Floodplain
Floodplain zoning - Kansas statutes passed in 1970 gave cities and counties zoning authority to help reduce floodplain problems. Those statutes were significantly revised in 1991. The Division of Water Resources reviews and approves floodplain zoning ordinances prior to their adoption by local governing bodies, and provides technical assistance to communities to help them develop proper floodplain-related ordinances. For floodplain management, incorporated cities and unincorporated areas of counties are separate entities that must separately enact and enforce floodplain management regulations.
National Flood Insurance Program - DWR has been designated the state coordinating agency for the NFIP. Flood insurance is available only in communities that participate in NFIP. NFIP studies and mapping provide data for permit and approval decisions of the chief engineer. A total of 357 Kansas communities have been mapped for flood hazards as part of this program. More than 300 cities and counties participate in NFIP, making flood insurance available to property at risk from flooding
Community support - DWR participates in the Federal Emergency Management Agency Community Assistance Program, which enhances state capability to provide floodplain management information and technical assistance to help local officials in participating communities. It also encourages non-participating communities to join the NFIP. DWR also trains participating and non-participating community officials, and other interest groups, to help them achieve a better understanding of flood hazards and techniques for safer development within floodplains. DWR also educates them about state and federal floodplain regulations, requirements and standards, since some state requirements are more stringent than those of the FEMA or NFIP. DWR publishes a free statewide newsletter to promote the objectives and benefits of floodplain management.