Sampson River and Alligator Creek Flood Abatement

The consequences of Hurricane Irma and other major storms in rural Bradford County, Fla. were devastating. Numerous and substantial tree debris dams accumulated and became lodged through the Sampson River and Alligator Creek channels, which obstructed the historic drainage capacity and hydraulics, was concluded to be contributing cause of loss of real property, residences, and commercial structures.

Bradford County hired DRMP to provide delivery approach, permitting, GIS analysis, project management, and permit compliance services. DRMP devised and executed additional hydraulic improvements within the watershed within the 220-day compressed time frame for project completion. One innovative aspect of the project was the use of GIS to assist in project planning and communication. The team was able to assist in identifying locations of potential ingress/egress to the creek as well as debris staging sites for the removal crews.

Prior to DRMP’s services, Bradford County faced a future of flooding with every major storm and hurricane that swept through the county. Now, through innovation, close coordination and a sustainable plan to remove tree debris from causing catastrophic flooding has lessened the potential for such events. The final result was 500 tons of tree debris removed from Sampson River and Alligator Creek, resulting in a substantial reduction in flood potential and restoration of historic drainage conditions.

Award
2019 APWA Florida Small Cities/Rural Communities Project of the Year