PlanRVA launches flood risk mapper

CONTRIBUTED REPORT

March 12-18 is Virginia Flood Awareness Week and leaders across the state are encouraging people to understand their local flood risk.

People can type an address within the Greater Richmond Region into PlanRVA’s free Flood Risk Mapper to determine flooding threats.

“Flooding is the most common and costly nat - ural disaster in Virginia,” said Katie Moody, Regional Emergency Management Program Coordinator at PlanRVA.

“The truth is, floods can happen everywhere and any time of year. The new tool can help people understand and make informed decisions about flood risks.”

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), 90 per - cent of natural disasters in the United States involve a flood.

Twenty-two major disasters – including hurricanes, severe storms, snow and ice, drought and floods – have been declared within the Richmond region since 1965.

PlanRVA leaders warn that changing weather patterns, new development, small streams and limited drainage can turn a heavy rain into flash floods in minutes.

Estimates suggest one inch of water in a home can cause upwards of $25,000 in damages, but only 3% of Virginians have flood insurance.

Flood insurance is an additional policy for owners, renters and businesses that can cover buildings and contents to help the community recover faster after a flood.

Clean up any dead leaves or other debris that might be a source of fungal inoculum. Either burn or bag and dispose of this material–it is not a good candidate for the compost pile. Reducing plant stress is a more complicated question. Take a soil sample to ensure adequate nutrients and pH. Natural soil pHs in Goochland run a little lower than the 6.5-7.0 range preferred by boxwood. Treat any insect issues and water plants during dry spells, even in the middle of the winter. Have a question about a plant, insect or soil? The Goochland Extension Office is here to help! Give the office a call at (804) 556-5841 and speak with either Bob or Nicole. Drop-ins are also welcome at the office, which is located at 2748 Dogtown Road. The Goochland Extension Office is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. contributed by the Goochland extension Office.