DescriptionMuch of the Clutha District is built on flood plains. Flood plains make for alluvial soil and as such is excellent land for farming. Settlers recognised the potential for agricultural development, however in doing so, overlooked the significant damage which floods could cause.
The first flood of the Clutha River known to Pakeha occurred in January 1851. This flood, though massive, resulted in little damage due to the small population at the time. The great 1878 flood of the same size was a different story.
Throughout the history of the district many have drowned in flood waters, significant damage to property has occurred, and large-scale emergency responses have taken place. The continual flooding of the Pomahaka River even forced the complete abandonment/relocation of the town of Kelso in 1980.
Today, flood banks are prominent features of townships including Balclutha, Stirling and Kaitangata.
