Possible Scenarios for a Micro-Watershed Based on Level of Urbanization: Using Flood Design to Advance Ecohydrological Principles

Abstract

Traditional urban schemes that incorporate extended impervious areas can increase surface run-off. Therefore, urban growth that considers eco-hydrological principles can foster sustainability in cities. This work projected three possible urban development patterns for San Luis Potosi’s micro-watershed, characterized by flood design estimations and different urban densities considerations. The selected micro-watershed is located in the western periphery of the city, which is in the process of being urbanized. As the study site is in a semi-arid region where data are scarce, this research used the rational method and the software Rhinoceros for modeling urban scenarios. Models included criteria that allow for comparing a traditional urbanization perspective of what is expected (without green areas) with alternatives that consider green areas as well as different urban densities and that favor eco-hydrological principles. The high urban-density (green area) scenario shows a sustainable alternative for the micro-watershed by which eco-hydrological principles are fostered, as well as an alternative to high urban density without undermining real-estate profitability. Although calculations could be strengthened by using more local data, the results provide insights for urban planners and developers on the sustainable transformation of the micro-watershed.