At Your Service...Every Day since 1847 from lood acts Benton County FDecember 23, 2013 F Benton County, Oregon When it rains, it pours … and you’re in a floodplain This information is being distributed to portion of your property is located in or is established. Benton County is one of only property owners whom county records near a floodplain. eight communities – including the cities of indicate own property within the Federal Rural Benton County has approximately Albany and Corvallis (added in 2012), Marion Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 57,000 acres of land located within County and Tillamook County – to maintain designated floodplain in Benton County. floodplains and nearly 3,200 individual Class 6 ratings in Oregon. Rural Benton Flooding can cause significant property parcels that are partially or entirely located County residents have enjoyed Class 6 level damage and poses a threat to life and safety. within a floodplain. discounts of 20% on their flood insurance The following information is provided Benton County is committed to continued premiums for the past six years due to the to increase flood hazard awareness and participation in the National Flood Insurance county’s maintenance of that classification. provide information about steps that can Program (NFIP) on behalf of its citizens. Statewide only one government agency – the be taken to minimize the risk of injury and Since 2007 Benton County has maintained city of Portland – has a lower rating, at Class property damage in the event of a flood. If a Class 6 floodplain management rating, 5. you have questions or would like additional resulting in a 20% discount on flood Because standard property insurance information, please refer to the “Contact insurance premiums for properties does not cover flood damage, all eligible Information” section on Page 2. located in a floodplain and a 10% discount property owners are encouraged to You are receiving this mailing because, for properties located outside of a floodplain. purchase flood insurance. although your home or outbuilding may These discounts are automatically applied not actually be in the floodplain, some each time a policy is renewed or a new policy Corvallis, OR 97333 408 SW Monroe Ave Suite 111 Benton County Starr Creek Road, January 2012

Flood safety, step by step Everyone lives in a flood zone. Before a Flood information. Tune your radio to 550 AM Floors and stairs that have KOAC or the local cable TV channel for been covered with mud Find out if your property is in a flood- announcements and updates about flood can be slippery. prone area. Contact your local office of events. Many other local radio and television Be alert for gas leaks. community development or emergency stations carry Emergency Alert System (EAS) Use a flashlight to inspect management for assistance. broadcasts, as well. for damage. Don’t use Avoid areas that are subject to flooding. smoke or candles, lanterns • Albany Community Development, Check with local authorities (for example, or open flames unless you 541-917-7551 public works or department of transporta- know that the gas has been • Benton County Community Development, tion) to determine affected areas, road clo- turned off and the area has 541-766-6819 sures and/or high water warnings. For infor- been ventilated. • Corvallis Community Development, mation regarding county roads, contact the Check for damage. 541-766-6981

Benton County Public Works Department Check for structural dam- Permit number U.S. Postage • Philomath Planning Office, at 541-766-6821. The Oregon Department of age before re-entering your Corvallis OR PAID 232 541-929-6148 Transportation provides road condition in- home. Contact the appro- • Benton County Emergency Management, formation with live cameras on the Internet priate professionals imme- 541-766-6864 • Linn County Emergency Management, at www.tripcheck.com. diately if you suspect dam- Highway 20, January 2012 541-967-3950 Do not walk through flowing water. age to water, gas, electric Drowning is the number one cause of flood and sewer lines. deaths, most of which occur during flash Throw away water-dam- able for the adjuster. Law enforcement offi- You can help Purchase flood insurance to protect cials may require the disposal of damaged your property. If you live in the floodplain floods. Currents can be deceptive; 6 inches aged food, including canned goods that you are eligible to purchase NFIP flood in- of moving water can knock you off your feet. have come in contact with floodwaters. items. If so, keep a swatch or other sample of prevent flooding If you walk in standing water, use a pole or Boil water until local authorities declare the the items for the adjuster. surance. In some cases you may be required A great deal of the ability to decrease flood stick to ensure that the ground is still there. water supply safe to drink. Floodwaters pick to carry flood insurance. Contact your insur- risk is under property owners’ control by ance company or agent, or call the NFIP at Turn around; don’t drown. More people up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, Clean everything that got wet 1-888-379-9531 (TDD# 1-800-720-1090) for drown in their cars than anywhere else, and factories and storage buildings. Spoiled Prevent mold and remove wet contents maintaining drainage systems properly. more information. even a few inches of water can stall or wash food, flooded cosmetics and medicine can immediately. Remove saturated carpeting, Plugged culverts can cause water to back Develop and maintain a seven-day away a car. Never drive through flooded be health hazards. When in doubt, throw stuffed furniture, bedding (if wet) and any up and flood roads and property. As a result, emergency preparedness kit. Keep emer- roadways or around barriers; the road or them out. other items holding dampness, moisture Benton County Public Works encourages gency supplies gathered in a portable flood- bridge may be washed out or the water may Look out for animals. Small animals that or water inside the building. Walls, floors, property owners not to dispose of leaves and and rodent-proof container with food, pota- conceal another hazard. have been flooded out of their homes may doors, closets and shelves should be washed cuttings in ditches or drainage ways because ble water and safety and hygiene supplies for Stay away from power lines and electri- seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or a stick to thoroughly and disinfected. they can get washed into culverts, causing all family members. For more information cal wires. The second most common flood poke and turn things over and scare away Thoroughly dry out the building’s in- blockage. on creating a family emergency/disaster kit, killer is electrocution. Electrical current can small animals. terior. Portable dehumidifiers are useful Every fall, Public Works utilizes corrections visit www.co.benton.or.us/sheriff/ems/ and travel through water. Report downed power and rental costs may be covered under your work crews to clear culvert openings to keep go to “Emergency Preparedness.” lines to the power company or local authori- File Your Flood Insurance Claim Prepare an evacuation plan. Before the flood policy. Your air conditioner also can be them from plugging and causing floods. ties immediately. Call your flood insurance agent to file a used to start the drying process. floodwaters arrive, develop a household Shut off asg and electricity and move claim. Have the following information with Public Works also cleans sediment and evacuation plan that includes a designated If the walls are damaged take photo- valuable property upstairs. Some appli- you when you place your call: (1) the name material from county ditches on a rotational meeting place outside, as well as an escape graphs of the baseboard, then remove it. basis. ances, such as television sets, keep electrical of your insurance company (your agent may Knock small holes at floor level in the dry- route out of the floodplain and away from Sometimes drainage way blockages are floodwaters. charge even after they have been unplugged. write policies for more than one company); wall, between the wall studs. This will permit caused by wildlife. Public Works and other Remember to consider your pets and Don’t use appliances or motors that have (2) your policy number; and (3) a telephone moisture trapped behind the drywall to seep other animals in your evacuation plan. gotten wet unless they have been taken number/e-mail address where you can be out and start drying. agencies often deal with beaver dams in apart, cleaned and dried. reached. Most evacuation shelters do not accept pets Have your furnace checked for damage. county rights-of-way when they block the Take photos. To make filing your claim so you will need to make other arrangements Your water heater may be working but if the flow of water in ditches. After a Flood easier, take photos of any water in the house for your animals. floodwater was up on the tank, the insula- There are other things that property Know how and under what circum- and damaged personal property. If neces- owners can do to lessen the risk of flooding If your home has suffered flood damage, sary, place these items outside the home. tion between the walls is damaged. Obtain stances to turn off utilities. Keep appropri- and minimize maintenance costs by keeping ate tools, including an adjustable wrench, following are some steps to help you stay Your adjustor will need evidence of the an estimate to replace the damaged one. water flowing, includinag: where they will be readily accessible when safe and secure in the days ahead. damage and damaged items (such as cut For more information, those interested they are needed. swatches from carpeting, curtains, chairs) to can visit www.floodsmart.gov. To protect • Keep leaves, yard cuttings and other mate- Beware of Hazards prepare your repair estimate. your property with a National Flood Insur- rials out of drainage ways and ditches; During a Flood Look before you step. After a flood the Make a list of damaged or lost items. ance Policy, call your insurance company or • If a property owner sees a plugged drive- ground and floors may be covered with de- When possible, also include their age and agent, or call 1-800-427-4219 (TDD#1-800- way culvert, they can clean out the open- Listen for flooding announcements and bris, including broken bottles and nails. value and have receipts for those items avail- 427-5593) to find an agent near you. ings; • If something inside the culvert blocks wa- ter flow, they can clear it out; and Several factors influence local flooding • If it can’t be cleared, contact Public Works to request assistance. This should be a last In Benton County a combination of Benton County’s climate consists of mild, 45 miles away, bring intense and sustained contributes to the frequency of floods. option because Benton County has limited factors create seasonal flooding conditions. wet winters and warm, dry summers, with rainfall to the area. This condition often The types of flooding that affect Benton resources and few people to spare on many Flooding occurs when climate or weather an average temperature in the Willamette results in simultaneous flooding of all County are primarily riverine and urban. small projects for individual landowners. patterns, geology and hydrology combine River Valley ranging from 34°F in January streams. The Willamette Valley receives Riverine flooding is the over-bank flooding For more information, those interested to create conditions where river and stream to 81°F in July. Precipitation varies over approximately 40 inches of rain on average of rivers and streams, the natural process of can contact Benton County Public Works at waters flow outside of their main channel, the county, depending on elevation and each year. Larger floods result from heavy which adds sediment and nutrients to fertile 541-766-6821. over-spilling the banks. Development in the location. rains, which continue over the course of floodplain areas.Urban flooding can result county also causes displacement of acreage Flooding most commonly occurs several days, coupled with snowmelt at from the conversion of land from fields Floods are the No. 1 natural disaster that has historically functioned as flood between the months of November and a time when the soil is near saturation or woodlands to parking lots and roads, in the United States. storage. March when storms from the Pacific, only from previous rains. Frozen topsoil also decreasing the ability to absorb rainfall. Floodplain safety is a Benton County priority Benton County’s National Flood voluntary participation in the Community program since 2002, and FEMA has noted development permits; • Preservation of open space in the Insurance Program (NFIP) Class 6 rating is Rating System and residents are now seeing 14 ongoing activities coordinated by the • Providing flood protection and hazard floodplain; and established through ongoing and proactive financial benefits,” Commissioner Linda Benton County Community Development, disclosure information to members of • Continued maintenance of a flood participation in the NFIP’s Community Modrell said. “The teamwork among our Public Works and Emergency Management the public; warning program. Rating System. It has taken a team effort departments has helped create a holistic Search and Rescue functions that • Providing outreach information to Benton County is constantly working on to accomplish this in Benton County, and approach to floodplain management that contribute to the improved status. Ongoing residents in flood prone areas; ways to make floodplain information more many county departments are working both saves residents money on their flood activities include: • Maintenance of flood data useful and accessible to our customers. If together to make sure community members insurance premiums and improves their • Having a certified floodplain manager information; you have any suggestions, please submit have access to lower flood insurance rates. disaster resilience.” to answer questions about floodplain • Improved floodplain management and them to the Benton County Community “Benton County has been proactive with The county has been participating in this development and review floodplain development standards; Development Department. 2 December 23, 2013 • Flood Facts from Benton County December 23, 2013 • Flood Facts from Benton County 3 A few steps now will prevent damage later branches. Keep banks clear of debris to 50% of the market value of the structure help maintain unobstructed water flow in before the damage occurred. For example, if stream channels. Do not remove vegetation a house in the floodplain is flooded, catches that is actively growing on a stream bank. on fire or is damaged by an earthquake such Streamside vegetation is strictly regulated by that the cost of repairs is more than 50% of local, state and federal rules. Before removing the value of the building before the damage, growing streamside vegetation, contact then the entire house must be brought Benton County Community Development at into compliance with current floodplain 541-766-6819 and the Oregon Department regulations. of State Lands at 503-378-3805. You also Most other types of development within can report clearing of live vegetation or the floodplain such as grading, cut and trees from stream banks to Benton County fill, installation of riprap and other bank Community Development. stabilization techniques and fences also Obtain a floodplain development permit require a floodplain development permit. and/or building permit if required. To minimize damage to structures during County staff is available to schedule site flood events the county requires all new visits and review flood, drainage and other floodplain construction to be anchored related issues. Contact the Community against movement by floodwaters, resistant Development Department prior to to flood forces, constructed with flood- undertaking any development activity within the floodplain. Bellfountain Road, January 2012 resistant materials and flood-proofed or elevated so that the first floor of living space Reduce risk of damage to homes. Rather Maintaining the flow capacity in streams west of Philomath, are valued for their scenic is at least 18 inches above the elevation of than wait for a code requirement to force which cross county properties requires and wildlife habitat amenities. Continued the 100-year flood. changes, you can act now to protect your cooperation and assistance to prevent enhancement of these natural areas also All new and replacement heat pumps, air property from flooding. There are practical flooding and bank erosion. Benton County provides important flood storage areas and conditioning units, water heaters, furnaces and cost effective methods for reducing or regulates the floodplain to protect the lives reduces flood velocities while maintaining and other equipment serving structures eliminating the risk of flooding to property and property of county residents, while also Benton County’s natural beauty. Properly located in a designated floodplain must be owners whose homes have experienced affording property owners the ability to managed floodplain development can elevated at least 12 inches above the Base previous flood damage or potential future obtain floodplain insurance. reduce stream bank erosion, property loss, Flood Elevation (BFE) or designed to prevent damage. Such techniques include the A number of important measures will help downstream flooding and degradation of water from entering or accumulating within following: us all protect our valuable water resources water quality. Additionally, much of the land the components during conditions of • Elevating or relocating the structure to and natural environment. along the Willamette River is well suited flooding.If you will be installing any of these higher ground; Recognize that floodplains provide for farming due to its location within a items, remind your contractor to contact the • Wet flood proofing to modify the natural beneficial functions that help floodplain. Benton County Community Development structure so that water can flow through reduce flooding. Floodplains are a Never dump or throw anything into Department and request verification of the it during a flood event; natural component of the Benton County ditches or streams. A plugged channel location of the floodplain in relation to your environment. When flooding spreads across cannot carry water and, when it rains, the project so it can be completed without the • Relocating and/or protecting utilities added cost of elevating after the fact. the floodplain, its energy is dissipated excess water must go somewhere. Trash that are susceptible to flooding; Floodplain construction standards resulting in lower flood flows downstream, and vegetation dumped or accumulated in apply to all new structures, substantial • Relocating contents susceptible to reduced stream bank and channel erosion, a stream degrades the stream’s water quality increased sediment deposits and improved improvements of existing structures flooding; and its ability to receive water. Every piece and repair or replacement of structures groundwater recharge. of trash debris contributes to flooding. It is • Dry flood proofing to make the building Locally, open space areas such as that have been declared substantially important to keep waterways clear of debris damaged. walls and floor watertight; and Jackson-Frazier Wetland north of Corvallis, at all times to ensure clear flow and cleaner The county defines a substantial • Constructing floodwalls or berms Finley Wildlife Refuge south of Corvallis water. improvement as any repair, reconstruction between the structure and flood waters. and Kings Valley Wildlife Refuge (also You can report observations of debris or improvement of a structure with a cost known as Luckiamute Meadows Farm) near dumping or activity that may damage equaling or exceeding 50% of the actual cash Remember that you will need to obtain Kings Valley, as well as Luckiamute State streams, drainages or rivers to Benton value of the structure. permit approval for this type of work. During Natural Area in northeast Benton County, County Community Development by calling A substantially damaged structure has times of flooding, homes that have not the Harkens Lake area in south Benton 541-766-6819. sustained damage of any origin whereby the been retrofitted can be protected during County and the Evergreen wetland area Remove debris, trash and loose cost of restoring it would equal or exceed emergencies by installing sandbags. Linn-Benton Alert: It’s like 911, but it calls you! National flood When there’s an emergency in your you safe. This local system is separate from, have loved ones here, you can participate as neighborhood, you want to know about it but complementary to, national systems well. You can subscribe to receive messages insurance right now. such as AMBER Alert and the new mobile with the same options for notification, Benton County participates in the National That’s exactly why Benton County, the city phone alert services. Signing up for local including cell phone, e-mail, text messages Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Federally- of Corvallis, and Linn County have partnered alerts means that you will have the most or prioritizing multiple telephone numbers. backed flood insurance for all structures Registration is free and online. to offer the Linn-Benton Alert notification important information soonest. is available through the NFIP, whether or For more information or to sign up, system. When disaster strikes – whether Most landline telephones already will not the structures are located within the just go to the Benton it’s a natural disaster, fugitive loose in your receive the emergency messages, but many 100-year floodplain, also referred to as the County Sheriff’s Office neighborhood or a missing person – you will of us receive information via email, text Special Flood Hazard Area. receive critical safety instructions. messaging and cell phones. If you are in that website at http://www. Damage from flood water to a structure is The address-based system targets category, you can get yourself in the loop by co.benton.or.us/sheriff/ one of the most likely claims a homeowner emergency messages to specificsigning up and choosing how you’d like to and clicking on the is expected to file. During the life of a 30- neighborhoods in Linn and Benton counties, receive emergency messages. “Emergency Alert” giving timely, accurate information to keep If you don’t live nearby but own property or signup. year mortgage there is a 26% chance of experiencing a 100-year flood and a 96% chance of experiencing a 10-year flood. Compare these odds with the 1% to 2% Flood Information Resource Corner chance of the same structure catching fire during the same 30-year mortgage period. Contact Information • Emergency preparedness; National Oceanic and Atmospheric Following the purchase of flood insurance, • Benton County hazard analysis; Administration www.weather.gov/ NFIP imposes a 30-day waiting period, so Benton County, www.co.benton.or.us • Business continuity/hazard portland residents should purchase insurance before specific planning; and the onset of the rainy season to ensure Federal Emergency Management • Benton County Natural Hazard National Weather Service Hydrologic coverage during the flooding season. Agency (FEMA), www.fema.gov/nfip Mitigation Plan Information. Prediction http://water.weather.gov/ NFIP membership – and its availability ahps to county residents – requires the county Benton County Planning Division, What should I do if an to manage its floodplain to meet or exceed 541-766-6819, www.co.benton.or.us/cd/ evacuation is ordered? The Cost of Flooding standards set by FEMA. NFIP insures planning/ residential buildings with two types of • Evacuate the flood hazard area in It only takes 2 inches of water to put you coverage: structural and contents. Structural Benton County Emergency knee-deep in debt. Find out how much a times of impending flood or when coverage includes walls, floors, insulation, Management, 541-766-6864, www. advised to do so by authorities. flood could cost you at www.floodsmart. co.benton.or.us/sheriff/ems gov/deep. The interactive website shows furnace and other items permanently • Turn off all electric circuits at the how much a flood to your home could attached to the structure. Contents coverage Department of State Lands (DSL), fuse panel or disconnect switches. cost, inch by inch. may be purchased separately to cover the 503-986-5200, www.oregonstatelands.us If this is not possible, turn off or contents of an insurable building. Flood or www.oregon.gov/dsl disconnect all electrical appliances. Floodplain information insurance also pays a portion of the costs of Shut off water services and gas actions taken to prevent flood damage. Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, valves in your home. is available. Federal financial assistance requires the 541-766-6793, www.thebestlibrary.net purchase of flood insurance for buildings • Be prepared in advance with a In most cases the county can determine located within the Special Flood Hazard Oregon Department of Forestry, detailed checklist – warning of the floodplain information listed below 503-945-7200, www.oregon.gov/odf an impending flood may provide for a particular property. In some cases, Area (SFHA) – a requirement that affects little time for preparation prior to it may be necessary to hire a licensed nearly all mortgages financed through U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, evacuation. land surveyor, engineer or architect to commercial lending institutions. This make the following determinations: mandatory requirement stipulates that 503-808-4510, www.nwp.usace.army.mil determine whether a structure is within the structural coverage be purchased equal to Benton County Rivers Road and Weather Info SFHA. National Marine Fisheries Service • Is your property located within the amount of the loan, or other financial Flood openings save money Know Before You Go the Special Flood Hazard Area? The andatorym flood insurance (NMFS), www.nmfs.noaa.gov assistance, or for the maximum amount Flood openings installed in your home’s Homes built before Flood Insurance and certified by a licensed professional • What is the Flood Insurance requirement does not apply to loans or and Streams available, which is currently $250,000 for a foundation walls will help you protect Rate Maps often were not constructed with engineer. Contact your county floodplain Oregon Department of Fish and Oregon Department of Transportation Rate Map (FIRM) zone for your financial assistance for items that are “Trip Check:” single family residence. your investment, and also can save you flood openings. Fortunately, it is easy to manager for more information. Benton County features several large rivers and Wildlife, www.dfw.state.or.us/agency/ property? not eligible for flood insurance coverage. While the mandatory flood insurance money. Here’s why: Flood openings reduce retrofit crawlspace foundations with flood directory/local_offices.asp • What is the approximate base Items such as vehicles, business expenses, smaller tributaries or streams which are susceptible purchase requirement has been in effect structural damage from flooding by allowing openings. Properly installed flood openings • Online www.tripcheck.com flood elevation (if available) for landscaping and vacant lots are examples of to annual flooding. your property? for many years, not all lending institutions water to pass into or out of a building’s pay for themselves very quickly. Visit with • Dial 511 from your cell phone ineligible insurables. The requirement also Would your business • In Benton County, call 541-757- • Is there an elevation certificate previously required flood insurance. Today exterior foundation walls. your flood insurance agent to learn what you Information at your most institutions require the purchase of does not apply to loans for structures not Rivers: Willamette River • Marys River • Luckiamute River 4211 on file for a specific building? If, during a flood, water pressure inside need to do and how much you can save per survive a flood? fingertips • Is your property located within a flood insurance and some are reviewing located in a SFHA, even though a portion of and outside your foundation can’t equalize year. • Alsea River • N. Fork Alsea River • Long Tom River • Tumtum River the lot may be within a SFHA. Individuals Benton County Road Closures 541-766- designated floodway? all mortgage loans to determine whether quickly enough the pressure difference can Make sure those flood openings remain Of all businesses that The following types of flood6821 or www.co.benton.or.us/pw flood insurance is required or should have with property located in the SFHA who break the foundation, making your home ready to do their job. Flood openings must Streams: Beaver Creek • Bummer Creek • Dunawi (Squaw) Creek information are available to you on the For more information, contact been required in the past. Upon refinancing received disaster assistance after Sept. 23, unsafe to live in and expensive to repair. As not be covered, stuffed with foam or closed. close their doors • Greasy Creek • Frazier Creek • Jackson Creek Emergency Services website at www. Oregon Climate Service weather the Benton County Community a loan, nearly all lending institutions will 1994, for flood losses to real or personal a result of the reduced potential for costly They must remain open and free of debris. during a flood, • Lobster Creek • Maxfield Creek • Mountain View Creek co.benton.or.us/sheriff/ems/hazard.php: and climate information www.ocs. Development Department at 541-766- enforce the flood insurance requirement. property must purchase and maintain foundation damage, flood insurance is Engineered flood openings are available that • Muddy Creek • Newton Creek • Oak Creek • Reese Creek • Flood and hazard maps; oregonstate.edu 6819. It is the lender’s responsibility to check flood insurance coverage or future disaster almost always less expensive on buildings can remain closed in all but flood conditions. 25% never reopen. • Soap Creek • Stewart Slough • Woods Creek the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) to assistance will be denied. with flood openings. These openings must be properly installed 4 December 23 2013 • Flood Facts from Benton County

Aftermath: Rebuilding Alder Creek Bridge Flood advisories, Bridge restores connection log trucks and school buses. The road had that was destroyed has been replaced with watches and warnings on a gravel road between been closed on each side of the river since a deck able to accommodate 80,000 pounds. Watches and Warnings are issued by the Wren and Blodgett the previous bridge was destroyed by a tree The new bridge also is 6 feet wider than the the National Weather Service and can alert communities in the falling across it, tearing out a portion of the old one. communities to the threat of conditions that Coast Range of western deck during a mud slide caused by winter Road Manager Jim Stouder said the Benton County. But, more are favorable to hazardous weather. Forecasts, storms in 2012. engineering to measure distances, design advisories, watches and warnings may be importantly, it reopens Students from nearby Blodgett Elementary the new foundation, repaint, transport the route for emergency obtained via local radio (550 AM KOAC) and School trekked down to the bridge site to and place the bridge safely was carefully television stations, the National Weather service vehicles at the watch the crew work, along with many other completed, and the process took more Blodgett Fire Department, Service website at www.weather.gov/portland local officials and community members. The than a year. The bridge had been stored at or via NOAA Weather Radio that broadcasts bridge used for the project was provided by the Benton County Fairgrounds until its forecasts and warnings 24 hours a day. Linn County. Its previous home had been in placement. Advisories are issued for less serious weather Alder Creek Bridge, September 2013 downtown Scio. “We had a lot of variables to work with,” conditions that may cause inconvenience, Recycled bridge components provide a Stouder said. “It’s a stress load off my mind.” but life and property are usually not at risk if Benton County Public Works restored safe and cost-effective way to complete Building the new bridge from scratch would caution is exercised. passage on Harris Road near Blodgett A Watch means that conditions are favorable by replacing a bridge that was wiped out expensive bridge replacement projects. have cost significantly more, estimated at during the severe winter storm event of The cost of the project was approximately around $1.4 million. for the development of hazardous weather. 2012. $876,000 and 75% of the money came “I’m pretty proud of our county employees Flood watches are issued 12 to 72 hours in In September, a crane crew lifted from the Federal Emergency Management right now,” Benton County Roads Advisory advance of an event where conditions are a 127,000-pound bridge deck and Agency. The deck – which is 94 feet long, 24 Committee Chairman Chuck Kratch told favorable for flooding, but flooding is not placed it onto the supports and pilings feet wide between the arches and took more The Corvallis Gazette-Times on the day of certain. In other words, the risk for dangerous established by Benton County Public than 2,000 bolts to reassemble at the site – the bridge placement. “(The bridge) came weather has increased significantly, but its Works on each bank of the Marys River. is rated for greater weight than the prior out right, and they saved the taxpayers half a location and/or timing are still uncertain. Due The e-openingr of the Alder Creek Alder Creek Bridge, January 2012 bridge could bear. The old 10-ton bridge million dollars or more.” to this uncertainty, watches cover general areas. A watch may be upgraded to a warning, downgraded to an advisory or cancelled. Warnings mean hazardous weather is Benton County Currents occurring, imminent or has a very high Reminder of important revisions to 18 inches above Base Flood Elevation on salmon habitat may require review by the Documenting structure locations probability of occurrence. Flood warnings floodplain development regulations. posts, piers or piles; National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to can save on flood insurance. are issued when a river is expected to reach Revised floodplain development determine compliance with the Endangered flood stage. Warnings are issued for weather • New primary structures are not allowed If a portion of your property is in the regulations were adopted in 2011, so here is Species Act. The State of Oregon and Benton conditions that pose a threat to life and in the floodplain unless no other option floodplain but does not contain any a quick list of the adopted changes that are County are working to clarify and streamline property. Warnings may be extended in time or exists on the property; and structures or if your property is near a most likely to affect you: this requirement; more information will be floodplain, it may be helpful to apply for area coverage or cancelled. • New and substantially improved/ • A free floodplain development permit available in the future. a free Letter of Map Amendment-Out As damaged dwellings and accessory is required for all development in the Until more information is available, Shown (LOMA-OAS) to document that your More flood terminology floodplain, even if the work does not structures constructed in the floodplain contact the Benton County Community structures are located outside the floodplain. must have the first habitable floor elevated require a regular building permit or land Development Department if you are • Bankfull: the point at which the river level The LOMA-OAS is an official recognition has reached the top of its bank. For some rivers 18 inches above Base Flood Elevation; use approval. thinking about starting a project that will from FEMA that your property or structures this may not be well defined. add fill in the floodplain. It is likely that an • All electrical, mechanical, heating, vent- For more information, including the full are shown clearly as being located outside • Crest: the point at which the river is at its application for a Conditional Letter of Map ilation, plumbing and comparable equipment text of the adopted amendments, visit greatest flow or height. Revision (CLOMR) will need to be approved the floodplain. This document remains servicing a structure in the floodplain must be www.co.benton.or.us/cd/planning/code • Flood Stage: the level at which the flooding by Federal Emergency Management Agency valid as long as the current flood maps are elevated 12 inches above Base Flood Elevation; and click on the link for Chapter 83. begins to create damage to property. before beginning your project. Although effective and can be provided to insurance agents and lending institutions as often • Flow: the volume of water flowing in the • When adding onto or replacing an existing Floodplain development and the the process is a bit more complicated than river, measured in cubic feet per second. River as necessary. Contact the Benton County structure in the floodplain, only a 10% Endangered Species Act. before, approval of a CLOMR will ensure that levels for our area may be monitored at www. Planning Division to obtain instructions for expansion of the existing footprint is Development activities in the floodplain NMFS has reviewed your project and that it nwrfc.noaa.gov allowed unless the structure is elevated of stream reaches identified as essential will not harm salmon habitat. completing a LOMA-OAS application. Benton County offers FREE floodplain development permit Remember to get a free Floodplain certificates: What counts as “development?” • Riparian projects – stream restoration and records document the county’s commitment Development Permit before you begin • A pre-construction elevation certificate for In a floodplain, this term has a very broad habitat enhancement. to responsible floodplain management your project. A Floodplain Development the building site submitted with the appli- definition. Examples of “development” in a Some of the projects listed may not require and help ensure county property owners Permit is required for all development in cation for a permit; and floodplain include: a separate building permit or land use continue receiving flood insurance at a the floodplain – even if the work does not • A finished construction elevation certifi- • Structural projects – new structures, addi- approval but they all require a Floodplain discounted rate. Development Permit. If someone else will require a regular building permit or land use cate submitted prior to final inspection of tions, demolitions, fences and retaining Where can I get an application form? approval – and, best of all, it’s free. the structure (after all of the utilities have walls; be doing the project for you, remind them to get floodplain development approval first. Application forms are available online at All new work within the floodplain been placed and the grading is complet- • Electrical, plumbing and mechanical proj- http://www.co.benton.or.us/cd and at the must comply with current floodplain ed). ects – replacing or installing electrical wir- Why is this permit required? Benton County Community Development development standards, which may include Other permits may require submission ing, heat pumps and irrigation pumps; As part of Benton County’s participation office. The online version of the form has elevating the structure or utilities serving the of an elevation certificate completed by • Remodeling projects – hanging drywall, in the Community Rating System, FEMA a link to a set of step-by-step instructions structure to the Benton County design flood a licensed surveyor as well. A Floodplain replacing or installing windows, flooring requires that Benton County maintain detailing how to obtain floodplain elevation. New construction and additions Development Permit is also required for and roofs; records, in the form of Floodplain information requested on the form. For to existing structures will require that a all work to repair a structure that has been • Ground disturbing projects – filling, exca- Development Permits, of all development more information, contact Community licensed surveyor complete two elevation damaged by a flood or by any other event. vating or grading your property; and activity approved in the floodplain. These Development at 541-766-6819. Would you like a 20% discount on your flood insurance? Thanks to the work of Benton County to There are many reasons why purchasing expert and consultant with Hagan Hamilton 90 private companies nationally pro- maintain a FEMA Class 6 flood insurance flood insurance is a good idea if you live in Insurance Services, has provided a list of viding insurance backed by the federal rating, if you have a flood insurance policy or near a floodplain; the most important of reasons which include the following: government; for property in a Benton County floodplain, which is that it is required for many home • Everyone lives in a flood zone, even if not • Flood insurance is easy to get from these you’re already getting this discount. mortgages. If a lending bank discovers that near water. Floods are caused by storms, private insurers and independent agents; If you don’t have flood insurance yet, you a property that should have flood insurance melting snow, water backup due to • Content coverage is separate, so even if you don’t own the property but are rent- will automatically receive a 20% discount if doesn’t, it will send a 45-day notice letter overloaded drainage systems and broken ing you can have your possessions cov- your Benton County property is in a mapped forcing the property owner, who is paying water mains; ered against flood damage; and floodplain or a 10% discount if your property the mortgage to the bank, to acquire a flood • Flood damage is not covered by home- • Federal disaster assistance is not always is outside the floodplain. These discounts insurance policy. owners policies, but you can protect your available. It is only available if the Presi- are also available for properties located in Of course, there are many other reasons home, business and belongings with dent declares a disaster and it must be the cities of Albany and Corvallis. Contact to get flood insurance if your property is in flood insurance from National Flood In- repaid, but flood insurance covers dam- your insurance agent today to make sure or near a floodplain, even if the property is surance Program; ages regardless of whether a disaster is Bellfountain Road, January 2012 your flood insurance policy is current. paid off. Gail Moldovan, a flood insurance • Flood insurance is affordable, with about declared. Benton County helps property owner move house Benton County recently assisted beaver dams diverting the flow from the property owner picking up the rest of the the higher side of the 5-acre property. The a rural landowner who found original path – caused the creek to shift. project costs. The property owner also will house was moved about 600 feet to an area a combination of natural water Eventually, the house was a few feet from the be receiving a cost share contribution for not likely to ever experience flooding. These flow changes and some heavy creek bank. the project under a policy with the National flood mitigation projects are designed to beaver activity placed a home in In 2012, the house flooded twice – once in Flood Insurance Program. peril. January and again in November – causing In November, construction crews lifted significantly reduce further losses to the The dwelling, located on severe and costly damage. the 2,564-square-foot home, placed it on National Flood Insurance Program and for Soap Creek Road in northern Benton County applied for relief from the wheels and carefully pulled it up the hill to federal disaster assistance. Benton County, originally was Federal Emergency Management Agency constructed several hundred on behalf of the property owner to pay for feet from the creek. But changes relocating the house to higher ground. in the flow of the water over the FEMA approved grant funding to cover Local Flood History years – somewhat caused by 75% of the cost to shift the home, with the Soap Creek Road house move, November 2013 Major flooding in Benton County has also occured in: New law can impact flood insurance rates 1861, 1881, 1890, 1901, 1903, Federal legislation – known as the Biggert- years for flood insurance policies on pre- floodplain manager. 1907, 1909, 1923, 1927, 1943, Waters Flood Insurance Reform Act of 2012 FIRM non-primary residences, businesses Your lender may contact you with a re- – may cause your flood insurance costs to in- and severe repetitive loss properties. New quirement to purchase a flood insurance 1945, 1948, 1964, 1972, 1974, crease. policies issued after the purchase of a prop- policy within 45 days if your mortgaged Bunker Hill Road, January 2012 1996, 2006 and 2012 The new awl caused the National Flood erty, a lapse in flood insurance coverage or building is located in the flood hazard zone Insurance Program (NFIP) to begin phasing as a result of substantial damage or a sub- but is uninsured for flood. Do not ignore this STAGES Willamette at Willamette at Luckiamute Long Tom Marys out subsidies that were applied to buildings stantial improvement will be rated without letter! If you do not purchase the required Corvallis Albany at Suver at Monroe at Philomath constructed in Benton County before Aug. the subsidy. The subsidy was never applied flood insurance your lender will be forced Flood Stage 30.0 25.0 27.0 9.0 20.0 5, 1986. This is the date that Benton County to buildings constructed after Aug. 5, 1986. to place it at a potentially higher cost than received its first Flood Insurance Rate Maps An Elevation Certificate will be needed to what you can find on your own. Contact your Major Flood 36.0 32.0 32.0 12.0 20.7 (FIRMs) from Federal Emergency Manage- properly rate pre-FIRM buildings for flood homeowner’s insurance agent to purchase 12/1/1861 12/4/1861 12/22/1964 1/2/1943 1/20/2012 ment Agency (FEMA). Buildings located in insurance. You may need to hire a licensed flood coverage or go to www.floodsmart.gov Historic Peak 42.4 36.0 34.52 17.14 21.5 FEMA-mapped flood zones that were con- land surveyor to complete a new Elevation to find an agent. Feb. 1996 33.5 30.05 33.0 10.8 20.8 structed before Aug. 5, 1986, are known as Certificate if an existing one cannot be lo- More information about the Reform Act pre-FIRM. cated with your mortgage documents or may be found at http://www.floodsmart. Jan. 2012 28.5 24.57 33.89 8.93 21.5 Subsidies will be phased out over four from your insurance agent, lender or county gov/floodsmart/pages/bw-12.jsp.