Flood Plain Question - Wisconsin

[John Franczyk]

I'm looking at a property that backs up to the Fox River in Wisconsin. The River overflowed and flooded the town of Burlington this past summer following some heavy rains. The property's yard overlays the fringe of the river's flood plain and has been known to be under water, although the house sits higher and is far enough away from the river to avoid major problems. 

Are there any grading options or other strategies to protect the yard if the River spills its banks again? Or is  "you live by the river, expect flooding" the best that anyone can do?

[Chad Nagel]

Originally posted by @John Franczyk:

I'm looking at a property that backs up to the Fox River in Wisconsin. The River overflowed and flooded the town of Burlington this past summer following some heavy rains. The property's yard overlays the fringe of the river's flood plain and has been known to be under water, although the house sits higher and is far enough away from the river to avoid major problems. 

Are there any grading options or other strategies to protect the yard if the River spills its banks again? Or is  "you live by the river, expect flooding" the best that anyone can do?

You need to research seawall or rip rap.  Keep in mind this will more than likely need DNR blessing aka your check book. So hire the proper contractor accordingly and get your money lined up.  Dont expect this to happen fast, as you know nothing happens fast when the state is involved. Enjoy!!!