Evaluating the Effectiveness of Soil Profile Rehabilitation for Urban Flood Mitigation through 1D/2D Hydrodynamic Modeling

Abstract Submission: Urban flooding presents a significant challenge for cities worldwide, including Baltimore, where climate change, rapid urbanization, and aging infrastructure have intensified the issue. Traditional flood management strategies have often fallen short, prompting a search for more sustainable and innovative solutions. This study investigates the potential of soil profile rehabilitation as a strategy for urban flood mitigation through advanced hydrological modeling techniques.
Our research employs the Green-Ampt infiltration method to analyze soil infiltration dynamics and assess the impact of rehabilitated soil profiles on surface runoff during extreme storm events. The study integrates the 2D shallow water equation, incorporating Manning’s runoff coefficient, to simulate overland flow and floodwater behavior. By combining these methods in a comprehensive 1D/2D hydrodynamic model, we evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitated soil profiles in strategic urban locations, such as vacant lots and public spaces.
Key findings include the identification of significant reductions in surface runoff and improved flood resilience in areas with rehabilitated soils. The results demonstrate that soil profile rehabilitation is not only cost-effective but also enhances infiltration, supports vegetation growth, and provides crucial ecosystem services. These findings underscore the potential of nature-based strategies in urban flood management, offering data-driven guidelines for implementing soil rehabilitation as a practical and sustainable solution.
The implications of this study are crucial for advancing the field of urban flood mitigation, providing evidence-based recommendations for integrating soil rehabilitation into flood management practices, and enhancing urban resilience against extreme weather events.

Learning Objectives/Expected Outcome (Optional) : This study will enable researchers and stakeholders to understand how soil profile rehabilitation can significantly reduce surface runoff and enhance flood resilience in urban areas. They will be equipped with how to apply advanced hydrological modeling techniques, such as the Green-Ampt method and 2D shallow water equations, to evaluate soil rehabilitation strategies. The findings will highlight its cost-effectiveness and benefits in supporting vegetation and ecosystem services. This research will also advance the field of urban flood mitigation by offering evidence-based recommendations for sustainable flood management solutions.