One of the most unique and environmentally sensitive flood control projects ever undertaken in Ohio was designed by ARCADIS to reduce flooding in Bryan and parts of Williams and Defiance Counties. Rather than applying conventional engineering solutions, the $4.5 million project blends several flood control elements into an integrated system to reduce flooding and erosion problems in the Drout, Prairie, and Lick Creek watersheds of the Tiffin River. Through the combined efforts of Ohio State Legislators, Lynn Wachtmann and Stephen Buehrer, $2.35 million of grant funds were secured to finance a significant portion of the project completed through the Defiance and Williams County Soil & Water Conservation Districts.A key component of the project is the construction of a 43-acre, 66 million gallon wetlands basin located on the south edge of Bryan. During peak flow periods, the basin retains water diverted from Prairie Creek via a 300-foot long concrete weir located on the steam embankment. When stream flows recede, water stored in the basin returns by gravity to the Creek via two 48-inch diameter pipes also located in the stream embankment. Diverting a portion of the water during peak flow events effectively reduces the runoff anticipated from a 25-year "urbanized" flood to an equivalent 5-year "rural" flood downstream of Bryan.
By reducing peak flows, work in Prairie and Lick Creeks could be limited to restoring flow capacity while preserving the natural character of the streams. To preserve habitat, the traditional practice of stripping all vegetation from the creek banks was abandoned. Rather, restoration work along 14.5 miles of stream included removal of logjams; removing fallen and leaning trees; excavation of sandbars; and placing tree revetments to prevent stream channel erosion. Further efforts to enhance watershed water quality include promotion of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program. Farmers are urged, and paid, to leave uncultivated creekside buffer strips planted in grasses or trees to filter cropland runoff thereby reducing stream pollution from chemical fertilizers.
Besides improved flood control in a 106 square mile watershed, the project provides several additional benefits including: 1) development of natural wetlands habitat for wildlife and vegetation; 2) a new educational park with paved walkways and observation platforms; and 3) restoration of free flowing streams that allow for new recreational activities such as canoeing and fishing.
In closing, construction of this project resulted in an estimated cost savings of $1.7 million compared to conventional engineering solutions. At the same time, this project demonstrates that innovative approaches are available to economically reduce flooding while balancing individual urban, agricultural, and environmental interests.
