Reservoir catchment

Afforestation of reservoir catchments can have multiple benefits. It can reduce sediment inputs from the catchment, lengthening the life of the reservoir, and may also have beneficial effects on water quality in some cases when peatlands are afforested. Afforestation can reduce peak flows and help to maintain base flows. The benefits of afforestation must be balanced against the potential for increased evapotranspiration from a rapidly growing forest.
- Based on Stella definitions, adapted by NWRM project experts and validated by the European Commission