Flood Management Plan – Phase 1

The Flood Management Plan (FMP) describes a high-level strategy for flood management for the Zone 7 service area. The Phase 1 document of the two-phased planning process was published in September 2022.

The FMP Phase 1 describes at a high-level “what” needs to be accomplished to reduce flood risk; Phase II which is in development will describe “how” to do it.

This inaugural version of the FMP will be updated every 5 years or as conditions dictate.

Zone 7 manages a 37-mile flood protection system in the Livermore-Amador Valley area. In recent years, relatively minor flood events have caused widespread damage such as channel bank erosion and sedimentation in channels which, in turn, have led to costly repairs. Major stressors contributing to flood system management challenges include urbanization, channelization, population growth, climate change, aging flood infrastructure, and changing environmental regulations. Under the guidance of District Act 205 [Alameda County District, 1949], as amended by Assembly Bill 1125 [2003] and Zone 7’s Strategic Plan, and informed by prior planning efforts, this Flood Management Plan initiates the long-term process of improving flood management in the Livermore-Amador Valley area, including the Zone 7 flood protection system.

The FMP is based on the following guiding principles for flood management:

1. Align with Zone 7’s Strategic Plan. The FMP will be consistent with the agency’s integrated water resource goals and initiatives.

2. Foster proactive public engagement. The FMP will promote open communication with community partners and stakeholders.

3. Do what is needed and practical to manage risks associated with flood management in the Zone 7 service area. The FMP will be developed with an approach that prioritizes projects in the Zone 7 service area that can be funded, implemented, and sustained.

4. Incorporate climate change uncertainty. The FMP will be based on well-supported analysis of future watershed conditions.

5. Be risk-informed. The FMP will support risk-informed decision making and communication through evaluation of both a flood’s likelihood of occurrence as well as its consequences.

6. Advance collaboration within the watershed. Successful implementation of the FMP is dependent on active participation among multiple agencies with flood management responsibility and/or impact.

7. Consider Multi-Benefit Solutions. The FMP will support the implementation of multi-benefit projects where flood risk reduction can enable the accomplishment of compatible water resources goals.

View the full Flood Management Plan - Phase 1