RESTORING NATURAL FLOODPLAIN FUNCTIONS TO MEET
WATER RESOURCE CHALLENGES

Ben Ehrhart, PE, CFM

Director of Design, Water Resources Engineer

LandStudies, Inc.

ABSTRACT:

Floodplain Restoration is a proven approach to achieving ecological uplift. It can also provide economic value by meeting regulatory requirements through the reestablishment of natural floodplain functions. Stormwater management, nutrient and sediment load reduction, flood stage reduction, and numerous other benefits can be realized, providing economic drivers for ecological restoration projects.

Several floodplain restoration projects have been implemented to serve as the primary stormwater management control facility for large land development projects in Lancaster County, PA. Significant water quality, local flood reduction, and recreational value has also been realized through these projects, not to mention aquatic and terrestrial habitat restoration.

This presentation will provide an overview of floodplain restoration and its functional benefits. Three case studies will reveal how a strategic floodplain restoration project can provide stormwater management functions, maximize pollutant reductions, create numerous environmental benefits, and provide financial incentives for communities.

SPEAKER BIO: 

Ben Ehrhart oversees the Design Division at LandStudies and has over 24 years of experience in watershed hydrology and hydraulics. His agricultural, environmental, and land planning background provides a unique combination of expertise in addressing issues relating to stormwater management and restoration of natural systems. He has extensive experience in stormwater management planning for residential, commercial, and industrial land development projects and utilizing innovative stormwater management strategies. Ben has been the lead designer for numerous successful stream and floodplain restoration projects that have realized stormwater peak and volume reduction, pollutant load reduction, habitat restoration, recreational opportunities, and a host of other benefits. Ben graduated from Penn State with a BS in Environmental Resource Management and a MS in Agricultural and Biological Engineering.

Engineers:

This seminar does qualify for 1.0 Professional Development Hour (PDH). A Certificate of Attendance will be available for AWRA-PMAS members only. The meeting price for non-members who wish to receive a Certificate of Attendance for the PDH is $10.00 ($3.00 for meeting + $7.00 for certificate).  

Please note: Presentation is to be given through Zoom at the link below. PDH's will be issued through PDFs. Please allow extra time to register through Zoom and get software set up. Presentation will start at noon. Early participants will be in a Waiting Room until noon. Participants must email AWRA.PMAS@gmail.com to request PDH Certificate after the event.

Presentation at:  https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87327631988

Thank you!