Impacts of Increased Precipitation on Connecticut Communities

October 10, 2014

Print-friendly Agenda

8:30-9:00 a.m.

Registration and Continental Breakfast

9:00

Introduction (10 min)

Introduction will cover information about the Climate Adaptation Academy, what today’s workshop will cover, housekeeping information and the need for input from participants.

9:10

Precipitation Forecasts and what it means for Your Town (50 min)

  • Chet Arnold, Extension Educator, UConn CLEAR It is anticipated that TP-40 will be replaced by a new standard based on current precipitation projections. Chet will describe what this may mean for current municipal infrastructure and potential needs for upgrades.  He will lead a discussion on issues associated with the integration of new infrastructure with old infrastructure.Takeaway: Understanding of what the future holds in terms of current precipitation projections and new stormwater standards and the need to start planning for it now.

10:00

Impacts of Increased Precipitation on State and Local Roads (45 min)

  • Stephanie Molden, CT Dept. of TransportationStephanie will review the work that the Connecticut Department of Transportation has done analyzing the impacts of increased precipitation on roadways and culverts.Takeaway: Understanding of how to adapt culverts and roadways so that they are less vulnerable to increased precipitation events.

10:45

Break (15 min)

11:00

Riverine Flooding (45 min)

  • Jonathan Morrison, Supervisory Hydrologist, U.S. Geological Survey

Jon will provide information on USGS’ flood frequency analysis and real-time stream gaging network – what these are and how the data inform municipalities, as well as the USGS new water alert program in Connecticut.

Takeaway: What information and alert systems are available to communities pertaining to river and stream flooding?

11:45

Lunch (45 min)

Takeaway: Full stomach

12:30

Floodplain Management Policy Issues (30 min)

  • Diane Ifkovic, CT DEEP, and NFIP State Coordinator

Diane will address floodplain management and policy issues as well as floodplain management/compliance with NFIP standards.

Takeaway: What communities need to think about in terms of changes in floodplain policies, regulations, and management. How does NFIP support community efforts in reducing risks and consequences of serious flooding?

1:00

Feedback/Discussion of Impacts of Increased Precipitation and Flooding (30 Min)

Discussion of real life impacts, innovative solutions from audience, research needs and questions, what help/resources are available.

Takeaway: Resources and ideas are shared.

1:30

End