W&C CASE STUDY - The River Exe Flashcards
1
Q
Location:
A
- travels through Exmoor, Exeter and Exmouth
2
Q
Describe the water balance in the River Exe drainage basin
A
65% of the water balance is surface runoff
3
Q
Why is surface runoff so high?
A
- impermeable bedrock reduces infiltration
- drainage ditches in the upper catchment decrease soil water storage
4
Q
What were the 2 recent developments that affected the water cycle?
A
- Exmoor Mires project
- Wimbleball reservoir
5
Q
Why was the Wimbleball reservoir created?
A
- to supply water to Exeter and parts of Devon
- regulates water supply and reduces peaks/troughs
6
Q
What did the Exmoor Mires project do?
A
Restore peatlands in Exmoor that were previously drained for agricultural use
7
Q
What were the benefits of the Exmoor Mires project?
A
- increase water storage
- increased carbon storage
- increased biodiversity and water supply for animals
