As part of its Map Modernization Plan, the Federal EmergencyManagement Agency is seeking to increase local involvement in theflood mapping process. To meet this objective, FEMA has created theCooperating Technical Partner program to encourage partnershipsbetween FEMA and state, local, and regional agencies that areinterested in, and capable of, playing active roles in its FloodHazard Mapping program.

FEMA is seeking qualified partners to collaborate on themaintenance of up-to-date flood maps and other flood hazardinformation. Partners benefit from flood maps that are moreaccurate and current, improved hazard identification and riskmanagement, shared best practices, and, ultimately, more efficientfloodplain management, according to the agency.

More information about the program, including the CooperatingTechnical Partners Program Guidance Document for Fiscal Year 2004and Guidelines and Specifications for Flood Hazard MappingPartners, is available at www.fema.gov/fhm/ctp_main.shtm.