Five surprising ways that trees help prevent flooding

 Think of flood prevention and you might imagine huge concrete dams, levees or the shiny Thames barrier. But some of the most powerful tools for reducing flood risk are far more natural and widely recognisable: woodlands and green spaces. Trees offer much more than beauty and oxygen. Here’s how trees help to protect us from floods.

         1.  Water Absorption: Tree roots absorb water, reducing soil moisture.

              2. Soil Improvement: Trees enhance the soil’s ability to hold water.

3. Soil Retention: Roots prevent soil erosion.

4. Surface Flow Reduction: Tree canopies slow down falling rainwater.

5. Natural Filtration: Trees filter water, reducing pollutants.

This helps manage and reduce flooding risk.