Flood retention capabilities in a mountain catchments: case study of the commune of Spytkowice

The experience of flooding from 2010 in the Commune of Spytkowice showed a dire need to define the factors behind the floods repeating every year in the region and to propose the best solutions for eliminating or limiting damage in the risk area. On account of the catchment’s location in mountainous area, the main intention was to propose actions that would mainly increase the catchment retention capacity in the upper reach of the Skawa river and its tributary, Pożoga. By slowing down the flow, these actions may considerably contribute to the protection of the most flood-sensitive areas located in the lower part of the catchment. Two solutions have been proposed based on the idea of building dry water reservoirs and providing the possibility to resettle inhabitants from the flooded area. The choice of the best solution for the Commune of Spytkowice depends on the topography of the valleys of rivers Skawa and Pożoga, as well as the financial situation concerning the project.