The management of flooding in the Somerset Levels from the Romans to today

The history of the Somerset levels and Moors is fascinating from a civil engineering perspective

It is a story of success and failure, agriculture, society, politics and technology. Come and hear this thought-provoking lecture led by Binnies’ Associate Director, Net Zero and Circular Economy, Jack Mason.

Jack’s talk sets out to explain some of the engineering that has led to the man made system and environment we see today. The talk will then seek to explore briefly the current challenges, considering climate change, biodiversity and the socioeconomic situation and Jack explores how these challenges are shaping tomorrow’s infrastructure.

The future of the Somerset Levels and Moors is at a key decision point, perhaps the most significant in over 1,000 years.

About Jack Mason

Jack has considerable experience in project managing both projects and strategies for the Environment Agency, Local Authorities and private industry. Jack is recognised for innovation and identifying solutions to difficult or unusual problems and his focus on climate change and low carbon solutions. Jack’s specialisms include catchment and strategic flood risk management. He frequently works for a wide range of public, private and voluntary sector clients, and has a good appreciation of the key issues to a wide range of stakeholders. Economic appraisal is a key part of Jack’s role, which includes undertaking economic studies to identify the preferred option in strategies and projects. Jack is proficient at integrating multiple objectives in option choice including social, environmental, safety, technical as well as economic considerations. In his current role as Associate Director Net Zero and Circular Economy, Jack works within the Sustainability team leading on the delivery of the company’s net zero carbon commitments. He also leads on the integration of the principles of a circular economy within all work delivered.