Chnanel Design and Drainage

Land uses within the floodplain are subject to periodic flooding. On some low-gradient Ohio landscapes this floodplain extends far into the watershed. On other Ohio landscapes valley slopes contain the floodplain.

• Natural Channel
  In some low-gradient areas, the floodplain is nearly equal to upland terrace elevation.

• Trapezoidal Channel
  Connection to the floodplain has been removed and stream elevation has been lowered relative to the upland terrace. Trapezoidal channels are commonly used to provide drainage pipe outlets, lowering the water table of the floodplain.

• "2-Stage" Drainage Channel
  An alternative drainage channel design reconnects the channel to its floodplain at a lower elevation.The floodplain has been restored at a new lower elevation relative to the upland terrace.