Introduction to the MapMOD Program
FEMA which administers the National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP) considers 10 years to be old for a flood
insurance rate map (FIRM), but, many communities in
Arkansas have FIRMs that are in excess of 25 years old.
Such is the case across the nation, so in response FEMA
initiated a program in 2003 called MapMOD (Map Modernization).
This program is not only an updated study of the location
of flood zones it is also an opportunity to create Digital
Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
This is a huge nationwide project
that is scheduled to take until 2010 to complete. Counties
across the United States are being scheduled according
to their needs. Those counties that need the most attention
right away due to age of their FIRMs, increasing population
numbers or vigorous land development changes were placed
first on the list.
Going digital
The creation of computerized maps will result in a
more consistent, easier-to-access and more adaptable
format that will allow communities to view their maps
online, download them and/or use them as a Geographic
Information Systems (GIS) layer. This increases a community’s
ability to incorporate local data such as street layers,
demographics, infrastructure and emergency response
with the new data created from the MapMOD program; ultimately
aiding local governments with managing floodplains,
land use development and emergency response planning.
Many areas in the state already have developed a GIS
through their 911 office, county assessor’s office
or utility service. Several counties have even joined
the Arkansas Centerline Road File Program, coordinated
by the Arkansas Geographic Information Office (AGIO),
and have a spatially accurate street layer.
Having a digital street centerline file is a big plus
for the MapMOD program! It not only lowers the cost
of the community’s digital FIRM study, it also
allows a community to get a FIRM in the same line based
format (the preferred format) that they use now in determining
floodplains.
What the AGIO does for you
The AGIO is currently working as a Base Map data acquisition
coordinator. This includes visiting with local officials
and gathering local and statewide GIS data for use in
the base map requirements of the digital FIRM. Members
of the AGIO staff are also ensuring that the data used
is of the best quality available and that it meets the
guidelines and standards issued by FEMA.
The AGIO are also on hand to help handle questions
on data requirements and are working to ensure that
each area in the state receives the most accurate map
based on the data and funding available for that area.
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