Which of the following scenarios represents the best nonstructural approach to flood control?
A)Building an artificial levee two feet taller than the highest recorded flood
B)Managing a floodplain to limit development in sensitive areas
C)Paving the floodplain to increase the velocity of floodwaters
D)Creating a series of dams and reservoirs to store floodwater and release it slowly over time

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Managing a floodplain to limit development in sensitive areas is the best nonstructural approach to flood control as it involves avoiding building in high-risk areas or managing areas prone to flooding. This reduces the risk of damage to property and loss of life during floods. Artificial levees and dams are structural approaches, which can be expensive and may also have unintended consequences on the environment. Paving the floodplain would increase the velocity of floodwaters, causing more flooding downstream.

Which of the Following Scenarios Represents the Best Nonstructural Approach