GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. — As some areas of Mesa County remain at risk of flooding, local officials have rolled out a series of services designed to help homeowners protect their properties from potential damage. With the support of the county’s Floodplain Administrator, residents can receive advice on safeguarding their homes and reducing the impact of floods.
Local Officials Take Action to Address Flood Risks
Flooding in Mesa County has been an ongoing concern for many residents, and officials are responding with practical solutions. Peter Ware, a local resident, shared his experience with flooding: “I came home one time, and it was flooding. It sounded like a good-sized train going by. Logs, debris, all that stuff.” For some, the damage can be severe, like Leslie Boyd, who experienced the worst flood of her life when the waters reached the first floor of her home.
Recognizing the need for assistance, Mesa County has taken steps to ensure that residents have the resources to minimize the risks of flooding. The county has a dedicated Floodplain Administrator who can visit properties at risk of flooding, even those not officially identified as FEMA flood zones, to provide advice and recommendations on flood prevention measures.
Capital Improvement Program Targets Flooded Areas
Carrie Gudorf, the Mesa County Regulatory Programs Manager, explained how the county’s Capital Improvement Program helps assess and address potential flood risks. “We have a Capital Improvement Program that we look at. Say there’s flooding coming from a Mesa County street that’s impacting a home, we look at those on a case-by-case basis,” Gudorf said. The program involves a thorough drainage study to evaluate the feasibility of flood mitigation efforts in impacted areas.
Preventive Measures for Homeowners
For those concerned about the risk of flooding, there are several preventive measures that can be taken. Gudorf recommends planning ahead, especially for new structures. Building homes higher up or further away from floodplains can reduce flood risks, as well as elevating mechanical equipment above the base flood elevation. In addition, sandbagging around properties in flood-prone areas can provide a simple yet effective barrier to rising waters.
However, one of the most important steps homeowners can take is purchasing flood insurance, which provides a financial safety net in the event of significant damage. Gudorf urges residents to prepare for floods and take proactive steps to protect their property and livelihood.
Accessing Resources and Information
Mesa County’s website provides more information about flood prevention services and resources available to residents. Homeowners are encouraged to reach out for guidance on how to better safeguard their homes, whether it’s through the Capital Improvement Program, advice from the Floodplain Administrator, or simply knowing the right precautions to take.
