Numerical Hydrodynamic Study of Hypothetical Levee Setback Scenarios
Abstract
A numerical hydrodynamic study was conducted to compare multiple levee setback alternatives to the base condition (levee without setbacks). The models developed for this study are hypothetical. An unsteady unit hydrograph representing a flood wave was used to perform the simulations. The levee setback alternatives show a reduction in water surface elevation upstream of and at the setback area when compared with the base condition. The overland water velocity increases upstream of the setback area and decreases at the levee setback area and downstream when compared with the base condition. These hypothetical results indicate that levee setback may be an option to reduce flood risk at a given location; however, exact physical setting and processes, economics, and environmental implications of alternatives must be examined to determine the viability of alternatives. This report provides preliminary information about the effects of levee setbacks on flows and water surface elevations that can be helpful for planners and engineers considering adjusting levee alignment as a flood management alternative.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1046050
Entities
People
- Travis Dahl
- Waleska Echevarria-doyle
Organizations
- Engineer Research and Development Center