This month we turn the spotlight on Riparian Ownership.For those not familiar with the term you are a riparian owner, complete with various rights and responsibilities, if a watercourse borders or runs through or beneath land you own. Watercourses include not just rivers and streams but also culverts and ditches. Even ditches which sometimes run dry in the summer.
Riparian owners are responsible for ensuring the natural flow of water along or through a watercourse without obstruction. This means, the riparian owner is responsible for clearing away any blockage that might impede the natural free flow of water. Blockages will eventually lead to overflowing and potentially flooding of neighbouring land and property.
Ongoing maintenance of watercourses is an essential part of flood prevention.
Unfortunately, it is not always clear cut who owns and has riparian responsibility for some stretches of watercourses. With this in mind it is essential that everyone in the community acts responsibly. Even where riparian ownership is clear cut neighbours should be prepared to work together with riparian owners to ensure the free flow of watercourses for the good of the whole community. For example, watercourses and their banks should never be used to dispose of grass cuttings or other garden waste. Where bank side maintenance involves the cutting back of shrubs and trees all debris needs to be cleared away. Debris left in streams and ditches will eventually accumulate to the point where it restricts the free flow of water. It will then only take a heavy period of rain to cause overflow and flooding.
If you are concerned about the potential effects of debris build up preventing the free flow of water and feel help is needed to clear it, then report it to Southwell Town Council or seek advice from Southwell Flood Forum.
Never forget. Prevention is better than cure.
