TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda TFMA - 25 YEARS AND MOVING FORWARD TUESDAY – MAY 21, 2013 7:30 am - 5:00 pm CONFERENCE REGISTRATION 11:00 am - 5:00 pm TFMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING Open to TFMA Members WORKSHOPS 8:00 am – 5:00 pm WORKSHOP 1: FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT 101 Notes: Morning and Afternoon Sessions 1 hour lunch break - on your own Instructor: Michael Segner, CFM, Texas Water Development Board Topic: This workshop will cover the following: Texas and Federal laws and the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Flood Mitigation Grant Programs Local Communities & the NFIP Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance Variances and NFIP Requirements Community Assistance Visits & Contacts Elevation Certificates FEMA Map Amendments Substantial Improvements/Damage 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm WORKSHOP 2: BEYOND THE NUMBERS: LESSONS FROM MOTHER NATURE THAT YOU WERE NEVER TAUGHT IN ENGINEERING SCHOOL Instructor: Steven E. Eubanks, PE, CFM; City of Fort Worth Topic: This workshop will cover basic principles of engineering due diligence, engineering judgment, and forensic engineering with a specific regard to stormwater infrastructure. Intended to help both young and experienced engineers develop a practical “design mindset,” this workshop will address the practical design considerations essential to the constructability and maintainability of municipal stormwater infrastructure. Other topics to be addressed include prediction of failure modes, understanding of “No Adverse Impact,” basic stream geomorphology, erosion protection considerations, and the role of stormwater design in Low Impact Development. 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm WORKSHOP 3: SKYWARN, STORM SPOTTER TRAINING, TADD & STORMREADY Instructors: Various speakers Topic: Learn how to recognize the first signs of severe weather from hail, wind storms, floods and tornadoes. Discussion of actions to take in the event severe weather threatens or strikes your community. Also learn about forming partnerships to promote flood safety and public awareness in Flash Flood Alley. Learn how NOAA All Hazards Radios and the NWS StormReady program can help you and your communities survive a disaster. 1 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm DINNER ON YOUR OWN 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm TFMA TEXAS NATIONAL CFM EXAM NOTE: Must be pre-approved (Submit Exam Application with $100 Fee) and current member. 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm OPENING WELCOMING SOCIAL Meet and greet for conference participants and visit Exhibitors WEDNESDAY - MAY 22, 2013 7:30 am - 5:00 pm CONFERENCE REGISTRATION WORKSHOPS 9:00 am to 11:00 am WORKSHOP 4: HEC-RAS MODEL REVIEW Instructor: Ron Morrison, PE, CFM, Morrison Hydrology LLC Topic: This workshop will discuss procedures to review HEC-RAS computer models including the use of a HEC-RAS checklist. The checklist will allow those less experienced in HEC-RAS modeling to review submittals they receive. 8:00 am to Noon WORKSHOP 5: FEMA RISK MAP PRODUCTS - A LOCAL COMMUNITY’S EXPERIENCE Instructors: Jessica Baker, PE, CFM, PMP; Halff Associates (TFMA Vice President) Sam Amoako-Atta, GISP, CFM; Halff Associates Jarred Overbey, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Eric Hajek, GISP, CFM; Halff Associates Steve Parker, PE, CFM; City of Dallas Minhtam Vu, CFM; City of Dallas Topic: FEMA’s Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP) program began in 2009, and over the past several years numerous Risk MAP Products have been started throughout Texas. So, do you know the new acronyms committed to memory? FRD, FRM, FRR, CSLF, DAGs, and AoMI. After this workshop you will! Risk MAP Products further enhance the typical FEMA deliverables by providing datasets that enable local communities to effectively quantify and communicate flood risk to their constituents. This workshop will introduce participants to the FEMA Risk MAP Products and Datasets. Learn the basics of how you can leverage these products in your daily tasks as a floodplain manager. During the workshop participants will be introduced to the following: Risk MAP Products Overview o FRD – (CSLF, DAGs, AoMI, FRA) o FRM o FRR Applications of Risk MAP Products and Datasets for a Community 2 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Attendees are encouraged to bring a laptop with the ESRI program ArcReader installed, although it is not required. A limited number of laptops will be available for use for those unable to bring one. We intend to provide all attendees with the ArcReader software as well as sample data to be used during the workshop. 7:30 am to Noon FIELD TRIP: BRAYS BAYOU & SIMS BAYOU WATERSHED PROJECTS This field trip will include a bus guided tour to projects conducted by Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) on Brays Bayou and Sims Bayou watersheds. HCFCD staff will be the tour guides. Note: seating is limited and be at the bus stop on time. 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm LUNCH ON YOUR OWN CONFERENCE OPENING PLENARY SESSION 1:00 pm – 1:30 pm CONFERENCE WELCOME Roy Sedwick, CFM; TFMA Executive Director Diane Calhoun, CFM; Calhoun Consulting, LLC (TFMA President) John Espinoza, PE, CFM; Brown & Gay Engineers (TFMA Conference Committee Chair) Guest Speaker: Harish Jajoo, PE, CFM; City of Sugar Land Council Member 1:30 pm – 1:50 pm HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS Presenter: Mike Talbott, PE; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: This presentation will cover an overview of the Harris County Flood Control District with an emphasis on its partnerships with the State and Federal government. Federal Flood damage reduction programs with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Federal Emergency Management Agency will be highlighted. The State's role in FEMA programs through the Governor's Division of Emergency Management and the Texas Water Development Board will also be discussed. 1:50 pm – 2:10 pm 2013 FLOOD RISK SYMPOSIUM UPDATE Presenter: Diane Calhoun, CFM; Calhoun Consulting, LLC (TFMA President) Topic: On March 19, 2013, ASFPM and TFMA hosted the 2013 Flood Risk Symposium in Austin. The event was attended by key invited Texas stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. This presentation will summarize who attended, what was discussed and how TFMA will move forward to keep all stakeholders engaged. 2:10 pm – 2:30 pm SILVER JACKETS OF TEXAS Presenter: Seth Jones, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - Galveston District Topic: What is the Silver Jackets and how can TFMA be a partner? 2:30 pm – 3:00 pm ASFPM GUEST SPEAKER Presenter: Chad Berginnis, CFM; ASFPM Executive Director 3 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Topic: This presentation will include an update on ASFPM Legislative activities, BW-12, and the upcoming National Conference in Hartford, Connecticut in June 2013. 3:00 pm – 3:30 pm BREAK 3:30 pm – 4:00 pm FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT IN TEXAS Presenters: John Ivey, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Jessica Baker, PE, CFM, PMP; Halff Associates (TFMA Vice President) Topic: Floodplain Management in Texas is a walk through time that identifies events, legislation, programs and players that established the framework for floodplain management in Texas. The impacts of the Texas Floodplain Management Association and its members have played an important role in identifying and reducing flood risks especially in the last 25 years from 1988 to 2013. This paper discusses the partnerships created and successes that followed. The history of TFMA is visible through the series of events that moved Texas from the national leader in flood claims and flash flood deaths to a "Turn Around Don't Drown" grass roots program that touches every region of Texas and continues to spread across the Nation. Leadership roles involving TFMA and its members have expanded sound floodplain management principles to all levels of Federal, state and national associations and programs. This paper walks us through where TFMA started in 1988, what have been the accomplishments (1988 to 2013) and where is Texas floodplain management going in the future. The paper focuses on the accomplishments of TFMA, Roy Sedwick as Executive Director and the TFMA leadership and members. 4:00 pm – 4:30 pm POLICIES AND PRACTICES FOR FLOOD MITIGATION IN TEXAS AND THE UNITED STATES: HOW MUCH COULD WE SAVE Presenter: Samuel Brody, PhD George P. Mitchell '40 Chair in Sustainable Coasts Director, Institute for Sustainable Coastal Communities Director, Center for Texas Beaches and Shores Department of Marine Sciences at Galveston Department of Landscape Architecture & Urban Planning at College Station Texas A&M University - Galveston Topic: This presentation will present the latest findings from the Rising Waters research project focusing the causes, consequences, and policy implication of flooding in Texas and other coastal states. Particular attention will be paid to the influence of development patterns on flood losses and the cost-saving potential of mitigation strategies to reduce the growing adverse effects of from flooding events. 4:30 pm – 5:00 pm THE BIGGERT-WATERS FLOOD INSURANCE REFORM ACT OF 2012 (BW-12) Presenter: Jack Graham, CFM; DHS/FEMA Topic: The Biggert-Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 (BW-12), which was signed into law on July 6, 2012, reauthorizes and reforms the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for five years through September 30, 2017. This presentation will provide information about these reforms. 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm ANNUAL TFMA BANQUET 4 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Location: George Ranch Historical Park 10215 FM 762 Rd, Richmond, TX We will carpool (no busses) for a short leisure drive to the Historic George Ranch where we will be entertained by a wonderful Country Band, and we will feast on a three meat mouth-watering Bar-B-Q meal with all the trimmings and topped off with hot cobbler and ice cream. Participants can tour the historic buildings, take a hay ride, pitch washers or horseshoes, dance to the music, brand your souvenir Cedar plank with the TFMA brand, rope a steer (not a live one), take advantage of a special picture taking opportunity, or just relax and enjoy the hospitality of the TFMA family. Note: Since we are car pooling, no alcohol will be served at the Ranch, but a TFMA keg will be waiting back at the hotel for those who want to continue networking with friends “old and new” once we return to the hotel.) To learn more about the George Ranch Historical Park, visit the website http://www.georgeranch.org/visit/ THURSDAY - MAY 23, 2013 7:30 am – 5:00 pm CONFERENCE REGISTRATION 8:00 am – 11:30 am MORNING TECHNICAL CONCURRENT SESSIONS – TRACKS A, B, C, D, E and F (6 Tracks) TRACK A – SAN ANTONIO RIVER AUTHORITY (SARA) UPDATES 8:00 am – 8:50 am A1 LOMR DELEGATION MADE EASIER UTILIZING DIGITAL DATA AND MODELING REPOSITORY SYSTEM (D2MR) Presenters: Joe G. Fernandez, CFM; San Antonio River Authority John Refolo, CFM; San Antonio River Authority Topic: The timely management, maintenance, and distribution of consistent and up-to-date modeling information are extremely important in taking the necessary measures in the management of a watershed and its environment. Watersheds are constantly going through significant changes driven by various factors such as urbanization, weather and terrain changes. Urgent needs for coordination are necessary in order to implement the proper measures with right priorities. This paper describes the use of Enterprise Geographic Information System (EGIS) as the platform for the San Antonio River Authority’s Digital Data and Modeling Repository (D2MR) system. This system provides the interface and tools to manage, maintain, and serve water resources modeling information. This system serves as an integral part of the local and regional decision making and support for watershed management. For the River Authority, this system supports and streamlines the FEMA C/LOMR process. D2MR enables the engineering community to download and upload models and supporting information, allows users to view overlapping studies, and provides the authoritative central archive of regional modeling information. 8:50 am – 9:45 am A2 EPDRIV1 MODELING FOR WATER QUALITY MASTER PLANNING OF SALADO CREEK, UPPER SAN ANTONIO RIVER AND LEON CREEK WATERSHEDS Presenters: Sheeba Thomas, PE, CFM; San Antonio River Authority Yu-Chun Su, PhD, PE, CFM, CPESC, CPSWQ; ATKINS Topic: This presentation will provide a summary of the development and calibration/validation of dynamic water quality (WQ) models using HSPF and EPDRiv1 for the watersheds and main stem channels of the Salado Creek, Upper San Antonio River, and Leon Creek watersheds. The model results were analyzed to 5 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda identify the water quality damage centers or impaired water bodies at subbasin and cross section levels, as well as to support watershed master planning and evaluation of the effects of Best Management Practices (BMPs) and Low Impact Developments (LID). The presentation will include a detailed discussion of the HSPF model development and calibration/validation processes, including data collection and processing, model development and parameter setup, and model calibration/validation using available WQ data from the Surface Water Quality Monitoring (SWQM) database. The presentation will also provide a summary of the analysis of HSPF model results using screening levels derived from the Texas Clean Rivers Program. The screening was then used to identify WQ damage centers and to help support watershed master planning of the three watersheds. The presentation will also include a detailed discussion of the EPDRiv1 model development and calibration/validation processes, including data collection and processing, model development and parameter setup, importation of DFIRM HEC-RAS model cross sections for EPDRiv1 setup, linkage of HSPF model output as input into EPDRiv1, and model calibration/validation using available WQ data from the SWQM database. The presentation will also provide examples of the analysis of EPDRiv1 model results using screening levels derived from the Texas Clean Rivers Program. The screening was then used to identify WQ damage centers and to help support watershed master planning of the three main-stem channels. Both the HSPF and EPDRiv1 were developed for continuous simulation through dry- and wet-weather periods so as to allow an assessment of both dry-weather and stormwater WQ conditions. The identification of WQ damage centers was based on WQ screening levels adopted by the Texas Clean Rivers Program (CRP) for the San Antonio River Basin. The constituents simulated include temperature, carbonaceous biochemical oxygen demand (CBOD), dissolved oxygen (DO), total suspended solids (TSS), nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), chlorophyll a, bacteria (E. coli), and representative metals (lead and zinc). 9:45 am – 10:20 am BREAK 10:20 am – 11:30 am A3 FEMA RISK MAP & THE SAN ANTONIO RIVER AUTHORITY Presenters: Daniel Aguilar, PE, CFM; San Antonio River Authority Ramesh Chintala, PE, CFM, D.WRE; Lockwood Andrews and Newnam, Inc. Topic: FEMA’s Risk MAP vision is to deliver quality data that increases public awareness of flood risk leading to actions that reduce the risk to life and property through collaborative efforts. Flood risk reduction happens at the local level. Predictably, the success of Risk MAP depends to a large extent on its receptivity by local communities. FEMA Region VI and SARA have benefitted from an indigenous and cooperative approach to implementing Risk MAP Discovery in the Upper San Antonio Watershed. SARA leadership promotes local participation which can spur communities into taking action. The key to a successful CTP relationship begins during the business planning phase, when mutual goals are identified and long-term commitments made. SARA’s jurisdiction covers the counties of Bexar, Wilson, Karnes and Goliad, Texas. SARA was motivated to collaborate with FEMA in RiskMAP in order to: (a) maximize ongoing local master planning investments to achieve the common goal of reducing flood risks in the San Antonio region; and (b) preserve investments made in modernizing flood maps for their four-county jurisdiction during the MapMod Program. SARA’s Discovery experience will be highlighted to showcase a successful collaborative strategy with FEMA Region VI. Key elements of SARA’s business plan and on-going Discovery efforts will be described. This presentation should be of interest to CTPs and local communities who want to understand how Discovery is being implemented in the San Antonio region. Successful Risk MAP implementation can be achieved through close collaboration with FEMA Region VI. 6 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda TRACK B – FEMA & OTHERS 8:00 am – 9:00 am B1 NON-REGULATORY PRODUCTS SUPPORTING COMMUNITY ACTION Presenters: Larry Voice, CFM; FEMA Region VI Stephen Altman, PE, CFM; RAMPP Topic: FEMA’s Risk MAP program has changed their focus from creating flood insurance mapping projects to a focus that promotes interaction of FEMA and local communities. This interaction helps identify natural hazard risks and encourages the communities to take action to mitigate these risks. The approach of the Risk MAP project and process path can be used by communities to review their vulnerabilities to natural hazards and begin to identify appropriate action to reduce this risk in the future. To support this process, FEMA has developed standards for non-regulatory products that are created as part of a Risk MAP project. Floodplain managers will be able to use these products to make informed decisions regarding mitigation action and planning. This presentation will describe these non-regulatory products, and how they can be utilized to support mitigation action in each community. 9:00 am – 9:45 am B2 COMMUNICATING FLOOD RISK AND ENGAGING COMMUNITY ACTION USING FLOODSMART’S TOOLS AND RESOURCES Presenter: Rich Gilroy; FloodSmart Topic: Texas is particularly vulnerable to harsh weather and severe flooding during hurricane season, even hundreds of miles inland. In addition to hurricane season, sections of the state, such as Central Texas or “Flash Flood Alley,” remain vulnerable to flooding because storms frequently stall and drop torrential rains in these areas. However, a well-prepared and highly-informed public can weather the storm. FloodSmart combines a national outreach campaign for the National Flood Insurance Program with shareable tools for use by stakeholders to educate the public on how to prepare for flooding—including the purchase of flood insurance— no matter what the cause. FloodSmart has learned valuable lessons on the best ways to engage the public through the development of online tools and resources. FloodSmart will share lessons learned and demonstrate these online resources so you can see how to share them with the appropriate audiences in conjunction with other outreach efforts. In addition, FloodSmart will address topics such as the best time to talk about hurricane preparation, how to speak to various generations through different channels, and how to sustain their involvement. In this presentation, you will learn how to incorporate FloodSmart tools into your outreach communications and encourage residents to purchase flood insurance so that they can reduce the financial impact of flooding. 9:45 am – 10:20 am BREAK 10:20 am – 11:30 am B3 FEMA MAP REVISIONS: GUIDANCE FOR PREPARING AN IDEAL SUBMITTAL Presenters: Rigel Rucker, PE, CFM; RAMPP Stephen Altman, PE, CFM; RAMPP Topic: The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is currently implementing the Risk Mapping, Assessment and Planning (Risk MAP) Strategy. The intent of this strategy is to unite flood hazard mapping, risk assessment tools, and mitigation planning into one seamless program. The ultimate goal is to facilitate 7 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda beneficial partnerships and innovative use of flood hazard and risk assessment data to minimize flood losses. RAMPP is a joint venture partnership comprised of URS Corporation, Dewberry and Davis, and ESP. RAMPP provides technical support to FEMA in Regions 2, 3, and 6, including Texas. One of the key aspects of flood hazard mapping is map maintenance through which flood hazard maps are updated by Letters of Map Change (LOMCs). Requests for map changes must be submitted to FEMA for technical and regulatory review. RAMPP reviews these requests on behalf of FEMA. There are two types of LOMCs, Amendments (MT-1s) and Revisions (MT-2s). This presentation will discuss how the different types of MT-2s are processed and provide guidance and tips to requestors and communities on how best proceed with submitting their revision requests. This presentation includes a brief overview of the Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) review process. Participants will gain knowledge of what comprises a complete LOMR submission and approaches that will help get their LOMR approved fast. This session will cover the applicable National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Regulations and will highlight common submittal deficiencies and areas of frequent misconceptions. The target of the presenter is to improve turnaround times for MT-2 requests by reducing additional data requirements and help requesters to submit all required data with their initial submittal. This presentation will cover in detail the roles and responsibilities of the communities in the process, how to obtain back-up data, regulatory items required for the review process, different type of H & H models, and the new procedures pertaining to the Endangered Species Act. The presentation will also explain, with examples, how to deal with revision requests in areas with a preliminary study and how to handle revisions to streams affecting multiple communities that are in different stages of the flood map update process. TRACK C – HYDRAULIC MODELING 8:00 am – 8:35 am C1 1D PROBLEMS: 2D SOLUTIONS Presenters: Jeff Whanger, PE, SIT, CFM; Brown & Gay Engineers Brenda Gasperich, PE, CFM; Brown & Gay Engineers Topic: 2D modeling is a relatively new tool in the H&H engineer’s toolbox. It provides a more realistic modeling approach to certain situations than the traditional analysis and design methods in use today. This new modeling technology provides new and different methods for engineers to analyze and design a variety of different hydraulic projects. 2D modeling can be used on anything from planning level flood studies to design plans for storm sewers and everything in between. Along with this new tool comes new computing needs, new data requirements, and new result formats. The presenters will provide an introduction to 2D modeling, including background information and differences from traditional methods, as well as discuss multiple real world examples of how they have used this new technology to aid in mapping complex floodplains and design storm drain improvements. These examples will walk the audience through the 2D modeling process from the decision to use 2D (rather than a traditional approach) to data needs specific to 2D models and will discuss how the 2D results were utilized by the client. 8:35 am – 9:10 am C2 HEC-RAS MODELING OF URBAN DRAINAGE USING A PSEUDO 2-D UNSTEADY STATE MODEL Presenters: Rod Pinheiro, PE, CFM; City of Houston Lonnie Anderson, PE, CFM; AECOM Jason Vo, EIT; City of Houston Brian Edmondson, EIT; City of Houston Topic: The City of Houston, Skyscraper Shadows Local Drainage Project, is located within the Skyscraper Shadows’ subdivision (approx. 196 acres). Due to residential and roadway flooding, this project area has a 8 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda history of legal claims which have been reported to the City of Houston and National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The City has been involved in a collaboration effort with AECOM Technical Services, Inc. to alleviate the flood prone areas within the Skyscraper Shadows’ subdivision. The proposed project will improve the flaws, inadequacies, and limited capacities of the existing ditch systems. Each potential improvement is restrained by the capacity of the existing roadway ditches and the receiving channel within the vicinity of the project. This presentation will use unique modeling methodologies to develop an efficient solution using the tools available within HEC-RAS 4.1.0. Unsteady flow modeling of overland, roadside ditch, and riverine flows were used to model an urban area within the City of Houston. The study area is bound by two drainage channels with internal drainage served largely by roadside ditches. To understand the nature of the interaction between the bounding outfall channels and roadside ditches, unsteady state modeling was required. A pseudo 2-D unsteady state HEC-RAS model was developed to determine the nature of the existing flooding and develop alternatives to alleviate flooding in the area. This presentation also details the approach used in the modeling effort and how the RAS Mapper feature in HEC-RAS was used to evaluate a simplified benefit-cost relationship for the City of Houston to use in their evaluation of the proposed project. 9:10 am – 9:45 am C3 USING INTEGRATED CATCHMENT MODELING (ICM) DYNAMIC ANALYSIS FOR WILDCAT BRANCH IN FORT WORTH, TEXAS Presenters: Terry M. Barr, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Rachel Pytcher, EIT; Halff Associates Corey A. Branson, EIT, CFM; Halff Associates Ranjan S. Muttiah, Ph.D., PE, CFM; City of Fort Worth Topic: Over the last several decades, Fort Worth has experienced numerous flooding events along its many urban streams. A combination of continual growth and dated flood analysis information has led to uncertainty about the level of flood risk that many citizens face. As part of its ambitious, multi-year effort to update the modeling and mapping of many of their streams, the City of Fort Worth contracted with Halff Associates, Inc. to study Wildcat Branch, a previously studied FEMA Zone AE stream. The watershed drains to Lake Arlington and encompasses a primarily residential area with homes and businesses, many of which date back to the 1960s and earlier. With an interest in redevelopment of the area on the part of private enterprise and the potential for green space improvements by the Parks and Community Services division, the City needed updated and accurate information about the current flood risk and potential mitigation measures. Halff conducted a detailed steady 1D analysis using HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS; however, flow patterns in the adjacent streets, recent changes in storage due to fill, and overland flow patterns along an old cut-off portion of the channel, tested the limits of a steady-state analysis and opened the door for a more advanced investigation. Using InfoWorks ICM, Halff Associates developed an integrated 1D/2D dynamic model of the Wildcat Branch watershed, which provided a comprehensive look at the system and addressed the limitations of the traditional models. The InfoWorks ICM software incorporates the functions of the InfoWorks SD and RS packages, and provides the ability to integrate pipe systems and open channels. This allowed Halff to evaluate how the upstream storm sewer impacted the open channel flow and determine if there are deficiencies in the system. Previously, this would have required a separate evaluation using traditional steady-state methods. In addition, once the existing conditions analysis was complete, the ICM integrated model facilitated the effective evaluation of a variety of flood mitigation alternatives. This presentation will include a review of the traditional hydrologic and hydraulic analysis performed for the Wildcat Branch study and identify the limitations of those methods within the watershed. In addition, the benefits of a 2D analysis and discussion of the model development will be included. The differences in process and the assumptions required for each modeling approach will be highlighted. A comparison of the 9 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda results (HEC-HMS/RAS vs. InfoWorks ICM) will be presented as well as a demonstration of how the visual capabilities of a 2D dynamic analysis enhanced knowledge of the drainage patterns along Wildcat Branch. Finally, a discussion of how integrated 1D/2D modeling using InfoWorks ICM can improve the flood mitigation improvements analysis process by providing a more efficient accounting of changes in storage and system-wide impacts will be presented. 9:45 am – 10:20 am BREAK 10:20 am – 10:55 am C4 2D OR NOT 2D Presenters: Jonathan Rosenbaum, PE, CFM; City of Arlington Jim Keith, PE, CFM; Dewberry Topic: Whether 'tis nobler for the modeler to suffer The slings and arrows of outrageous model instability Or to take arms against a sea of wobbles And by opposing end them. Deep within the Rush Creek Watershed in the City of Arlington, Texas lies an area modeled for years through traditional methods, but never really understood – until now. The Rush Creek watershed contains over 32 highly urbanized square miles and approximately 50 miles of modeled main channel and tributary. Two tributaries, a constructed relief channel, a low dam, five railroad crossings, four state highway crossings, the main channel of Village Creek and a lone house on a hill all complicate the modeling of Rush Creek’s main stem in the lower reaches of the watershed. The Lower Rush Creek area has been studied extensively over the years in attempts to generate projects that would reduce flooding risks, but standard one-dimensional modeling methods alone could not accurately represent flooding conditions in multiple design storms. Past projects were abandoned because of their expense and uncertainty. As part of a complete Rush Creek Watershed Study, this area was singled out to be studied using two-dimensional hydraulic modeling software. XPSWMM 2D was used to model the area and the results were used to support the development of an unsteady HEC-RAS model prior to its submittal to FEMA. This presentation will examine the selection and use of XPSWMM 2D, the various instabilities and nuances of using the 2D model for this specific location, the “translation” of results from 2D to unsteady HEC-RAS, and the decisions made by the City about a future course to reduce flood risks. 10:55 am – 11:30 am C5 TONY’S CREEK OPEN CHANNEL STUDY - INFOWORKS ICM PILOT STUDY FOR FORT WORTH, TEXAS Presenters: Rodrigo Vizcaino, PE, CFM; HDR Engineering Anthony Henry; HDR Engineering Topic: As Tony’s Creek winds its way southward along 2.5 miles past the Fort Worth Stockyards down to its confluence with Marine Creek, it alternates back and forth between open channel and closed underground conduits several times, including an on-channel regional detention pond. City of Fort Worth staff felt it was an excellent candidate to conduct a pilot study of the new InfoWorks ICM (Integrated Catchment Modeling) software, which combines the capabilities of both InfoWorks SD and RS. To develop the initial geometry for the open channel sections, HDR incorporated field surveyed cross sections using HEC-GeoRAS from Marine Creek up to 36th Street. This initial HEC-RAS model was imported into InfoWorks ICM, and combined an InfoWorks SD model based on as-builts of the Long Avenue culvert and the latest Washington Heights final design InfoWorks SD model, with 2D areas for the two basin overflow areas. Based on the InfoWorks ICM 10 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda 2D results, HDR will lay out cross sections to accurately represent the basin overland flow areas in 1-D unsteady HEC-RAS to develop a corrected effective HEC-RAS model from Marine Creek up to 36th Street for the LOMR submittal to FEMA. This presentation will present the InfoWorks ICM results, and compare ICM with RAS, RS and SD. TRACK D – MAPPING & RISK MAP 8:00 am – 9:10 am D1 THE FUTURE IS NOW! CASE STUDIES USING LIDAR FOR LETTERS OF MAP AMENDMENT Presenter: Sarah Ice, CFM; RAMPP Topic: This session is designed to inform the audience of the advantages and disadvantages of using Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology for Letter of Map Amendment (LOMA) determinations. In 2012 FEMA performed several pilot projects to test the feasibility of using LiDAR data for this purpose. We will discuss how two of the pilot projects in Bexar and Denton Counties, Texas used LiDAR as the property elevation data (in lieu of elevation certificates) for community wide LOMA determinations. Each of the pilots was unique, as they utilized different methods and outreach strategies, the methodologies, tools, and lessons learned will be discussed in depth. We will conclude by discussing where this technology can currently be applied and how FEMA may utilize this data for LOMAs in the future. 9:10 am – 9:45 am D2 ADDICKS RISK MAP PRODUCTS: INNOVATION BY THE HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT Presenters: John S. Grounds, III, PhD, PE, CFM; LJA Engineering Elle L. Anderson, CFM; LJA Engineering Todd Ward, EIT, CFM; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: Harris County Flood Control District is one of the first counties in the nation to develop Risk MAP products. The recent project on Addicks Reservoir has developed Changes Since Last Map and Depth Grid Inundation Mapping for use by the public. These tools will allow the community to better understand their flooding risk and will be an asset for future planning efforts. We will discuss how Harris County Flood Control District developed standards for these Risk MAP products before the Federal Emergency Management Agency had a guidance document. We will present how these Risk MAP products are developed and how they can be used by communities and their residents. 9:45 am – 10:20 am BREAK 10:20 am – 11:30 am D3 APPLICATIONS OF FEMA RISK MAP PRODUCTS Presenters: Jessica Baker, PE, CFM, PMP; Halff Associates (TFMA Vice President) Sam Amoako-Atta, GISP, CFM; Halff Associates Jarred Overbey, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Eric Hajek, GISP, CFM; Halff Associates Steve Parker, PE, CFM; City of Dallas Minhtam Vu, CFM; City of Dallas Topic: In 2009 FEMA transitioned from its Map Modernization (Map Mod) program to the Risk Mapping, Assessment, and Planning (Risk MAP) program. Risk MAP leverages Map Mod success and strengthens local understanding and the ability to reduce flood risks. The primary deliverable during Map Mod was the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM), which is use to identify flood hazard boundaries and set flood 11 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda insurance rates. Risk MAP focuses on products and datasets beyond the traditional DFIRM in order to better communicate flood risks thereby saving more lives and property. This presentation will showcase the 2011 City of Dallas Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) Risk MAP Project and will provide an overview of the Risk MAP Products delivered. By attending this presentation, participants will: Have a better understanding of FEMA Risk MAP Products and their Applications See examples of how Risk MAP products can be used to: Quantify and communicate flood risk Prioritize and promote capital improvement projects that reduce flood risks TRACK E – STORMWATER, DAMS & LEVEES 8:00 am – 8:35 am E1 THE LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY TEXAS POLLUTANT DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM STORMWATER TASK FORCE PROJECT - SEVENTEEN LOCAL GOVERNMENTS WORKING TOGETHER IN THE ARROYO COLORADO WATERSHED Presenters: Joe Hinojosa; City of Brownsville, Chairperson LRGV TPDES Stormwater Task Force Javier Guerrero, EIT, MS; Texas A&M University - Kingsville Topic: The LRGV TPDES Stormwater Task Force. In 2001, facilitated by Texas A&M University–Kingsville (TAMUK), a coalition of seventeen (17) Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV) local governments joined to form the LRGV TPDES (Texas Pollutant Discharge Elimination System) Stormwater Task Force (LTSTF) in a joint effort to develop a proactive regional approach to comply with the TPDES) Phase II Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer System (MS4) rules. TAMUK and the LTSTF developed a regional stormwater management plan (SWMP) adopted by the membership. The SWMP includes Best Management Practices (BMPs) that are required as part of the six (6) Minimum Control Measures (MCMs) of the State’s TPDES program. Organization and Mission of the LRGV TPDES Stormwater Task Force. The LTSTF project idea was born from a 2000 local stormwater brainstorming round table held in La Feria, Texas. Several preliminary meetings continued at various cities until the coalition was formally organized. Local government officials and qualified professionals representing various communities in the LRGV region attended these meetings. The group agreed to develop a way to achieve a regional SWMP to comply with the TPDES regulations. The group formalized the organization by contractually empowering TAMUK to facilitate the group and by developing a system of by-laws that included election of board members and officers. The LTSTF uses a unique, collaborative regional approach to involve various levels of government, including the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), in developing cost-effective solutions that will achieve compliance with the TPDES rules. The LTSTF project embodies the spirit of the mutually beneficial relationships between local governments and embellishes this relationship with academia and regulators. After ten (10) years, although the impact of this organization has translated into a regional collaboration movement not seen anywhere else in the State, the overall impact of this organization has yet to be fully realized. The primary goal of the LTSTF project in 2001 was to develop and implement a regional SWMP to comply with Phase II regulations. In 2006, the LTSTF modified its mission to include stormwater quality management approaches to address broader water quality and watershed issues, particularly those associated with the Arroyo Colorado Watershed Partnership (ACWP), a local Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL)-related organization. The LTSTF project has already enjoyed side benefits of increased communication and cooperation, and created a collaborative process for discussing water quality issues in the LRGV’s fourcounty region. In addition, this collaboration and others like it, has enabled the participating communities and TAMUK to successfully secure many grant funding opportunities since the Task Force’s inception. 12 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda In 2002, LTSTF participants began entering into local government interlocal agreements with TAMUK, which outlined the desire to address stormwater quality issues on a regional basis and named TAMUK as its facilitator. In executing these interlocal agreements, emphasis was placed on developing programs that study existing successful programs, addressing community goals, providing technical assistance and training, and promoting regional approaches. TAMUK is providing facilitation and management assistance for the LTSTF project, initiating this effort through a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant, other grants, and from annual membership fees collected from the member-local-governments. The funds provide resources for staff to facilitate the group’s efforts in formulating LTSTF project goals and developing LTSTF programs. Funds, in part, are also used to host workshops, expert panel discussions, conferences, seminars and training sessions. 8:35 am – 9:10 am E2 LOWER RIO GRANDE VALLEY (LRGV) LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID) IMPLEMENTATION AND EDUCATION GRANT PROGRAM Presenter: Augusto Sanchez Gonzalez, MS; Texas A&M University - Kingsville Topic: Texas A&M University - Kingsville (TAMUK) in coordination with ten LRGV local partners was awarded with $3,486,400 in grants in three different grant cycles (FY 2010- 2012). These funds come from TCEQ and the USEPA through a federal program authorized under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act. This project works to ensure that LID measures are put into practice in various cities in the LRGV and the Arroyo Colorado Watershed. This project will serve to promote environmental stewardship while educating these same visitors about LID. Education of visitors, stakeholders, and both private and public representatives of the building industry will boost public interest in utilizing effective BMPs in current and planned regional developments and construction projects. Likewise the educational and outreach component of these projects will be available to student visitors by way of organized presentations and/or tours to the project sites. 9:10 am – 9:45 am E3 PROOF OF CONCEPT: RELIABILITY OF BRAZORIA COUNTY COASTAL LEVEE Presenters: Herb Smith, PE; Baker & Lawson, Inc. Dong Nguyen, PE, CFM; Baker & Lawson, Inc. Topic: There are approximately 40 miles of levees to protect Brazoria County from the storm surge of the Gulf of Mexico. Those levees, built in 1960s, are federal and under the jurisdiction of Velasco Drainage District. As requirements of the ongoing Brazoria County floodplain mapping update, the coastal levee structures have been evaluated to determine if they can be certified and shown on the FEMA floodplain maps. This presentation will discuss efforts to evaluate the reliability of existing levees. RELIABLE software, developed by the European Commission since 2007, is used to develop the annual probability of failure function for specific coastal and riverine flood control structures based on structure geometry, soil properties, hydraulics loading, and uncertainties. A fragility curve, a probabilistic measure of the structural performance, is created to identify weak spots on levee and the most dominant failure element leading to flooding. 9:45 am – 10:20 am BREAK 10:20 am – 10:55 am E4 TO BREACH OR NOT TO BREACH, THAT IS THE QUESTION, CITY OF ROUND ROCK STONE OAK DAM Presenters: Alysha Girard, PE, CFM; City of Round Rock Ryan Beardmore, CFM; City of Round Rock Kim Patak, PE, CFM, CPESC; Freese and Nichols, Inc. 13 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Topic: Stone Oak Dam was originally designed and constructed in 1999 to serve as a dry detention facility for a single‐family development in Round Rock, Texas. During Tropical Storm Hermine in September 2010, the earthen embankment of the dam was overtopped resulting in erosion damage to the downstream face, undermining of the outlet pipe, and deposition of embankment materials in the downstream reach. Based on the size and downstream hazard potential, Stone Oak Dam was classified as a small, high hazard dam according to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) regulations and is required to safely pass 75% of the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF). Not only did the site not meet the state’s minimum hydraulic capacity requirement of safely passing the 75% PMF event, but the facility posed a threat to the downstream community due to the condition of the downstream embankment slope. In order to comply with state law and protect the public’s safety, the City investigated two options for improving conditions at the dam ‐ rehabilitating the dam to meet dam safety criteria or decommissioning the dam. This presentation will discuss the potential impacts and considerations associated with rehabilitating or decommissioning a dam and, using the Stone Oak Dam project for context, will discuss how the City adhered to state law and minimized capital costs while meeting the primary objective of protecting public safety. In addition, the discussion will include how a dam is actually defined by the state to ensure facilities like Stone Oak Dam meet State criteria when originally designed in order to lessen the chances that a potentially costly modernization / rehabilitation will be required in the future. 10:55 am – 11:30 am E5 RURAL FLOODPLAIN MODELING - CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS Presenters: Alex Guillory, PE, CFM; Fenstermaker Sahas Shrestha, MS; Fenstermaker Topic: Rural hydrologic and hydraulic modeling poses specific challenges regarding the mitigation of floodplain risk. Floodplain Development Permit procedures and requirements vary from county to county. More often than not, there are no official DFIRM maps or effective, published models to work from in these rural locations. A floodplain analysis must be created from “whole cloth” often without detailed topographic data, measured rainfall, or stream gauge data to calibrate a model to. This presentation is a discussion of some of the methods used, challenges faced and lessons learned. Hopefully this leads to a broader discussion of rural floodplain modeling methods and regulatory requirements. TRACK F – MORE FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT TOPICS 8:00 am – 8:35 am F1 LIES, DAMNED LIES, AND STATISTICS - FOLLOWING A HYDROLOGIC TWAIN OF THOUGHT Presenter: Andy Yung, PE, CFM; Walter P Moore and Associates Topic: The term “100-year flood” is often misunderstood by the general public. It is sometimes stated, “It seems like we have 100-year floods every four years. Why is that?” The engineer’s usual response is twofold. First, the last 100-year flood didn’t happen in exactly the same location as the next 100-year flood. Second, a 100-year event is really a 1%-annual probability event and therefore has a 1% chance of happening in any given year. In other words, it happens on average once every 100 years. That doesn’t mean that it will only happen once every 100 years. But even these responses seem to evade the question. Statistically speaking, what lies behind the question? It is likely that certain rainfall amounts will occur more frequently over a region than at a single geographic point. It may even be true that a 100-year flood flows occurs fairly frequently on a given stream system, but perhaps at a different location in the watershed each time. But how often do these events occur over the region? Is there any truth to the thought that 100-year floods happen more often than we thought or expect? And, how do we understand the original question in light of our science? 14 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Using traditional statistical approaches of developing a Gumbel distribution for precipitation and a logPearson Type III distribution for flood flows, analyses have been performed on numerous rainfall and streamflow gages collectively across the Houston Metropolitan area. This discussion will present results of the regional rainfall and regional flood event analyses to try and determine how often certain magnitude events occur in the metro area. These results are intended to start a discussion that may lead to floodplain managers communicating the term “100-year flood” in a way that is meaningful to the layperson and that does not create more confusion by adding to the verbal gymnastics. Future discussion may also be necessary related to the effects this information may have on local design criteria in order to assist in more effective floodplain management. 8:35 am – 9:10 am F2 USING FLOOD FLOWS AS A RESOURCE Presenters: Tom Hegemier, PE; RPS Espey Bill Espey, PE; RPS Espey Topic: In many communities, stormwater runoff management has evolved from rapid offsite conveyance to the use of detention facilities to mitigate development effects on peak flow rates. Other communities may require stormwater runoff treatment to improve water quality in order to minimize impacts to the receiving water body and habitat. In Texas, whether retaining stormwater for flood control or water quality or as an amenity within an existing water course, a water right or water contract may be necessary to ensure proper flow management to protect water right holders’ interests. In order to minimize permitting requirements, water rights issues, and maintenance costs, it can be appropriate to retain water outside of the riparian zone. When done in this fashion, flood runoff can be stored in various types of structures such as retention basins, rainwater harvesting cisterns, rain gardens, and recharge basins for conservation purposes and/or water quality enhancement. Through proper timing and development of distribution systems, a portion of stormwater can be used as resource to supplement local water supplies, thus reducing the communities demand on their water source. To go one step further, use of low impact development design approaches can essentially catch the water where it falls and make it available for later use with minimal piping and distribution system requirements. To develop significant water supplies and minimize permitting requirements, a portion of flood flows can be diverted from major creeks and rivers and stored adjacent or outside the riparian zone for later use or aquifer recharge. Two planned projects will be examined to illustrate this approach and amount of water that can be developed through beneficial use of flood flows. In summary, this presentation will review the potential water right requirements of on-channel and offchannel detention/retention facilities. In addition, several approaches will be presented to illustrate the beneficial use of flood flows to reduce community demands on their water supplies. F3 A WATERSHED TIMING APPROACH TO DETENTION: CUSTOMIZED AND SIMPLIFIED METHODOLOGY FOR THE CITY OF COLLEGE STATION Presenter: Jennifer J. Walker, PE, D.WRE, CFM, QSD; Watearth, Inc. Topic: The simplified downstream impacts analysis and detention requirements process developed in this project represent significant advances from the City’s previous criteria because they are based on hydrograph timing from existing hydrologic and hydraulic models rather than general guidelines. This presentation discusses the hydrologic methodology developed to provide: 1) a simplified method to identify locations in the City’s watersheds where detention is required, is not required, or must be evaluated and 2) an easy-to-implement downstream impacts analysis procedure following the 10% Rule. 15 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda In addition, a stormwater management hierarchy is also discussed for alternative stormwater mitigation options for projects that do not require on-site detention. Low Impact Development or Green Infrastructure is recommended to address excess runoff volume from sites without detention and to minimize stream hydromodification due to changes in flow regime associated with development. Additional options include regional detention and water quality Best Management Practices (BMPs) to meet anticipated future Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit requirements as a result of the U.S. EPA National Stormwater Rulemaking process. 9:45 am – 10:20 am BREAK 10:20 am – 10:55 am F4 COMPARING DISTRIBUTED AND LUMPED HYDROLOGIC MODELS FOR THE HARRIS GULLY WATERSHED, HOUSTON, TEXAS Presenters: Jacob Torres, PE; Rice University Nick Fang, PhD, PE; Rice University Philip Bedient, PhD, PE; Rice University Topic: The age of "big data" has essentially transformed the art of modern hydrologic and hydraulic modeling. The utilization of large-scale geospatial datasets (i.e. rasters, vectors, geodatabases, radar rainfall, etc.) are ubiquitous, and the improved computational resources by which such datasets are processed (i.e. multi-core computer processors, gigabytes of computer memory, and terabytes of data storage via "the cloud") is now common practice among today's engineers and analysts. This data-driven environment has incentivized the development for enhanced hydrologic modeling tools, such as the implementation of physics-based distributed methods, where the spatial variability of watershed characteristics are preserved, as opposed to empirical-based lumped methods, where watershed characteristics are aggregated. As such, this presentation aims to make a simple hydrologic comparison using both lumped-parameter (i.e. HEC-HMS) and distributed-parameter (i.e. VfloTM) modeling paradigms for the Harris Gully watershed in Houston, Texas. Differences in hydrograph characteristics for various storm events, such as peak flow, shape, timing, and runoff volumes will be investigated, and the limitations of both approaches will be described. It is hoped this comparison will provide useful insights to other engineers and planners who have an interest in alternative rainfall-runoff computational techniques for modeling similar watersheds within the region. 10:55 am – 11:30 am F5 RICE UNIVERSITY FLOOD IMPROVEMENT PROJECT USING XP-SWMM Presenters: Andrew Juan, EIT; Rice University Nick Fang, PhD, PE; Rice University Philip Bedient, PhD, PE; Rice University Topic: The main purpose of the Rice University flood improvement project is to evaluate the existing storm water network on the Rice campus and to compare the improvements of a proposed drainage alternative using a 1D/2D model package (XP-SWMM) that is accepted by FEMA. Rice University is located within the Harris Gully Watershed, consisting mostly of fully-developed residential and light commercial land uses. Consisting of twin 15X15? box culverts, the Harris Gully captures water from a significant portion of the watershed, including the Rice campus, before draining it into Brays Bayou. To accurately simulate the storm water network hydraulics at Rice, XP-SWMM was selected as the main modeling tool due to its capability of combining a 1D hydraulic model with a 2D rainfall-runoff model to generate floodplain maps. Additionally, a crucial feature of XP-SWMM used in this study is its ability to incorporate the inflow hydrographs generated by other hydrologic models such as HEC-HMS into specific node locations in the model. This allows for the simulation of tailwater effects of Brays Bayou at Harris Gully, a condition which has proven difficult to address using older models. The XP-SWMM model representing existing drainage conditions were 16 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda successfully calibrated using an actual storm, Tropical Storm Erin, which occurred in August 2007. Comparisons between the proposed drainage alternative and the existing conditions were made, and the proposed alternative was shown to reduce the 100-year inundation levels at specific locations of interest by approximately 0.5 ft. 11:45 am – 1:30 pm TFMA AWARDS LUNCHEON AND GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING Enjoy a pleasing lunch buffet while hearing about 25 exciting years of TFMA history. Reconnect with the TFMA ‘Old Timers” and get a look through the looking glass down the road to what TFMA will look like in another 10 years. With our annual awards program, TFMA will also honor those who have exceeded in the profession and those who have exhibited outstanding service and commitment to TFMA and Floodplain Management in Texas. A short business/membership meeting will be held, followed by the ceremonial cutting of the TFMA 25 Year Anniversary cake and raising of our glasses for a Toast to the success of TFMA and the TFMA family. 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm AFTERNOON TECHNICAL CONCURRENT SESSIONS – TRACKS G, H, I, J and K (5 Tracks) TRACK G – HARRIS COUNTY FLOOD CONTROL DISTRICT (HCFCD) UPDATES 2:00 pm – 2:35 pm G1 APPLICATION OF A GAMMA UNIT HYDROGRAPH TO DETERMINE DETENTION REQUIREMENTS FOR REDEVELOPED WATERSHEDS IN HOUSTON Presenter: Fred Liscum, PhD, PE, CFM; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: During the FloodWise study conducted by the Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD), a method was developed to predict peak flows and runoff hydrographs for small drainage areas, of about 2mi2 or less using a Gamma-function defined unit hydrograph. This method has been published by USGS (Asquith and others, 2011, USGS SIR 2011-5104). HCFCD has developed several applications of the method. One in particular may be of benefit when determining detention requirements for the redevelopment of storm sewer systems in Houston. This paper addresses such a scenario. The City of Houston is undergoing an effort to upgrade storm sewer systems within the City. One requirement is to define the needed detention needed to mitigate flows that will impact Harris County receiving streams. HCFCD has conducted a test of the method developed by Asquith and others to 14 watersheds that are within the city limits and Harris County. These watersheds range from about 3-acres to 134-acres. The question addressed was to determine the amount of detention required to mitigate any impacts from upgrading the drainage infrastructure for the 14 watersheds. The method applied requires a measure to indicate the degree of drainage development present in the target area. The measure used to determine the degree of drainage development required by this method the Basin Development Factor (BDF), which considers four aspects of a drainage system: channel improvements (CI), channel linings (CL), storm drains or storm sewers (SS), and curb-and-gutter streets (C&G). BDF was introduced by Sauer and others in 1983. It has been applied in the Houston area (Asquith and others, 2011, and Liscum, 2001). The method uses drainage area (A) and BDF to define a Gamma-function unit hydrograph (GUH) defined by 3-parameters, qp (the GUH peak), tp (time to GUH peak) and K (a shape factor defined for the gamma function). The paper will present how the method parameters were defined, and review the results obtained for the 14 watersheds. This approach produced a suggested mitigation detention storage amount to allow the redevelopment of the drainage infrastructure for watersheds in the City of Houston that allow the mitigation of stormwater flows from the redeveloped watersheds into the HCFCD channels. The paper will explain the approach in detail, present the findings for this scenario, and discuss future steps to be considered to refine the method for more general use. 17 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda 2:35 pm – 3:15 pm G2 JULY 2012 FLOODING: SUCCESSFUL MITIGATION ALONG UPPER CYPRESS CREEK Presenters: Jeff Lindner; Harris County Flood Control District James Wade, CFM; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: The second week of July 2012 brought heavy rainfall and flooding to northwest Harris County. 48hour rainfall totals averaged 6-8 inches over the Cypress and Tomball areas with amounts over 12.0 inches near the Harris County and Waller County line. Widespread flooding resulted on several of the rural watersheds in the northwest part of the county including record flooding on Little Cypress Creek and the second highest water level on portions of Cypress Creek. This presentation will give an overview of the storm event including rainfall totals and distribution and a comparison to previous historical rainfall and flooding in the area. While house flooding did occur in the area, the number of homes that flooded significantly lower than in previous flooding events with similar water elevations. Utilizing FEMA, Corps, and local funds, the Harris County Flood Control District purchased 170 properties between SH 249 and US 290, most of which would have flooded. Additionally, residents in this area also used FEMA funding from the Increased Cost of Compliance Coverage to raise or replace their homes above the 1% flood elevation to reduce the chance of future flooding and nearly all of these structures did not flood during this event. 3:15 pm – 3:45 pm BREAK 3:45 pm – 4:20 pm G3 FLOODPLAIN AND MODEL MANAGEMENT THROUGH THE HCFCD M3 SYSTEM Presenters: Yu-Chun Su, PhD, PE, CFM, CPESC, CPSWQ; ATKINS Ian Griffin; ATKINS Mathieu Leclair, CFM; Harris County Flood Control District Tommy Middleton; Harris County Flood Control District Carl Woodward, PE; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) partnered in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Allison to update the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) for Harris County, Texas. This effort was identified as the Tropical Storm Allison Recovery Project (TSARP). TSARP utilized new technology and updated historical information to reassess rainfall, land use, and topographic conditions across the county. This data was then utilized to generate new computer models to simulate and better understand existing flooding conditions. The final product of the TSARP was new Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) for Harris County, Texas, issued in June 2007. The computer simulation models generated by TSARP significantly improve HCFCD's understanding of the hydrologic and hydraulic characteristics of flooding in Harris County, Texas. These models benefit HCFCD by providing an accurate baseline to analyze actual storm events as they occur, measure the benefit of existing and future flood reduction projects, and regulate new development within Harris County. In order to maintain this benefit, the models must remain up-to-date. As our understanding of flooding changes and as new development occurs, the models must evolve to incorporate these changes and remain up-to-date. HCFCD manages this process through the Model and Map Management (M3) Program. The M3 System is the support system to the Model Management Program that HCFCD carries out. The Model Management program includes the Continuous Model Updates and Watershed Wide Updates actions. M3 facilitates both of these operations and also functions as the primary source and distribution system of the effective models and associated data to others in the local community. These are outlined in the Mapping Activity Statement (MAS) 14 which is an interlocal agreement between HCFCD and FEMA. Model Distribution: Typically, effective models and supporting data are disseminated to the public directly from FEMA upon request. HCFCD has partnered with FEMA to localize and expedite model and data 18 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda distribution. This allows the local community to acquire accurate and detailed data in a timely manner. In addition to model distribution, the system tracks ongoing projects within the county which provides a means for communication between parties working in close proximity. Continuous Updates: The continuous model update program incorporates model and supporting data changes which are done through FEMA's Letter of Map Change (LOMC) Process. This is performed to manage and maintain the integrity of the effective H&H models and to keep the local community as updated as possible with the best models and supporting data. Watershed Updates: The Watershed Update program updates models and their supporting data based on new technology and updated historical information that has been approved by FEMA. These updates reflect a change in HCFCD's understanding of existing flooding conditions within a watershed. The watershed updates are then submitted and approved to FEMA as a Physical Map Revision (PMR). The goal of the M3 Program is to provide consistent, up-to-date models and to ensure coordination among the end users and regulatory entities on all potentially conflicting studies. The presentation will cover the major functionalities as well as the development, testing, and deployment of the M3 System. 4:20 pm – 5:00 pm G4 HCFCD MODEL MANAGEMENT AND LOMR DELEGATION PROGRAM Presenter: Ataul Hannan, PE, CFM; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: This paper discusses the HCFCD’s approaches and processes to keep models current and accurate. This paper also discusses each of the update process and the implementation of appropriate policies to prevent adverse impacts, and tools developed to efficiently maintain and keep the models up to date into the future. HCFCD is the first CTP approved by FEMA to begin the systematic model and map maintenance process. This is a story of community engagement for keeping the model and map current. The goal of Model Management at HCFCD is to manage a master set of current and accurate hydrologic and hydraulic models and their supporting data in Harris County. HCFCD developed a supporting tool for model management and the tool is called the Model and Map Management (M3) system. M3 will track on-going projects related floodplain change in the highly active floodplain-related development environment of Harris County. HCFCD also started LOMR Delegation Program as of September 1, 2010. LOMR Delegation is a natural extension of the Model and Map Management Program and combined, they ensure accurate and updated mapping and modeling that would be a significant benefit to the District and FEMA. This presentation will also discuss HCFCD’s outreach plan with the 35 communities within Harris County and FEMA, and also discuss LOMR Delegation program. TRACK H – TNRIS & OTHERS 2:00 pm – 2:35 pm H1 ELEVATION DATA AND ITS IMPACTS ON ACCURACY OF YOUR FLOODPLAIN MAP Presenter: Matias Segura,PE; URS Topic: The Upper Brushy Creek Water Control Improvement District (UBCWCID) is one of the agencies that has leveraged the TWDB Cooperating Technical Partner status to update the floodplain maps in their area. The updating of the maps is ongoing. This presentation will show how the study compared two LIDAR data sets (2006 & 2012) with Survey data and the USGS data to decide which data set to use, how the other data sets were used to build the hydraulic models and the impacts and how to communicate the impacts of the elevation data to the accuracy of the floodplain maps. 2:35 pm – 3:15 pm 19 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda SOLVING ISSUES WITH APPROXIMATE ZONES: ROXTON, TEXAS’ LOCALLY ADOPTED BASE FLOOD ELEVATIONS Presenters: Reeves Hayter, PE; Hayter Engineering & City of Roxton Melinda Luna, PE, CFM; Texas Natural Resources Information System (part of TWDB) Topic: Roxton, Texas is a town with a population of 600 people located in southwestern Lamar County. Lamar County’s maps were updated in August 2011 however the creeks in the town were mapped as approximate zones. This presentation will discuss how the City of Roxton worked towards getting estimates of Base Flood Elevations, gathered various forms of data, adopted the BFE elevations, and plans for the future. This presentation should be of interest to those communities in a similar situation. H2 3:15 pm – 3:45 pm BREAK 3:45 pm – 4:20 pm H3 USING HIGH WATER MARKS TO COMMUNICATE FLOOD RISK Presenter: Meggan Georgas, CFM; TNRIS Topic: This presentation will illustrate how high water marks can help in the communication of flood risk. TNRIS Flood Mapping Services have collected over 10,000 high water marks throughout Texas. In this presentation will highlight high water marks in three different hydrologic environments in Texas; playas, riverine and coastal. Different ways of illustrating high water marks will be shown to effectively communicate risk, for example, displayed on cross sections, tables, inundation surfaces and pictures. The majority of the high water marks gathered to date have been from communities and TNRIS Floodplain Mapping Group will continue to compile them. 4:20 pm – 5:00 pm H4 GIS WEB MAP APPLICATIONS FOR FLOODPLAINS, STORMWATER, AND ALL COMMUNITY DEPARTMENTS Presenters: Erik Hajek, GISP, CFM; Halff Associates Jessica Baker, PE, CFM, PMP; Halff Associates (TFMA Vice President) Topic: The Town of Addison, TX recently kicked off a GIS Master Planning effort in order to assess what data they current have and to identify data needs within each department at the Town. A series of facilitated meetings were conducted to assess how GIS data could allow the town's staff to perform their daily tasks more efficiently. As a part of this effort, the Town wanted staff members to be able to access GIS data without the need to purchase cost prohibitive ESRI licenses for each staff member. Internet-based maps allow communities to provide information to their citizens 24 hours a day. Overlaying floodplains on aerials allows all stakeholders and citizens to see potential flood impacts and potential insurance requirements in an easy-to-read format. Halff developed an internal Web Map Portal for the Town's staff to use in order to access, edit, view, and utilize existing GIS data. This presentation will demonstrate the benefits of a Web Map Service for hosting GIS data when high level GIS skills are not needed. TRACK I – MORE HYDRAULIC MODELING 2:00 pm – 2:35 pm I-1 RAPID URBAN 2D STORMWATER MODELING Presenters: Matt Manges, PE, CFM; Lockwood, Andrews & Newnam, Inc. Robert Valenzuela, PE, CFM; City of Sugar Land 20 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Topic: Dynamic two-dimensional (2D) stormwater modeling is swiftly becoming the new standard in analysis methods to understand complex drainage issues. 2D modeling is inherently data intensive leading to the perception that 2D modeling is a slow and laborious process. With advances in technology and a more experienced class of modeler, 2D modeling is an extremely efficient process. What can be done to further reduce model development time for rapid approximate assessments? Is it possible to make minor tradeoffs on final model exactness in exchange for a streamlined modeling process? Model development times can be reduced through simplified and informed assumptions including approximating drainage areas, estimating global input variables, estimated infrastructure information through automated procedures, and utilizing high quality simulation software and hardware. Leveraging the resources of any available asset information, including GIS databases, LiDAR, or aerial imagery data, is integral to rapid modeling. This modeling approach will not seek to replicate the highly detailed results of a fully qualified 2D model, but seek to provide a useful evaluation in a rapid fashion. This presentation will address modeling options, assumptions, and work flows to allow for a reduction in the time required to develop a prototype 2D model. The discussion will include a comparison between a prototype, and fully qualified 2D model from the Houston, Texas area as well as appropriate uses and applications of the rapid modeling approach. 2:35 pm – 3:15 pm I-2 USING AN INTEGRATED STORMWATER MANAGEMENT MODEL TO IDENTIFY AND ADDRESS DRAINAGE NEEDS Presenters: Chris Steubing, PE, CFM; City of Sugar Land Sam Hinojosa, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Dwayne Hamilton, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Topic: The City of Sugar Land initiated a comprehensive effort to consolidate data regarding current drainage infrastructure, including hydrologic and hydraulic models and mapping of flood events. The City developed a geo-database of the drainage infrastructure and also undertook an effort focused on updating and incorporating the models of the City’s open channel network. This process equipped the City to refine the geo-database as well as update the models with consistent hydrologic and hydraulic methodologies. This effort also included coincidental peak modeling and the development and use of ponding maps to find critical low areas for various storm events. The City was able to use this information to identify areas that needed more detailed modeling in order to develop improvement projects. Using dynamic 2D modeling, the City has and is currently analyzing several areas that experience significant ponding. Through this effort, the city will identify feasible solutions to reduce the risk of flooding. This presentation will show how the City developed the Integrated Stormwater Management Model and how it has been used to identify drainage need areas. This presentation will also briefly cover several areas where the City is currently conducting detailed analysis as well as design of drainage improvements. 3:15 pm – 3:45 pm BREAK 3:45 pm – 4:20 pm I-3 EVALUATING THE CONTRAST BETWEEN HOUSTORM METHOD II DRAINAGE ANALYSIS AND 2D DYNAMIC ANALYSIS FOR THE CITY OF HOUSTON BELLAIRE WEST DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT Presenters: Rod Pinheiro, PE, City of Houston Michael D. Lacy, PE; CivilTech Engineering Isaac Muniz, EIT; City of Houston Ana Trejo, EIT; City of Houston 21 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Topic: The Bellaire West neighborhood, located in the southwest section of Houston, Texas has experienced repeated street and residential flooding. The entire subdivision is within the Brays Bayou 100year flood plain (Zone AE) per Flood Insurance Rate Map 830, so flooding during extreme event storms should be expected. However, the data suggests that the subdivision has experienced flooding for far lesser storm events and not just due to overflows from receiving channel within the vicinity of the project. In an effort to alleviate the flooding, the City of Houston (COH) elected to include this neighborhood as a Capital Improvement Project. The initial survey and drainage analysis showed that the existing storm sewer system was undersized and the topography of the streets did not convey the overland flows through the subdivision to the receiving channel. One significant find from the survey was the discovery that the outfall pipe that drained the entire subdivision to receiving channel had been raised about 3.5 feet to clear an existing sanitary sewer. This meant that the storm sewers had to surcharge at least 3.5 feet before any storm water would begin to drain to the receiving channel. Therefore, resulting in streets flooding every time a 3-inch storm event occurred! Mating the survey to a recent LiDAR mapping revealed another drainage issue. The survey and LiDAR data showed that the Bellaire West subdivision is at the “bottom” of an overland flow pathway for storm water draining to receiving channel from a large watershed west of the subdivision. In addition, the receiving stream located along the southern boundary of the subdivision, has limited capacity with only a 10-year level of service. All other rainfall events such as the 25-, 50-, 100-, 500year produced water surface elevations that breached the top of bank. Given these issues and the limitations of traditional modeling approaches, the design team was challenged on how to develop effective improvement alternatives that would address drainage deficiencies located both within the subdivision and outside of the project area. Three components for evaluating the Bellaire West drainage improvements were utilized. These components consisted of (1) tailwater analysis of receiving channel using HEC-1 and HEC-2 hydraulic modeling programs, (2) storm sewer conduit and hydraulic grade line (HGL) analysis using COH HouStorm, and (3) application of Methods I and II as found in Technical Paper 101 to determine how extreme event overland flow is conveyed thru the project area. These efforts were validated by an independent study utilizing a 2-D hydraulic modeling program, MIKE FLOOD. This presentation is intended to contrast the results of the hydraulic modeling using City of Houston Method II (HouStorm) with the results of the 2D dynamic model (MIKE FLOOD) in quantifying drainage improvements for the Bellaire West subdivision. This presentation will show how the COH Method II was applied, how the 2D dynamic analysis was used, and how both methods assisted CivilTech and the COH in identifying effective improvements that addressed not only the internal drainage problems, but also the drainage issues from outside of the subdivision. 4:20 pm – 5:00 pm I-4 UNSTEADY FLOOD MODELING IN GREATER NEW ORLEANS Presenter: Thomas Mountz, PE, D.WRE, CFM; RPS Espey (TFMA Region 5 Director) Topic: RPS Espey has been engaged for several years by the New Orleans District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to assist in updating flood models for the complex hydrologic and hydraulic models in the Greater New Orleans area. Since Hurricane Katrina, the USACE has been improving the Hurricane and Storm Damage Risk Reduction System (HSDRRS) of levees, floodwall, floodgates, multiple pump stations, canals, etc. This Project was to update the HEC-HMS and unsteady HEC-RAS models for 10 of 15 polders in the greater New Orleans metropolitan area. USACE was tasked to provide FEMA with revised hydraulic models to reflect the changes to the HSDRRS post-Katrina. The 10 polders (levee protected basins) are the system basins in all of Jefferson Parish and Orleans Parish. The Interior System Analysis Reports were formatted for FEMA TSDN protocols to be included in the USACE Levee System Evaluation Report to FEMA prior to issuance of DFIRMS in 2012. RPS Espey’s current task is to develop OMRR&R Manuals for completed Southeast Louisiana Urban Flood Control (SELA-UFC) projects in Orleans and Jefferson Parishes. The task also includes the update of 6 22 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Polder hydrologic & hydraulic models to include all SELA-UFC projects. Following the model updates, RPS Espey is converting the HEC-HMS and HEC-RAS models for the 6 Polders to the SWMM5 format for use by the Parishes. RPS Espey is making use of XP-SWMM software to manage the conversion. TRACK J – FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATORS PANEL DISCUSSIONS 2:00 pm – 3:15 pm J1 FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATORS PANEL DISCUSSIONS Panel: Monica Martin, CFM; Wharton County Daya Dayananda, CFM; City of Pasadena Margarita Hernandez, CFM; City of San Antonio (TFMA Secretary) John Johnston, PE, CFM; City of Victoria Lisa Krobot, CFM; Matagorda County Topic: This track will include discussions regarding various floodplain management topics encountered by floodplain administrators in their jobs every day. The panel members represent floodplain administrators who work for cities and counties throughout Texas. There will be time for questions and answers. 3:15 pm – 3:45 pm BREAK 3:45 pm – 4:20 pm J2 CONTINUATION OF FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATORS PANEL DISCUSSIONS Topic: Continuation of floodplain management related topics. 4:20 pm – 5:00 pm J3 A CLIMATE CHANGE SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGERS NOTE - THIS PRESENTATION REPEATED IN TRACK K2 Presenter: Duane Barrett, PE, CFM; HDR Engineering Topic: The subject of climate change has been vigorously debated in recent years. Is it real? Is it caused by man-made factors or by natural phenomena? What can be done to stop or slow the progress of climate change? How will it affect the world’s population? These questions (and many more) are being considered by scientists and governments all over the globe. The typical floodplain management professional is not in a position to get involved in scientific debates over these weighty issues, but they are faced with a more basic question: what should floodplain managers know about climate change, and what, if anything, should they do in order to prepare their communities for future challenges associated with climate change? Simply stated, the earth’s climate changes, as evidenced by past ice ages, and from the point of view of the floodplain manager, the cause of the change is not important. The importance of climate change to the floodplain manager lies in possible changes in the frequency, depth, and duration of rainfall events, in the depth of flooding along our streams, in changes to regulatory floodplain and/or floodway boundaries and elevations, in possible adjustments in design criteria, and in potential changes in floodplain regulations within the entities which they serve. Mr. Barrett will discuss compare historical and recent storm events, trends in rainfall depth-durationfrequency data published in the last 50 years, a perceived increase in the frequency of “freak” storm events, the effects of ground subsidence, recent developments in floodplain mapping for coastal areas, possible effects of sea level rise, and other issues to climate change. He will also discuss current floodplain management criteria and how those criteria might be modified to maintain a proper level of flood protection in the future with a goal of providing floodplain managers with some basic tools that will enable them to engage in, and survive, the climate change battle. TRACK K – WEATHER & OTHER FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT TOPICS 23 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda 2:00 pm – 2:35 pm K1 THE IMPACT OF DATUM ADJUSTMENTS ON NWS FLOOD FORECASTING AND WARNINGS Presenter: David Schwertz, CFM; National Weather Service Houston/Galveston Topic: What is a datum? A datum is a standard reference from which position measurements are made and identifies the location of zero on the measurement scale. Datums reference both vertical and horizontal position; this presentation will focus on vertical datums. There are three kinds of vertical datums; ellipsoid, orthometric, and tidal and all are relevant to flood studies. Recently the United States Geological Survey has embarked on a project to update their vertical datums from the National Geodetic Vertical Datum 1929 to the North American Vertical Datum 1988. This presentation will discuss this project and the impacts on the NWS Flood Forecasting and Warning Program. It will also briefly discuss the importance of accurate datum reference to FEMA’s flood studies and floodplain mapping. 2:35 pm – 3:15 pm K2 A CLIMATE CHANGE SURVIVAL GUIDE FOR FLOODPLAIN MANAGERS NOTE - THIS PRESENTATION REPEATED IN TRACK J3 Presenter: Duane Barrett, PE, CFM; HDR Engineering Topic: The subject of climate change has been vigorously debated in recent years. Is it real? Is it caused by man-made factors or by natural phenomena? What can be done to stop or slow the progress of climate change? How will it affect the world’s population? These questions (and many more) are being considered by scientists and governments all over the globe. The typical floodplain management professional is not in a position to get involved in scientific debates over these weighty issues, but they are faced with a more basic question: what should floodplain managers know about climate change, and what, if anything, should they do in order to prepare their communities for future challenges associated with climate change? Simply stated, the earth’s climate changes, as evidenced by past ice ages, and from the point of view of the floodplain manager, the cause of the change is not important. The importance of climate change to the floodplain manager lies in possible changes in the frequency, depth, and duration of rainfall events, in the depth of flooding along our streams, in changes to regulatory floodplain and/or floodway boundaries and elevations, in possible adjustments in design criteria, and in potential changes in floodplain regulations within the entities which they serve. Mr. Barrett will discuss compare historical and recent storm events, trends in rainfall depth-durationfrequency data published in the last 50 years, a perceived increase in the frequency of “freak” storm events, the effects of ground subsidence, recent developments in floodplain mapping for coastal areas, possible effects of sea level rise, and other issues to climate change. He will also discuss current floodplain management criteria and how those criteria might be modified to maintain a proper level of flood protection in the future with a goal of providing floodplain managers with some basic tools that will enable them to engage in, and survive, the climate change battle. 3:15 pm – 3:45 pm BREAK 3:45 pm – 4:20 pm K3 RE-DEFINING FLOOD RISK MITIGATION IN THE GUADALUPE BLANCO RIVER BASIN Presenters: Maria Vanderpool, PE, CFM; U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Fort Worth District Michael Moya, PE, CFM; Halff Associates Wes Birdwell, PE; Halff Associates Tommy Hill, PE; Guadalupe Blanco River Authority Topic: Communities within the Guadalupe River, Blanco River, and San Marcos River have suffered from several major floods over the last 40 years. Major storms in 1998, 2002, 2004, 2007 and 2010 have produced significant flood damages in the Guadalupe-Blanco River Basin. Subsequently, the GuadalupeBlanco River Authority (GBRA) partnered with the Corps of Engineers, the Texas Water Development Board 24 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda (TWDB), and 14 of its river communities in a collaborative effort to develop a comprehensive and sustainable flood risk evaluation program to assess flood risk and investigate flood damage mitigation alternatives. The Lower Guadalupe Interim Feasibility Study is an on-going, successful example of how GBRA and the Fort Worth District Corps of Engineers and their study partners are able to implement a basin wide flood risk strategy through extensive collaboration and partnering, innovative cost-share financing, adaptive management, and state-of-the-art technology to address the basin’s water resources needs. The success of the project effort can be attributed to an extensive outreach effort to engage multiple stakeholders at all levels by clearly defining the benefits for all end-users. This presentation will demonstrate how the Lower Guadalupe Interim Feasibility Study serves as a vehicle to integrate and synchronize diverse flood risk management projects and programs of the Corps, other Federal and state agencies, as well as, regional and local governments. The project includes a variety of processes to identify, quantify and communicate flood risks as well as recommend implementation strategies to reduce damage. Basin-wide calibrated hydrologic and hydraulic models provide the necessary connectivity to enhance the National Weather Service’s Flood Warning System. Dam Breach Analysis of 22 NRCS dams, currently owned and managed by local authorities, define risk and address Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) Dam Safety regulations. Flood inundation mapping of historical events, to validate results for local community buy-in, and frequency events define flood risk and may be provided to FEMA by the study partners as new validated or updated engineering (NVUE) products. Cost benefit analysis of alternative mitigation measures to reduce flood risk to the public, property, and the environment are documented for potential opportunities for federal and state project implementation grants. 4:20 pm – 5:00 pm K4 PROJECT HUNTING Presenters: Zachary Toups, PE, CFM; Jones & Carter, Inc; Wayne Crull, PE, CFM; Harris County Flood Control District Topic: Harris County Flood Control District is implementing a series of improvemetns for Hunting Bayou to reduce the 100-year floodplain, called Project Hunting. Hunting Bayou currently floods several thousand houses and businesses in Northeast Houston during a 100-year storm event. Project Hunting is a long term project that will ultimately reduce the floodplain by increasing the conveyance of the channel and providing detention. Jones & Carter is working for HCFCD to implement the ultimate channel design for Hunting Bayou. The presentation will discuss the current status of Project Hunting and the remaining work to be completed. 6:30 pm – 10:00 pm NETWORKING SOCIAL More time to meet conference participants and visit Exhibitors FRIDAY - MAY 24, 2013 CONFERENCE CLOSING PLENARY SESSION 8:00 am – 8:15 am TFMA FREEBOARD SURVEYS 2004 -2013 Presenter: Roy Sedwick, CFM; TFMA Executive Director Topic: Texas Floodplain Management Association (TFMA) conducts freeboard surveys to promote adoption of higher floodplain management standards in Texas. In 2004, Charlie Hastings, PE, CFM, City Engineer for the City of Kerrville initiated the first freeboard survey in Texas. Roy Sedwick, TFMA Executive 25 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda Director, expanded the effort into a state-wide survey. Mike Howard, State Floodplain Manager, supported the freeboard survey effort and invited river authorities and regional planning commissions to join in the effort. The 2004 Freeboard Survey established the survey format that has been repeated annually since 2004. In 2012, a total of 250 Texas communities participated in the survey. 250 (20.4%) responses were received from the 1,225 NFIP cities and counties in Texas 211 (84%) of communities that responded have adopted a "Freeboard" ordinance requiring new construction to be elevated 1' or more above BFE. 63 (25%) of communities that responded require new construction to be elevated above the BFE based on "fully developed" watershed conditions. 60 (24%) of communities that responded require detention. 132 (53%) of communities that responded have one or more CFM's on staff. 55 (4.4%) communities are enrolled in CRS (52 cities and 3 counties) The web-based survey can be accessed year around on www.tfma.org to assist communities to evaluate their floodplain management program and compare requirements with other communities in Texas. The Governor's Division of Emergency Management (DEM) has incorporated the TFMA Freeboard Survey into the Texas State Mitigation Plan to document and measure how Texas community floodplain management programs address flood hazards. This presentation will summarize the Freeboard Survey document and responses received over a ten-year period (2004 to 2013). Unique community higher standard requirements will be showcased allowing the audience to participate. The survey results from each TFMA Freeboard Survey have been presented to the TFMA membership at the annual TFMA conference since 2004. 8:15 am – 8:30 am TFMA CERTIFICATION UPDATE Presenter: Amy Ronnfeldt, PE, CFM; TxDOT (TFMA Certification Committee Chair) Topic: TFMA has grown by leaps and bounds in its first 25 years! How can all these CFMs stay certified? Come see how to earn those CECs! 8:30 am – 8:45 am TFMA TRAINING UPDATE Presenters: Ray Windsor, CFM; TFMA Training Committee Co-Chair Erin Wlado, CFM; CoreLogic (TFMA Training Committee Co-Chair) Topic: CECs? CECs? Find out where and when to get your CECs. Your Training Committee will tell you about ½-day, 1-day, and 4-day classes for 2013. 8:45 am – 9:00 am TFMA MENTOR PROGRAM Presenter: Diane Calhoun, CFM; Calhoun Consulting, LLC (TFMA President) Topic: Do you need professional guidance in preparing for the CFM exam or, as a newly certified CFM, do you have questions related to the NFIP, FEMA or floodplain management? Mentoring is a traditional method for assisting in the training of those who are wishing to take the CFM exam, for orienting individuals to “life as a CFM” once they have passed the exam and assisting community floodplain managers with problems related to their floodplain management program. The TFMA - CFM Mentor Program consists of a team of CFM's assembled by TFMA as a resource to assist local floodplain administrators, community floodplain managers, CFM's and the elected officials with problems, issues and requirements related to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in Texas. The TFMA - CFM Mentor Team will encourage continuing education through attending conferences and workshops at the local, state and national level; assist 26 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda floodplain managers and new CFM's in building “network” relationships at those conferences; and become a resource of where to find information and answers about issues and problems related to floodplain management and the NFIP. The TFMA - CFM Mentor Program is also a valuable means for supporting the development - even accelerating the professional growth - of existing and experienced floodplain managers and CFMs. A Team of Mentors will share knowledge, experiences, and skills to benefit floodplain managers. The Mentor Team members also learn to hone their floodplain management skills through assisting others. The Texas Floodplain Management Association (TFMA) has established the CFM Mentor Committee that includes a designated TFMA Board Member to be the CFM Mentor Program Coordinator. The Committee Chair and Coordinator have enlisted a group of volunteer mentors and subject matter experts for the Mentor Team. All CFM Mentor Team members must be a CFM in good standing and have a minimum of five years floodplain management experience. TFMA coordinated with the ASFPM in the development and launching of the "pilot CFM Mentor Program" in Texas. TFMA's CFM Mentor Program is patterned after the Georgia CFM Mentor Program but focuses on a team approach rather that a one-on-one mentor approach. The purpose of this presentation is to introduce the TFMA mentor program to the TFMA membership and to initiate public interest in the program with a goal to improve floodplain management in Texas. 9:00 am – 9:45 am RISK MAP IN FEMA REGION 6: STATUS, IMPLEMENTATION AND TOOLS Presenters: Larry Voice, CFM; FEMA Region 6 Rigel Rucker, PE, CFM RAMPP Topic: FEMA’s Risk MAP program is entering its fifth year. Throughout Risk MAP, FEMA Region 6 has been challenged with developing processes and tools to facilitate the delivery of messages, products, and tools for the communities in the 5 states for which it serves. Some of these challenges included developing framework, communication tools, and delivery mechanisms to help stakeholders understand and mitigate their risk. This presentation will detail the status of the Risk MAP program in the State of Texas, how Risk MAP is being implemented in Region 6, and tools that are being utilized in Region 6. Tools will include RiskMAP6.com, Coordinated Needs Management Strategy (CNMS), Action Tracking, and Risk Communication Guidebook. 9:45 am – 10:15 am BREAK 10:15 am – 10:45 am TNRIS/TWDB FLOODPLAIN MAPPING SERVICES UPDATE Presenter: Melinda Luna, PE, CFM; TNRIS Topic: The TWDB/TNRIS Floodplain mapping Services Group will present updates on various projects that will include: Highwater marks Low water crossings Flood video inventories Information on Elevation data UBCWCID TCRFC floodplain studies Discussion on how some communities are solving issues with Approximate Zones and other projects. 27 of 28 TFMA 2013 Annual Conference Sugar Land, Texas May 21 - 24, 2013 Conference Agenda 10:45 am – 11:15 am LEARN FROM THE EXPERTS ON YOUR OWN TIME! Presenters: Diane Calhoun, CFM; Calhoun Consulting, LLC Cathy Meek, CFM, LRA; H2O Partners, Inc. Topic: All land decisions are made at the local level, and while there are a myriad of resources available to help local planners, officials, and floodplain managers make their communities more disaster resilient, it is often difficult to navigate through various websites, bulletins, and authority to find the specific topic needed. Further, some topics are only available at certain times or are held in person, and many communities and companies continue to deal with budget cuts and “downsizing”, preventing travel to TFMA and other conferences to learn about different subject areas and obtain Continuing Education Credits. But what if you could pick and choose from a menu of options of key subject areas, sign up, and get the basics in 30 minutes? H2O Partners, Inc. is proposing just that, with a new online series that will cover a full range of disaster management topics beneficial to the new or seasoned Floodplain Manager professional, community official, grant administrator, emergency management coordinator, or other groups and stakeholders interested in expanding their knowledge to help make communities more resilient and sustainable when Mother Nature strikes. Find out how you can expand your floodplain, mitigation, and disaster recovery knowledge from your business, home office, on the road, or on your phone! 11:15 am – 11:45 am HOW PASADENA FORMED A PPI PROGRAM Presenters: Daya Dayananda, CFM; City of Pasadena Luz Locke, CFM; City of Pasadena Topic: As part of the City of Pasadena’s public outreach and education program, the Program for Public Information (PPI) was formed. Utilizing the buildup of partnership with various City leaders in the community, a document was prepared to include them as ambassadors of City's public education and outreach program. The City leaders would know the ins and outs of the City's needs and give valuable input in improving the overall environment. The presentation will give a step by step procedure of how the PPI committee was formed, how the PPI plan was prepared, how meetings were held, got it approved by the committee and the City Council. The importance of this PPI program will come to light when the new Community Rating System (CRS) Manual will be released. This is a new requirement for CRS communities to adopt in order to score more points for their CRS rating. City of Pasadena was one of the first community in the whole country to implement the program, based on the guidelines established in the draft manual released couple of years ago. 11:45 am – Noon CLOSING REMARKS Roy Sedwick, CFM; TFMA Executive Director TFMA President CONFERENCE ADJOURN 28 of 28