Grand Forks city officials are moving forward with several projects aimed at enhancing flood protection in response to findings from a recent flood study. The study, presented by City Engineer Al Grasser during a City Council meeting on January 12, 2024, assessed how existing flood defenses might cope with increased rainfall and heightened spring melt flows.
The flood study builds on previous research and highlights a concerning trend of rising summer precipitation and spring runoff. Conducted in collaboration with the engineering firm AE2S, the analysis involved 27 model simulations to evaluate the performance of various drainage systems, including the English Coulee and the diversion channel located on the west side of the city.
“Is there a cheap, easy solution to move forward?” Grasser asked, reflecting on the study’s intent to uncover practical flood mitigation strategies. The findings indicate several viable options that could significantly reduce the risk of flooding due to summer rains and melting snow. One of the prominent recommendations includes the construction of additional storage ponds and box culverts west of Interstate 29 to better manage water flow in rural areas of the watershed.
Proposed Improvements and Future Actions
Grasser noted that these concepts will be integrated into the design of a planned interchange from Interstate 29 to 47th Avenue South. Other strategies proposed to alleviate flooding risks involve directing more water towards the English Coulee Diversion by restricting certain flows at the interstate. This could leverage gravity to guide water effectively into the diversion while also enhancing the functionality of existing pump stations.
The English Coulee serves as a natural watercourse that traverses western Grand Forks, beginning near Columbia Mall, flowing through residential areas, and passing the University of North Dakota before joining the Red River. The study also identified areas disconnected from the coulee that remain vulnerable to flooding via the storm sewer system.
“We want to explore the possibility of disconnecting some of those points and installing a small pump station,” Grasser elaborated. This would allow for better control of water flow during periods of high water in the English Coulee, preventing potential backups in the storm sewer system.
The engineering department’s immediate priorities for early 2024 include establishing and adopting regulations for ditch and pond storage west of the interstate. They will also initiate discussions with the Army Corps of Engineers to evaluate new flow options for the English Coulee Diversion, assess the feasibility of upgrading pump stations, and set up monitoring sites on major waterways.
Grasser emphasized the importance of maintaining monitoring sites to gather data on water flows relative to rainfall events. “There’s some advantage for us to keep a few of these sites working so we understand how these drainage features are functioning,” he stated.
Funding for these initiatives may be supported through cost-share programs with the North Dakota Department of Water Resources. The city currently participates in the Rural Flood Control Program, which offers cost-sharing of between 45% and 60%, as well as the Flood Protection Program, providing up to 60% cost shares. Currently, Grand Forks is at a 52% cost share with the state for flood-related projects.
As the city moves forward with these critical improvements, officials remain focused on protecting residents and infrastructure from potential flood threats, ensuring a more resilient future for Grand Forks.
