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Show dynamics. In order to better provide for the protection and use of the Jordan River channel for storm drainage and flood control, it is necessary and desirable to adopt a county- wide management plan designed to promote greater channel stability within the flood channel corridor. Many of the cities that border the Jordan River ( Salt Lake City, Midvale, West Valley City, Taylorsville, West Jordan, Riverton and Bluffdale) are developing their own management plans for the Jordan River within their city boundaries. Many of these city plans include the establishment of parkways and trails, not merely to address flooding concerns but also to resolve environmental and recreational issues. It is important that these cities' planning efforts are well coordinated, with each other, and with the county's effort to establish a meander corridor. 13.8 Drought Reduction Alternatives In contrast to flooding, which tends to be more local in extent, drought is most often basin- wide, regional or statewide. Therefore, it has been dealt with in the past on a statewide basis. A drought response plan has been prepared and is now in place to provide an effective means for the state of Utah to assess and respond to drought impacts. The plan came into being as a result of experience gained during the severe drought of 1977. 13.9 Other Emergency Alternatives The " other" water- related emergency problems described in subsection 13.6 are local in nature. Communities should have a disaster response plan. First response to any disaster should take place at the local level. Before any city, town or county appeals to the state or federal government for assistance, it should be certain that the event is beyond its capacity to handle the emergency. Local governments should develop disaster response plans with assistance from the Division of Comprehensive Emergency Management and they should be coordinated with neighboring communities. 13.10 Issues and Recommendations The following recommendations deal with reducing damages from floods in the Jordan River Basin through studies, projects, management and regulations. 13.10.1 Flood Plain Management Issue: Local governments need to be aware of their responsibilities as it relates to flood plain management and the National Flood Insurance Program. Discussion: The National Flood Insurance Program ( NFIP) was established by Congress in 1968 as a result of large federal outlays for structural measures and disaster relief. Its purpose is to reduce flood loses, prevent unwise development in flood plains, and provide affordable flood insurance for the public. Local entities should conduct education programs on flood hazard awareness and the benefits of participation in the NFIP. Twelve separate participating NFIP communities are located in the basin. Approximately 436 policies are in force with a total dollar coverage of approximately $ 34,269,800. A community agrees to enact and enforce minimum flood plain management requirements as stated in the Code of Federal Regulation ( CFR), part 60.3. In exchange for enforcing these regulations, flood insurance is made available within the participating community. These regulations apply to new construction and substantial improvements. The Division of Comprehensive Emergency Management is the state coordinating agency for the NFIP. The office can assist local participating communities in the implementation of the flood plain management objectives defined by the NFIP. The Corps of Engineers, through its Flood Plain Management Program, also can develop flood plain boundary maps at no cost for those communities which need one or update those which do not adequately reflect current conditions Recommendation: Non- participating local entities should become qualified to participate in the National Flood Insurance Program. The Division of Comprehensive Emergency Management should identify the communities not participating in the ( NFIP) and meet with them in an effort to help them qualify for the program. 13.10.2 Disaster Response Plans Issue: Not all communities have a disaster response plan. Discussion: Local governments need to increase their ability to respond to natural disasters and emergencies. Emergency Operations Plans ( EOPs), also referred to as Disaster Response Plans, address 13- 6 |