Listening Sessions for FFRMS

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District is calling for agency partners, local non-federal sponsors and customers to participate in upcoming listening sessions regarding the 2015 Executive Order, Establishing of a Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS).

“The executive order, released January 30, 2015, requires all future federal investments in (and affecting) floodplains to meet a higher level of resilience, including where federal funds are used to build new structures and facilities or to rebuild those that have been damaged,” said Levee Safety Manager Scott Leimer, USACE Galveston District. “These listening sessions are still being coordinated and will be held throughout the nation in March, with virtual sessions available for those who cannot attend.”

The USACE reports that between 1980 and 2013, the nation suffered more than $260 billion in flood-related damages and notes that citizens can anticipate flooding risks to increase over time.

“In implementing the FFRMS, agencies are given the flexibility to select one of three approaches for establishing the flood elevation and hazard area they use in making decisions on design and construction criteria,” said Leimer.

Over the next 60 days, the group will host a series of listening sessions to solicit stakeholder input on the draft implementing guidelines. Written comments are also accepted through the Federal Register Notice process before the April 6, 2015, deadline and through virtual listening session from those unable to attend the public sessions.

“After the 60-day comment period is complete, federal departments and agencies will be required to submit a plan within 30 days to implement this new policy,” said Leimer. “No agency will implement the new standard before soliciting public input as required in the FY15 Appropriations Act.”

Source: USACE