Note: This story was originally reported in June 2016.
How a Texas Family Defeated the Floods with an Innovative Water Barrier
In June 2016, as severe flooding threatened Rosharon, Texas, one family came up with a creative and effective method to protect their home. Randy Wagner, determined to safeguard his property from the intense rainfall, decided to invest in an innovative solution: an Aqua Dam, a type of water-filled barrier that functions similarly to a giant sandbag.
With a flood warning issued by the Brazos River Authority, Wagner was faced with the prospect of evacuating his family, a scenario he found “heartbreaking.” After researching options online, he discovered the Aqua Dam system and traveled to Louisiana to purchase a 400-foot-long and 30-inch-high Aqua Dam.
With the help of two companions, Wagner set up the Aqua Dam by filling two watertight tubes that were encased in a woven polypropylene sheath. This setup conformed to the terrain and created a tight seal, preventing any water from seeping through. The weight of the water in the tubes held the barrier firmly in place as floodwaters surged to more than two feet high.
While many residents in Brazoria County had to evacuate, Wagner’s family was able to stay dry and safe. What was initially seen as an unconventional approach quickly proved to be a lifesaving measure. Wagner noted that passersby first doubted his method but were soon impressed by how well the Aqua Dam worked.
Despite the $8,300 cost of the Aqua Dam, Wagner views it as a small price to pay compared to the $150,000 in potential damage that his home might have endured. He praised the Aqua Dam’s effectiveness and suggested that this kind of solution could be valuable for emergency management in the future.
As climate change leads to more frequent and severe weather events, innovative solutions like the Aqua Dam become increasingly important. In times of disaster, creative approaches can be essential for protecting communities and homes.
Randy Wagner’s use of this water barrier not only saved his home but also serves as a testament to the power of thinking outside the box in the face of natural disasters. His experience highlights how unconventional ideas can offer effective solutions for disaster preparedness.
Sources: Daily Mail
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