The barrier consists of a flexible impermeable membrane held in a trench as illustrated in
Figures 1 and 2. Protective rigid covers and floats are attached so that the membrane will rise
up with any flood waters and protect the land and property behind it. Stability is maintained
by the mass of soil backfill replaced in the trench, slabs of concrete or other material on top
of the backfill and by flexible ties, possibly formed as an extension of the membrane, to resist
the hydraulic forces on the erect barrier. The membrane buried in the trench also helps to
prevent flood waters passing beneath the barrier.