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:
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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.
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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:
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Risk MAP Products Overview
o FRD – (CSLF, DAGs, AoMI, FRA)
o FRM
o FRR
Applications of Risk MAP Products and Datasets for a Community
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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May 21 - 24, 2013
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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.
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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.
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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?
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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.
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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
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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.
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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May 21 - 24, 2013
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(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
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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.
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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
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May 21 - 24, 2013
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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.
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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
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