Location Matters: A Framework to Investigate the Spatial Characteristics of Distributed Flood Attenuation

Distributed attenuation in flood management relies on small and low-impact runoff attenuating features variously distributed within a catchment. systems of reservoirs, natural management, green infrastructure are practical examples attenuation. The effectiveness lies their ability to work concert, by reducing slowing strategic parts the catchment, desynchronizing flows. spatial distribution plays an essential role process. This article proposes framework place hydrologic network, group them into spatially systems, analyze effects. is applied study reservoirs rural watershed Iowa, USA. results show that can be effective alternative single centralized mitigation approach. different flow peak considered suggest significantly influences magnitude at catchment scale. proposed examine attenuation, its viability as widespread strategy landscapes multiple scales.