Flooding

Pennsylvania has historically experienced more flooding than almost every other state in the nation. As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security, I believe that finding long term solutions to this continuing threat to life and property deserves our full attention. 

 

As I travel throughout the district, it is clear to me that we can do a better job of protecting ourselves from future storms. What happens in our streams and rivers is a reflection of what is happening in our watersheds. More uncontrolled runoff means bigger and more destructive floods.

 

Government alone cannot effectively prevent the next flood. We must all work together to implement common sense watershed management practices that reduce storm water runoff. Here is some useful information that can help you and your community be better prepared for the next storm. If you require assistance with flood damage or natural resource management issues, please contact Ed Zygmunt in my Clarks Summit office.

 

Ed Zygmunt

(570) 585-9988

Ed.zygmunt@mail.house.gov

 

Jump To:

• What my office can do for you
• What I am doing in Congress
• What my office cannot do for you
• Helpful links

 

 

What my office can do for you:

• Ensure that the appropriate federal agencies receive the funding necessary to effectively fulfill their duties and responsibilities as set forth by Congress
• Act as a liaison between flood victims and the Federal Emergency Management Agency or other appropriate agencies
• Refer constituents to appropriate federal, state, and federal officials and agencies that may provide financial, technical, or other assistance
• Help coordinate flood prevention efforts by local, state, and federal officials and agencies

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What I am doing in Congress:

• Sponsoring and supporting legislation to improve laws and regulations affecting watershed management, stormwater management, and flood control
• Working to secure federal funding for justified flood control, stormwater management, and other environmental improvement projects
• Providing funding to municipalities through appropriate federal agencies for stormwater infrastructure improvements
• Encouraging sound watershed management practices that help reduce stormwater runoff and flooding
• Working in partnership with non-profit conservation organizations to improve and protect the environment

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What my office cannot do:

• Provide direct financial assistance to municipalities and property owners. Financial assistance can only be applied for and received through appropriate federal, state, or local agencies.
• Intervene in any matter before the courts relating to flooding, stormwater management, or the environment.
• Inappropriately interfere with the enforcement or administration of regulations, programs, or grants by federal, state, or local agencies relating to flooding, stormwater management, or the environment

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Helpful Links

 

Click here to be directed to the Federal Emergency Mangament Agency (FEMA)'s internet headquarters for Pennsylvania.

 

Here are some useful links to protect yourself against flooding:

• Using Rain Barrels to Capture & Reuse Stormwater

• Rain Barrel Guide
  

• Taking Care of Stormwater: A Bayscapes Guide
  

• Managing Stormwater: Best Management Practices
  

• DEP Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual

 

Below are some reference links to learn more about the issue of watershed management and flood prevention:

• Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds
  

• Penn State Water Resources Center
  

• Stream Restoration
  

• Backyard Woods
  

• Center for Watershed Protection
  

• Streamside Buffers – the Link between Land and Water

   

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