To build real resilience, we must simplify the federal system
“Since Helene struck, we have had to navigate a system that is fundamentally broken,” said a North Carolina commissioner. “Reform is clearly needed. We need less paperwork and faster relief.” Over the last decade, the federal government spent $558 billion on disaster response—in the ballpark of what it spent on its share to build the […]
Embracing flood-smart agriculture to reduce flood risk throughout a watershed
Farms and agricultural land cover hundreds of millions of acres across the United States, making them one of the most powerful levers for managing flooding. When farmers adopt practices that slow runoff, increase soil infiltration, and store water, they protect their own fields while serving as critical flood infrastructure for entire watersheds. But right now, […]
AFC cohort aims to simplify federal funding process
Note: In late September 2024, Hurricane Helene caused widespread flooding, catastrophic damage, and loss of life across the Carolinas and in two Cohort communities, Pickens County and Canton. AFC is working closely with these communities and across Western North Carolina as they respond to and recover from the storm to support the impacted communities and […]
AFC abroad: Netherlands trip explores one nation’s approach to flood solutions
The American Flood Coalition participated in a trip hosted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands to explore its diverse approaches to flooding and water management.
North Carolina and South Carolina use budgets to boost flood resilience
Both North and South Carolina used their 2023 legislative sessions to adapt to stronger storms and more frequent flooding.
Florida and Texas pass major bills to boost flood resilience
Florida and Texas are models for building smart, long-lasting flood resilience.
Flood insurance updates are long overdue for Iowa
Iowans know the importance of flood insurance, which financially protects people, farmsteads, buildings, and belongings when floods happen. Now, for the first time in 50 years, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is updating how it prices flood insurance. In this op-ed, AFC Executive Director Melissa Roberts and Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-IA) lay out the […]
Why flood resilience is key to public health
As communities prepare for and respond to flooding and sea level rise, one impact is often overlooked: how flooding affects long-term public health.
What to know about North Carolina’s historic investment in flood resilience
North Carolina’s budget for the next year includes the largest investment to address flooding in state history.
The bipartisan infrastructure bill will create flood-resilient communities — here’s how
Congress passed the $1.2 trillion bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, signed into law on November 15. The law marks a historic investment in the country’s flood resilience.