Linn County and the City of Cedar Rapids, in cooperation with the Silver Jackets (a part of the US Army Corps of Engineers), recently completed the installation of High Water Mark signs at several locations in Cedar Rapids and unincorporated Linn County. The High Water Mark signs serve not only as a reminder about the devastating flood of 2008, but also raise awareness of the benefits of flood mitigation and preparedness. The signs were installed as part of the of the 10-year commemoration of the June 2008 flood event.
As part of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), the High Water Mark (HWM) Initiative is a community-based awareness program that increases awareness of flood risks and encourages action to mitigate those risks.
Both Linn County and the City of Cedar Rapids participate in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Community Rating System (CRS) Program. The CRS Program provides reduced insurance costs for FEMA flood insurance policy holders. Projects like the High Water Mark program help CRS communities achieve reduced flood insurance rates.
As part of the project, communities post HWM signs in prominent places, hold a high-profile launch event to unveil the signs, conduct ongoing education to build local awareness of flood risk and complete mitigation actions to build community resilience against future flooding.
See a map of all the High Water Marker locations.