Coupled Modeling of Hydro-Sedimentary Transfer Processes and
Socio-Economic Dynamics Evaluating Public Policies to Control Runoff and
Erosion: Case Study in Normandy (France)
Abstract
Watersheds are complex systems with multiple interactions between
physical processes and human-induced socio-economic dynamics. Since the
2000s, numerous flooding and mudslide events have affected the territory
in Normandy (France), leading to significant damages. Therefore, a
public policy was adopted with the aim to reduce runoff and erosion, it
includes: (i) the building of 4,000 hydraulic infrastructures (dams,
fascines, hedges, etc.), (ii) the creation of turbidity water-treatment
plants and, (iii) the conduction of animation and protection programs on
soil and water resources. These investments are co-funded by several
local authorities. This original research project aims evaluating the
effectiveness of the above-mentioned public policy. Therefore, two
complementary approaches are applied: (i) at the regional scale, the
investments and damages between 2000 and 2017 were assessed and, (ii)
for a pilot small scaled watershed (la Lézarde, 212 km²) a coupled
modeling was conducted, taking hydro-sedimentary processes (flood
envelopes, diffuse and concentrated erosion, karstic transfers) and
associated socio-economic dynamics into account. Our results suggest
that over the study period, at the regional scale 500 M\euro were
invested to reduce erosion/runoff impacts and, 300 M\euro of damage
were caused. Nevertheless, the effectiveness of the public policy since
2000s must be evaluated at the watershed scale using a Cost-Benefit
Analysis (CBA) according to two main scenarios: S1 = pre-development
(2000), and S2 = post-development (2017). The processes that govern the
surface transfer are modeled for different design floods (Q10-50-100)
coupling two semi-dynamic models (MikeSHE and Watersed), and the karstic
transfer using a deep learning algorithm (Tensorflow). Additionally,
three long-term scenarios (until 2050) are modeled taking into account
the effects of climate change (RCP scenarios), the change in land use
(-33% of grassland areas), and the modification of agricultural
practices that limit runoff. These projections provide key elements for
decision-makers to guide future public policies controlling runoff and
erosion in this territory.