Criterion |
Explanation |
General Description |
F-RAM is a model that provides a method for the rapid and consistent evaluation of floodplain management measures in a benefit-cost analysis framework. Two key concepts of the F –RAM are optimal knowledge and appropriate precision. |
Model Domain |
Available through DWR, no public domain. |
Developer |
AECOM (formerly URS Corporation) for DWR. |
Hardware computing requirements |
Excel software |
Code language |
N/A |
Original application |
The F-RAM was developed to determine levee rehabilitation priorities within the San Joaquin River Basin during a task order by URS for DWR. |
Public/proprietary and cost |
Available from DWR |
Physically or empirically based |
Empirical |
Mathematical methods used |
Benefit Cost Analysis using engineering economics |
Input data requirements |
|
Outputs |
|
Pre-processing and post-processing tools |
|
Representation of uncertainty |
None Specified although probability distribution for events are considered |
Prevalence |
F-RAM is included in DWR's "toolkit" of benefit cost models (e.g. Hydrologic Engineering Center – Flood Damage Analysis [HEC -FIA], Hazard US [HAZUS] and Federal Emergency Management Agency [FEMA] flood modules) for evaluating flood mitigation projects. |
Ease of use for public entities |
Easy to use, requires knowledge of how to use Excel. |
Ease of obtaining information and availability of technical support |
Online resource guide available through DWR. Detailed use manual (DWR 2008) and instructions included in Excel model. |
Source code availability |
N/A |
Status of model development |
Mature, no further development information available. |
Challenges for integration |
F-RAM is an economic model used to measure one component driving investment decisions. It does not capture aspects of public safety, equity, or political factors, which must also be integrated into any model that seeks to comprehensively understand related phenomenon. |
References:
Department of Water Resources. (2008). Flood Rapid Assessment Model (F-RAM) Development. Retrieved from: https://water.ca.gov/LegacyFiles/floodmgmt/docs/FRAM-for-DWR-12-18-2008-Final.pdf