Introduction

The problem of protecting lives and property from flooding in the lower Colorado River basin has become increasingly severe as a result of the rapid expansion of homes and businesses in the floodplain. This has been evidenced by devastating floods that occurred in all or part of the basin in 1991, 1997 and 1998. Unfortunately, local floodplain management efforts are sometimes ineffective due to the lack of coordination and sufficient technical support.

To study ways to address these problems, the Lower Colorado River Authority sponsored a year-long series of meetings guided by a Steering Committee of local government officials. Their conclusion was that regional coordination and planning was needed.

In response, over fifty participating communities have joined together to create the Texas Colorado River Floodplain Coalition. Based upon earlier recommendations made by the Steering Committee, the Coalition has adopted a mission statement, goals and objectives, as well as a process to implement and build upon the coalition charter. The LCRA has committed to provide all necessary technical and logistical support for the effort to succeed.

As a part of this process, the Executive Committee has directed a number of regional and technical working committees to develop recommendations on strategies to achieve Coalition goals. A Stakeholder Advisory Group has also been formed to provide comment on Coalition initiatives. The Executive Committee meets quarterly to consider and take action on the recommendations.

For more information, contact Roy Sedwick, at the LCRA, P.O. Box 220, Austin, TX 78767-0220, or call 1-800-776-5272, Ext. 2805, fax 512-473-3539, or e-mail tcrfc-info@tcrfc.org