LIVE OAK, FLA., Dec. 11, 2019 – The Suwannee River Water Management District (District) held kick-off meetings on Thursday, Nov. 14 in Greenville and Jasper to update citizens and stakeholders about the effort to improve the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood maps.
Flood risk can change over time due to new development, weather patterns and other factors. As a Cooperating Technical Partner, the District is assisting with the coordination of FEMA’s Risk Mapping, Assessment and Planning (MAP) program. This program will update flood maps which will involve collecting map risk data, assessing present and future risks, planning for risk and reducing (or mitigating) risk of potential flooding.
“In the upcoming months we will be partnering with FEMA to collect data and develop flood maps that will provide citizens with a better understanding of the flood zone boundaries,” said Leroy Marshall, Chief Professional Engineer of the District. “We encourage citizens to be involved and aware of the process by attending public meetings and reaching out to us at the District.”
At the meetings, the District discussed the status of the programs, risk communication and outreach, project milestones and how to find program updates. The District also announced that surveyors will be gathering data within communities starting Dec. 9, 2019. These surveyors can be identified with bright yellow vests and hold an official letter to conduct the surveys directed by the District.
FEMA Risk MAP flood program is tailored to the needs of each community. Participation in public meetings is encouraged for citizens and community officials to stay up-to-date on the progress of the program.
More information about the program and timeline can be found online at http://www.srwmdfloodmaps.com/.
The mission of the Suwannee River Water Management District is to protect and manage water resources using science-based solutions to support natural systems and the needs of the public. The District holds true to the belief of water for nature, water for people. Headquartered in Live Oak, Florida, the District serves 15 surrounding north-central Florida counties.
For more information about the District, visit www.MySuwanneeRiver.com or follow us on Facebook and Twitter, search @SRWMD.
###