FloodBreak Passive Floodgates Protect Critical Wastewater Reclamation Facility

Client

Des Moines Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation Authority

Location

Des Moines, Iowa

Installation Date

2021

The Des Moines Metropolitan Wastewater Reclamation Authority’s (WRA) Wastewater Reclamation Facility (WRF), located on the Des Moines River is vulnerable to flooding which would have devastating impact on the community. A flood resiliency study was conducted by HDR for the facility and identified priority improvements including the use of two Floodbreak passive automatic flood barriers as part of a perimeter flood solution. One of the floodgates is a massive 105′ x 6.25′ barrier designed to protect the preliminary treatment pump headworks facility.

Background

The Des Moines Wastewater Reclamation Facility serves as a critical infrastructure hub for the region, processing millions of gallons of wastewater daily. However, its location near the Des Moines River makes it vulnerable to flooding and potential upstream levee overtopping and/or breaches. Over the years, historic flooding events have presented significant challenges to the facility’s operations, risking service disruptions and potential environmental impacts.

To address these concerns, the project team prioritized the implementation of flood mitigation measures identified in the HDR flood resiliency study . This risked-based approach included a gated floodwall system for the WRF’s preliminary treatment pump headworks facility and other improvements. HDR has worked with FloodBreak on other flood control projects and specified our passive automatic flood barrier system as a core piece of their solution to improve the flood resiliency of the WRF and the sustainability of services. The gated floodwall system was designed to applicable U.S. Army Corps of Engineers floodwall design standards.

Link to the HDR case study: Des Moines Metropolitan WRA Flood Resiliency Study and Improvements

Solution

To meet the resiliency goals, two FloodBreak flood barriers were integrated into the facility’s floodwall design. A 105′ x 6.25′ barrier extends across the preliminary treatment pump facility while a second smaller gate protects a 15′ opening.

Key Features of the Flood Barriers:

Fully Passive Operation: Automatically activates during floods, ensuring 24/7 protection without human intervention.
Push Button Hydraulic Lift System: Optional hydraulic lifts enable operators to raise the gates instantly for maintenance or routine operations.
Custom Design: Engineered specifically for the facility, ensuring tailored protection while maintaining operational efficiency.

Results

The installation of FloodBreak flood barriers at critical access points plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flood resilience of the Des Moines WRF, ensuring reliable protection against flood risks.

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