Climate Change Impacts and Watershed Resilience
This presentation will provide an overview of watershed restoration and climate resiliency planning. By employing advanced modeling techniques to estimate future precipitation levels with the Cal-Adapt tool, the project will assess how changing precipitation patterns influence flood frequency and intensity. The study incorporates hydrologic modeling using Hydrologic Engineering Center Hydrologic Modeling System and 1D and 2D hydraulic modeling using Hydrologic Engineering Center's River Analysis System to estimate peak flows, stream-floodplain interactions, and floodplain behavior. These analyses will guide interventions such as nature-based flood mitigation, floodplain acquisition, and engineered measures to enhance resilience and ecosystem health.
Chimborazo JV, a joint venture by WSP and San Diego Project Management is establishing baseline information including a hydrologic and hydraulic study in the Watershed to address the impacts of climate change on flood dynamics and design resilient watershed restoration solutions.
This initiative aligns with WSP’s Future Ready framework and California Strategic Growth Council’s (SGC) Strategic Plan by advancing flood resilience, water conservation, and environmental equity. By enhancing the natural capability of floodplains to retain excessive floodwaters, improving water quality, and providing wildlife habitats, the project supports California's goals for equitable climate action and resilient communities. Further, it prioritizes conservation practices and infrastructure adaptations that address the intersection of water resource management, ecological health, and socioeconomic equity, consistent with California’s strategic emphasis on sustainable, community-focused solutions.
The project also reflects WSP’s strategic growth objectives in the West, particularly in expanding its full-service water business through advanced modeling, flood-response strategies, and flood risk mitigation. By leveraging interdisciplinary expertise across Earth and Environment (E&E) and Transporation and Infrastructure (T&I) as well as innovative tools, the initiative positions WSP as a leader in climate adaptation while ensuring the benefits extend to underserved communities. Deliverables will include a comprehensive hydrologic and hydraulic study with actionable data, GIS layers, and visual summaries to support the development of a Plan Environmental Assessment/ Environmental Impact Assessment (EA/EIS). This effort underscores WSP’s commitment to addressing climate challenges through equity-driven, science-based solutions that align with California’s vision for sustainable and thriving communities.
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