Towards a new design condition for integrative spatial planning of fluvial morphological zones

Under the threat of changing climate and associated impacts on hydrological cycles, this paper suggests that spatial planning of flood-prone areas-here referred to as Fluvial Morphological Zones (FMZ)-needs to be guided by water management principles while placed in a wide context of safety, environmental, societal, and economic aspects. Only if such holistic and integrated planning approach is taken can communities exercise choice with regards to levels of safety and risk, ecological integrity and functionality, community development and livability, and economic cost benefit. As a working example, we present hydrologic scenario modelling results together with findings from the multi-disciplinary research and design effort focused on the confluence of Illinois, Missouri and the Mississippi Rivers, titled "MISI-ZIIBI: Living with the Great Rivers, Climate Adaptation in the Midwest River Basins" (Hoal et al. 2013). In this design effort, a broad set of factors and scenarios have been considered aiming at a balanced planning-approach between safety, cost, and implications on the quality of the natural and built environment, over the longterm. Particular attention is given to flood risk and drought impacts under climate change projections, demonstrating the need to reconsider current design conditions of US floodplains and adjacent areas.