Executive

Pennsylvania Association of Floodplain Managers (PAFPM), serving the public since 2009…

In 2059, that statement will have impact. In 2009, it has enormous impact! Pennsylvania is a state that has some of the worst flooding in the Union. Yet, we in PA, could not seem to pull ourselves together to organize and provide a voice for quality floodplain management. We have whined about flooding and its consequences…after the flood, but that seemed to be all that we could do. 2009…what a year! After 5 years of considering forming into an association, the choir that we all had been singing to finally stopped singing to each other and focused outward.

Within our State we have many issues which are water related, and the end result of bad decision making always seems to be increased damages. Floodplain and Stormwater management are just two of the areas we have to address. We must constantly be the advocates of sensible development. We must work to educate people so that floodplains become resources and not areas to fill at any cost. Finally, we must be the voice of reason.

With that, I would like to thank everyone who has stepped up to the plate. Organizations with impact have a robust group of members. Let’s make 2010 the year that we truly move forward and build toward the year 2059.

Frances W Jones, Chair