River Exe

• Where is the River Exe located?

  Devon, south west England
• Where are the upper and lower courses of the River Exe located?

  Upper course: Exmoor.

  Lower course: Exeter.
• What is the maximum and minimum elevation of the River Exe?

  Maximum: 514m

  Minimum: 26m
• Peat soil characteristics?

  Partially decomposed vegetation matter

  Formed in wet conditions of bogs

  Holds onto water and carbon for a long time (long residency time)
• River Exe land use?

  67% agriculture

  15% woodland

  3% moors and peatland

  15% other
• Important features of Wimbleball Reservoir

  • Very important role in supplying water in the area
  • Regulates water flow to prevent the peaks and troughs of river discharge that lead to flooding or drought
  • 150 hectares in surface area
• What does the peatland restoration project involve?

  Filling in drainage ditches in peat so it can return to normal function (i.e. soaking and holding water like a sponge with slow throughflow)
• How does the drainage basin's large agricultural land affect natural processes?

  Significant reduction in water interception

  Increased water infiltration (into land) at a faster rate

  Water table rises to reflect heightened rate of land saturation

  Increased surface runoff