Description: This presentation highlights development of a planning‑level hydrologic and hydraulic model in a data‑limited community. The Correctionville, Iowa case study illustrates how river backwater effects influence stormwater performance and how engineering judgment and available regional data can support defensible flood mitigation planning.

Authors: Mary Sahraei, Josh James

Author Bios: Josh James is a graduate engineer at ISG. Josh specializes in H+H modeling and project design with a diverse portfolio of project experience that includes wetland restoration, urban stormwater master planning, and multi-purpose drainage management. His area of expertise lies with 2D modeling through programs such as InfoWorks ICM, XPSWMM, and HEC-RAS.

Mary is an expert in stormwater and water quality modeling, bringing advanced academic insight and hands-on-experience to rural and agricultural water management across the Midwest. She works closely with communities, farmers, and municipalities to develop practical, data-driven solutions that improve water systems, enhance resilience, and protect local ecosystems. Mary applies scientific rigor to real-world challenges, helping develop drainage water recycling projects to support both crop production and downstream water quality. By translating complex models into clear, actionable strategies, she balances environmental protection, agricultural productivity, and community needs while delivering resilient, efficient, and impactful outcomes.