NATURAL RESOURCES:
Flood Zones

The City of Ridgeland, being mostly developed on high lands, is relatively safe from major flooding. However, as can be seen on the Flood Zone Map, there are several linear areas associated with major creeks that are included in the 100 Year Flood Zone delineation. Most of these creeks, including Brashear, White Oak, and Purple Creeks, and tributaries of Hanging Moss Creek flow to the southeast into the Pearl River Basin. In the additional Study Area, a major tributary of Limekin Creek flows to the west, then on to the Black River.

Zones A and AE - Area subject to inundation by the 100- year flood.

Zone X500 - Area between the 100- and 500-year flood.

Zone X - Area of moderate or minimal hazard from the principal source of flooding in the area.

Several key issues related to drainage and flooding should be remembered during the planning process:

• The zones assume proper function of existing drainage systems. Should obstructions occur, serious backwater flooding could result in minimum risk areas.
• Only minimal impact development should be allowed within areas inside the 100-year flood zone.
• The flood zone maps are not regularly updated in most cases. Every square foot of new paving and rooftop added within the drainage area increases the runoff and thus increases the size of the flood hazard zone. It is essential to balance new development with storm water controls such as detention and retention ponds, ground water re-charge easements, and downstream-effect considerations.
• Drainage easements should be made wide enough to accommodate not only the safe function of the drainage system but, whenever possible, pedestrian/bicycle trails and recreational open space as well. Other utilities can also be considered within these corridors.