A two-dimensional schematic map of the Delaware River watershed, identifying numerous points along the Delaware River that contribute to the Delaware Water Gap, which spans approximately 4,155 square miles.

Delaware River Flood Study

Advanced modeling solutions in flood-mitigation

Project Facts

Location Delaware Water Gap, New York & Pennsylvania
Owner Michael Mernin, Esq.

Overview

After a flood incident in June 2006, our team undertook a forensic floodplain analysis to investigate the losses at an industrial site in Delaware Water Gap, Pennsylvania. Employing cutting edge modeling, we identified the possibility of flood control storage within three neighboring New York reservoirs—Cannonsville, Pepacton, and Neversink. The resulting study presented a practical scenario where the Delaware Water Gap industrial site could have experienced a significant one-foot reduction in flood levels, offering not only actionable insights to prevent potential future losses, but also contributing to modeling advancements in the field.

About the project

Looking beyond mere identification, our investigation sought to deliver solutions for floodplain management through precise modeling. In an effort to understand the broader impact of nearby reservoirs on flooding dynamics, a hydrologic analysis was conducted along the Upper Delaware River Basin, examining all areas of the Delaware River that contribute to the Delaware Water Gap—a vast expanse spanning approximately 4,155 square miles.

Using a meticulous calibration process, our team of flood mitigation experts aligned observed flows with historical data. This precision-oriented approach ensured both the reliability and accuracy of the study’s findings, ensuring the delivery of trustworthy results.

The crux of this advanced modeling strategy emerged when our team found that the peak efficacy in flood reduction could be achieved when the reservoirs maintained an 80 percent capacity threshold. This critical datapoint outlined a way to leverage an existing flood storage capacity of approximately 57 billion gallons.

The study outlined specific and actionable measures that would have resulted in a one-foot reduction in flood levels during the June 2006 event, and could be applied to prevent future losses. The practical applications of this study have since informed future flood control policies and management practices in the region, fortifying the Delaware River Gap and other areas against the adverse effects of flooding.