Salem Wins Floodplain Management Recognition

Already a Bargain, Salem Residents to Pay Even Less for Flood Insurance

» 2010 Region X News Releases


SALEM, Ore. – City of Salem residents are about to pay even less for flood insurance, as a direct result of their community’s continued active participation in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Community Rating System (CRS). According to FEMA Acting Regional Administrator Dennis Hunsinger, they’ll not only qualify for reduced flood insurance premiums, but enjoy reduced vulnerability to flood hazards as well.

"The CRS rewards communities for implementing programs and policies which protect their citizens from floods. Such activities can range from mapping, regulations and flood damage reduction to flood preparedness and public awareness programs," said Hunsinger. "Salem's high regulatory standards, public education outreach and elevation certificate initiatives have earned a CRS Class 7 rating."

Flood insurance premium reductions resulting from qualifying community activities run in five percent increments, from five to 45 percent. Class ratings range from Ten to One. The higher the flood protection activity, the lower the Class rating. Total NFIP coverage in Salem is over $221 million, with average annual premiums of $848. With 1,042 policies currently in force within the city limits, that’s an average savings of around $112 per policy.

FEMA's mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.

ATTENTION NEWS ROOMS: FEMA Region X Federal Coordinating Officer Dolph Diemont will present the City of Salem with an official CRS plaque Monday, 22 March 2010 at 6:30 p.m. in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 555 Liberty Street SE in Salem. Contact: Sara Jondahl (503) 588-6211.