• Investigating the Feasibility of using Nature-based Solutions for Flood Management in Mogeely, Ireland, and Beyond

Nature-based solutions (NbS) are recognized globally as effective tools for sustainable and resilient flood risk management (FRM). However, there is currently a low level of NbS uptake in Ireland, with most NbS applied to urban areas. There is no significant consideration for the adaptation of our rural, agricultural areas using NbS, despite a catchment-based approach to river management being adopted in government policies. With flood risk predicted to increase under all climate change scenarios, identifying sustainable and resilient management strategies has become essential.

This study explores the feasibility of implementing NbS in rural Irish catchments. The case study is a small (8.63km2) catchment near the village of Mogeely, County Cork. A Geographic Information System database was built for the selected study area. Data processing of the stream network, runoff patterns, vegetation, land use, and topography permitted a careful identification of suitable NbS sites for temporary flood water storage. These sites were used to recommend bespoke design options tailored to local land conditions, which were collated as a document and proposed to three key stakeholders. The insights gathered from surveys and an informal site visit identify important barriers to NbS uptake in Ireland.

The findings demonstrate that there are significant opportunities for implementing NbS in rural catchments. This does not agree with the findings of previous studies undertaken in County Cork, which relied on generalized and larger-scaled modelling approaches. These often prematurely and erroneously dismiss NbS feasibility. The methods used in this study are replicable and can be further developed and transferred to local communities, empowering them with the tools to independently identify and implement effective NbS strategies for FRM. These findings have important implications for the practical application of NbS in Ireland, including how NbS feasibility is understood in policy and how community empowerment is encouraged through accessible user-friendly approaches.