NFM tools: modelling, theory and practice

As policymakers increasingly recognise the importance of natural flood management (NFM), the role of precise, adaptable modelling becomes ever more vital. The latest video in our Ousewem series, NFM Tools: Modelling, Theory and Practice, highlights the sophisticated modelling tools we use, and demonstrates their practical applications. It is our opportunity to offer an inside look at the strategies, tools, and collaborations shaping our work, exploring why varied approaches to modelling are key to effective flood resilience.

This video is the second in our series created in partnership with The Artery, a champion for creativity and collaboration in North Yorkshire’s rural and coastal communities. Our first video explored the vital connections between land use, flood risk, and community resilience, sparking meaningful conversations with farmers, landowners, and local communities. Through compelling storytelling and visual imagery, The Artery showcased Ousewem’s mission to align strategic development with stakeholder engagement. With this latest film, we continue that journey, delving deeper into the tools and methodologies that underpin NFM success.

At Ousewem, our commitment to modelling NFM stems from our focus on real-world impact. Partnering with experts like JBA Consulting, we have applied both hydrological and hydraulic modelling to understand the dynamics of water within the SUNO (Swale, Ure, Nidd, and Ouse) catchments. Modelling at a catchment-wide level gives us insights into broad environmental changes, whilst modelling at local scales gives us insight into design and resilience. We’re not just advancing theoretical knowledge; we’re equipping teams with practical tools that can meet the diverse needs of landowners, communities, and investors.

Diverse modelling approaches for diverse needs

Within the Flood and Coastal Innovation Programmes (FCIP) there is a varied approach to modelling. Of the twenty-five projects funded by Defra as part of the £200 million FCIP which is managed by the Environment Agency, we have compared three projects, each faced with unique challenges. For instance, our catchment-wide model at Ousewem uses local expertise to design NFM interventions that work within the broader landscape. This differs from CiFR, where the emphasis is on advisor-led site-specific modelling, optimising interventions at a finer scale. DRiP, meanwhile, brings a soil-health-centred model to the table, prioritising soil quality as a foundation for flood mitigation.

Through this video, we aim to highlight how a varied approach is valuable on its own while underscoring the importance of developing a more consistent national framework for NFM modelling.

The power of partnerships

Ousewem’s journey is also a testament to the power of collaboration. Our strategic modelling approach evolved as we actively engaged with stakeholders and landowners, tailoring our methods to better align with local needs. This stakeholder-centric shift has had a profound impact on how we approach modelling, with flexible designs that adapt to local conditions and encourage buy-in from landowners. In practice, this partnership model is essential; by involving those closest to the land, we have fostered a sense of shared responsibility and resilience that amplifies the impact of each intervention.

The adaptability of our modelling methods is further reflected in our approach to monitoring. Our tools don’t just inform initial project design; they offer ongoing data that allow us to refine NFM strategies. Monitoring in this way allows us to re-evaluate our tools and processes and continue learning and adding to the evidence base around the efficacy of NFM.

Delivering a resilient future

Our end goal at Ousewem is straightforward: build flood resilience by bridging innovation with practical delivery. Modelling is a cornerstone of this mission, enabling us to quantify environmental impacts, optimise interventions, and maximise the benefits of every NFM project. As we continue to refine our models, we’re not only striving to solve immediate flood risk problems but also contributing to broader environmental goals like climate change mitigation and waterway health.

Through this video, we invite you to join us in exploring the nuances of NFM modelling and its strategic applications. Whether it is through our opportunity mapping “NFM Max”, or our Hydrological Assessment Tool, which allows users to understand how their ambition will affect the hydrograph, each tool plays a part in the overarching goal of sustainable flood management. We look forward to sharing our ongoing journey with you and welcome your insights as we advance towards a more resilient future.

Let’s work together to establish a legacy of sustainable, community-driven NFM projects that make a tangible difference.