ISWS Floodplain Model Data Inventory

Tips for Effective Ordering

Please remember that the ISWS cannot provide you with "everything there is" from an FIS for a floodplain or FIS model.
Our service is to search for a copy of the applicable hydraulic model run.
See Scope of the ISWS Floodplain Model Service for additional details.

Before You Request Model Data:

Visit the community's local floodplain map repository:
- to determine the FEMA maps that you need, and
- to search for any FEMA Letters of Map Revision (LOMRs) that may affect your area of interest.
Determine an appropriate reach of interest, identifying specific landmarks (or FIS cross-sections).
Order the effective FIRM(s) and FIS (and Floodway panels, if the FIRM is dated prior to 1988) from FEMA.
Find all the applicable text in Sections 3 & 4 of the FIS text describing the methods used to map your reach. (Also check for added revision sections in the back of the text.)

When to Request Data from ISWS:

You just need the hydraulic model.
You have not been able to obtain the corresponding model from another source (including FEMA).

When to Request Data from a Source Other than the ISWS:

You need more of the study documentation than just the computer runs.
You need the topographic work maps used to map the FIRM.
The subject floodplain is a ponding area.
Any of the subject reach is covered by a LOMR that is still in effect.
Permitted modifications other than your project are occurring or have occurred recently in the subject reach.

Other Sources for Model Data

	FEMA’s Map Coordination Contractor and repository: PBS&J, (800) 697-7275 x406, or mapspecialist@pbsj.com
	The village, city, or county engineer (staff or consultant); or stormwater management commission staff
	The study contractor who performed the currently effective flood study (identify by thoroughly reading FIS Sections 1.2, 3.1, and 3.2, and any revision sections).
	Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) Office of Water Resources engineering staff

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email wsaylor@sws.uiuc.edu with comments or corrections
Last Modified: August 07, 2008