P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

MODULE 1: FLOOD AND ITS CAUSES

A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry. Floods are an area of
study in the discipline of hydrology. They are the most common and widespread natural severe
weather event. Floods can look very different because flooding covers anything from a few inches of
water to several feet. They can also come on quickly or build gradually.

According to our friends at the National Severe Storms Laboratory, there are five types of floods. They
include:

RIVER FLOOD

A river flood occurs when water levels rise over the top of riverbanks. This flooding can happen
in all river and stream channels. This includes everything from small streams to the world’s largest
rivers.

River flooding typically happens for four reasons. They are:

 Excessive rain from tropical storm systems making landfall

 Persistent thunderstorms over the same area for extended periods
 Combined rainfall and snowmelt
 Ice jam

River floods can happen suddenly or slowly. Sudden river flooding events occur more often on
smaller rivers, rivers with steep valleys, rivers that flow for much of their length over impermeable
terrain, and normally dry channels.

On the other hand, low-rising river floods typically occur in large rivers with large catchment
areas. In case you did not know this already, a catchment area is any area of land where precipitation
collects and runs off into a common outlet.

COASTAL FLOOD

A coastal flood is the inundation of normally dry land areas along the coast with seawater.

Coastal flooding is typically a result of a combination of sea tidal surges, high winds, and barometric
pressure. These conditions typically come from storms at sea like tropical cyclones, tsunamis, and/or
higher-than-average tides.

STORM SURGE

Storm surge is an abnormal rise in water level in coastal areas over and above the regular
astronomical tide.

Storm surge is always a result meteorological storms that cause higher than normal tides on
the coast. There are three things in a storm that create storm surge: wind, waves, and low atmospheric
pressure.

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P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

Storm surge is an extremely dangerous form of flooding. It can flood large coastal areas at the
same time. It can also cause flooding very quickly. Extreme flooding occurs when storm surge happens
at the same time as high tide. This can cause storm tides to reach over 2o feet. Our meteorologists
always stress that storm surge is the most dangerous aspect of any tropical system. It poses the most
threat to both life and property. In the past, we have seen truly devastating storm surge impacts.

INLAND FLOODING

Some organizations refer to inland flooding as urban flooding. A flash flood is also a type of
inland flood. An inland flood is flooding that occurs inland or not in a coastal area. Therefore, coastal
flooding and storm surge are not inland floods.

Rainfall is usually to blame for inland floods. Rain causes inland flooding in two ways. It can
happen with steady rainfall over several days or it can happen because of a short and intense period of
rainfall. Snowmelt also causes inland floods, although rainfall is a more common cause. Another
reason of inland flooding is when debris, ice, or dams block waterways.

Inland floods are often worse in urban areas because there is little to nowhere for the water to
go. The following urban features can create urban flooding or make inland floods worse:

 Paved roads and streets

 Low-capacity drainage equipment
 Dense buildings
 Low amounts of green space

FLASH FLOOD

The most well-known and deadly type of flood is a flash flood. A flash flood is flooding that
begins within 6 hours, and often within 3 hours, of heavy rainfall (or other cause).

Flash floods can happen for several reasons. Most flash floods happen after extremely intense
rainfall from severe thunderstorms over a short period of time (normally 6 hours or less). There are
two key elements to determine is flash flooding is likely:

Rainfall rate

Rainfall duration

Flash floods also happen when damns break, when levees fail, or when an ice jam releases a
large amount of water.

Flash floods are extremely powerful. They have enough force to roll boulders, tear trees from
the ground, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels. This type of flood is
characterized by raging torrents that rip through riverbeds, urban streets, or canyons, wiping out
everything in their paths. With heights reaching 30 feet, flash floods can completely cover
communities.

Another reason why flash flooding is so dangerous is that it can happen with little to no
warning. This is especially true when dams or levees break.

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P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

FLOOD CAUSES & EFFECTS

No matter what type of flood you are dealing with, they are generally caused by the same key
factors and there are always negative effects. There are plenty of different causes of flooding. While
different flood types typically have different causes, most floods are caused by one of the following
activities:

1. Heavy Rains

The simplest explanation for flooding is heavy rains. No matter where you live, you are surrounded by
infrastructure and systems designed to move rainwater into appropriate basins and reservoirs. In most
cases, the infrastructure does its job, and you never have to think about where the rain goes when it
runs off.

When it rains heavily, however, those systems are overwhelmed, and that water doesn’t drain nearly
as quickly as it needs to. In short, the drainage systems back up, and the water rises — sometimes into
homes. This typically happens only in cases of sustained heavy rains over a long period.

2. Overflowing Rivers

You do not necessarily need to have heavy rains to experience flooding in your area. For example, if
you live along a river and areas upstream from you experience heavy rains, it could lead to a serious
overflow where you live. Most larger rivers include a series of dams to help manage large amounts of
rainfall, and most river systems are managed by government authorities.

Sometimes, however, those authorities have to make tough decisions about how to operate dams. They
often can manage the water and prevent flooding altogether — but not always.

3. Broken Dams

Much of America’s infrastructure was built in the 20th century, so it is getting old. When heavy rains
come, and water levels rise, aging dams can fail and unleash torrents of water on unsuspecting
households.

This is part of what happened after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005. Levees failed and
made the flooding far worse than it would have been otherwise. While we have come to depend on
20th-century architecture, and much of it does its job well, there is always a possibility that a structure
will fail.

4. Urban Drainage Basins

Many of our cities are made of mostly concrete and other impermeable material. When you have an
urban drainage basin that is made of concrete, there is no ground for water to sink into. So, when those
drainage basins fill up, it is going to mean flooding for low-lying areas.

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P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

This is mostly the case in large urban areas — think Houston and Los Angeles. When heavy rains strike,
the basins used to drain them cannot always handle the load.

5. Storm Surges and Tsunamis

Rain is not always the culprit when it comes to flooding. Storm surges related to hurricanes and other
storms can lead to significant flooding, as can tsunamis that are sometimes caused by underwater
earthquakes.

Given modern technology, we often know about storm surges and tsunamis before they arrive, but this
is not always the case. For example, in 2004, an earthquake off the coast of Indonesia created a
tsunami that gave little warning before coming ashore.

6. Channels with Steep Sides

Flooding often occurs when there is fast runoff into lakes, rivers and other reservoirs. This is often the
case with rivers and other channels that feature steep sides. It is a similar issue to having a lack of
vegetation, which is explained in more detail below.

7. A Lack of Vegetation

Vegetation can help slow runoff and prevent flooding. When there is a lack of vegetation, however,
there is little to stop water from running off. This can be a bit of a conundrum after a drought.

While area residents likely welcome the rain, the lack of vegetation after the drought can cause flash
flooding. This does not always happen given that basins and reservoirs are close to empty, but it can
occur in cases of extreme rains following long periods of drought.

8. Melting Snow and Ice

A winter of heavy snow and other precipitation can lead to a spring of flooding. After all, that snow
and ice have to go somewhere when they melt. Most mountainous areas experience relatively
consistent snowfall totals from year to year, but an unusually heavy winter of precipitation can spell
bad news for low-lying areas around the mountains when spring hits.

The good news is that sustained winter precipitation provides a long lead time to prepare for potential
flooding. That is a silver lining at the very least.

These are just a few examples of common causes of floods, but there does not need to be an
incredible weather event for you to experience flooding at your home. You can experience devastating
flooding simply due to a clogged or broken pipe as well as other plumbing issues. No matter how or
why you experience a flood, you need a qualified water restoration professional with quality tools to
help you get your home back into working order again.

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P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

MODULE 2: FLOOD EFFECTS

No matter what causes of a flood, it can have devastating effects on your community. There
are actually many dangerous flooding effects. Besides physical danger, floods affect both
individuals and communities, and have social, economic, and environmental consequences. The
consequences of floods, both negative and positive, vary greatly depending on the location and
extent of flooding, and the vulnerability and value of the natural and constructed environments
they affect.

Can the lost item be

DIRECT LOSS INDIRECT LOSS
sold/bought?

Buildings and its contents

Vehicles
YES: Monetary (Tangible)
Livestock Disruption of Transportation
Crops
Infrastructures

Lives and Injuries Stress and Anxiety

Loss of Memorabilia Disruption of Living
NO: Non-Monetary
Damage to Cultural Heritage Loss of Cultural and
(Intangible)
Sites Environmental Sites
Ecological Damage Ecosystem Resource Loss

Table 2.1: Type of Loss from Flood

LOSS OF LIVES

The gravest effect of flooding is death. In fact, flooding is the number one severe weather
killer. Floods have claimed thousands of lives throughout history. However, how does flooding
kill?

Floods kill by carrying people away in fast-moving water or drowning them. It only takes
six inches of water to wash a person away. Floods can also kill people by destroying buildings and
creating unsafe environments.

One often-overlooked deadly effect of flooding comes from waterborne illnesses, like
cholera, diarrhea, typhoid, amebiasis, hepatitis, gastroenteritis, giardiasis, campylobacteriosis,
scabies, and worm infections, to name a few.

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P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

PROPERTY DAMAGE

Since it only takes two feet of floodwater to wash a car away, flooding can also cause great
loss of property. Surely, you have seen images of cars floating away in floodwaters. This is why it
is so important to avoid flooded areas when driving. You do not want to be in your car when it is
washed away in the flood!

Flooding also causes property damage to buildings by blowing out windows, sweeping
away doors, corroding walls and foundations, and sending debris into infrastructure at a fast pace.
Not to mention the furniture and items inside a home or business that are damaged when
floodwaters make it inside.

PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE DAMAGE

Damage to public infrastructure affects a far greater proportion of the population than
those whose homes or businesses are directly inundated by the flood. In particular, flood damage
to roads, rail networks and key transport hubs, such as shipping ports, can have significant
impacts on regional and national economies.

Short-term downturns in regional tourism are often experienced after a flooding event.
While the impact on tourism infrastructure and the time needed to return to full operating
capacity may be minimal, images of flood-affected areas often lead to cancellations in bookings
and a significant reduction in tourist numbers.

Flooding of urban areas can result in significant damage to private property, including
homes and businesses. Losses occur due to damage to both the structure and contents of
buildings. Insurance of the structure and its contents against flooding can reduce the impacts of
floods on individuals or companies.

ECONOMIC IMPACTS

The economic impact of flooding can be devastating to a community. This comes from
damage and disruption to things like communication towers, power plants, roads, and bridges.
This brings business activities in an area to a standstill. Oftentimes, major flooding results in
dislocation and dysfunction of normal life long after floodwaters recede.

Flooding hinders economic growth and development because of the high cost of relief
and recovery associated with floods. In frequently flooded areas, there is less likely to be any
investment in infrastructure and other developed activities.

PSYCHOSOCIAL FLOODING EFFECTS

Flooding can also create lasting trauma for victims. The loss of loved ones or homes can
take a steep emotional toll, especially on children. Displacement from one’s home and loss of
livelihood can cause continuing stress and produce lasting psychological impacts.

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P C S 2 | FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

AGRICULTURAL IMPACTS

Flooding in key agricultural production areas can lead to widespread damage to crops and
fencing and loss of livestock. Crop losses through rain damage, waterlogged soils, and delays in
harvesting are further intensified by transport problems due to flooded roads and damaged
infrastructure. The flow-on effects of reduced agricultural production can often impact well
outside the production area as food prices increase due to shortages in supply. On the other hand,
flood events can result in long-term benefits to agricultural production by recharging water
resource storages, especially in drier, inland areas, and by rejuvenating soil fertility by silt
deposition.

ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS

In many natural systems, floods play an important role in maintaining key ecosystem
functions and biodiversity. They link the river with the land surrounding it, recharge groundwater
systems, fill wetlands, increase the connectivity between aquatic habitats, and move both
sediment and nutrients around the landscape, and into the marine environment. For many
species, floods trigger breeding events, migration, and dispersal. These natural systems are
resilient to the effects of all but the largest floods.

The environmental benefits of flooding can also help the economy through things such as
increased fish production, recharge of groundwater resources, and maintenance of recreational
environments. Areas that have been highly modified by human activity tend to suffer deleterious
effects from flooding. Floods tend to further degrade systems. Removal of vegetation in and
around rivers, increased channel size, dams, levee bank and catchment clearing all work to
degrade the hill-slopes, rivers and floodplains, and increase the erosion and transfer of both
sediment and nutrients.

While cycling of sediments and nutrients is essential to a healthy system, too much
sediment and nutrient entering a waterway has negative impacts on downstream water quality.
Other negative effects include loss of habitat, dispersal of weed species, the release of pollutants,
lower fish production, loss of wetlands function, and loss of recreational areas.

Many of our coastal resources, including fish and other forms of marine production, are
dependent on the nutrients supplied from the land during floods. The negative effects of
floodwaters on coastal marine environments are mainly due to the introduction of excess
sediment and nutrients, and pollutants such as chemicals, heavy metals and debris. These can
degrade aquatic habitats, lower water quality, reduce coastal production, and contaminate coastal
food resources.

3|Page
Instructor: Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban
 MAJOR EXAMINATIONS
(MIDTERM / FINAL EXAMS) 30 %
QUIZZES 40 %
REPORT 20 %
RECITATION / ATTENDANCE 10 %
TOTAL 100%
PASSING RATE 75 %
▪ A flood is an overflow of water that submerges land that is usually dry. They are the
most common and widespread natural severe weather event.

▪ Floods are an area of study in the discipline of hydrology.

▪ Floods can look very different because flooding covers anything from a few inches
of water to several feet. They can also come on quickly or build gradually.
 River Flooding

Coastal Flooding

Storm Surge

Inland Flooding

Flash Flood
▪ A flood is a river flood if it occurs when water levels rise over the top of river
banks. This flooding can happen in all river and stream channels. This includes
everything from small streams to the world’s largest rivers.

▪ River floods can happen suddenly or slowly.

▪ River flooding typically happens for four reasons. They are:

▪ Excessive rain from tropical storm systems making landfall
▪ Persistent thunderstorms over the same area for extended periods
▪ Combined rainfall and snowmelt
▪ Ice jam
▪ A coastal flood is the inundation of normally dry land areas along the coast with
seawater.

▪ Coastal flooding is typically a result of a combination of sea tidal surges, high

winds, and barometric pressure. These conditions typically come from storms at
sea like:
▪ Tropical cyclones
▪ Tsunami
▪ Higher-than-average tides
▪ Storm surge is an abnormal rise in water level in coastal areas over and above the
regular astronomical tide.
▪ Storm surge is always a result meteorological storms. There are three things in a
storm that create storm surge:
▪ wind,
▪ waves, and
▪ low atmospheric pressure.

▪ Extreme flooding occurs when storm surge happens at the same time as high tide.
This can cause storm tides to reach over 2o feet.
▪ Some organizations refer to inland flooding as urban flooding. An inland flood is
flooding that occurs in land.

▪ Rainfall is usually to blame for inland floods. Inland floods are often worse in urban
areas because there is little to nowhere for the water to go. The following urban
features can create urban flooding or make inland floods worse:
▪ Paved roads and streets
▪ Low-capacity drainage equipment
▪ Dense buildings
▪ Low amounts of green space
▪ Flash floods are extremely powerful. They have enough force to roll boulders, tear trees
from the ground, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels. This type of
flood is characterized by raging torrents that rip through riverbeds, urban streets, or
canyons, wiping out everything in their paths. With heights reaching 30 feet, flash floods
can completely cover communities.

▪ Most flash floods happen after extremely intense rainfall from severe thunderstorms over a
short period of time (normally 6 hours or less). Flash floods also happen when damns
break, when levees fail, or when an ice jam releases a large amount of water.

▪ Another reason why flash flooding is so dangerous is that it can happen with little to no
warning. This is especially true when dams or levees break. The most well-known and
deadly type of flood is a flash flood.
Heavy Rains

▪ The simplest explanation for flooding is heavy rains. No matter where you live, you
are surrounded by infrastructure and systems designed to move rainwater into
appropriate basins and reservoirs. In most cases, the infrastructure does its job,
and you never have to think about where the rain goes when it runs off.
▪ When it rains heavily, however, those systems are overwhelmed, and that water
doesn’t drain nearly as quickly as it needs to. In short, the drainage systems back
up, and the water rises — sometimes into homes. This typically happens only in
cases of sustained heavy rains over a long period.
Overflowing Rivers

▪ You do not necessarily need to have heavy rains to experience flooding in your
area. For example, if you live along a river and areas upstream from you
experience heavy rains, it could lead to a serious overflow where you live. Most
larger rivers include a series of dams to help manage large amounts of rainfall, and
most river systems are managed by government authorities.
▪ Sometimes, however, those authorities have to make tough decisions about how to
operate dams. They often can manage the water and prevent flooding altogether —
but not always.
Broken Dams

▪ Much of America’s infrastructure was built in the 20th century, so it is getting old.
When heavy rains come, and water levels rise, aging dams can fail and unleash
torrents of water on unsuspecting households.
▪ This is part of what happened after Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in 2005.
Levees failed and made the flooding far worse than it would have been otherwise.
While we have come to depend on 20th-century architecture, and much of it does
its job well, there is always a possibility that a structure will fail.
Urban Drainage Basins

▪ Many of our cities are made of mostly concrete and other impermeable material.
When you have an urban drainage basin that is made of concrete, there is no
ground for water to sink into. So, when those drainage basins fill up, it is going to
mean flooding for low-lying areas.
▪ This is mostly the case in large urban areas — think Houston and Los Angeles.
When heavy rains strike, the basins used to drain them cannot always handle the
load.
Storm Surges and Tsunamis

▪ Rain is not always the culprit when it comes to flooding. Storm surges related to
hurricanes and other storms can lead to significant flooding, as can tsunamis that
are sometimes caused by underwater earthquakes.
▪ Given modern technology, we often know about storm surges and tsunamis before
they arrive, but this is not always the case. For example, in 2004, an earthquake off
the coast of Indonesia created a tsunami that gave little warning before coming
ashore.
Channels with Steep
Sides
▪ Flooding often occurs when
there is fast runoff into lakes,
rivers and other reservoirs.
This is often the case with
rivers and other channels
that feature steep sides. It is a
similar issue to having a lack
of vegetation.
Lack of Vegetation

▪ Vegetation can help slow runoff and prevent flooding. When there is a lack of
vegetation, however, there is little to stop water from running off. This can be a bit
of a conundrum after a drought.
▪ While area residents likely welcome the rain, the lack of vegetation after the
drought can cause flash flooding. This does not always happen given that basins
and reservoirs are close to empty, but it can occur in cases of extreme rains
following long periods of drought.
Melting Snow and Ice

▪ A winter of heavy snow and other precipitation can lead to a spring of flooding.
After all, that snow and ice have to go somewhere when they melt. Most
mountainous areas experience relatively consistent snowfall totals from year to
year, but an unusually heavy winter of precipitation can spell bad news for low-
lying areas around the mountains when spring hits.
▪ The good news is that sustained winter precipitation provides a long lead time to
prepare for potential flooding. That is a silver lining at the very least.
Instructor: Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban
Can the lost item be
DIRECT LOSS INDIRECT LOSS
sold/bought?

• Buildings and its contents

YES: • Vehicles
• Disruption of
Monetary (Tangible) • Livestock
Transportation
• Crops
• Infrastructures

• Lives and Injuries • Stress and Anxiety

NO: • Loss of Memorabilia • Disruption of Living
Non-Monetary • Damage to Cultural Heritage • Loss of Cultural and
(Intangible) Sites Environmental Sites
• Ecological Damage • Ecosystem Resource Loss
▪ The gravest effect of flooding is death. In fact, flooding is the number one severe
weather killer. Floods have claimed thousands of lives throughout history.

▪ Floods kill by carrying people away in fast-moving water or drowning them. It only
takes six inches of water to wash a person away. Floods can also kill people by
destroying buildings and creating unsafe environments.

▪ One often-overlooked deadly effect of flooding comes from waterborne illnesses,

like cholera, diarrhea, typhoid, amebiasis, hepatitis, gastroenteritis, giardiasis,
campylobacteriosis, scabies, and worm infections, to name a few.
▪ Flooding causes property damage to buildings by blowing out windows, sweeping
away doors, corroding walls and foundations, and sending debris into
infrastructure at a fast pace. Not to mention the furniture and items inside a home or
business that are damaged when floodwaters make it inside.

▪ Since it only takes two feet of floodwater to wash a car away, it is important to avoid
flooded areas when driving.
▪ Damage to public infrastructure affects a far greater proportion of the population
than those whose homes or businesses are directly inundated by the flood.

▪ In particular, flood damage to roads, rail networks and key transport hubs, such as
shipping ports, can have significant impacts on regional and national economies.

▪ Short-term downturns in regional tourism are often experienced after a flooding

event. While the impact on tourism infrastructure and the time needed to return to
full operating capacity may be minimal, images of flood-affected areas often lead
to cancellations in bookings and a significant reduction in tourist numbers.
▪ The economic impact of flooding can be devastating to a community. This comes
from damage and disruption to things like communication towers, power plants,
roads, and bridges. This brings business activities in an area to a standstill.
Oftentimes, major flooding results in dislocation and dysfunction of normal life
long after floodwaters recede.

▪ Flooding hinders economic growth and development because of the high cost of
relief and recovery associated with floods. In frequently flooded areas, there is
less likely to be any investment in infrastructure and other developed activities.
▪ Flooding can also create lasting trauma for victims. The loss of loved ones or homes
can take a steep emotional toll, especially on children. Displacement from one’s
home and loss of livelihood can cause continuing stress and produce lasting
psychological impacts.
▪ Flooding in key agricultural production areas can lead to widespread damage to
crops and fencing and loss of livestock.

▪ Crop losses through rain damage, waterlogged soils, and delays in harvesting are
further intensified by transport problems due to flooded roads and damaged
infrastructure. The flow-on effects of reduced agricultural production can often
impact well outside the production area as food prices increase due to shortages in
supply.

▪ On the other hand, flood events can result in long-term benefits to agricultural
production by recharging water resource storages, especially in drier, inland areas,
and by rejuvenating soil fertility by silt deposition.
▪ In many natural systems, floods play an important role in maintaining key
ecosystem functions and biodiversity.

▪ They link the river with the land surrounding it, recharge groundwater systems, fill
wetlands, increase the connectivity between aquatic habitats, and move both
sediment and nutrients around the landscape, and into the marine environment.

▪ For many species, floods trigger breeding events, migration, and dispersal. These
natural systems are resilient to the effects of all but the largest floods.
▪ The environmental benefits of flooding can also help the economy through things
such as increased fish production, recharge of groundwater resources, and
maintenance of recreational environments.

▪ Areas that have been highly modified by human activity tend to suffer deleterious
effects from flooding.
▪ Floods tend to further degrade systems.
▪ Remove vegetation in and around rivers,
▪ Increased channel size, dams, levee bank and catchment clearing all work to degrade the
hill-slopes, rivers and floodplains, and
▪ Increase the erosion and transfer of both sediment and nutrients.
▪ While cycling of sediments and nutrients is essential to a healthy system, too much
sediment and nutrient entering a waterway has negative impacts on downstream
water quality.

▪ Other negative effects include:

▪ Loss of habitat,
▪ Dispersal of weed species,
▪ Release of pollutants,
▪ Lower fish production,
▪ Loss of wetlands function, and
▪ Loss of recreational areas.
▪ Many of our coastal resources, including fish and other forms of marine production,
are dependent on the nutrients supplied from the land during floods. The negative
effects of floodwaters on coastal marine environments are mainly due to:

▪ The introduction of excess sediment and nutrients, and pollutants such as

chemicals, heavy metals and debris. These can degrade:
▪ aquatic habitats,
▪ water quality,
▪ coastal production, and
▪ coastal food resources.
 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

Flood Control Strategies

(Structural Mitigation Measures)

MEMBER 1

OPRAH CAYOG

MEMBER 2

PATRICIA MAE CABRERA

PCS 2: FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban

Page 1 of 9
 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

The mitigation measures that are employed to achieve the first two goals of mitigation process,

a reduction in the likelihood or acceptance of hazard, are grouped into two primary categories:

structural and non-structural.

Structural mitigation measures are those that involve or dictate a necessity for some kind of

construction, engineering, or other mechanical changes or improvements aimed at reducing

hazard risk likelihood or consequence. They often are considered at “man controlling nature”

when applied to natural disasters. Structural measures are generally expensive and include a

full range of regulation, compliance, enforcement, inspection, maintenance, and renewal issues.

Levees, Floodwalls, Seawalls, and Other Appurtenant Structures

These structures are designed to prevent floodwaters and storm surges from reaching areas that

are at risk. Consequences of failure can be catastrophic because those behind the structure can

be subject to rapid inundation and flooding conditions more severe than if the floodwaters had

risen gradually

Page 2 of 9
 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

Dams

Barriers that impound hydrologic flows, dams retain floodwaters before they reach areas at risk.

For example, during high-precipitation periods, dams hold upstream floodwaters that are

released gradually to minimize the likelihood of damage to downstream communities.

However, during exceptionally large events, the storage capacity of a dam can be exceeded and

uncontrolled flood flows are passed downstream. Under these circumstances, downstream

levees may not be able to contain floodwaters and will fail. This condition occurred in 2011

during spring floods on the Missouri River (USACE, 2012b). Under exceptional circumstances,

dams can fail and send significant quantities of water downstream, resulting in damage or

destruction of levees and communities below the dams.

Floodways, Spillways, and Channels

Floodways, spillways, and channels are constructed to carry floodwaters around a community

or region where the capacity of a river to pass a large volume of floodwaters past a critical

location is limited. Under some circumstances, river channels can be modified to increase their

flood carrying capacity. During the 2011 flooding of the Mississippi River, USACE opened

floodways near New Madrid Missouri to take the pressure off upstream and downstream levees

in Illinois, Kentucky, and other locations in Missouri, and three floodways in Louisiana to relieve

pressure on structures in the New Orleans area. A similar floodway provides relief when needed

to relieve pressure on levees surrounding Sacramento, California

Page 3 of 9
 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

Structural Mitigation Through Improved Levee Design or Modification

During a flood, levees are under continuous stress that threatens their integrity. The most

serious challenges result from wave action against a levee face, the erosion of the land side of a

levee as the levee is overtopped or subject to waves breaking over its top, and seepage under

the levee that destroys the levee from within. Forms of these occurred during Hurricane Katrina

and caused the failure of levees in the New Orleans region in 2005. Use of controlled

overtopping, armoring, and underseepage control can greatly reduce the potential for

catastrophic failure.

Controlled Overtopping and Breaching of Levees

During a flood event, the risk of a levee overtopping can be significant and the consequences

can be catastrophic. Controlled overtopping of levees or engineered overtopping involves

designing a levee to force overtopping in the least hazardous location (USACE, 1986). This can

be done by using different levee heights, known as superiority, or notches or openings in a

desired location

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

A gated overflow spillway that would control flows into a desired area.

The advantages of controlled overtopping in a designated area are

(1) reducing the impact of overtopping failure in the selected area and in other parts of the levee

system,

(2) reducing the likelihood of overtopping in less desirable areas (i.e., areas with more

development), and

(3) reducing levee maintenance and repair costs after the flood event.

Levee Armoring

Armoring a levee involves making a levee less susceptible to erosion induced by floodwaters

and overtopping. It involves the use of a variety of materials, from concrete to vegetation. Three

key factors in determining levee survival in a significant flood event and overtopping are depth

and duration of flow, flow velocity (a function of slope inclination, height of the drop, and flow

friction), and the erosive resistance of the vegetation mat and underlying soils

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

Seepage Berms and Cutoff Walls

Depending on the nature of the material used in the construction of the levee and the foundation

of the levee, water may flow through or under a levee creating the potential for collapse of the

levee or its foundation

Example of an armored levee in Japan.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

NONSTRUCTURAL MITIGATION MEASURES

Nonstructural measures vary in cost and effectiveness and the physical and political effort
required to implement them. The selection of which measure to use is a function of the location
in which it will be employed (topography, expected flood levels, etc.), the availability of funds,
and public acceptance of use.

TYPES OF FLOOD RISK MANAGEMENT

Structure Elevation

By raising a structure above the expected flood level, flood damages can be prevented. Behind
an accredited levee, if a flood greater than the one percent annual chance flood occurs, there
could be some damage to such elevated properties but considerably less than if the structures
had been at the base flood elevation (BFE).

Elevation includes moving key or essential equipment from low-lying elevations within a
structure to areas that would not be subject to flooding.

Relocation

Moving of a structure (or contents) to a location that is less prone to flooding and flood-related
hazards such as erosion.

Natural Systems

Naturally existing, restored, or developed wetlands, as well as land in periodic cultivation, can
store overflow waters from riverine flooding and help reduce downstream impacts.

 Wetlands also provide a natural barrier to storm surge inundation.

 Coastal sand dunes protect structures built behind them and help slow down coastal
erosion and also the immediate impact of rising storm surge.
 Floodways built to relieve flood pressure can also provide ecosystem benefits

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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(Galloway et al., 2009; Opperman et al., 2009). Use of natural systems typically requires some
form of real estate acquisition (fee simple, easement, payment for use, etc.) because the benefits
from such measures normally do not accrue to the individual who may own the property
required.

Risk Mapping

Accurate mapping of risks provides those living or working in flood-prone areas, in front of or
behind levees, with the information necessary to make rational decisions in developing their
personal or corporate flood risk management strategies

Hazard Forecasting, Early Warning Systems, and Emergency Plans

Detailed weather forecasts of the path and severity of a tropical storm, and accurate predictions
of stages (heights) of flooding rivers. Preparation of emergency action and evacuation plans can
similarly reduce or eliminate casualties and property losses

Floodproofing

Floodproofing- a combination of adjustments and/or additions of features to buildings that

eliminate or reduce the potential for flood damage. Floodproofing can also include permanent
or temporary installation of barriers such as modular dams and small levees designed to keep
floodwaters away from one or more structures for limited periods of time

 Dry floodproofing seals structures to prevent floodwaters from entering

 Wet floodproofing makes uninhabited portions of a structure resistant to floods by

allowing water to enter and flow through the structure during a flood

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

Land-Use Planning and Zoning

Wise land use is at the center of nonstructural flood mitigation activity and is an effective tool
for reducing risk at the community level. Land-use planning implements public policy to direct
how land in a given area is used. It is executed through zoning ordinances and takes place on
multiple levels of government, from national policy to local policy where there may be
designation of parcels for a specific use at the local level.

Although the NFIP requires regulation of the land within the SFHA, it does not require flood-
prone communities to regulate areas beyond the one percent annual chance flood level or areas
behind levees even though both areas face flood risks

Construction Standards and Building Codes

Construction standards and building codes can be developed at any level of government but
they are enforced at the local level. While codes provide for public safety, they also prescribe
practices and measures that directly address known causes of disaster damages

Kunreuther (1996) found that one-third of the damages associated with the 1992 Hurricane
Andrew could have been avoided had Florida enforced its building codes.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

RAINWATER HARVESTING

ADRIAN BONIFACIO R. GABRIEL

JERICHO A. SICAT

PCS 2: FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban

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 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

WATER CYCLE

The water cycle is often taught as a simple circular cycle of evaporation, condensation, and
precipitation. Although this can be a useful model, the reality is much more complicated.
The water cycle depicts the ongoing circulation of water within the Earth's and atmosphere's
atmosphere. It is a complicated system with numerous processes. Liquid water evaporates into
water vapor, condenses into clouds, and falls back to earth as rain and snow. Water in various
phases circulates through the atmosphere (transportation). Runoff is the movement of liquid
water across land, into the earth (infiltration and percolation), and through the ground
(groundwater). Groundwater enters plants (plant uptake) and evaporates into the atmosphere
(transpiration). Solid ice and snow can easily transform into gas (sublimation). When water
vapor solidifies, the opposite can occur (deposition).

Water is considered an everlasting free source that can be acquired naturally. Demand for
processed supply water is growing higher due to an increasing population. Sustainable use of
water could maintain a balance between its demand and supply.
What Is Rainwater Harvesting?
Rainwater harvesting (RWH) is the most traditional and sustainable method, which could be
easily used for potable and no potable purposes both in residential and commercial buildings.
This could reduce the pressure on processed supply water which enhances the green living.
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Water is a precious, essential and an abiotic component of the ecosystem. Today we all are
heading toward the scarcity of water, and this is mainly because of the lack of water
conservation and pollution of water bodies. So, let us not waste a drop of water and start
conserving water for further use.

How to Harvest the Rainwater?

Rainwater harvesting systems consists of the following components:
 Catchment- Used to collect and store the captured Rainwater.
 Conveyance system – It is used to transport the harvested water from the catchment to
the recharge zone.
 Flush- It is used to flush out the first spell of rain.
 Filter – Used for filtering the collected Rainwater and remove pollutants.
 Tanks and the recharge structures: Used to store the filtered water which is ready to use.
Here are some ideas for specific uses of rainwater:
 Hand water your lawn and garden
 Wash your vehicles
 Wash your pets
 Refill your fountains and fish ponds
 Refill your swimming pool
 Replace the use of tap water with rainwater to wash your driveways and sidewalks (if
you don’t use a broom)
 Use it for all indoor non-potable fixtures (toilets and clothes washer)
 Use it for all potable needs when properly filtered and disinfected
 Use it for industrial processes instead of municipally treated water
Rainwater harvesting is the simple process or technology used to conserve Rainwater by
collecting, storing, conveying and purifying of Rainwater that runs off from rooftops, parks,
roads, open grounds, etc. for later use.
There are basically three areas where rainwater can be used:
 Irrigation use
 Indoor, non-potable use
 Whole house, potable use
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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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Advantages of Rainwater Harvesting

The benefits of rainwater harvesting system are listed below.
 Less cost.
 Helps in reducing the water bill.
 It is an excellent source of water for landscape irrigation with no chemicals and dissolved
salts and free from all minerals..
 Decreases the demand for water..
 Promotes both water and energy conservation.
 Improves the quality and quantity of groundwater.
 Conserves water
The rainwater collection system is one of the most effective and widely used ways for water
conservation. Today, a key source of concern is the paucity of high-quality water. However,
pure and high-quality rainwater can be used for irrigation, washing, cleaning, bathing, cooking,
and other livestock needs.

Disadvantages of Rainwater Harvesting

Listed below are few more disadvantages of the rainwater harvesting process.
 Regular Maintenance is required.
 Requires some technical skills for installation.
 If not installed correctly, it may attract mosquitoes and other waterborne diseases.
 One of the significant drawbacks of the rainwater harvesting system is storage limits.

How Much Water Can You Collect Through Rainwater Harvesting?

The Federal Energy Management Program uses the following formula to calculate the total
amount of water collected through rainwater harvesting systems:

Catchment area (roof size in square feet) x Monthly rainfall (inches) x Conversion factor
(0.62) x Collection factor (75%-90% to account for losses in the system)

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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For example, according to NOAA's Climate Report, the average monthly rainfall for the
contiguous United States was just under 3 inches in 2019. Using this number and a 75%
collection factor, the total water catchment for a 1,000-square-foot roof would be

1,000 x 3 x 0.62 x 75% =

1,395 gallons per month, or 16,740 gallons per year

How It Works: Capture, Store, Reuse

This is the simplest and most affordable way to harvest rainwater. You simply place barrels or
water tanks below the downspout of your gutter system. This tank can be connected to a pipe
for drip irrigation. Dry system uses a larger storage container for the water.

The Ever-Flowing Benefits

Rainwater harvesting has a host of benefits beyond reducing demand on local freshwater
resources. By collecting rainwater during a storm, there’s less stormwater runoff, which can
overwhelm local sewage systems and result in local pollutants making their way to rivers and
streams, lakes and ponds, and out into the ocean.
Rainwater harvesting has many benefits but the main one is that its is a sustainable water
management practice that can be implemented, from a simple rain barrel to a comprehensive
rainwater system that integrates with an irrigation system or household plumbing.
Uses for Harvested Rainwater

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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Harvested rainwater can be used in almost every way water from a well or other supply can be
used. If the water is to be used for drinking (potable), food preparation, or other direct human
consumption, it needs to be filtered to improve the flavor and remove pathogens, grit, and other
particles. At the very least, it should be boiled at a rolling boil for at least one minute to kill
disease-causing organisms.
 Washing of vehicles
 Swimming pool refills
 Fountain or fishponds refills
 Gardening
 Etc
Ways to Harvest Rainwater
There are many ways to harvest rainwater, from the really basic DIY, to complex systems. The
most important question is what you will use the water for. That will determine how much
filtration and monitoring it needs, and how complex and expensive your system will be.
A basic system that collects rainwater from a roof via downspouts and a barrel or tank is ideal
for outdoor use for watering plants or other outdoor chores. These systems don’t require much
more maintenance than typical gutter-cleaning upkeep.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY Cabanatuan City

STORMWATER DETENTION VS RETENTION

Mark Joseph R. Erilla

Albert I. Ramos

PCS 2: FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE

ENGINEERING Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY Cabanatuan City

Detention and retention are often used interchangeably since they both do similar functions to

each other. A detention BMP (Best Management Practice) is an area where storm water is

temporarily stored, or detained, and is eventually allowed to drain slowly when water levels

recede in the receiving channel.

Example of Stormwater Detention

• An example of stormwater detention system is a dry pond. These are usually dry except during

or after rainfall events or snowmelt. They are meant to slow down the flow of stormwater and keep it

for a short time.

• The majority of underground systems are also considered to be detention systems.

Why Detain Stormwater

Stormwater detention systems capture water during rainfall and slowly drains it, during

rainfall a significant amount of rainwater goes into the detention system instead of potentially

causing flood. And once the rain stops, it will continue to drain slowly, preparing for another

downpour.
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Stormwater Retention

Wet retention ponds are a stormwater control structure that provides retention and

treatment of contaminated stormwater runoff.

By capturing and retaining stormwater runoff, wet retention ponds control stormwater

quantity and quality. The ponds natural processes then work to remove pollutants. Retention

ponds should be surrounded by natural vegetation to improve bank stability and improve

aesthetic benefits.

Water is diverted to a wet retention pond by a network of underground pipes connecting

storm drains to the pond. The system allows for large amounts of water to enter the pond, and
the outlet lets out small amounts of water as needed to maintain the desired water level

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY Cabanatuan City

ADVANTAGES

• Retention ponds are simple if space is provided

• Collects and improves water quality.

• Naturally processes water without additional equipment.

• Improved stormwater collection and flood control.

• New habitats are created.

• Can be used for recreational purposes.

DISADVANTAGES

• Can be a drowning hazard.

• Large areas of land are needed.

• Negative water quality impacts if not properly designed.

Maintenance and Considerations

• Identifying and repairing areas of erosion - A few times a year and after major storms,

check for gullies and other disturbances on the bank.

• removing sediment and debris - Keeping pipes clear of debris and removing sediment

ensures proper function. Remove debris around and in ponds before it reaches the

outlets to prevent problems.

• Maintaining vegetation - The amount of maintenance depends on the type of vegetation

surrounding the basin. Some grasses need weekly mowing, and others can be

maintained a couple of times a year.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

DETENTION BASIN

DEL MARK B. ARCILLAS

ALET CAMILLE J. SANTOS

PCS 2: FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

DETENTION BASINS

Detention basins are surface storage or facilities that provide flow control through the

attenuation of stormwater runoff. A Detention basin is one of the solutions to prevent and

minimize flooding; this serves as a storm management facility. A detention basin is a water basin

where a designated part of the land is excavated to create a gentle slope, and those excavated

parts are called the basin where the excess stormwater goes. The purpose of detention basins is

to help to prevent and reduce flooding when heavy rain stuck; this basin is capable of holding a

large amount of water temporarily and releasing these at a controlled and slower rate.

Detention basins are normally dry. Unlike retention basins where water stays, a detention

basin is dry for a particular time, not until heavy rain and the basin fills up. All the excess

stormwater that the surroundings can’t absorb anymore will go to the detention basin.

PARTS OF DETENTION BASIN

The detention basin consists of parts, the inlet, the basin, the outlet structure, the berm, and the

outlet pipe.

For further understanding,

• Inlet - can be a pipe, curb opening, channel, or sheet flow. This inlet serves as the

opening where the stormwater flows into the basin.

• Basin - this is the one that holds the stormwater for at least 24 hours and helps to settle

out the pollutants evident in the stormwater.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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• Outlet structure - a concrete structure that controls the stormwater flows out to the

outlet pipe; thus, the importance of a trash rack comes in. The thrash rack prevents

trash, sediment, or debris from stopping the water flow, and it is essential to ensure the

opening is clear from blockages.

• Berm - acts as a wall of the outlet structure and helps to hold the water in the detention

basin.

• Outlet pipe - serves as an exit that releases the water from the basin.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

ADVANTAGES

Furthermore, there are advantages to using a detention basin.

1. Can cater to a wide range of rainfall events. Even though a detention basin is smaller

than a retention basin, it is still prominent in size, which is why it can hold a large

amount of water.

2. Can be used where groundwater is vulnerable, if lined. Since it is a pond of water, this

helps to saturate and recharge those vulnerable groundwaters.

3. Simple to design and construct. As discussed, the detention basin comprises just a few

simple parts that are easier to build than the other facilities.

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4. Potential for dual land use. Detention basins are usually dry; thus, owners can use

them for other purposes like a playing field, recreational area, or public open space.

5. Easy to maintain, whereas the only necessary is a bit of cleaning of the openings.

6. Safe and visible capture of accidental spillages.

Disadvantages

In contrast, there are also disadvantages to using a detention basin.

1. It requires a large amount of space. The purpose of detention is to cater to a large

amount of water; thus, it also requires a large amount of space to function well and do

its purpose.

2. It does not improve water quality. The retention basin improves water quality, unlike

the detention basin, which holds the stormwater for a while and then releases it in its

state. Just some trash or debris is filtered out to prevent blocking of the water flow and

settle out some pollutants from the water.

3. It can become a mosquito breeding ground. Since the detention basin holds the

stormwater for a little while, the mosquitoes have enough time to lay eggs and hatch.

Thus, it can be a problem for the houses nearby the facilities.

4. It can detract from property value, whereas retention ponds may add value. Detention

basins do not add to the aesthetic nor enhance the view of the property, unlike the

retention pond that can make beautifully.

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Why do we need basin like detention basins?

The answer is that we need detention basins because development that increases

impervious surfaces, such as roads, homes and parking lots, increases the rate and volume of

storm water runoff during storms or heavy rains. Why? Because those developments cannot

absorb water like the natural ground can, causing the water to start flowing. Detention basins

provide a safe way to collect storm water and release it via underground pipes and evaporate

overtime.

Where detention basins can be used?

Detention basins can be used in residential, commercial/industrial, high density where

housing or building with a higher population than the average, retrofit where involve the

changing systems or structure after its initial construction. When those subdivisions or housing

are built, natural surfaces are replaced with hard surfaces like roofs, patios, driveways and roads

that prevent water infiltrating into the ground which dramatically increased the amount of

storm water runoff. So, many communities require developers to install storm water

infrastructure like detention basins to help hold the excessive amount of water and also flooding.

We can also use detention basins in contaminated sites. We can tell that the site is contaminated

when there are polluting substances in or under the land which possible polluted by its

industrial uses or by the disposal of waste. Detention basins can interrupt the flow of water into

the streams during storm. So, we can capture some trashes in basin before it goes to streams. If

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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the water is polluted, the basins can help to reduce these pollutants. In sites above vulnerable

groundwater, we can also use detention basins but with liner. Why we need liner? This liner is

designed to limit infiltration of water from storm water. Due to site conditions, we need liners

to avoid the risk of ground water contamination.

PERFORMANCE

When it comes to its performance, detention basins are good in peak flow reduction

because its temporarily store storm water runoff, thereby reducing the peak rate of runoff to a

stream and reduce stream bank erosion down streams. In volume reduction, the performance is

poor because some volume of wastes is courses through the basins. In water quality treatment,

the performance is medium because it can provide some water quality benefits, we can capture

some trashes then these basins normally hold storm water enough to settle the sand and large

silt particle. These basins are good in amenity potential because it can use for sports or

recreation. Since the basins are dry most of the time, the detention basins can be a public open

space. In ecology potential, the performance is medium because it can help to improve some

water quality before it goes to the streams which the aquatic animals are in there. Also, detention

basins can be planted with trees, shrubs and other plants, improving the visual appearance and

providing habitats for wildlife.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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QUANTITY

Basins can be designed to control flow rates by storing floodwater and releasing it slowly

once the risk of flooding has passed. The stored water will change the water level, and basins

should be designed to function in both dry and wet weather. Basically, detention basins are large

excavated are which designed to remain empty or dry except when there’s a heavy rains or large

storms event for preventing floods, contamination or erosion. Quantity can also be influenced

by the amount of water that can be allowed to infiltrate into the ground if there is no risk to

groundwater quality. When there is large rainstorm, it fills up and has an outlet structure to let

the water meter out slowly in order to not cause erosion.

QUALITY

Basins treat runoff in a variety of ways:

• Settlement of solids in still or slow-moving water

• Biological activity

Settlement of solids in still or slow-moving water, once the flow of water interrupt to go into

the streams, there is settling of sediments like sand and large silt particle and also associated

pollutant. In biological activity, it helps add organic matter, cycle nutrients and create

biodiversity.

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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AMENITY

Basins offer many opportunities for the landscape designer. Basins should not be built

on, but can be used for sports and recreation. Basins can be part of public open space.

MAINTENANCE

Little/trash removal, storm water conveys all the residues of our urban living, so expect there

are trashes in the basin after the storm or heavy rains. After that storm, we need to inspect the

basins to remove the trashes. In inlet/outlet cleaning, we need to regularly inspect the outlet and

inlet before and after the storm because there is a chance of blockage because of trashes or muds

which can cause the basin doesn’t function properly. In vegetation management, we need to

check if there are overgrown grasses or trees which can block the outlet and decrease storage

capacity. Also, look for standing water in our basin which can be a breeding ground for

mosquitos. Sediment monitoring and removal when required, we don’t want our basin to be

filled up with sediments and make our basin doesn’t work properly. Lack of maintenance will

result in extensive damage to our basin especially after severe weather events, this damage

become quite expensive to get it back into code to make sure it functions properly.

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REFERENCES

Detention Basins. (2022). susDrain.

Retrived from: https://www.susdrain.org/delivering-suds/using-suds/suds

components/retention_and_detention/Detention_basins.html

Leber, B. (2022). Stormwater Basins: How Detention and Retention Ponds Work. Wessler

Engineering

Retrieved from: https://info.wesslerengineering.com/blog/stormwater-basins-detention-

retention-ponds

Homeowner’s guide to detention pond maintenance. (2021).

Retrived from:

https://bradleycountytn.gov/uploads/Homeowner's%20Guide%20to%20Detention%20Pond%2

0Maintenance_11172021.pdf

VIDEO REFERENCES

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yD_CFrpFcLs

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGw825DDnZY

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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RETENTION PONDS

CARMELA A. ALCANTARA

DAN STEVEN P. TOLENTINO

PCS 2: FLOOD CONTROL AND DRAINAGE ENGINEERING

Engr. Derick Aldrin L. Esteban

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NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
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MEMBER 1: DAN STEVEN P. TOLENTINO

INTRODUCTION

As communities continue to grow, the need for diverting water increases. If a stormwater

runoff is high in volume, then it is able to damage or cause erosions near streams and rivers.

Handling the stormwater near its source can save a community from costly repairs compared

when local funds are to be directed at correcting erosion or controlling flooding. A common

method for managing stormwater runoff is to build a basin, which is meant to collect the water,

and release it at a rate that prevents flooding or erosion.

The most common problem in relation to this issue is the urban development. It has

changed watershed hydrology by increasing the number of impervious surfaces, reducing

vegetation, and introducing land uses that generate pollutants. Increased impermeable area

reduces natural infiltration and interception of rainfall resulting in increased runoff volumes

and peak flow rates. The effects of “urbanization” on stormwater runoff include increased total

volumes of runoff. In general, major changes in flow rates in urban areas are the result of:

• increase in the volume of water available for runoff because of the increased impermeable

cover provided by roads, streets, buildings, parking lots, and roofs, which reduce the

amount of infiltration

• changes in hydraulic efficiency associated with artificial channels, curbing, gutters, and

storm drainage collection systems, which increase the velocity of the runoff flow.

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To reduce or mitigate these impacts, water management systems such as detention and

retention ponds is needed. Though having the same purpose, it differs with regards to its

process.

RETENTION PONDS

There are two (2) main types of basins, the detention pond and the retention pond, but

this time, we will now focus on the retention ponds. The main difference between a detention

and a retention pond, is the presence or absence of a permanent pool of water, or pond. In

detention, the outlet of the system is located at the bottom, making the stormwater runoff pass

by quickly so this type of basin is usually dry. Whereas in retention, the outlet of the system is

located at a higher point, letting out the majority of the runoff volume while still having a

retained amount to be treated later on.

Retention ponds can provide both stormwater runoff attenuation and treatment. Runoff

from each storm event is detained and treated in the pool. The retention time promotes pollutant

removal through sedimentation and the opportunity for biological uptake mechanisms to

reduce nutrient concentrations. It should be surrounded by natural vegetation to improve bank

stability and improve aesthetic benefits.

The main principle of a retention pond is to allow large amounts of water to enter the

system, and the outlet lets out small amounts of water as needed to maintain the desired water

level. But, considering health concerns, retention ponds can be a drowning hazard, particularly

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with children. Ponds can also draw mosquitoes, which may contribute to the transmission of

some diseases.

APPLICATIONS

Retention ponds can be designed to control flow rates by storing stormwater runoff and

releasing it slowly once the risk of flooding has passed. The stored water will change the water

level, and ponds should be designed to function in both dry and wet weather. Quantity can also

be influenced by the amount of water that can be allowed to infiltrate into the ground if there is

no risk to groundwater quality. Also, retention ponds offer many opportunities for the

landscape designer which can be part of public open space.

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 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

MEMBER 2: CARMELA A. ALCANTARA

ADVANTAGES & DISADVANTAGES

Retention ponds are generally constructed for positive reasons, but surely there are times

that it has negative impacts in all aspects. The following are its advantages and disadvantages:

ADVANTAGES:

● Collects and improves water quality naturally without additional equipment.

● Improved stormwater collection and flood control, catering all storms.

● New habitats are created.

● High potential ecological, aesthetic and amenity benefits

● Can be used for recreational purposes and good community acceptability.

● Good removal capability of urban pollutants

● Can be used where groundwater is vulnerable, if lined

● May add value to local properties.

DISADVANTAGES:

● Can be a drowning hazard.

● Perceived health & safety risks may result in fencing and isolation of the pond.

● Large areas of land are needed.

● Negative water quality impacts if poorly designed.

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 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

● No reduction in runoff volume if poorly designed.

● Anaerobic conditions can occur without regular inflow.

● Land take may limit use in high density sites.

● May not be suitable for steep sites, due to requirement for high embankments.

● Colonization by invasive species could increase maintenance.

MAINTENANCE CONSIDERATIONS

Having retention ponds constructed and situated on specific areas where it is needed,

there are also maintenance considerations for this. The most important part here is to ensure

that the system is free of debris that causes clogging, to keep it functioning properly. Community

locals should maintain the retention ponds for it can greatly reduce the cost of repairs in the

future. The following are some of the maintenance procedures that can be implemented:

● Identifying and repairing areas of erosion - a few times a year and after major storms, check for

gullies and other disturbances on the bank.

● Debris and sediment monitoring & removal - remove debris around and in ponds before it

reaches the outlets to prevent problems.

● Inlet and outlet cleaning - keeping pipes clear of debris and removing sediment ensures proper

function.

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 Republic of the Philippines
NUEVA ECIJA UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Cabanatuan City

● Vegetation management - the amount of maintenance depends on the type of vegetation

surrounding the basin. Some grasses need weekly mowing, and others can be maintained

a couple of times a year.

REFERENCES

Chu, 2021. “China, People's Republic of: Yunnan Chuxiong Urban Environment Improvement

Project”

Retrieved from: https://www.adb.org/sites/default/files/linked-documents/45507-003-sd-01.pdf

Leber, 2015. “Stormwater Basins: How Detention and Retention Ponds Work”

Retrieved from: https://info.wesslerengineering.com/blog/stormwater-basins-detention-

retention-ponds

Susdrain, 2022. “Component: Retention ponds”

Retrieved from: https://www.susdrain.org/delivering-suds/using-suds/suds-

components/retention_and_detention/retention_ponds.html

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