Trusted Austin Drainage Management & Floodplain Engineering Experts

Reliable drainage systems and responsible floodplain management are essential to safe, compliant development in Central Texas. The Moore Group provides comprehensive drainage and floodplain engineering services for public and private projects throughout Austin and surrounding communities. With more than 25 years of experience, our engineers design systems that protect property, preserve natural flow paths, and meet rigorous local, state, and federal standards.

drainage management and floodplain engineering

Expertise Grounded in Central Texas Conditions

The geography of Central Texas presents distinct challenges for drainage design. The region’s steep slopes, variable soils, and intense rainfall events demand careful analysis and resilient solutions. Our engineers understand the behavior of local watersheds—from small urban tributaries to major creeks and floodplains—and bring deep familiarity with the standards of the City of Austin, TxDOT, TCEQ, and FEMA.

We have successfully completed drainage studies and floodplain analyses for projects across Austin, Round Rock, Buda, Kyle, Dripping Springs, and neighboring jurisdictions. Our designs balance technical performance, constructability, and long-term maintenance, ensuring that infrastructure functions effectively well beyond project completion.

Comprehensive Drainage Engineering Services

Our drainage management services cover the full project life cycle, from feasibility through construction. We combine hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, field evaluation, and regulatory coordination to deliver designs that perform in real-world conditions.

Hydrologic and Hydraulic Analysis

Accurate modeling is the foundation of every effective drainage plan. Our engineers use industry-standard tools to evaluate runoff, peak flow rates, and conveyance capacity under a variety of storm events. By studying both pre- and post-development conditions, we identify the best combination of detention, conveyance, and infiltration measures to achieve compliance and prevent adverse impacts on adjacent properties.

Detention and Stormwater Conveyance Design

We design detention ponds, storm sewers, culverts, and channel improvements that safely convey runoff while minimizing erosion and maintenance needs. Each system is tailored to the site’s topography and watershed characteristics. Our team also incorporates energy-dissipation and erosion-control features to protect downstream infrastructure.

Floodplain Delineation and Mitigation

Understanding floodplain boundaries is critical to responsible development. We perform detailed floodplain delineations using current FEMA data, local flood studies, and field survey information. When projects intersect regulated floodplains, we develop mitigation strategies such as compensatory storage, channel adjustments, or grading modifications to maintain floodplain capacity and compliance.

Erosion and Water Quality Controls

Protecting water quality and minimizing sediment transport are essential components of stormwater design. Our engineers prepare erosion and sediment control plans and construction phasing strategies that comply with TCEQ. We also design permanent water-quality controls that meet the City of Austin’s Environmental Criteria Manual, reducing pollutant loads and supporting sustainable watershed management.

Coordination with Local and State Agencies

Drainage and floodplain design often involves collaboration with multiple review authorities. Our engineers regularly coordinate with city development departments, county floodplain administrators, TxDOT, and the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) to ensure each submittal meets applicable standards. We prepare technical reports, drainage studies, and no-rise certifications as required for approval.

For projects within FEMA-regulated floodplains, we manage the preparation of Conditional Letters of Map Revision (CLOMRs) and Letters of Map Revision (LOMRs). Our familiarity with the federal review process helps expedite approvals and minimize uncertainty for developers and property owners.

Integration with Site and Subdivision Design

Drainage design cannot exist in isolation. Our engineers integrate stormwater and floodplain solutions into the broader site or subdivision plan, coordinating with grading, roadway, and utility designs. This integrated approach enhances performance, reduces construction conflicts, and ensures that all disciplines work toward a unified solution.

For residential and commercial developments, we incorporate detention and water-quality facilities in a way that complements land use and aesthetics. Our stormwater solutions, including underground storm drains, open-channel systems, and green infrastructure, are tailored to each project’s specific needs while providing essential stormwater functions.

Responsive Design and Constructability

Beyond technical compliance, we prioritize designs that are practical to build and maintain. Our engineers consider access for maintenance crews, sediment removal, and vegetation management when finalizing detention and drainage features. We collaborate closely with contractors during construction to resolve field issues quickly and preserve design intent.

Because stormwater systems evolve with time, we also assist clients with retrofit designs and drainage improvements for existing developments. Whether addressing localized flooding or modernizing outdated infrastructure, we provide cost-effective solutions that enhance safety and reliability.

Protecting Property and Promoting Resilience

Flooding remains one of the most significant risks to property and public safety in Central Texas. Our floodplain studies and drainage designs help communities prepare for and mitigate these risks. By combining modern modeling techniques with practical experience, we develop systems that perform under real storm conditions, not just theoretical assumptions.

Our commitment to resilience extends beyond compliance. We design with the understanding that climate variability and urban growth will continue to influence hydrology in the region. Through forward-looking analysis and flexible design, we help clients protect their investments and contribute to safer, more sustainable communities.

Proven Results Across Central Texas

The Moore Group’s portfolio includes drainage and floodplain projects for residential subdivisions, commercial developments, roadway improvements, and municipal infrastructure. Clients trust us for our technical expertise, clear communication, and ability to navigate complex permitting processes efficiently. Our focus on accuracy and accountability has earned us long-standing relationships with developers, architects, and public agencies throughout the region.

Partner with Our Austin Drainage Experts

Managing stormwater effectively is a critical step in every successful development. The Moore Group combines regional experience, technical excellence, and regulatory insight to deliver drainage and floodplain solutions that stand the test of time.

Contact our office to discuss your project’s needs. Whether you require a detailed drainage study, a floodplain analysis, or full stormwater system design, our engineers are ready to provide solutions that safeguard your property and advance your development with confidence.

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