14 Catchments by One Engineer

There is a constant trend to require complex hydraulic problems to be solved in more detail, which demands a higher degree of accuracy. Once an important tool which has now become essential for engineering is that of numerical modelling, which (when combined with powerful PCs and GIS tools) enables the engineer to complete complex calculations over large areas, quickly and accurately, providing clear graphics and summarized outputs.

The recent Northland Regional Council (NRC) Flood Risk Management Project is an excellent example of such a complex project, one which incorporates the latest technologies, integrated with hydraulic engineering knowledge and rich experience in the field. These three elements are the key for an efficient and well integrated approach to river catchment modelling.

The NRC Flood Risk Reduction Project included 22 River Catchments across the North land Region. URS was responsible for developing overall project methodology, leading the modelling and delivering 14 catchment Management Plans.

The success of this modelling focused flood risk management has shown the importance of building models by engineers. This paper will share our experience and knowledge gained by using the latest innovative technologies and GIS integration, from commencement through to the completion of developing a reliable product: a meaningful and efficient model.