Understanding Floodplains
Jump to: About Floodplains | Objectives | Role | Benefits | Insurance | Protection Measures | Mitigation Assistance
NFIP Guidebook 2009
A floodplain is a naturally occurring low-lying area adjacent to a river, stream, lake, or coastal body of water that periodically becomes inundated with floodwaters. These areas act as natural extensions of water systems, storing and slowing runoff during storms. Floodplains are essential components of the hydrologic cycle and are often characterized by fertile soils, lush vegetation, and rich biodiversity.
Floodplains exist to absorb and convey floodwaters, reducing flood severity in surrounding areas. They also provide important ecological benefits — maintaining water quality, recharging groundwater, and supporting fish and wildlife habitats.
In the Village of Estero, floodplains play a critical role in protecting both people and property. The community’s proximity to the Estero River, Imperial River, and Estero Bay—as well as its flat topography and subtropical climate—makes floodplain management essential for sustainable development and storm resilience.
The Village of Estero Floodplain Management Program
The Village of Estero Floodplain Management Program was established to protect, preserve, and enhance the community’s natural floodplains while reducing flood losses caused by major storms and heavy rainfall.
The program is a coordinated effort between multiple departments, including Public Works, Community Development, and Building and Permitting Services, and aligns with FEMA, Lee County, and state and federal regulations.
Natural Floodplains and Their Role in Reducing Flood Loss
Floodplains perform a variety of natural flood-mitigation functions that benefit both the environment and the community. When floodplains are preserved in their natural state, they act as the first line of defense against flooding, erosion, and pollution.
Excess Water Storage
Floodplains act as natural basins, allowing floodwaters to spread out, slow down, and temporarily store water. This reduces flood peaks and downstream damage.
- Example: One acre of floodplain flooded one foot deep can store approximately 330,000 gallons of water.
- Benefit: Reduces flash flooding and erosion, particularly in urban areas where paved surfaces limit natural drainage.
Flow Rate and Erosion Reduction
Vegetated floodplains slow the movement of floodwaters and stabilize riverbanks.
- In coastal regions, natural features such as dunes, mangroves, and wetlands dissipate wave energy and protect inland areas.
- In inland areas, native vegetation filters sediment and reduces soil loss.
Slowing Runoff and Enhancing Groundwater Recharge
Floodplains have surface and subsurface conditions that encourage ponding, infiltration, and groundwater recharge.
- Water that infiltrates the soil recharges underground aquifers, helping sustain local wells and ecosystems.
- As water passes through soil layers, pollutants and sediments are naturally filtered out, improving water quality.
Flow Regulation During Dry Periods
Floodplains help maintain river and stream flows even during dry periods by slowly releasing stored groundwater.
This process:
- Prevents extreme fluctuations in water levels.
- Supports aquatic life and vegetation.
- Stabilizes water quality throughout seasonal changes.
Environmental and Community Benefits of Natural Floodplains
Healthy floodplains are more than flood-control zones—they are multi-functional ecosystems that provide economic, ecological, and recreational value.
In Estero, protected floodplains:
- Reduce flood risk by storing and absorbing stormwater.
- Buffer coastal areas from storm surges and high tides.
- Improve water quality by filtering runoff before it enters streams, rivers, and bays.
- Provide critical wildlife habitat for fish, birds, amphibians, and endangered species.
- Support recreation such as kayaking, hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking.
- Preserve community character by maintaining green spaces and natural scenery.
- Enhance property values in areas where open space and flood mitigation are prioritized.
Flood Insurance Eligibility
Residents and property owners in the Village of Estero are eligible to purchase flood insurance because the Village participates in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Participation in the NFIP allows property owners, renters, and businesses to obtain federally backed flood insurance regardless of their flood zone.
Additionally, Estero participates in FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS) — a voluntary incentive program that recognizes communities that implement higher floodplain management standards. As a result, Estero property owners receive discounted flood insurance premiums.
➡️ Learn more about the Community Rating System
How the Village of Estero Protects Its Floodplains
The Village of Estero employs a variety of tools, programs, and policies to safeguard floodplain areas and manage flood risk. These include regulatory measures, education, and infrastructure planning.
Key Programs and Initiatives:
How Residents Can Help Protect Natural Floodplains
Preserve Open Space and Avoid Development in Flood-Prone Areas
- Build on higher ground whenever possible.
- Protect native vegetation that absorbs water and stabilizes soil.
- Avoid filling or altering floodplain terrain.
- Encourage community open-space preservation initiatives.
Implement Low-Impact Development (LID) Practices
- Use permeable pavers or gravel driveways.
- Install rain gardens or bioswales to capture and filter runoff.
- Plant native vegetation along waterways.
- Harvest rainwater for irrigation.
- Minimize pavement and other impervious surfaces to reduce runoff.
Proper Waste Disposal and Pollution Prevention
- Never dump chemicals or debris into storm drains—these lead directly to waterways.
- Pick up pet waste and dispose of it properly to prevent bacterial contamination.
- Secure garbage and yard waste to prevent clogging storm drains.
- Report pollution or spills via the Public Works Form.
Flood Mitigation and Financial Assistance Programs
Each year, thousands of properties across the United States experience repeated flooding. Many of these structures were built before modern floodplain standards were adopted, leaving them vulnerable to damage and increasing long-term costs to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
To help reduce flood risks and support resilient rebuilding, FEMA and the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) offer several financial assistance programs. These programs can help fund property acquisition, structure elevations, floodproofing, and drainage improvements.
Programs include:
- Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) – Provides annual funding for projects that reduce or eliminate flood risk to NFIP-insured structures.
- Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) – A post-disaster program that supports long-term resilience projects to protect homes, businesses, and public infrastructure.
- FDEM Elevate Florida Program – A state-managed initiative designed to help homeowners elevate at-risk homes to meet floodplain requirements and reduce future flood losses.
Residents interested in pursuing mitigation projects may visit the Village’s Flood Mitigation page or contact Village Hall for guidance.
Our Shared Responsibility
Protecting the Village of Estero’s floodplains is a community-wide effort. Every property owner, developer, and resident plays a role in preserving these valuable natural systems.
Through responsible development, informed decision-making, and continued investment in flood mitigation, the Village is committed to ensuring the safety, sustainability, and beauty of Estero for generations to come.