Document Type

Thesis - University Access Only

Award Date

2006

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department / School

Geography

Abstract

As development in the nation's floodplains continues to increase, more property is put at risk to flooding. After the Midwest floods of 1993, communities responded differently to being inundated with water. In the St. Louis area, one community moved the town completely out of the floodplain while another continues to build toward the levee which protects the community. The community of Chesterfield, Missouri has experienced tremendous growth since the flood of 1993. A majority of this growth has occurred in the portion of the town located in the floodplain. Many studies have been done on specific floodplain polices, such as the National Flood Insurance Program, and determined that these policies have limited success in deterring floodplain development. This study examines the effects of other factors, such as accessibility, zoning, and land values, on development in Chesterfield since the flood of 1993. The analysis revealed the changes that occurred in each of these factors and that development has been impacted as a result of these changes. If these factors that influence development are understood in their relationship to the nation's floodplains, community and national governments can implement policies that will better protect property and limit current and future development.

Library of Congress Subject Headings

Floodplains -- Missouri -- Chesterfield

Land use -- Missouri -- Chesterfield -- Planning

Real estate development -- Missouri -- Chesterfield

Floodplain management

Floods -- Mississippi River

Format

application/pdf

Number of Pages

133

Publisher

South Dakota State University

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