Structural Flood Control Methods in Valley Ranch

In a previous blog post, we highlighted the different types of flood control methods that have been used throughout history. Each flood control method falls into one of two categories: structural and non-structural flood control. Recall that structural flood control refers to reconstructing landscapes to form blockades, protecting people and property on one side of the blockade from flood waters isolated on the other side of this control structure. Meanwhile, non-structural flood control refers to physically removing people and property from high-risk areas by installing elevated structures or requiring permanent relocation. While both are effective at keeping people and property away from excess water, IFCD 3 relies solely on structural flood control methods.

Below, we’re highlighting some of IFCD 3’s most used structural flood control methods.

• Canals – The attractive, winding streams and canals throughout Valley Ranch are for more than just visual appeal! The canals are integral to flood control in Valley Ranch, using gravity to send excess water into non-risk areas further downstream. During rain events, the canals convey storm runoff to the sump and stormwater pump station where the water is then released or pumped into the Elm Fork of the Trinity River.
• Levee – If you’ve ever driven along Valley Ranch Pkwy E, you’ve probably noticed the levee. Construction of the levee made Valley Ranch possible by separating developable property from the natural Trinity River Floodway. It helps keep the Elm Fork of the Trinity River from overflowing and getting too close to property within Valley Ranch.
• Pump Station – Located alongside the levee, the pump station is the powerhouse of IFCD 3’s facilities. Within the pump station, IFCD 3 has the technology to turn on our pumps, monitor water levels throughout the canals and stay up to date on weather forecasts. Over the past few years, we’ve worked to replace our six pumps one at a time, replacing critical components that had worn over the years with new parts to ensure that the pumps can operate at maximum efficiency for many years to come.
• Sluice Gates – These metal barriers, located in the center of the levee, far below ground level, control the release of stormwater into the river and are closed during high river level events to separate high water from flowing back into Valley Ranch.
• Tilting Weir Dam – A tilting weir provides an efficient, alternative means of removing water from the IFCD 3 system, filling a need that exists between the use of the existing sluice gates that apply gravity to transfer water into the Elm Fork and our high-power pumps that use a significant amount of electricity to quickly transfer larger quantities of water. Beyond saving energy, another benefit of having the tilting weir is the ability to reduce wear and tear on our pumps, extending their overall life. Installation of IFCD 3’s tilting weir will occur next year.

As we continue to provide flood control to Valley Ranch, we’re always keeping an eye out for new and improved ways to keep Valley Ranch protected. This includes researching new technologies, materials and equipment that will help our existing tools to run more efficiently.

To learn more about IFCD 3 and our mission to deliver flood control to Valley Ranch, explore the rest of our website, or connect with us on Facebook and Twitter.