In June 2008, the rivers of eastern Iowa rose above their banks to create floods of epic proportions; their amazing size-flowing in places at a rate nearly double that of the previous record flood-and the rapidity of their rise ruined farmlands and displaced thousands of residents and hundreds of businesses.

A new book, A Watershed Year: Anatomy of the Iowa Floods of 2008, brings together perspectives from physical and environmental scientists, hydrologists, economists, public policy experts, engineers and community managers on what happened, what we can learn from this devastating experience and how we can better prepare for flooding in the future.

The book which will be released in March 2010, is a compilation of twenty-five chapters written mostly by Iowans with perspectives on flood prediction, effects, response and recovery and future preparedness. In anticipation of the release of the book, the UI Center for Global and Regional Environmental Research (CGRER) is organizing a program to highlight the book's publication and to focus attention on the challenges ahead as we better prepare for the floods of the future.  ISU Extension is a co-sponsor with CGRER of this meeting.  I ask that you help spread the word by inviting interested constituents, friends, and colleagues to attend.

Draft agenda:

Welcome

About the book - Connie Mutel - editor

Trends in Iowa precipitation

Trends in water run-off

How is Iowa preparing for more floods?

Iowa Flood Center Update

One Local Response: Cedar Falls Floodplain Initiative

Rebuild Iowa Office/Water Resources Coordinating Council policy recommendations

Panel discussion and audience participation

Refreshments and book signing

For more book details go to http://uiowa.edu/books/2010-spring/mutel-water.htm.