Principles and Procedures in Flood Plain Management

Comprehensive flood plain management is defined as the planning and action to determine, implement, and revise, as needed, plans for the wise and best use of flood plains and their water resources for the welfare of our nation. The necessity and purpose of changing from the traditional approach is briefly stated. Principles of wise management are presented for communities, cities, metropolitan areas, small watersheds, and large watersheds. Procedures for planning and implementation for the various types of areas are outlined and examples cited. Flood plain regulations and their role is reviewed. The critical role of close coordination of effort by local, states, and Federal interests is stressed.