Date of Award

1999

Document Type

Thesis - Restricted

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Civil, Construction, and Environmental Engineering

First Advisor

Novotny, Vladimir

Second Advisor

Crandall, Clifford J.

Third Advisor

Hajda, Pavel

Abstract

This thesis primarily concerns the methodology for calculating flood risk using the Oak Creek in Milwaukee County as a basis. The watershed being studied is a rapidly developing area. The effects of urbanization are being considered to determine the safety of new development. The study is supported by hydrological data of the watershed and involves proposals of involving computer modeling in the process. Particular attention is given to the Geographical Information System and how it aids in the calculation of flood risk. It is well known that land use changes the response of a watershed in producing runoff from rainfall. Since the Oak Creek is located in the Midwest, all weather conditions must be considered, including periods of heavy rain, snow resulting in snow melt, and hot and dry summer conditions. Combined with various uses of land, ranging from farmland to residential communities, to business districts, the calculation of flood risk is an extensive process requiring the consideration of all the aforementioned factors.

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