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FLOOD PLAIN ACQUISITION

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Flood plain of Lockatong Creek in Hunterdon County, New Jersey.
Flood Plain of Lockatong Creek,
Hunterdon County, NJ

Photo By: DRBC Staff

Flood plain acquisition is the purchase of flood plain properties and conversion of these properties to passive land uses not damaged by flooding. Uses such as recreation and open space are consistent with overall efforts in stream corridor restoration. Because of the multiple objectives for stream corridors, including tourism and recreational business, there are various sources of money that may be available for flood plain acquisition. These include money for parklands and open space, as well as money from the Federal Emergency Management Agency's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).

Damages from Hurricane Floyd have spurred efforts for voluntary flood plain acquisition in parts of the Delaware River Basin. The program is only effective when flood plain residents are willing to relocate. In the Delaware River Basin, there is no one entity which coordinates flood plain acquisition programs or funding opportunities. This activity would require legal, financial and business expertise. There are some examples of successful acquisition programs throughout the country. These have been documented by the Association of State Flood Plain Managers. Such programs, while initially expensive, drastically reduce future flood damage without the risks and maintenance expense of structural flood control.

OTHER HELPFUL LINKS:

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Association of State Flood Plain Managers
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American Rivers - The Value of Flood Plains


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