Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Booker: Be aware of of flood plain

The potential for serious flooding in Nevada County may seem slight but Dale Booker, Nevada County 911 Coordinator, says the countys flood plain is a fact that could seriously impact some.

Some 91,000 acres of Nevada County lies within a designated flood plain area. The biggest issue on a daily basis is not even whether the area will flood, but whether the homeowner can be financially protected in that event. Booker said many people have the attitude that if they own the property they have the right to build a house in any manner they choose. While thats correct, the financial aspects of a flood plain may be a problem when the owner attempts to borrow money, refinance or take out flood insurance on that home.

Booker said that in most cases, theres no need to eliminate plans to build within the flood plain. Building in those areas is not prohibited. The plans may merely need an adjustment for the floors of the house to be above the projected flood level. In most cases, thats not even a significant difference, Booker said.

The flood plain lies generally in areas along creeks and streams. There is a map at the 911 Office, located across the street from the Nevada County Courthouse in the former health department building. Booker said the 911 staff will help land owners locate their property to first determine whether it lies within the flood plain. If the property is outside that area, there are no flood plain restrictions. If its inside, the property owner will need to have an engineer or licensed surveyor determine the minimum elevation for the building.

Most lenders require these steps for any construction but Booker said its important for the property owners to also be aware. Even if a lender is willing to forego the flood plain review at the initial loan, the property owner may have trouble when its time to renew or renegotiate the loan. Booker said theres the potential for a serious financial impact.

Booker said the flood plain maps are drawn to cover a specific situation. In the case of Nevada County, its what would likely occur if Narrows Dam were to break.

Hopefully, that never happens, he said. But you cant gamble on it.