Description

1) NJPACT REAL - Strategies and Challenges of Adopting Flood Hazard Regulations Addressing Climate Change
Vincent Mazzei, P.E., New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Vincent.Mazzei@dep.nj.gov
Co-presenters: Michael Sheehan, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, michael.sheehan@dep.nj.gov

Abstract: Known as New Jersey Protecting Against Climate Threats (NJ PACT) Resilient Environments and Landscapes (REAL), the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection began an initiative in response to executive and administrative orders to integrate climate change considerations, including sea level rise and chronic flooding, into its regulatory and permitting programs, notably the Flood Hazard Area Control Act rules and Stormwater Management rules. While in the process of amending these regulations, New Jersey experienced unprecedented flooding as a result of the remnants of Tropical Storm Ida which prompted a new approach to the amending the regulations. This presentation will explore the strategies used to address increased flooding resulting from climate change and sea level rise and the challenges of regulating an uncertain climatic future.

2) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nonstructural Case Studies
Danielle Tommaso, CFM, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers National Nonstructural Committee, danielle.m.tommaso@usace.army.mil
Co-presenters: Rachel Williams, CFM, rachel.c.williams@usace.army.mil; Lea Adams, P.E., D.WRE, lea.g.adams@usace.army.mil

Abstract: Nonstructural solutions including structure elevation, floodproofing, and buyouts are effective approaches to manage flood risk. They have been historically used by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in small-scale projects, but larger projects have become more prevalent in recent years. In this session, the USACE National Nonstructural Committee will share case studies of USACE constructed projects and upcoming authorized projects that have used a variety of nonstructural solutions to achieve flood risk management. The USACE National Nonstructural Committee is a team promoting the evaluation and implementation of nonstructural solutions to water resource problems. It provides leadership and support for the consideration and construction of nonstructural flood risk management strategies in USACE studies and projects. The Committee member presenters are involved in many nationally important nonstructural projects, and will share their perspectives and experience during the session. This presentation will provide an overview of interesting case studies of U.S. Army Corps of Engineers nonstructural studies and projects from throughout the country. The presentation will feature inland and coastal case studies of varying scopes. Additionally, it will provide an overview of upcoming USACE nonstructural projects recently authorized and funded by the federal government.

Mitigation and Resiliency Strategies for Coastal Communities
Kelly Simpson, MPH, CPH, CFM, AC Disaster Consulting, LLC., ksimpson@acdisaster.com
Co-presenters: Ryan Wiedenman, Atkins Global, ryan.wiedenman@atkinsglobal.com

Abstract: Our session will analyze the elements of effective resiliency and mitigation for coastal communities, including how policy, hardened infrastructure, and nature-based solutions mitigate against future damages and the impacts of climate change on coastal areas. This presentation will explore the role of federal, state, and local policy standards in the mitigation of flood risks, sea level rise, and climate change. In addition, this session will analyze how local communities can apply policy to achieve resiliency while also engaging input from stakeholders, property owners, and state/federal partners. Content will analyze both hardened infrastructure and nature-based solutions for flood mitigation. Finally, this session will utilize case studies from Hurricane Ian, Hurricane Michael, and Hurricane Harvey to examine various coastal resiliency and mitigation strategies. This presentation will provide multiple strategies and tools for mitigating coastal flood risks including health and safety, damage to property, and protection of critical infrastructure.