New floodplain mapping studies for sub-watersheds throughout the Region are now available online.
Otonabee Conservation has undertaken extensive floodplain mapping projects in high priority areas within the Otonabee Region watershed. Floodplain mapping has been created in study areas within Meade, Curtis, Jackson, and Baxter Creeks, North and South Kawartha Lakes, Ouse River in Norwood, and for several tributaries around Lakefield, Ontario.
The objective of floodplain mapping is to identify the areas expected to be inundated during extreme high-water events. Floodplain maps use data and technical models to predict the path of floodwaters—the area known as the floodplain. It is important to remember that a floodplain map does not create a flooding hazard; it simply shows where the flooding will occur.
Floodplain maps are tools used to protect and respect the floodplain. They are technical documents that are used to guide decisions about land use and development. A map of the floodplain helps to determine where new buildings may be located and if a property is at risk during a flood or storm event.
“We will use the new floodplain maps to help protect property and human life,” explains Don Allin, Acting Manager of Plan Review and Permitting Services at Otonabee Conservation, “Our eight partner municipalities will also use floodplain maps to help direct future development outside the floodplain and by integrating them into municipal official plans we will all help to mitigate the risks of developing inside areas that are prone to flooding.”
Property and homeowners can also use floodplain maps to see if they may be affected by the floodplain. By searching their address, anyone can see if the property in question is at risk during a flood or storm event and in some cases, property owners may need to take measures to protect existing buildings from flooding.
Otonabee Conservation is hosting a Virtual Floodplain Mapping Public Information Centre (PIC) is from March 9 – April 9, 2022, to encourage questions and feedback from watershed residents about new floodplain mapping projects. To participate in the PIC:
- View Otonabee Conservation’s Floodplain Mapping Story Map
- Search by address on the online Interactive Floodplain Map
- Review Frequently Asked Questions
- Submit any further questions or comments to Otonabee Conservation
For more information contact:
Dan Marinigh | CAO, Otonabee Conservation
dmarinigh@otonabeeconservation.com | 705-745-5791 Ext. 222