Water defence and flood control

Hydrology is the scientific study of the Earth’s water resources examining how water is distributed in time and space. It is a cross functional field that draws on concepts from geology, meteorology, ecology, and engineering to understand the complex interactions between water, land, and atmosphere. Hydrology plays a crucial role in managing flood risk, ensuring sustainable water management, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By understanding the principles of hydrology, we can better manage our water resources, protect natural habitats, and promote sustainable development.

Hydrometry is a critical aspect of water management, focusing on the measurement and analysis of water flow and levels in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. This expertise is essential for effective flood risk management and sustainable water resources management. Our hydrometry services include the installation and maintenance of hydrological monitoring solutions data collection and analysis, and the development of hydrological models.

By leveraging advanced technology within Fugro, our team delivers solutions that benefit communities and the environment.

Climate change is having a significant impact on hydrology and water resources management. Yet, climate change and hydrology have a mutual relationship. Here are ways of how climate change impacts hydrology and vice versa:

Climate Change Impacts Hydrology:

• Alters precipitation patterns, river flows, and groundwater recharge.

• Increases flood and drought risks.

• Affects water quality and availability.

Hydrology Impacts Climate Change:

• Water bodies and vegetation influence heat distribution and weather patterns.

• Wetlands and soils store or release greenhouse gases like CO₂ and methane.

This interplay highlights the importance of managing water resources to mitigate climate change effects and adapt to its challenges.

Managing flood risk requires a coordinated effort from multiple stakeholders, including local authorities, water companies, and government departments. Each of these stakeholders has distinct roles and responsibilities in flood risk management. Local authorities are responsible for developing and implementing flood risk management plans, while water companies are responsible for managing flood risk associated with their infrastructure. Government departments, such as the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) in Northern Ireland, provide strategic oversight and guidance on flood risk management. Policy development plays a crucial role in supporting these efforts and ensuring effective flood risk management. Effective communication and collaboration among these stakeholders are essential to ensure that flood risk is managed effectively.

We significantly contribute to flood risk management through a comprehensive suite of services designed to assess, mitigate, and monitor flood risks. Our key contributions include:

• Flood Risk Mapping and Defence: We employ advanced technologies to map areas susceptible to flooding, enabling the development of effective flood defence strategies. Our expertise includes coastal flood protection, flood risk mapping, and mitigation measures, assisting regional water authorities in planning and implementing robust flood control measures.

• Hydrological Assessments: We specialise in the risk assessment and stability analysis of hydraulic structures, particularly dikes. We provide critical insights into water resource management and flood control. Offering expert advice on flood control, drainage, infiltration systems, and risk mitigation measures and supporting sustainable urban water infrastructure development.

• Groundwater Monitoring and Management: We design groundwater monitoring plans for urban areas, utilising innovative data acquisition methods and remote sensing technology. This approach leads to more efficient, cost-effective groundwater systems, essential for flood mitigation, drainage, and infiltration system planning.

• Levee Assessments and Design: With expertise in levee investigation and evaluation, we integrate services such as soil investigations, geo-monitoring, and technical consulting to prevent flood disasters. Our work ensures the safety and reliability of levee systems, which are crucial for flood defence.

• International Projects and Collaborations: We have been involved in global initiatives, such as supporting the World Bank in flood hazard and risk mapping in Romania and capturing high-resolution lidar Geo-data along Ireland's coastline to enhance coastal resilience.

Hydrology and water resources management are critical components of sustainable development. Effective management of water resources requires a comprehensive understanding of hydrology, climate change, and the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders. By adopting an integrated approach to water resources management, we can promote sustainable development, protect natural habitats, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. This includes developing coherent water policy, implementing sustainable water management practices, and ensuring that water resources are managed effectively to meet the needs of present and future generations.

Flood control and drainage systems play a vital role in managing water resources by regulating water flow, protecting water quality, and supporting groundwater recharge. Water resources are essential for human survival, economic development, and environmental sustainability. Effective management of water resources and flood control is critical to ensure that water is available for drinking, agriculture, industry, ecosystems, and households while preventing waterlogging and pollution. Water resources management involves the planning, development, and management of water supply systems, including groundwater and surface water sources. It also involves the management of water quality, flood risk, and drought management. Proper drainage systems safeguard freshwater resources from contamination, maintain ecological balance by supporting biodiversity, and adapt to climate change by mitigating the impacts of extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and rising sea levels. Water companies, local authorities, and other stakeholders play a crucial role in managing water resources, and their efforts must be guided by a comprehensive understanding of hydrology and water resources management.

By understanding the principles of hydrology, we can better manage our water resources, protect natural habitats, and promote sustainable development. Our integrated approach ensures that we develop workable solutions to address complex water management challenges.

Fugro supports these efforts through advanced hydrological modelling, geotechnical engineering, and data-driven solutions. Our expertise enables the design of stable flood defences, sustainable drainage systems and efficient groundwater monitoring. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies like lidar and geographic information systems, Fugro ensures flood control and drainage systems optimise water resource management, balance groundwater levels, and enhance resilience against climate change impacts.