The Environment Agency is seeking new members for the English Severn and Wye Regional Flood and Coastal Committee (RFCC) to help shape future flood plans.

Applicants do not need to be technical experts in flood and coastal risk management, but some technical understanding in areas such as surface water flooding; finance; engineering and maintenance; natural approaches to flood risk management; communications and experience of local community flood forums or action groups would be beneficial.

The Environment Agency is particularly interested to hear from people who could effectively represent agriculture, farming and land management or conservation and wider environmental issues.

The RFCC plays an important role in deciding local priorities, raising local levy funding and approving flood and coastal risk management work. Committee members also have a critical role in supporting the Environment Agency and Lead Local Flood Authorities, by working with communities and other partners to identify and bring in funding.

Current committee member Professor John Moverley, OBE said:

“Being a member of the committee is a very important role and a way in which people can make a direct contribution to the important task of flood protection. There is a very strong group on the English Severn and Wye committee and a particular focus on community engagement; ensuring all approaches are evaluated to provide the most effective and efficient approaches. The role can be challenging but it is also very satisfying.”

The unpaid committee posts will be appointed for terms of between 2 and 4 years, and any expenses relating to the post will be paid. Appointed members will be expected to attend the 4 or 5 committee meetings each year and commit approximately half a day per month.

More information and details about how to apply can be found on the English Severn and Wye RFCC page. The closing date for applications is Tuesday 5 May 2015.

Click here for the Committee page