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Defra and Environment Agency reservoir safety research and development strategy

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Developing the strategy

In 2007, following competitive tender, Defra commissioned Atkins to carry out a project which would determine the strategic direction for Reservoir Safety Research and Development in the UK for the next 5-15 years.

A key part of the project remit was to consult with the reservoir safety profession to ensure that all areas where there was a perceived need for future Reservoir Safety R&D work were considered as part of the study. Reservoir safety R&D needs were identified and debated at a two day workshop in early 2008. Following an open invitation to the industry participants at the workshop included a number of panel engineers, reservoir owners, academics and other prominent members of the profession. The attendees were asked to vote to prioritise the projects that would deliver the R&D work.

Have your say

The draft reservoir safety research and development strategy is available below for industry review and comment.

We would welcome your views and comments on the strategy before it is finalised in late 2008. Please send your comments to fcerm.science@environment-agency.gov.uk.

Delivery of R&D projects

Responsibility for delivering reservoir safety R&D for England and Wales has recently transferred to the Environment Agency from Defra. Where appropriate, the projects recommended by the strategy will be delivered by the Environment Agency’s Flood Risk Science Team as part of the joint Defra/ Environment Agency Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management R&D Programme.

We will be assisted in this task by the Institution of Civil Engineers Reservoir Safety Advisory Group (RSAG). The group, which draws on expertise from government, industry and academia will provide expert technical advice and peer review. RSAG’s overview and guidance will be vital in ensuring that the projects deliver what is required to meet the needs of reservoir owners and the reservoir safety profession.

Further information

For further information about the Environment Agency’s reservoir safety R&D programme, and its links to RSAG, please contact Ian Hope, Reservoir Safety Technical Manager reservoirs@environment-agency.gov.uk.