A new approach to the

Abstract

THE CHALLENGE Puerto Rico’s topography varies from the low plains of the southern coast, to steep mountain slopes that rise up 600 above the Portugues River. The mountainous terrain features heavy growth of trees and brush. During the normal dry season, the Portugues River is shallow, and looks like a quiet stream. However, during the wet season, the steep mountain slopes can cause runoff from heavy rain to fill the stream quickly, resulting in flooding to many surrounding areas. For decades, the people of Ponce have endured much human suffering and massive property damage.