in this project, RSPB Scotland investigated adaptation solutions to sea level rise at RSPB Udale Bay Nature Reserve, Highland. They wanted to identify methods of adapting the coastal land to climate change, finding a way to allow saltmarsh to continue to develop, whilst protecting neighbouring property and allowing for future changes.
The RSPB’s nature reserve at Udale Bay covers 382 ha of wet grassland, saltmarsh and intertidal mud in the Cromarty Firth. It is internationally important for wintering waterbirds, with small numbers of breeding birds using the wet grasslands that lie above the highest tides. Previously, a protective seawall of a non-designated field at the reserve had failed, affected by storm surges and sea level rise, allowing salt water to enter. This developed a new saltmarsh and but unfortunately increased the risk of flooding in neighbouring property. RSPB needed an adaptation solution to maintain the new saltmarsh, protect the neighbouring property and mitigate the effects of future climate change. They engaged a specialist consultant who was able to present nature-based solutions to safeguard flooding but allowing the saltmarsh to continue to develop.
In 2023 SMEEF was able to provide a grant of £10,037 to support this work using donations to SMEEF made by businesses