State of Montana Flood Map Modernization Program Web Site

State of Montana Flood Map Modernization Program web site.

Map Modernization (Map Mod) is a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) initiative to transform the nation’s flood insurance rate maps into reliable, user-friendly products. FEMA desires individual states to take the lead in flood insurance mapping through the Cooperating Technical Partners (CTP) Program. Montana entered into this program, taking responsibility for the state’s Map Mod. Montana needed to produce a focused outreach program to engage affected stakeholders. Developing a Map Mod web site with valuable information was key to achieving successful outreach and engagement with stakeholders.

PBS&J supported the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation by leveraging the previously deployed Georgia Map Mod Program web site -- also designed, hosted, and maintained by PBS&J -- as a template to develop their own site (www.montanadfirm.com). Montana’s site provides:

• Status updates for mapping projects in each county to allow viewing and downloading of preliminary and final Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps (DFIRMS).
• Brochures, handouts, and presentations explaining the Map Mod Program, processes, and standards.
• Data for assessing mapping needs.
• Resources related to the Montana Map Mod Program.

As a result, the Montana Map Mod web site has been an effective outreach tool for the public and community officials.