Estimating Flooding at River Spree Floodplain Using HEC-RAS Simulation

Abstract

River renaturation can be an effective management method for restoring a floodplain’s natural capacity and minimizing the effects during high flow periods. A 1D-2D Hydrologic Engineering Center–River Analysis System (HEC-RAS) model, in which the flood plain was considered as 2D and the main channel as 1D, was used to simulate flooding in the restored reach of the Spree River, Germany. When computing in this model, finite volume and finite difference approximations using the Preissmann approach are used for the 1D and 2D models, respectively. To comprehend the sensitivity of the parameters and model, several scenarios were simulated using different time steps and grid sizes. Additionally, dikes, dredging, and changes to the vegetation pattern were used to simulate flood mitigation measures. The model predicted that flooding would occur mostly in the downstream portion of the channel in the majority of the scenarios without mitigation measures, whereas with mitigation measures, flooding in the floodplain would be greatly reduced. By preserving the natural balance on the channel’s floodplain, the restored area needs to be kept in good condition. Therefore, mitigating measures that balance the area’s economic and environmental aspects must be considered in light of the potential for floods.