Researchers at the University of Limerick (UL) are seeking farmers to take part in a flood management project.

UL researcher Dr Elaine Gallagher told the Irish Farmers Journal: “It’s best to speak with farmers when looking for climate solutions.” Gallagher is the principal investigator on the ‘exploring flood experiences and alternative flood management strategies’ project and is looking to hear from farmers.

We believe farmers and rural dwellers are key to many of the climate action solutions

Gallagher explains: “The purpose of our research is to find out more about people’s experience and perception around flooding on their land. We believe farmers and rural dwellers are key to many of the climate action solutions and may already hold some of the answers we are looking for.

“It’s no good asking people who sit in an office in Dublin how to combat flooding. We are going to search in the grassroots.

"As we’ve seen, our ministers are allocated based on who they know, not what they know, and as a result they don’t have enough of an understanding around rural issues," she said.

The project is funded by the Irish Research Council and Horizon 2020 Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions. Research will be conducted at UL in association with Sustainable Water Network (SWAN).

Flood walls

Gallagher continued: “There are many options for farmers to combat flooding on their land. Flood walls can be built, fields can be allocated to deal with heavy rainfall and native trees can be planted to help with absorption of water. Native species are a much better alternative to the commercial Sitka Spruce.

“Our research is aimed at forming policy derived from the suggestions made by the custodians of our land. We would like to see if farmers are willing to make these changes for the benefit of the environment, even if it may lead to a reduction in their productivity.

“Finding solutions requires diverse understanding and we believe speaking to farmers and rural dwellers is a great place to start.”

To view the survey, click here.