Environmental Science
2 years ago

Stream restoration boosts flood protection and ecosystem health during storms

JAWRA Journal of the American Water Resources Association
Impact of floodplain and Stage 0 stream restoration on flood attenuation and floodplain exchange during small frequent storms
Carly E. Federman, Durelle Scott, Erich T. Hester

Paper Summary

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Floodplain and Stage 0 stream restoration can help manage flooding and improve ecosystem services. By reconnecting floodplains and restoring streams, peak flow during small storms can be reduced by up to 37%. Increasing the width of floodplains and the percentage of the channel restored has the biggest impact on flood attenuation. However, there is a tradeoff between flood attenuation and floodplain exchange, with Stage 0 restoration showing the most benefits. This type of restoration can help counteract the negative effects of urbanization on rivers and streams.