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Show The extent of the flood plain for planning purposes should be 4217 feet since this represents the most recently established level and reflects 1980s flood events. However, there is evidence of lake flooding at even higher elevations in historical times. The flood plain should be considered 4217 feet to manage the shoreline to prevent or minimize encroachment below that level. Development on the flood plain needs to be restricted to enterprises that expect to be abandoned by flooding or to take the responsibility for their own relocation or diking and pumping. There should be no development on sovereign land that interrupts the dynamic and function of the lake below meander line. While the state does not have jurisdiction of lands above meander line, entities around the state will look to see which line the GSL plan recognizes. DNR should set the precedent by recognizing the best technically defensible flood plain line in this plan. Alternative C is not economically feasible, nor is it wise because it would encourage development to 4212 feet which is an invitation for disaster as evidenced by events in the 1980s. Box Elder and Davis Counties have developed a flood plain line with the COE that is based on engineering studies and evaluates lake fetch and bathymetry to determine the extent of flooding and wave run- up during high water periods. This is more accurate than choosing a specific elevation. A flood plain elevation of 4217 feet is based upon the recent ( since 1847) high lake level of 4212 feet, plus three foot wind tide and two foot wave action. DFFSL is not aware of flooding above 4217 feet in historical times. The amount of influence ' associated with any DNR- designated flood plain is minimal. Statute requires definition of the flood plain and imposes that the flood plain be maintained as a hazard area. This can readily be accomplished on state land, and will occur through the preferred alternative, but on other land, planning and zoning are the responsibility of local government. The three main reasons the team chose a particular elevation are: 1) to make a statement regarding natural lake level fluctuation; 2) to recognize recent flooding during the 1980s when the lake rose to 4211.5 feet; and 3) to discourage development below meander where possible to respond to our statutory code responsibilities ( 65A- 10- 8). DNR recognizes the detailed study that can occur on a case- by- case basis for the FEMA flood plain and yields to local authority on development in the flood plain above meander. The diking policy proposed under the preferred alternative would provide for assessment of shoreline- related impacts of sovereign land developments. 1.2 Develop strategies to deal with fluctuating lake level Public comments indicate considerable confusion regarding use of lake level zones for management and flood response. The public requested additional information on possible management actions, consequences and the reasoning supporting use of these zones. More organization would also assist discussions on this topic and provide a framework for developing planning strategies for various lake levels. Comments 274 |