RE:  Flood Map Modernization MidCourse Adjustment

Dear Stakeholder:

I am happy to provide you with a copy of the Flood Map Modernization MidCourse Adjustment Executive Overview, which identifies the strategy of Flood Map Modernization through FY 2008.

As part of its commitment to improve our Nation’s flood maps, FEMA performed a comprehensive review of Flood Map Modernization.  The input FEMA received from the key stakeholders was critical to this assessment.  The stakeholders requested greater flexibility in determining areas to be mapped, establishment of a national standard for mapping floodplain boundaries, and an increase in the level of engineering analysis for communities at greater risk of flooding.

This new strategy requires compliance with the newly adopted Floodplain Boundary Standard and provides additional resources for engineering analysis in critical areas.  More importantly, this midcourse adjustment will ensure the communities at the greatest risk of flooding will have the information they need to become less vulnerable to flood events.  FEMA is currently implementing this midcourse adjustment while continuing to work closely with State and local partners.

The midcourse adjustment was planned to result in the following outcomes by the end of the fiveyear Flood Map Modernization effort, provided the funding levels are maintained through FY 2008:

* Digital flood map products will be available for 92 percent of the Nation’s population.
* 30 percent of the mapped stream miles will be based on new, updated, or validated engineering analysis, benefiting 40 percent of the Nation’s population.
* Digital flood map products will cover 65 percent of the land area of the continental United States.

I appreciate the valuable input from all of the stakeholders and their contribution to the Flood Map Modernization effort.  I look forward to continued communication with all of you in the future as Flood Map Modernization moves forward.

I anticipate issuing a revised MultiYear Flood Hazard Identification Plan reflecting this adjustment and encourage you to review that document and provide comments.

Thank you for supporting Flood Map Modernization to ensure our Nation has accurate and improved flood hazard data.

	Sincerely,



	David I. Maurstad
	Director
	Mitigation Division
Enclosure
        Department of Homeland Security 
        500 C Street, SW
        Washington, DC 20472



www.fema.gov