Massachusetts Natural Valley Storage Investigation
Abstract
The goal of this study was to research and discuss methodologies to quantify in economic terms the costs and benefits of natural valley storage as a means of reducing future flood damages. Natural valley storage consist of wetlands and floodplains which provide significant floodwater retention. The report accomplished the following: (1) provided a review of Corps flood control projects in New England; (2) described the physical characteristics of natural valley storage; (3) summarized the Corps' Charles River Natural Valley Storage project; (4) described costs and benefits of natural valley storage; and (5) conducted a case study using the Nashua River as an example. Natural valley storage areas not only provide a non-structural means of flood control but recreational opportunities often abound in these areas in the form of fishing, hunting, hiking. This report recommends that a preliminary screening effort be conducted to identify significant natural valley storage areas within Massachusetts. The results of the study identified a lack of transferable information regarding the relationship between water quality and groundwater recharge and the preservation of natural valley storage. Without an understanding of this relationship in the Northeast, a benefit calculation is impossible.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1993
- Accession Number
- ADA336720
Entities
Organizations
- New England District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers