Flood Hazards: GIS Applied in the Collection and Dissemination of Spatial Data

Alexandra Maties
CDM
Chicago, IL

In 2010, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) launched the Risk Mapping, Assessment and Planning (Risk MAP) program with a vision to: “to deliver quality data that increases public awareness and leads to mitigation actions that reduce risk to life and property”. Risk Map is a nationwide program requiring the collection, organization and dissemination of spatial data from the federal government to state and local governments, planning agencies and private sector contractors. To meet these requirements and further the “one government” approach, FEMA has supported the use of GIS.

This paper will discuss the GIS methods, technology and products generated by FEMA contactors in accomplishing these goals. Through these examples, I intend to demonstrate the power of GIS and the value it has added to this substantial effort.