MORE specialist workers are needed to address growing challenges in water management.
A new report has revealed a skills gap in water resources management (WRM) in Shropshire and Powys, driven by climate change, population growth and an ageing workforce.
Carried out by the University of Chester through the Centre for Living with Climate Change (CLiCC) Demonstrator Project, the report finds WRM skills are not currently prioritised in local skills plans for either the Marches or Mid Wales.
Melissa Spiers, CLiCC project lead at the University of Chester, said: "Nationally, the need for skills in the water sector is already well recognised.
"The UK is planning major workforce growth, with around 50,000 new recruits needed by 2030, including thousands of apprentices."
The report calls for a regional skills and competency framework for water management, and clearer career pathways for young people and career-switchers, including both degree and non-degree routes.
It also recommends creating a CLiCC skills space to coordinate applied training, mentoring and shared learning across organisations.
The Severn Valley Water Management Scheme is a cross-border initiative led by the Environment Agency, in partnership with Natural Resources Wales, Powys County Council, and Shropshire Council.
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