COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio's efforts to reduce potential flood damage and to protect the natural resources and functions of floodplains has received national recognition by the Association of State Floodplain Managers, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
At the association's annual meeting, ODNR's Floodplain Management Program was honored with the Tom Lee State Award for Excellence.
According to the Association of Floodplain Managers (ASFPM), Ohio is on the leading edge of the new technologies and tools for effective floodplain management. The cooperative framework of the National Flood Insurance Program has also positioned Ohio communities well to address the problems and challenges of balancing flood hazard areas with development needs.
In accepting the award, representatives of the ODNR Division of Water noted that the current effectiveness of Ohio's program is due in large part to committed partners and creative energy. Sister agencies and non-profit organizations have seen the value of flood risk reduction and incorporated flood protection standards and policies into their programs and activities.
ASFPM represents 4,500 leading experts in flood hazard management throughout the United States and beyond. A key activity of the organization is to recognize national achievements in flood hazard management on the state level.
For Further Information Contact:
Jane Beathard, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6860
-or-
Cindy Crecelius, ODNR Division of Water
(614) 265-6754