The foundation of our efforts lies in A Meeting of Minds between diverse groups.

A Meeting of Minds: Land Management for Flood Resilience

The Three Villages Flood Group (3VFG) recently hosted a focused and productive meeting bringing together leading organisations working on land, water, and flood resilience in Somerset.

A Meeting of Minds is essential for addressing the concerns related to flood resilience.

Held at Mudford Village Hall on 15th July, we were joined by expert representatives from:

• Somerset Rivers Authority
• FWAG South West (Farming & Wildlife Advisory Group)
• Wessex Water
• Yeovil Rivers Community Trust
• Alongside our full Three Villages Flood Group team

The purpose of the meeting was to explore land management interventions that can reduce the risk of flooding across our communities. Together, we highlighted priority areas within the three villages, discussed practical approaches that could be implemented locally and collaboratively with landowners, farmers, and partner agencies.

FWAG shared insights from their past work in Somerset, where they’ve supported farmers in applying nature-based solutions such as:

  • Soil improvement and cover cropping
  • Buffer strips and riparian planting
  • Field corner wetlands and leaky dams
  • Improved  watercourse management and installation of ponds.

These kinds of interventions have been proven to slow the flow of water, reduce surface runoff, and help retain water higher in the catchment—making them ideal tools in the battle against flooding.

This meeting marks the beginning of a programme of coordinated action. By drawing on the collective knowledge and experience in the room and combining it with potential funding opportunities, we’re confident that we can begin to make a tangible difference.

We’re incredibly grateful for the collaboration and shared commitment shown by all involved, and we look forward to keeping the community updated as plans develop.

If you’re a local landowner, farmer or resident who wants to get involved or learn more, please don’t hesitate to contact us.