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Harnessing Citizen Science to Support Nature-Based Flood Management: A Case Study of Photo Post Engagement in the Limb Brook Catchment, Sheffield, UK

Author

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  • Melissa M. Lacey

    (Sheffield Hallam University, School of Biosciences and Chemistry)

  • Cedric Andreasen

    (Sheffield Hallam University, School of Biosciences and Chemistry)

  • Jackie Lowe

    (Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management of the Environment Agency, South Yorkshire Partnerships and Strategic Overview Team)

  • John McGlinchey

    (Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management of the Environment Agency, South Yorkshire Partnerships and Strategic Overview Team)

  • Patrick Sheard

    (Flood and Coastal Erosion Risk Management of the Environment Agency, South Yorkshire Partnerships and Strategic Overview Team)

  • Claire Bithell

    (Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust)

  • Samuel Lilleker

    (Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust)

  • Martin Reed

    (Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust)

  • Roger Nowell

    (Roger Nowell at Sheffield City Council)

  • Rachel Schwartz-Narbonne

    (Sheffield Hallam University, School of Biosciences and Chemistry)

  • Rebecca Sharpe

    (Sheffield Hallam University, Institute of Law and Social Sciences)

Abstract

Nature-based solutions (NBS) are increasingly promoted in climate adaptation strategies to mitigate flood risks and enhance ecosystem resilience. However, the monitoring and evaluation of such interventions remain a challenge due to resource limitations. This paper evaluates a citizen science-based monitoring approach in the Limb Brook catchment (Sheffield, UK), where public photo submissions were used to assess the effectiveness of NBS interventions such as leaky dams and attenuation ponds. Over a 26-month period, over 4500 photographs were collected from 15 fixed photo points. The analysis demonstrates high initial engagement, varied spatial interaction across sites, and the potential for real-time detection of intervention failures. We critically examine how public participation in environmental monitoring can support adaptive flood risk management while highlighting barriers related to data infrastructure, privacy regulations, and long-term community involvement. This study underscores the value of integrating citizen science into national and local policy frameworks for environmental governance.

Suggested Citation

  • Melissa M. Lacey & Cedric Andreasen & Jackie Lowe & John McGlinchey & Patrick Sheard & Claire Bithell & Samuel Lilleker & Martin Reed & Roger Nowell & Rachel Schwartz-Narbonne & Rebecca Sharpe, 2026. "Harnessing Citizen Science to Support Nature-Based Flood Management: A Case Study of Photo Post Engagement in the Limb Brook Catchment, Sheffield, UK," Environmental Management, Springer, vol. 76(6), pages 1-16, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:envman:v:76:y:2026:i:6:d:10.1007_s00267-026-02464-7
    DOI: 10.1007/s00267-026-02464-7
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