CFM

Certified Floodplain Managers

Founded in 1977, the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) is a non-profit organization of more than 7,000 members working in floodplain management, flood hazard mitigation, climate change, the National Flood Insurance Program, and flood preparedness, warning, and recovery. A respected voice in floodplain management practice and policy, ASFPM represents the flood hazard specialists working in local, state and federal governments, research community, insurance industry, and in the fields of engineering, hydrologic forecasting, emergency response, water resources, and others. ASFPM is based in Madison, WI.

The mission of ASFPM is to promote education, policies and activities that mitigate current and future losses, costs and human suffering caused by flooding, and to protect the natural and beneficial functions of floodplains – all without causing adverse impacts.

Today ASFPM is the most respected voice in floodplain management practice and policy throughout the nation. Through a strong advocacy network, ASFPM has successfully influenced numerous federal programs, including aspects of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), post-disaster mitigation funding, the Community Rating System, a national council on mapping standards, and the major increase in funding for Flood Map Modernization.

At the same time, because flooding is a local issue, ASFPM has long encouraged the creation of state chapters to better support professionals at the state and local levels and provide a stronger unified voice for local communities. There are 37 chapters representing 42 states with a number of other state associations working toward ASFPM chapter status. Together, our national members and state chapter members are 20,000 strong and represent local, state, and federal government agencies, citizen groups, private consulting firms, academia, insurance industry, and lenders.

In addition, ASFPM established the national certified floodplain manager (CFM) program in 1998 to create a baseline of professional knowledge and competencies in floodplain management. The program requires passing a rigorous exam and earning continuing education credits annually to maintain certification. Currently, we have more than 10,500 CFMs nationwide.

As climate change has increased the intensity and frequency of severe storms, the need for sound floodplain management is more important than ever. ASFPM’s influence is expressed through policy and practice changes that influence floodplain management in the U.S. and internationally. Our goals are to help the public and private sectors:

  • Reduce the loss of human life and property damage resulting from flooding.
  • Champion environmental justice initiatives.
  • Preserve the natural and cultural values of floodplains.
  • Promote flood mitigation for the prevention of loss and the wise use of floodplains.
  • Avoid actions that exacerbate flooding.

CLICK HERE to view Certified Floodplain Managers in Hawaii.

For more information about ASFPM, visit their website at: https://www.floods.org/.

Last Updated: 10/19/20