woodland-habitats/)
- [Restoring Habitats in Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/restoring-habitats-in-cumbria/)
- [Penrith2Kendal Arc Landscape Recovery](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/penrith2kendal/)
- [Volunteering](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/volunteering/)
- [Social Sciences](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/science/social-sciences/)
- [Penrith2Kendal Arc Landscape Recovery](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/penrith2kendal-arc-landscape-recovery/)
- [Nature-friendly farming in Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/nature-friendly-farming/) - Working with local farmers from Penrith to Kendal, supporting them to optimise their land for wildlife as well as food production.
- [Wild Haweswater](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/who-we-are/wild-haweswater/)
- [Making space for water](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/making-space-for-water/)
- [Lowther River Project](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/making-space-for-water/lowtherriverproject/)
- [Who we work with](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/who-we-are/who-we-work-with/)
- [Who we are](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/who-we-are/)
- [Nature Restoration Science](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/science/)
- [Carbon Capture](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/carbon-capture/)
- [Contact us](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/contact-us/)
- [Bringing Wildlife Back to Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/bringing-wildlife-back-to-cumbria/)
- [Science Research Opportunities - How to apply](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/opportunities/science-opportunities-how-to-apply/)
- [Lowther Conservation](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/who-we-are/lowther-conservation/)
- [Cumbria Connect Sample Page](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/cumbria-connect/)
- [Business Support for Farming with Nature](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/nature-friendly-farming/farm-business-support/)
- [Sample Page - DO NOT DELETE](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/sample-page/)
- [Privacy Policy](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/privacy-policy/)
- [Restoring Grassland Habitats](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/science/restoring-grassland-habitats/)
- [Shop](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/upcoming-events/shop/)
- [Events – List Style with Search Box](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/upcoming-events/events-list-style-with-search-box/)
- [Events – List Style](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/upcoming-events/events-list-style/)
- [Events – Grid Style](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/upcoming-events/events-grid-style/)
- [Peatland Scientific Research](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/science/peatland-scientific-research/)
- [Basket](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/basket/) - You may be interested in… Your basket is currently empty! New in store
- [Checkout](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/checkout/)
- [My account](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/my-account/)

## Testimonials

- [Testimonial 2](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/testimonials/testimonial-2/)
- [Testimonial 1](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/testimonials/testimonial-1/)

## FAQ's

- [How will this help people on the ground?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/how-will-this-help-people-on-the-ground/) - The findings will feed into practical guidance for land managers, helping them decide when natural regeneration is enough and when extra support below ground may be needed.
- [How is Cumbria Connect studying this?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/how-is-cumbria-connect-studying-this/) - The project combines soil sampling, DNA analysis and nursery experiments to map fungal communities and test ways to support tree establishment.
- [Can fungal communities recover naturally?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/can-fungal-communities-recover-naturally/) - In some places they can, especially where trees regenerate naturally and grazing pressure is reduced. In other areas recovery may be very slow, which is why researchers are testing whether local soil inoculation can help.
- [Why does this matter in the upland fringe?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/why-does-this-matter-in-the-upland-fringe/) - Much of the upland fringe has been heavily grazed for generations. This means soils often contain mycorrhizal fungi suited to grasslands but lack the fungal partners that trees need. Understanding this helps explain why woodland recovery can be slow or uneven.
- [What is the difference between AM and ECM fungi?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/what-is-the-difference-between-am-and-ecm-fungi/) - Arbuscular Mycorrhizal fungi form symbioses with 70% of all plant species, and in temperate environments this mainly includes grasses and herbs. Ectomycorrhizal fungi are prevalent in UK woodlands. They form symbioses with temperate tree species, including oak and birch, and are vital for woodland ecosystems.
- [Why are they important for restoration?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/why-are-they-important-for-restoration/) - Many plants, including trees, depend on these fungi to survive. Without the right fungal partners, restoration efforts such as tree planting can fail even if everything looks right above ground.
- [What are mycorrhizal fungi?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/what-are-mycorrhizal-fungi/) - Mycorrhizal fungi are tiny fungi in the soil that form symbiotic partnerships with plant roots. They help plants absorb water and nutrients and receive carbon in return.
- [Q. Control of water at Haweswater](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-control-of-water-at-haweswater/) - Haweswater is a crucial drinking water reservoir, supplying a significant portion of the region. The way we manage inflows affects water availability and flood risk. We aim to prevent Haweswater from spilling by diverting indirect catchment intakes when the reservoir reaches 0.5 meters below top water level. However, the direct catchment (spanning 3,208 hectares of
- [Q. Do we know when the embankment was built?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-do-we-know-when-the-embankment-was-built/) - Sections appear on the first OS maps dating from 1860, with other embankments appearing in the 1890 edition. Their heights at this time are not known. It is likely that all embankments will have been raised to provide a 5 year standard of protection to agricultural land (as calculated at the time) by the Ministry
- [Q. Does high tide affect the velocity of the river?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-does-high-tide-affect-the-velocity-of-the-river/) - We are too far from the coast and too high an elevation for this to have an effect at Bampton Grange. Dynamic Rivers
- [Q. What are our data sources for river/rainfall/runoff and how do we increase that accuracy?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-what-are-our-data-sources-for-river-rainfall-runoff-and-how-do-we-increase-that-accuracy/) - Hydrology inputs have been generated using standard UK methods i.e. ReFH2 and WINFAP-FEH. These are statistical methods and also integrate gauged information from local catchments to increase accuracy. Regarding available rainfall records, some have already been supplied by those living in the local area and these will be reviewed together with the nearest EA rainfall
- [Q. What can happen in the short term?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-what-can-happen-in-the-short-term-2/) - A. Working with stakeholders, we hope we can identify some quick wins that will address some of the local concerns. Cumbria Connect Team
- [Q. How would any works be funded?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-how-would-any-works-be-funded/) - A. We are not at the funding stage yet, as we are still wanting to work with the various stakeholders in the valley to identify the shared problem and how that can be addressed. Depending on the outcome of that preparatory work we can then explore what potential funding options may be available. Cumbria Connect
- [Q. Can we not dredge the river?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-can-we-not-dredge-the-river/) - A. Dredging of a main river would need a Flood Risk Activity Permit from the Environment Agency, and if on an Ordinary Water Course a Flood Defence Consent from the Local Authority. The river Lowther is a special place for nature, celebrated by being recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Natural England would
- [Q. Could you decrease the water volume at Wet Sleddale?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-could-you-decrease-the-water-volume-at-wet-sleddale/) - A. Decreasing the water volume at Wet Sleddale Reservoir is not straightforward, as its primary function is now water bank storage rather than direct transfer to Haweswater. The reservoir is used to release water into the River Lowther during summer and autumn months to support river habitats and fish migration. While abstraction to Haweswater is
- [Q. Could United Utilities reduce reservoir levels?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-could-united-utilities-reduce-reservoir-levels/) - Reducing reservoir levels is challenging due to several factors: Weather patterns and inflows: Wet Sleddale’s catchment area (1,848 hectares, including How Gill, Thornship, Keld, Lanshaw, Tailbert, and Swear Gill) feeds into the reservoir, meaning levels are heavily influenced by rainfall. If inflows are high, levels may rise despite management efforts. Water supply and environmental regulations:
- [Q. How can farmers on the floodplain be supported in the future?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-how-can-farmers-on-the-floodplain-be-supported-in-the-future/) - A. Government support for farmers is being directed to delivering public goods such as flood prevention and biodiversity. Floodplains are multi-use landscape and the Government's Environmental Land Management Schemes can be used to provide an alternative income streams for farmers on the floodplain. Cumbria Connect Team
- [Q. What can be done about water staying on farmland for several days, not moving away and becoming a risk to livestock?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-what-can-be-done-about-water-staying-on-farmland-for-several-days-not-moving-away-and-becoming-a-risk-to-livestock/) - A. Water that overtops embankments or enters through the breach then get trapped on the floodplain and is impounded by the embankment staying until it drains through the soil. An unmodified floodplain may flood more frequently but it quickly drains away after a flood event. Cumbria Connect Team
- [Q. Where's the evidence for the benefits of trees? Planting trees at Borrowdale has not helped keep water out of Keswick](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-wheres-the-evidence-for-the-benefits-of-trees-planting-trees-at-borrowdale-has-not-helped-keep-water-out-of-keswick/) - A. The government has recently updated its Natural Flood Management Evidence Directory. This summarises the most up to date evidence for the benefits of working with natural processes to reduce flood risk including a category on woodland management. The Directory is available via: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/natural-flood-management-evidence/woodland-management Cumbria Connect
- [Q. What should we do if trees are blocking bridges at Bampton?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/trees-blocking-bridges/) - A. We would encourage residents to report any blockages. Environment incident hotline - (24 hour service) 0800 80 70 60. Where they are occurring in the vicinity of a bridge, it is unlikely to be an Environment Agency responsibility to clear any damage. This would sit with local authority highways. Westmorland & Furness Council emergency
- [Q. Can we predict impact to infrastructure, particularly on the three bridges in the village? ](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/flood-impact-on-infrastructure/) - A. Yes. We will build these structures in detail in our model and review shear stress, velocity and water levels at these structures to understand energy and pressure exerted on them for a range of predict flood frequencies. Dynamic Rivers.
- [Q. What about decreasing the water volume at Wet Sleddale?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/bamptonproject-1/) - A. Decreasing the water volume at Wet Sleddale Reservoir is not straightforward, as its primary function is now water bank storage rather than direct transfer to Haweswater. The reservoir is used to release water into the River Lowther during summer and autumn months to support river habitats and fish migration. While abstraction to Haweswater is
- [Q. How does control of the water at Haweswater Reservoir affect things?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/question-2/) - A. Haweswater is a crucial drinking water reservoir, supplying a significant portion of the region, making its management critical. To mitigate flood risks, we manage inflows and regulate water storage carefully. When levels approach half a meter below top water level, we turn away indirect catchment intakes and, when possible, manage flows from Wet Sleddale
- [Q. Environment Agency budget has been cut for strategic removal of debris. Why?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-environment-agency-budget-has-been-cut-for-strategic-removal-of-debris-why/) - Although overall funding for the Environment Agency has not reduced, the amount of available budget to fund flood risk management activities, including maintenance of channels, has been constrained due to increasing costs. Decisions on which activities to fund, will always be taken based on the risk of flooding to properties, with the activities protecting the
- [Q. Why has Environment Agency budget been cut for strategic removal of debris?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-why-has-environment-agency-budget-been-cut-for-strategic-removal-of-debris/) - Although overall funding for the Environment Agency has not reduced, the amount of available budget to fund flood risk management activities, including maintenance of channels, has been constrained due to increasing costs. Decisions on which activities to fund will always be taken based on the risk of flooding to properties, with the activities protecting the
- [Q. How much would it cost to repair the bank? (£10,000)? Could this be a stop-gap solution?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-how-much-would-it-cost-to-repair-the-bank-10000-could-this-be-a-stop-gap-solution/) - A. It would probably be of that order, but it would only be a stop-gap. The river has breached here before due to the planform (the shape and geometry of the river) and the position of the old channels nearby. It will breach again here and elsewhere without a more significant and ongoing maintenance commitment.
- [Q. Cawdale Reservoir has been going over the top in the last few years as the gullies aren't being cleared out.  Why?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-cawdale-reservoir-has-been-going-over-the-top-in-the-last-few-years-as-the-gullies-arent-being-cleared-out-why/) - A. There is no reservoir at Cawdale; instead, there is a weir where the natural flow of water should push vegetation downstream. These sites are regularly checked, and if a blockage occurs, contractors are arranged to clear it. If anything, a blockage at Cawdale would divert the water away from Haweswater and down the river
- [Q. Drinking water quality standards at Wet Sleddale. How does this impact water management between reservoirs?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-drinking-water-quality-standards-at-wet-sleddale-how-does-this-impact-water-management-between-reservoirs/) - A. The high levels of Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC)* at Wet Sleddale mean that water is rarely transferred to Haweswater. Instead, it is discharged into the River Lowther. DOC complicates the treatment process at Watchgate Water Treatment Works, requiring more intensive treatment and increasing operational challenges and costs. As a result, Wet Sleddale functions mainly
- [Q. What can happen in the short term?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-what-can-happen-in-the-short-term/) - A. Working with stakeholders we hope we can identify some quick wins that will address some of the local concerns. Cumbria Connect
- [Q. Can United Utilities share their management gauge data?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-can-united-utilities-share-their-management-gauge-data/) - Reservoir and river flood warnings and data are available via the Government and Environment Agency website - gov.uk. Haweswater - https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/station/5211 Check for Flooding - https://www.gov.uk/check-flooding River, sea, groundwater and rainfall levels - https://check-for-flooding.service.gov.uk/river-and-sea-levels/rloi/5025
- [Q. We used to get a 12-hour warning at Haweswater to take livestock out before overtopping.  This has stopped, but could it be brought back?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-we-used-to-get-a-12-hour-warning-at-haweswater-to-take-livestock-out-before-overtopping-this-has-stopped-but-could-it-be-brought-back/) - Thank you for raising this. Our investigations indicate that this was a local, informal understanding and was not formally documented. We acknowledge the importance of such proactive measures and will explore this further. United Utilities
- [Q. Are tree stumps and gravel on the other side of the river pushing water across it?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-are-tree-stumps-and-gravel-on-the-other-side-of-the-river-pushing-water-across-it/) - A. We assume this is at the breach site. Breaching is linked to the fact that the outer bend in the river here is very close to an old river route which the river is trying to get back into. Gravels naturally accumulate on the inside of bends if not removed as this is a
- [Q. Are we modelling river force as well as volume?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-are-we-modelling-river-force-as-well-as-volume/) - River energy indexed via shear stress can be modelled and is indicative of river force and its potential to cause erosion and deposition. This is something that could be explored during the workshops. Dynamic Rivers
- [Q. Do the hydrological models take into account surface water?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-do-the-hydrological-models-take-into-account-surface-water/) - No, it doesn't. We could investigate any known surface water problem and can discuss this at the workshops. Dynamic Rivers
- [Q. Can we look more into the Knipe area specifically?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-can-we-look-more-into-the-knipe-area-specifically/) - We are reviewing the impact of any proposed and past works on the Knipe area and can present this at the workshops. Dynamic Rivers
- [Q. If the river banks were taken down would it make any difference?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-if-the-river-banks-were-taken-down-would-it-make-any-difference/) - It would alter the amount of times river water wets the floodplain and in doing so it would rejuvenate many of the features on the floodplain that are currently over-dry compared to natural. The spreading of water will also lead to a reduction in energy in the main river with gravel deposition likely as a
- [Q. Does gravel in the river system contribute towards river flooding?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-does-gravel-in-the-river-system-contribute-towards-river-flooding/) - Gravel deposition will impact on the frequency of flooding locally. In our models, we will be running a dredging option to demonstrate the flooding from the river with and without these gravel deposits. Dynamic Rivers.
- [Q. How much land is going to be needed to protect Carlisle from flooding?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-how-much-land-is-going-to-be-needed-to-protect-carlisle-from-flooding/) - Most of the city is well protected and we are continuing to work on schemes which will improve the level of protection available to the city and its residents. Environment Agency
- [Q. What impact will climate change have on our rivers?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-what-impact-will-climate-change-have-on-our-rivers/) - The Eden Catchment is projected to be impacted significantly by climate change. Latest projections suggest an increase in peak river flows in Eden of 18% by 2039, 27% by 2069 and up to 47% by the ned of the century. Environment Agency
- [Q. Drains along the road are often blocked and need clearing who is responsible for this?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-drains-along-the-road-are-often-blocked-and-need-clearing-who-is-responsible-for-this/) - A. In the UK, local councils or highway authorities are responsible for maintaining road drains under the Highways Act 1980, which requires them to keep highways safe and drainage systems functional. Councils often have dedicated drainage teams for regular inspections, cleaning, and emergency repairs. You can contact Westmorland & Furness Council by calling their helpline
- [Q. Does 'slowing the flow' make everything else back up? How big is the zone of influence up river?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-does-slowing-the-flow-make-everything-else-back-up-how-big-is-the-zone-of-influence-up-river/) - It can cause backing up, with the degree of impact upstream being dependant on the slope of the valley. Water levels increase but are likely to be below that held within floodbanks. The impact is dependent on where the slowing occurs. If it is upstream of Bampton then impacts will be to fields and not
- [Q. Should we be holding more water or moving it off downstream quicker? Do we need to lower the water table as it's too oversaturated?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-should-we-be-holding-more-water-or-moving-it-off-downstream-quicker-do-we-need-to-lower-the-water-table-as-its-too-oversaturated/) - This is a complex question as flow enters the main river from diffuse surface routes, ditches, drains and tributaries and it is their reaction time that is critical to flooding. Saturated land results in widespread but slow surface flow compared to faster flows in ditches and drains and the rougher vegetation enhances this slowing when
- [Q. Can slowing the flow upstream help issues at the breach site?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-can-slowing-the-flow-upstream-help-issues-at-the-breach-site/) - Slowing the flow upstream will impact on water levels along the river downstream in a flood and this would include at the breach site. Dynamic Rivers
- [Q. How much money is coming into partners through Cumbria Connect?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-how-much-money-is-coming-into-partners-through-cumbria-connect/) - A. Cumbria Connect is a nature recovery programme funded through the Endangered Landscapes & Seascapes Programme. Our funders scrutinise our expenditure to ensure that we only finance support projects that deliver results contributing to the aims of projects. This includes a broad range of organisations including local rivers' trusts and farmers through grants. You can
- [Q. Where's the evidence for the benefits of trees?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/q-wheres-the-evidence-for-the-benefits-of-trees/) - We will present a review of the evidence, which is mixed, at the workshops. Dynamic Rivers
- [Q. Environment Agency flood event records look to be inaccurate, as current very high winter flood is occurring 5-6 days per year, not the stated 1-3 days. Why?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/question-3/) - A. If referring to the historic flood map, any inaccuracies might be down to a lack of reporting of flooding having occurred for us to add to the mapping. We would welcome opportunities to update and improve the accuracy of these flood maps. Environment Agency
- [Q. Could United Utilities reduce reservoir levels?](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/qa_faqs/bamptonproject-2/) - A. Reducing reservoir levels is challenging due to several key factors: Weather patterns and inflows: Wet Sleddale’s catchment area (1,848 hectares, including How Gill, Thornship, Keld, Lanshaw, Tailbert, and Swear Gill) feeds into the reservoir, meaning levels are heavily influenced by rainfall. If inflows are high, levels may rise despite management efforts. Water supply and

## Events

- [Places that Matter exhibition](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/places-that-matter-exhibition/)
- [Lakes Deer Fest 2026 at Rheged, Penrith](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/lakes-deer-fest-2026-at-rheged-penrith/) - Lakes Deer Fest is coming to Rheged, Penrith on 10 October 2026. Enjoy free wild venison burgers, live performances and demonstrations, films, talks, art, family activities and discover the Red and Roe Deer of Cumbria.
- [Lowther Celebration of Nature, Lowther Castle & Gardens](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/lowther-celebration-of-nature-lowther-castle-gardens/)
- [Places That Matter - Free Exhibition](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/places-that-matter-free-exhibition/) - Places that Matter - a powerful new photo exhibition sharing the stories and images of 15 local people. Join us at The Old Courthouse in Shap from 21 March to 3 May. Discover the local places that hold deep personal meaning in their lives.
- [Hedgerow Talk - Megan Gimber](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/hedgerow-talk-megan-gimber/) - Join us in Kendal on Thursday 5th March for a practical talk on hedgerows with expert Megan Gimber. Ideal for farmers, landowners and advisers, explore grant options, biodiversity benefits and proven management approaches plus a guided walk to assess hedge condition on the ground.
- [Poetry for the Natural World - Free Workshop](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/poetry-for-the-natural-world-free-workshop/) - Join artist and geographer, Anne Waggot, for a free poetry workshop for all of us, whether we feel confident with words or fancy trying something new!
- [River Rhythms 3 Day Course](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/river-rhythms-3-day-course/) - River Rhythms is a free, three-day immersive course during the October half term, where you’ll explore the science, ecology, and unique soundscape of rivers. If you’re aged 15-18 and passionate about nature, environmental science, storytelling or just relaxed by the sounds of nature, this is your chance to experience rivers in a totally new way
- [Test](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/test/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat
- [Greenwich Economic Forum](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/events/greenwich-economic-forum/) - Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat

## Speakers

- [Martin Varley](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/event-speaker/martin-varley/)

## Event Attendees

- [Bailey Lamburn](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_events_attendees/bailey-lamburn-2/)
- [Bailey Lamburn](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_events_attendees/bailey-lamburn/)

## Global Reg Form

- [Cumbria Connect Event Registration](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_events_reg_form/cumbria-connect-event-registration/)

## Categories

- [News](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/category/news/)
- [Stories](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/category/stories/)

## Tags

- [Wildlife](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/wildlife/)
- [Apprenticeships](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/apprenticeships/)
- [Farming](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/farming/)
- [Habitat Restoration](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/habitat-restoration/)
- [Cumbria Connect](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/cumbria-connect/)
- [Community](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/community/)
- [Nature Recovery](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/nature-recovery/)
- [Species Recovery](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/species-recovery/)
- [Bringing Wildlife Back](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/bringing-wildlife-back/)
- [volunteering](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/volunteering/)
- [glow-worms](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/glow-worms/)
- [Nature-friendly Farming](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/nature-friendly-farming/)
- [Lake District farming](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/lake-district-farming/)
- [UK apprenticeships](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/uk-apprenticeships/)
- [Water Voles Cumbria](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/tag/water-voles-cumbria/)

## Product categories

- [Uncategorised](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/product-category/uncategorised/)

## Events Category

- [Arts & Culture](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/culture/)
- [Community](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/community/)
- [Families](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/family-events/)
- [Farming & Land Management](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/farming/)
- [Food & Drink](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/food/)
- [Nature exploration](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/nature-exploration/)
- [Nature Restoration](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/nature-restoration/)
- [Science](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_cat/science/)

## Events Organizer

- [Cumbria Connect](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_org/cumbriaconnect/) - Cumbria Connect is a landscape-scale nature recovery programme, part of the Endangered Landscapes & Seascapes Programme.
- [Lowther](https://www.connectfornature.org.uk/mep_org/lowther/)