Flood Hazard Management Tools and Resources Project Description - Floodplain Mapping

Floodplain maps play an important role in providing information that can be used to reduce flood risks for people, infrastructure and property. There is a need for reliable information about the extent and depth of inundation of floodplains to support appropriate development and best floodplain management practices. Floodplain maps provide a standardized approach with information that can be readily analyzed and interpreted by land use planners, emergency managers, developers, realtors and the public. In addition the maps facilitate improved communications and cooperation between local governments, provincial agencies and the private sector. The province has previously prepared 545 floodplain maps throughout British Columbia, which are used as standards for subdivision, development and land use bylaws. However, there are very few floodplain maps available for the floodplain of the lower Fraser River. Therefore the lower Fraser River is the geographic focus of this project. Project Objectives: To provide information about floodplain mapping. To compile floodplain information for the lower Fraser River to assist in decision-making about potential future development in the floodplain. To prepare floodplain maps of one or more selected areas of the lower Fraser River floodplain illustrating floodplain boundaries and estimated flood levels. Scope: The study area is the Fraser River floodplain, from Hope, BC to the mouth of the Fraser River. The project may involve the completion of digital floodplain maps for one or more selected areas. The project may include compilation of related flood information for the Fraser River such as best available hydrologic, hydraulic and flood profile information, guidelines, specifications and standards for floodplain mapping, etc. Floodplain maps for areas selected would consist of computed floodplain levels and boundaries plotted on base mapping consistent with projects already undertaken elsewhere at 1:5000 scale with one-metre contour lines. Applications and Benefits: Floodplain maps are utilized by local government and provincial Approving Officers, local government land use planners and developers, and are of value to emergency planners, dike owners/operators, realtors and the public. Uses include the following applications: To provide flood boundary and level information for planning new development and protecting public safety; To support the development of flood management policies, procedures, and guidelines including local government bylaws; To provide information and guidelines to improve future floodplain management; To plan and manage flood protection works; and To assist in emergency planning and response. For more information, contact the Fraser Basin Council, care of Project Manager, Steve Litke by phone at (604) 488-5358 or by email at slitke@fraserbasin.bc.ca