SmartVENT Foundation Flood Vents

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 08:46:14 -0400

NJAFM Annual Conference to focus on Effective Floodplain Management Solutions

Somerset, NJ, October 15-16, 2009: In two weeks, the New Jersey Association for Floodplain Management (NJAFM) will host its fifth annual conference in Somerset, New Jersey. The two-day event provides the most up-to-date information on how to mitigate the disastrous effects of the most potent of natural hazards - floods. This year's focus will be on how to address flooding with local and state budget woes. The conference opening speaker, William Dressel, Executive Director of the New Jersey State League of Municipalities will remind the participants of the fiscal challenges for local government and the importance of pursuing federal grant opportunities. Additional guest speakers will include the Honorable Mark Mauriello, Acting Commissioner of the Department of Environmental Protection, the Honorable Michael Moriarty, Deputy Administrator of FEMA Region II and Colonel John R. Boule II, Commander, US Army Corps of Engineers, NY District. Dr. David Robinson, the New Jersey State Climatologist will discuss the recent frequent flooding in New Jersey and whether this is a trend for the future. Past Chair Laura Tessieri states "The conference will provide superior education to the attendees of diverse backgrounds that represent emergency management; building code enforcement; municipal, state and federal government; utilities and the private sector". Continuing Education Credits will be offered for Professional Land Surveyors, Professional Planners, Certified Floodplain Managers, Certified Public Works Managers and Construction and Code Officials. The conference features over 35 technical presentations and training workshops during concurrent sessions on both days.

NJAFM Chair Adam Slusky added "NJAFM can provide contacts, technical assistance, share information and mitigation success stories, facilitate training and education of local floodplain managers, provide assistance in navigating regulatory agencies and support local land use planning." The NJAFM is a state chapter of the national Association of State Floodplain Managers, a 14,000 member organization that is the respected voice in floodplain management practice and policy in the United States.

The dates and location of the conference are October 15th and 16th at The Palace at Somerset Park, Somerset, New Jersey. For more information on the conference, the activities of the Association or to join the NJAFM, please visit: www.njafm.org.