For immediate release: nov 1, 2010
 

DNR SEEKS INPUT ON FLOODPLAIN MAPPING PLAN

  

The DNR is looking for input on a statewide plan to provide new, accurate floodplain work maps for Iowa communities and counties by July 1, 2014.

 

Many local governments have long operated with outdated floodplain maps - or none at all. The DNR is working with the Iowa Flood Center, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and other partners to create comprehensive floodplain work maps for Iowans. 

 

The public is invited to attend any of six meetings across Iowa to discuss the plan and order of mapping. 

 

The DNR and the Iowa Flood Center will use state-of-the-art technology to produce the work maps. As a result, the work maps will indicate the depth and extent of potential flooding accurate to within 7 or 8 inches of elevation - compared to historic flood maps that have 5- to 10-foot accuracy.

 

 "This effort should not be confused with flood insurance maps, although the work maps will eventually be developed into FEMA-approved flood insurance rate maps" said Scott Ralston DNR's floodplain mapping coordinator. 

 

"The benefit of the work maps is that communities can use them for planning efforts - helping to protect citizens and property practically as soon as they are developed," he said. 

 

The precision of the work maps will help Iowans know if their property is at risk from flooding. The maps can also assist local officials to determine evacuation areas, establish zoning and flood-proof critical infrastructure.

 

Iowans can provide input and learn more about the four-year mapping plan at the following times and locations.

 

  a.. Clear Lake: Nov. 16, 9 a.m., Clear Lake Community Center, 15 N. Sixth St. 
  b.. Spencer: Nov. 16, 2 p.m., Spencer Public Library (ICN Room), 21 E. Third St. 
  c.. Des Moines: Nov. 17, 9 a.m., Wallace State Office Building Auditorium, 502 E. Ninth St. 
  d.. Atlantic: Nov. 17, 2 p.m., Atlantic Municipal Utilities, 15 W. Third St. 
  e.. Washington: Nov. 18, 9 a.m., Washington Public Library, 115 West Washington 
  f.. Independence: Nov. 18, 2 p.m., Falcon Civic Center, 1305 Fifth Ave. NE 
 

For more information, visit http://floodplain.iowadnr.gov. Or, contact Scott Ralston, DNR Floodplain Mapping Coordinator, at (515) 281-8121 or [log in to unmask] 

 

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