Flood Hazard Protection Information

FLOOD HAZARD WARNING

 The Somerset County Flood Information System (SCFIS) is in place throughout the County, including Bedminster, to provide all townships with pertinent information with regard to river, stream, and other flooding prior to the onset of a possible flood event.  The SCFIS Handbook is available at the Bedminster Library for public review.  Emergency alerts can be obtained by email and text message.  Visit the Somerset County Emergency preparedness webpage to register:  https://www.co.somerset.nj.us/about/emergency-alerts

 FLOOD SAFETY

 If you live near a brook, stream, drainage ditch or low-lying area, you should be concerned about flood hazards.  There are several actions you can take to protect yourself. 

 1.    Know the flood warning procedures.

2.    Plan escape routes to high ground.

3.    Monitor water levels in nearby brooks, streams, etc. Stay tuned to local radio (WMTR 1250 AM) for warning broadcasts

4.    When you hear of possible flooding, be prepared to shut off all gas and electrical systems.  In addition you should have an escape route planned for your family.

5.    Evacuate the hazard areas when advised by police, fire or radio alert. If time permits, shut off all gas, heat and electrical systems.  Take a portable radio and flashlight with you.

6.    DO NOT attempt to cross a flooded stream or street on foot or by car.

7.    If your car stalls in water immediately abandon it and seek high ground.

8.    Keep everyone (especially children) away from flood waters, brooks, storm drains, etc.

9.    Be alert and cautious, especially at night.

10.  DO NOT return to the flooded area or your home until you know it is safe.

LOCAL FLOOD HAZARDS

 Bedminster is subject to flooding along various brooks and streams, as well as occasional highway and street flooding due to the topography and soil conditions in our area.  Some of the streets that are affected by this flooding are:

 Pottersville Road             River Road         

Burnt Mills Road              Black River Road             

Milnor Road                      Bunn Road

 The Federal Government has identified the floodplains by preparing a detailed map showing the 100 year floodplain.

 The floodplain map and information on how to get a certification as to whether a property is within the floodplain can be obtained at the Township Municipal Building (908-212-7000).  Copies of the map and other documents may be reviewed at the Bedminster Library.  Additional information on obtaining flood hazard alerts and flood safety can be viewed on our Flood Hazard Information page.

 FLOODPLAIN

 The 100 year floodplain is an area that can be expected to be flooded once every 100 years.  It has a 1% chance of being flooded in any given year and about a 25% chance of being flooded over the life of a typical 30-year mortgage.  You can obtain a flood insurance policy to protect yourself from losses due to flooding.  

 Although a 100 year flood can be expected to produce severe damage, smaller floods have a greater chance of occurring at and may pose a significant hazard to people and property.

FLOOD INSURANCE

 Your Homeowners Insurance Policy will not cover losses due to flooding.  Bedminster Township participates in the National Flood Insurance Program, so you are entitled to purchase a separate flood insurance policy.  This insurance is backed by the Federal government and is available to everyone, even properties that have been flooded.  Because Bedminster participates in the Community Rating System, you will receive a reduction in the insurance premium of 20%.

 For many people, their home and its contents represent their greatest investment.  We strongly urge you to buy flood insurance to protect yourself from devastating losses due to flooding.  The fact that your house or business has not experienced flooding in the recent past does not mean you are free from potential flooding.  High water and flooding can occur at any time. 

 Information about flood insurance can be obtained from your insurance agent.  There is a thirty (30) day waiting period before a flood insurance policy takes effect, so you should call your insurance company now.  You do not have to live in the floodplain to qualify for flood insurance.  Property owners can insure their building and contents.  Renters can insure their possessions.  More information can be obtained at the NFIP website: www.floodsmart.govInformation can also be obtained at FEMA’s flood insurance page: www.fema.gov/business/nfip.

 PROPERTY PROTECTION

 There are a number of ways residents can floodproof or protect their property.  All residents should call the Construction Department with respect to houses to be built in the floodplain, stormwater run-off regulations and uniform construction code requirements.  Existing residences, industrial and commercial buildings located in or near the floodplain can be protected by several cost-effective measures to withstand flooding.  Depending on the situation, location and availability of funds, the following measures can and should be used.

 1.    Install a sump pump system to dispose of infiltrating water.

2.    Strengthen basement walls.

3.    Install water resistant materials, such as paints, floors, carpets, doors and windows.

4.    Elevate electrical and mechanical equipment in the basement.

5.    Floodproof walls, windows and doors.

6.    Construct flood walls or closures.

7.    Elevate structures.

 

FLOOD PROTECTION ASSISTANCE

 You can contact the Township Engineer for the following information:

 1.    Flood map information.  Including Base Flood Elevation (BFE) data, Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) location information and floodway limits.

2.    Flood protection advice and recommendations

3.    Information about flood insurance

4.    Set up on-site visit

5.    Elevation certificates, if on file.