GIS Surveying of Dam Site Selection as Flood Mitigation Plan for Wivenhoe Dam

GIS Surveying of Dam Site Selection as Flood Mitigation Plan for Wivenhoe Dam

Climate change poses a global challenge, marked by rising temperatures and increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as heavy rainfall and flooding. Addressing the need for effective flood disaster management, this study explores the utilization of flexible mitigation plans, particularly through the construction of supplementary dams. Focusing on the potential overtopping failure of the Wivenhoe Dam in Brisbane, Australia, due to severe flooding events, this research employs a methodology that integrates Remote Sensing (RS) and Geographic Information System (GIS) techniques to select an optimal site for a supplementary dam. The objective is to identify a site that could protect an estimated 300,000 lives and $100 billion in assets, while also maximizing water harvesting and power generation benefits. By leveraging 'Google Earth Pro' and satellite imagery, alongside detailed analysis using QGIS software, potential dam sites near Linville, Brisbane, were assessed. Utilizing Digital Elevation Models (DEM) obtained from the Queensland Spatial Catalogue, various parameters including watershed volume (the total volume of water collected and stored in the catchment area), water harvesting efficiency, and dam wall construction cost were evaluated to determine the most suitable location. The results highlight the feasibility of supplementary dam construction in mitigating flood risks while emphasizing the importance of rigorous site selection criteria. Recommendations for future research include further refining the methodology and expanding the scope to address broader challenges in flood management practices.

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