A process-based model for evaluating flood-reduction in the Clear Creek Watershed

Abstract

Iowa’s agriculturally focused landscape, water resource management strategies, and changing climate attribute to a trend of increased flood risk across the state. Though the risk of severe flooding varies across different regions in Iowa, extreme flooding is likely to touch historically unaffected populations. The effects of extreme flooding are disastrous for impacted populations. Impacted Iowans and their loved ones are left to grapple with loss of property, major economic burden, and life-threatening scenarios. As a result of these trends in Iowa, several best management technologies (BMPs) have been introduced to the landscape. Unfortunately, landowners are frequently deterred by the costs of implementing these practices at a scale that yields significant benefits.