UK Floodplains

Historical demands to protect people and property from flooding and improve agricultural land have resulted in a legacy of insensitive land drainage and flood defence in the United Kingdom. Such works have resulted in habitat loss for wildlife and reduced functions, such as flood control and nutrient storage. Conservation and restoration is therefore vital to enable the sustainable use of floodplains and enhance biodiversity. These initiatives depend upon a sound understanding of physical processes and ecology, together with clearly defined objectives. This volume brings together the existing knowledge on United Kingdom floodplains and should influence the agenda for their future management.