Publication Citation

USGS Series Open-File Report
Report Number 80-689
Title Storm runoff as related to urbanization in the Portland, Oregon-Vancouver, Washington area
Edition WRI/OFR
Language ENGLISH
Author(s) Laenen, Antonius
Year 1980
Originating office
USGS Library Call Number (200) R29o no.80-689
Physical description viii, 62 p. :ill., maps (1 col.) ;27 cm.
ISBN

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Abstract

A series of equations was developed by regression analysis to provide a method for determining flood frequencies for both peak discharge and storm runoff in the Portland-Vancouver area of Oregon and Washington. Sensitivity analysis indicates a totally developed urban basin in this area would have peak discharges three times greater than when it was undeveloped. Land uses of parks, forests, vacant lots, and agriculture are an excellent inverse indication of urbanization. Those uses, coupled with the street-gutter density in a basin, provide a practical alternative to defining the effective impervious area. Storage area in a basin, as defined by surface area of lakes, ponds, marshes, flood plans, depressions, and detention facilities, proved to be a highlysignificant parameter for determining peak flow. (USGS)