How does a compensatory flood storage work?

Compensatory flood storage is a flood management technique designed to mitigate the impact of development on natural floodplains. It involves creating or enhancing storage areas, such as ponds or wetlands, to temporarily hold excess stormwater or floodwater. This additional storage capacity helps to reduce peak flow rates downstream, thereby minimizing flooding risks. By compensating for the loss of natural flood storage due to urbanization, this approach aims to maintain the hydrological balance of the ecosystem.