Representatives from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), in conjunction with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR), will host a Flood Risk Information Open House for residents of Crawford County on Thursday, Aug. 13, beginning at 6:00 p.m. at the Crawford County Administration Building, 225 N. Beaumont Road, Room 236, 2nd floor, in Prairie du Chien.

Newly released preliminary Digital Flood Insurance Rate Maps will be displayed so residents can learn about their risk of flooding and how this will affect their lives and property. Those interested in attending may drop in at any time during the evening to talk with FEMA or WDNR representatives.

“Everyone is at some risk of flooding,” said Janet M. Odeshoo, acting regional administrator of FEMA Region V in Chicago. “People need to know what that risk is so they can make informed decisions about their safety and financial investments.”

Some residents may be required to purchase flood insurance based on these maps once they become effective. Federal banking regulations require the purchase of flood insurance for loans on structures in high risk flood areas. Once effective, these maps will be used to determine flood risk, develop mitigation measures, and encourage wise and responsible risk management decision-making.

For more information, contact Joel Intrieri, FEMA natural hazards program specialist, at (312) 408-5220, or Gary Heinrichs, WDNR National Flood Insurance Program state coordinator, at (608) 266-3093.