Using GIS to identify suitable areas for sustainable drainage systems for floodplain and stream channel mitigation in Stillwater, Oklahoma

Abstract

Urbanized areas require proper management and mitigation strategies to help minimize flood risk during precipitation events. Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) work as a conveyance system to collect runoff via inlets and pipes leading to a designated discharge point. The increase of urbanization, climate change, and land-use change contributes to increased stress and deterioration of stormwater infrastructure. Stillwater, Oklahoma needs reevaluation of their outdated infrastructure to help relieve anthropogenic and precipitation pressures on the system. The City of Stillwater contracted with Oklahoma State University to conduct a holistic storm sewer assessment and stream channel characterization within city limits. We collected qualitative data of stormwater structures and stream channels in the field using Geographical Information System (GIS) software on ArcGIS Collector and an EOS Positioning Systems ARROW 100. The assessment of the storm sewers and stream channels using GIS helped identify flood-prone areas and stormwater infrastructure failures. Identifying these areas allows for prioritizing where Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) can be implemented. Simulations using PCSWMM were conducted to display the environmental effects and benefits of SuDS implementation. Results included locating current stormwater infrastructure problem areas, identifying suitable areas for SuDS, and creating flood relief to the floodplains and stream channels in Stillwater, Oklahoma.