BY MARK J. CRAWFORD
Telegraph Editor
STARKE — A public meeting last week on proposed changes to the flood risk maps for the Santa Fe Watershed focused on instructing residents how to check the status of their property and submit comments if they think changes are warranted.
For some, the computer-based process will be intuitive after watching an online video posted on the Suwannee River Water Management District website. Concerns were expressed, however, for those less familiar with computers or without or an adequate internet connection who want to take advantage of this 30-day period to submit comments.
The water management district had several staff members on hand to individually guide those who attended the meeting through the process.
For those interested in pursuing answers for themselves, you may visit the Suwannee River Water Management District’s flood risk map online at http://arcg.is/1javDX. Before you dive in there, however, visit www.SRWMDFloodReport.com/Virtual to view the information presented during the public meetings. Be sure to watch the video explaining the process, which also walks you through how to use the map and submit comments. Select the video titled “Santa Fe Watershed Flood Risk Review Meeting Recording.”
You are not on your own if you don’t understand or do not have the resources to view this information. Call or email Project Manager Brad Heilwagen at 615-268-1554 and [email protected], or Program Manager Leroy Marshall at 386-362-1001 and [email protected].
Remember, the time remaining to comment is limited and the 30-day countdown has already begun. Following the comment period, a review process will begin, and there will be additional meetings with public officials to ensure the appropriate changes have been made. The maps are expected to become effective in October 2025.
Why are the maps being updated?
Protecting people from flooding is one of the water management district’s core missions, and part of that is working with FEMA to assess local flood risk. Studies at various stages of completion have been performed throughout the watershed. Areas of enhanced study included all of Santa Fe River, the Santa Fe Lakes, Santa Fe Canal and Lake Alto. Results from previous enhanced studies of the Sampson Lake area, Alligator Creek and the city of Starke will be carried forward and incorporated into the new maps.
Do I need flood insurance?
Bradford and Union counties both fall into the Santa Fe Watershed. The flood maps for the region identify which properties are at low, moderate and high risk of flooding.
Florida is one of the most flood prone states in the country, but only a fraction of households have flood insurance. Those who find themselves moved into a high-risk flood zone and are uninsured should be aware that the National Flood Insurance Program can help lower the cost of becoming insured. Visit FloodSmart.gov or speak with a local insurance agent to learn more about a preferred risk policy.
In Bradford, there are 510 buildings moving from low or moderate flood risk to high risk and 1,020 switching from high risk to low or moderate risk. Another 538 buildings will move from low to moderate risk. Finally, 9,990 will experience no category change.
In Union, there are 284 buildings moving from low or moderate flood risk to high risk and 178 switching from high risk to low or moderate risk. Another 319 buildings will move from low to moderate risk. More than 5,500 will experience no category change.
Low risk does not mean no risk, however, so maintaining coverage is recommended, although the cost can be adjusted downward.
