Otonabee Conservation releases new floodplain mapping study for the Thompson Creek sub-watershed
Otonabee Conservation has undertaken extensive floodplain mapping projects in seven high priority areas within the Otonabee Region watershed and is now releasing mapping for the eighth study area, the Thompson Creek subwatershed, which is located in the City of Peterborough’s North end between the Otonabee River and the Trent Canal.
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 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, 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) for the new Thompson Creek maps from March 10 – April 10, 2023 to encourage questions and feedback from residents and property owners. 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
Visit otonabeeconservation.com for more information about the new Thompson Creek floodplain mapping.
For more information contact:
Janette Loveys Smith | CAO / Secretary-Treasurer
Otonabee Conservation
jsmith@otonabeeconservation.com | 705-745-5791 Ext. 222