How does compensatory storage function in floodplain management?

Compensatory storage plays a crucial role in floodplain management by maintaining the natural hydrology of an area when development occurs. Specifically, when a developer adds fill material to the floodplain, this can displace the volume of water that would naturally occupy that space during flooding events. To counteract this, compensatory storage involves excavating an equivalent volume of earth from another part of the floodplain to create a storage area that can hold floodwaters.

This practice ensures that the overall capacity of the floodplain to accommodate floodwaters remains unchanged, a fundamental principle in sustainable floodplain management. By maintaining this balance, compensatory storage helps to mitigate potential increases in flood risk that could result from development activities, thereby protecting existing properties and the natural environment.

The emphasis on excavating an equal floodable area underlines the importance of responsible development practices that prioritize the ecological integrity of floodplain areas. It is a proactive measure to prevent exacerbating flood conditions rather than simply allowing fill without oversight or regulation.