At this workshop we heard from Anna Rios Wills joint head of water and floods research at DEFRA, born and raised at Torbay and still based there. What are the biggest challenges facing the UK? For many climate change and environmental challenges. People and nature survey ranks it 3rd behind NHS and economy, but ahead of Brexit, unemployment. 25 year climate plan, coastal erosion, water quality survey all illustrate this. How can we find ways to manage the Culm so it’s better for people and wildlife and resilient to flooding and drought.

1. Strong evidence base. Excellent science and research.
2. Proper engagement and community involvement in plans to take action. It’s not just an environmental system but also a social one

Steven Johnson, identified lots of different strategic links for the blueprint for the Culm. Rivers are a force for community cohesion.

Soil surveys with landowners

People  in community to find out issues on the ground

Science event available online

Interactive tools

https://connectingtheculm.com/get-involved/

https://connectingtheculm.com/event/forum-week-discussion-sessions/