To explore how woodland along rivers and waterways can build a healthier and richer environmental landscape, fight climate change and protect cultural heritage.
£1.95m
Funded under UK Treescapes Call 1
Aug 2021 – Jul 2025
Riparian woodlands—woodlands along rivers and waterways—provide vital benefits for both nature and people. England alone has 200,000 km of rivers and waterways with the potential to create new habitats for wildlife and reduce flood risks through the integration of bankside trees and woodland.
CASTOR aims to understand and address the opportunities and barriers associated with riparian woodland expansion. The project explores ecological, cultural, and socio-economic factors influencing this restoration effort across various landscapes. It also examines strategies to enhance the connectivity and resilience of these landscapes to benefit both wildlife and local communities.
Working within case study areas in the Northern Forest, the project has conducted hydrological modelling to evaluate how different woodland planting strategies affect peak river flow and flood reduction. Additionally, CASTOR developed innovative approaches to assess habitat connectivity, particularly focusing on the role of woodland edges and interiors.
Through workshops, virtual reality simulations, art installations, and a Q-method survey involving nearly 300 participants, CASTOR gathered insights on community priorities, including ecological restoration, cultural heritage, and social benefits.
“These outcomes will invigorate community engagement and recovery of riparian landscapes and ecosystems within a model that will be applicable throughout the UK.”
The CASTOR project is ongoing and outcomes and results will be made available as soon as possible.
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Dr Matthew Dennis, Senior Lecturer in Geographical Information Science, The University of Manchester Email: matthew.dennis@manchester.ac.uk |
RSPB, University of Birmingham, University of Cumbria, University of Leeds, University of Manchester, University of Nottingham
Canal and Rivers Trust, Cumbria Wildlife Trust, Eden Rivers Trust, Lancashire Wildlife Trust, The National Trust, The Woodland Trust