Press Releases

Fort Collins Utilities’ Floodplain Management Program recently received recognition from FEMA’s Best Practices Initiative for being “on top of the game in floodplain management” and minimizing flood risks.

FEMA noted these proactive efforts greatly benefited Fort Collins in the September flooding event, allowing the community to receive minimal damage given the magnitude of the flood—a 50-year event with an approximate flow of 10,400 cubic feet per second at the mouth of the Poudre Canyon.

Fort Collins has had a Stormwater Utility since 1980, through which stormwater utility fees are implemented to help fund mitigation projects that reduce flooding impacts. After the Flood of 1997, Utilities revised the master drainageway plans for the city and constructed numerous improvement projects to further reduce flood risks.

According to FEMA, Fort Collins has a diverse set of mitigation strategies, all of which contribute to the success of the program, including:
• proactive regulations
• flood warning system
• acquisitions involving vacant land and private property
• preservation of open space
• floodproofing
• emergency response training
• community education and outreach

FEMA praised Utilities for continuing to enhance its program and prepare for future flood events through a variety of mitigation strategies and safety improvements. Read the full article at http://llis.dhs.gov/content/top-game-floodplain-management .

For more information about Utilities’ Floodplain Management Program and services, visit http://www.fcgov.com/stormwater , call 970-221-6700, email or TDD 970-224-6003.