Mapping Base Flood Elevations on Flood Insurance Rate Maps
This online engineering PDH course examines the principles, procedures, and mapping practices associated with Base Flood Elevations (BFEs) on Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs).
This course focuses on Automated Map Production (AMP) and its role in autogenerating FIRM panels that comply with Risk MAP standards. It describes the technical use of whole-foot rounded BFEs versus decimal value BFEs, specifically addressing how stream slope and map scale dictate the appropriate level of precision. Furthermore, this course examines cross section and evaluation line considerations for 1D and 2D hydraulic models, ensuring accurate flood elevation determinations in areas of complex overbank flow, ponding, and coastal zones.
In addition, this course explores the core of real-world flood risk mapping, automated production tools, BFE plotting protocols, and hydraulic data interpretation. It explains how mapping algorithms work, how to select the right precision levels, and how to align map production with performance goals, all rooted in real-world FEMA flood insurance studies.
This 1 PDH online course is applicable to civil engineers, surveyors, as well as other technical professionals who are interested in learning more about mapping Base Flood Elevations.
This PE continuing education course is intended to provide you with the following specific knowledge and skills:
- Explaining the function of Automated Map Production (AMP) in generating FIRM panels and maintaining Risk MAP standards
- Understanding the criteria for using whole-foot rounded BFEs versus decimal value BFEs based on stream slopes and hydraulic data confidence
- Analyzing the strategic placement of 1D cross sections and 2D evaluation lines to ensure accurate interpolation of flood elevations across complex floodplains
- Identifying technical strategies to avoid overcrowding of BFEs on map panels while maintaining necessary vertical resolution
- Recognizing the specific mapping requirements for riverine, ponding, lacustrine, and coastal BFEs, including the treatment of unrevised flooding sources
- Applying quality assurance and best practices to verify that auto-generated map data meets both technical and cartographic expectations
Upon successful completion of the quiz, print your Certificate of Completion instantly. (Note: if you are paying by check or money order, you will be able to print it after we receive your payment.) For your convenience, we will also email it to you. Please note that you can log in to your account at any time to access and print your Certificate of Completion.