Mesa County is taking proactive steps to help residents protect their homes from flooding, offering a range of prevention services for properties in flood-prone areas.
Flooding has long been a concern for many residents, with some homeowners experiencing severe damage. Peter Ware, who has dealt with flooding before, recalled a harrowing experience: “I came home one time, and it was flooding. It sounded like a good-sized train going by. Logs, debris, all that stuff.”
For others, the damage has been even more extensive. Leslie Boyd, whose home was hit by a significant flood, said: “This last flood was the worst one, of course. It came in, and it got higher and higher and higher. And ended up coming through the first floor of my house.”
Floodplain Administrator Provides On-Site Assessments
To assist residents in mitigating flood risks, Mesa County has a Floodplain Administrator who evaluates individual properties and offers tailored advice. The administrator assesses whether homes are located in FEMA flood zones or other hazardous areas and provides recommendations to reduce potential damage.
Carrie Gudorf, Mesa County Regulatory Programs Manager, explained: “Those areas that are in a hazard or not identified as a FEMA flood zone, we’ll go out to those properties either way and take a look. We let homeowners know if their property has other hazards they need to consider.”
Capital Improvement Program Addresses Systemic Flooding Issues
In addition to individual property assessments, Mesa County also utilizes the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to address broader drainage concerns. If a county-owned street or drainage system contributes to a home’s flooding risk, officials evaluate the situation to determine whether mitigation efforts can be implemented.
Gudorf elaborated: “If there’s funding coming from a Mesa County street that’s impacting a home, we look at those on a case-by-case basis. We identify them as a potential project and then conduct a drainage study to see if anything can be done to help.”
Flood Prevention Strategies for Homeowners
While Mesa County offers support, homeowners can take additional measures to protect their properties:
- Building Higher: When constructing new homes, homeowners can build on elevated ground or further from floodplains.
- Using Sandbags: Strategic sandbag placement can help redirect water away from vulnerable areas.
- Raising Mechanical Equipment: Electrical systems, HVAC units, and other mechanical equipment should be elevated above the base flood elevation.
- Purchasing Flood Insurance: Even if a home is not located in a high-risk flood zone, flood insurance can provide crucial financial protection.
Resources Available for Residents
Mesa County encourages residents to educate themselves on flood risks before purchasing or building homes. The county’s website provides additional information on flood zones, prevention strategies, and available support programs.
With flooding becoming an increasing concern in certain areas, Mesa County officials remain committed to working with homeowners to minimize risk and protect properties from future flood damage.
