Localized Flood Management
Chronic flooding is a critical problem facing many communities. In urban areas impacted by localized or “neighborhood” flood events, green infrastructure practices can absorb rainfall, preventing water from overwhelming pipe networks and pooling in streets or basements. For communities experiencing overbank or riverine flooding, larger networks of green infrastructure can provide extra storage during heavy storm events. In this 90-minute webcast practitioners will cover a range of practices that can help communities build flood resilience, from small scale interventions such as rain gardens and permeable pavement to coordinated open space and floodplain preservation.
Details
Session 1 — A Tale of Two Cities: Exploring How Two Communities are Using Green Infrastructure to Reduce Flood Risk
Lori Cary-Kothera, Operations Manager, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Office for Coastal Management
Patekka Bannister, City of Toledo, Division of Environmental Services
This presentation describes how green infrastructure can help increase community resilience to coastal flood hazard impacts. Participants will learn about how Toledo, Ohio and Duluth, Minnesota are assessing their exposure to flood hazards, identifying areas for green infrastructure to reduce exposure, and evaluating the costs and benefits of implementing green infrastructure. Outreach efforts to share the results of the study with local officials and community members will also be highlighted.
Session 2 — Rain Garden Reserve: Managing Flooding with Green Infrastructure Solutions in Cuyahoga Falls
Tony V. Demasi, City Engineer, City of Cuyahoga Falls, OH
Kari A. Mackenbach, URS Corporation, National Green Infrastructure Practice Leader
In this session the City of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio will share how they turned four flood damaged properties into a popular neighborhood asset. Using Federal Emergency Management Agency funds, the city was able to transform a group of chronically-damaged residential properties into a green infrastructure pocket park complete with rain gardens, pervious concrete, and solar powered lighting. Speakers will describe how the City engaged community members to create a park design that balanced need for security, open space, and localized flood relief.
Speakers
Lori Cary-Kothera is the Operations Manager at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Office for Coastal Management. In addition to leading the effort for Digital Coast, Lori works on a variety of projects helping local coastal resource agencies better utilize technologies including GIS and social media. Recently Lori has been working with a number of communities in the Great Lakes helping to address their flooding issues using green infrastructure techniques. Lori has a BS in Biology and Environmental Science from Bowling Green State University and a MS degree in Biological Oceanography from Florida Institute of Technology.
Patekka Bannister
Toni V. Demasi
Kari A. Mackenbach, CFM, BCES