Landowner Emma on how she allowed natural forces to block Hebble Brook and flood the adjoining field
Where – Old Fulling and Worsted Mill site on Hebblebrook North Halifax
When – Approximatley 2022
Design and implementation – No specific design but natural tree fall and river debris allowed to build up to cause a blockage to slow the flow. This was left to work in its own way. The adjacent field is allowed to flood as necessary and the mill pond inflow was cleared to facilitate natural filling of the mill pond (usually dry) by the brook, to retain more of the water.
Benefits and constraints – Under normal circumstances the brook follows the manmade course to travel round the mill and mill pond area resulting in considerable increase in water flow and flooding in constrained areas. The water still floods the brook channel but there is also considerable flow through the old millpond area which overflows through the old mill wheel race and into the surrounding ground. This is left to more gradually move through the ground. The overall effect of this is not measured but it is the intention of the land owner to continue to allow a more natural slowing of the water and hopefully some planting in the flood plane area to help absorb some of the water/moisture. The mill pond which is normally dry is considerably silted up. Clearance could allow for greater catchment of excess water.
Further opportunities – Clear the mill pond and possibly use the flow to generate power.
Costs – No cost
