Wetlands are often discussed in relation to flooding: their ability to hold water within the landscape, slow its flow and reduce the pressure placed on communities downstream, however, their value does not disappear when the rain stops.

During the latest spell of exceptionally hot, dry weather, Rush Meadow Ponds at Brigstock have continued to perform well. The natural flood management scheme, created on land owned by local farmer Hugh Shrive, comprises five connected ponds designed to capture and temporarily store water within the landscape.

Despite the prolonged dry conditions, water remains within the ponds, while the surrounding vegetation is noticeably green and thriving.

It provides a great local example of how working with natural processes can help us to create landscapes that are more resilient to both ends of the weather spectrum.

Rush Meadow Ponds were created as part of RAIN’s wider programme of natural flood management across the Harpers Brook catchment. By creating additional space in which water can collect and move more slowly, features such as ponds and wetlands can help to reduce the speed and volume of water travelling downstream following heavy rainfall.

But retaining more water within the landscape can also provide important benefits during periods of lower rainfall. While surrounding land becomes increasingly dry, the ponds at Rush Meadow continue to hold water. This supports the surrounding vegetation, while providing valuable habitat and a water source for wildlife when other areas may be struggling.

The contrast is a visible reminder of the wider role wetlands can play in helping our countryside adapt to a changing climate.

A recent article from The Wildlife Trusts highlights just how much water has historically been drained from the British landscape and argues that restoring wetlands and other natural features must form part of our response to hotter summers, drought and wildfire.

What we are seeing at Rush Meadow brings that national discussion to life here in Northamptonshire.

As our climate continues to change, communities are likely to experience longer dry periods alongside more intense rainfall. These challenges cannot be considered separately. Instead, we must consider how our landscape can capture water when it is plentiful, retain it for longer and release it more gradually.

No single intervention will provide the whole answer, however Rush Meadow Ponds demonstrate how natural flood management can form part of a more joined-up approach – helping to manage flood risk, support nature and build resilience to prolonged dry weather.

The scheme also highlights what can be achieved through collaboration with farmers and landowners such as Hugh, who make it possible to introduce natural flood management measures in the places where they can deliver meaningful benefits.

Sometimes the value of a flood resilience measure becomes most visible when it has hardly rained at all.