A Recursive Programing Model for Nonstructural Flood Damage Control

Abstract

This paper deals with floodplain land use management approaches for urban flood damage control. These alternatives are important because traditional flood control projects, such as levees, channel improvements, and reservoirs, are not always capable of correcting the physical and economic conditions that give rise to flood damage. It is expected that land use management will complement engineering works and lead to more effective use and development of floodplain lands. The paper presents a computational technique for evaluating alternative land use assignments based upon the economic value a community gains from its land. A linear programing model is developed that identifies economically efficient combinations of (1) spatial and temporal planning of urban land use, (2) site elevation through landfill, and (3) flood proofing of buildings.