Geomorphic Influence on Flood Hazards in a Lowland Fluvial-Tidal Transitional Area, Central Valley, California

Abstract

Geomorphic processes influence flood hazards in the lowland fluvial-tidal transition area near the Cosumnes River-Dry Creek-Mokelumne River Confluence, Central Valley, California. Anthropogenic changes in the inherently flood-prone floodplain, flood basin, and Delta Island landscape increase flood hazards. Levee construction and flow regulation influence floods, increasing risks in both agricultural and rapidly urbanizing areas. Effective flood management requires a landscape scale approach that addresses both fluvial and tidal processes and that accommodates current and potentially higher future flood magnitudes and sea levels.