Rebirth of streams can cause flooding in some areas, as human needs and nature collide
Groundwater levels are currently classed as high or exceptionally high by the Environment Agency in parts of England where chalk streams and other water bodies have for decades been badly depleted by over-abstraction. High rainfall in the south and east of England has topped up chalk aquifers to sometimes record levels.
Grassy hollows in fields have become streams again as old springs gush with clear water. In some cases this has caused hazards and flooding where the unwary have blocked long dry watercourses.
