Introduction to FFRMS

In a significant move to bolster community resilience against flooding, the Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has published a Final Rule to implement the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS). This forward-thinking standard is designed to address the increasing flood risks exacerbated by climate change, helping to protect communities, lives, and property.

Why FFRMS Matters

Flooding has repeatedly threatened communities across the United States, revealing the inadequacy of traditional flood management strategies based on historical data. The FFRMS addresses this by incorporating the best available science to account for both current and future flood risks. This proactive approach ensures that taxpayer-funded projects are more resilient, safeguarding federal investments and minimizing the damage and losses caused by floods.

Key Benefits of the FFRMS

1. Enhanced Resilience: FFRMS mandates the use of advanced science to predict and prepare for future flood conditions, increasing the resilience of FEMA-funded projects. This includes new constructions, substantial improvements, or repairs to significant damage.

2. Financial Support: FEMA will cover a significant portion of the costs to implement FFRMS, often 75% or more, easing the financial burden on local communities and ensuring the standard’s wide adoption.

3. Long-Term Savings: Incorporating flood resilience measures, such as elevating buildings, into project designs, adds minimal costs (less than 2%) but offers substantial long-term savings by preventing repetitive flood damage.

Leadership Perspectives

Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas highlights the increasing threat of flooding due to climate change and emphasizes the importance of proactive measures to protect lives, property, and critical infrastructure. FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell adds that the FFRMS will help end cycles of repetitive loss and enhance community safety. National Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi underscores the broader climate resilience efforts of the Biden-Harris Administration, aimed at protecting communities before disasters strike.

Implementation and Impact

The FFRMS will apply to various FEMA-funded actions, including:

  • New constructions
  • Substantial improvements
  • Repairs to substantial damage
  • Hazard Mitigation Assistance projects

This comprehensive approach ensures that projects like fire and police stations, hospitals, and other critical infrastructure are built to withstand future flood risks. The standard also encourages the use of nature-based solutions, preserving floodplain benefits like water storage and soil enrichment.

Minimal Implementation Costs

While the FFRMS requires certain flood resilience measures, the costs are minimal compared to the long-term benefits. For instance, adding two feet of elevation to a building design only increases project costs by an average of 1.91%. On a $1 million project with a 75% federal cost share, the additional cost to the applicant is approximately $4,775, a small price for significant future savings.

Conclusion

The Federal Flood Risk Management Standard is a critical step in building a more resilient future. By anticipating and preparing for future flood risks, FEMA ensures that communities are better protected, and taxpayer dollars are wisely invested. As climate change continues to pose significant challenges, the FFRMS represents a proactive, science-based approach to safeguarding lives and property across the United States.

For more information on the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard and how it impacts your community, visit FEMA’s official website. Stay informed and take proactive steps to enhance your community’s resilience against future flood risks.