DOVER, DE — Amid growing concerns over climate-induced flooding, the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has unveiled a cutting-edge online tool aimed at helping residents fortify their properties against flood damage. The tool, named I-ADAPT (Individual Adaptation Decision And Planning Tool), marks a significant step towards enhancing community resilience in the face of climate change’s escalating challenges.
The innovative web-based platform is the brainchild of DNREC’s Division of Climate, Coastal, and Energy along with the Division of Watershed Stewardship. It provides a personalized approach to flood preparedness by offering tailor-made adaptation solutions based on users’ inputs about their property and personal preferences.
DNREC Secretary Shawn M. Garvin highlighted the urgency of the initiative, noting that flooding threats extend beyond coastal areas to urban and inland communities as well. “Climate change is bringing more frequent and intense storms that result in flooding across various parts of Delaware,” Garvin stated. I-ADAPT aims to equip Delawareans with practical measures to safeguard their homes and businesses before disaster strikes.
By navigating through I-ADAPT, residents can receive specific recommendations to enhance their property’s flood resilience. These suggestions come complete with estimated budgets and links to further resources, allowing property owners to make informed decisions regarding their flood prevention strategies.
To ensure the accessibility of these personalized recommendations, the tool offers an option to email the results directly to the user. This feature, coupled with DNREC’s commitment to privacy — no data is saved within I-ADAPT unless the user chooses to email the information to themselves — underscores the department’s dedication to user convenience and security.
With the aim of boosting public engagement and familiarity with I-ADAPT, DNREC has organized informational sessions across Delaware’s three counties. These meetings will offer hands-on assistance with the tool and provide an opportunity for residents to ask questions and explore the platform’s full potential.
Scheduled events at Route 9 Library & Innovation Center in New Castle, Dover Public Library, and Lewes Public Library will feature computers and trained staff on hand to guide participants through I-ADAPT, fostering a proactive approach to climate adaptation at the grassroots level.
The meeting locations, times and dates are:
- Tuesday, May 7, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., Route 9 Library & Innovation Center, 3022 New Castle Avenue, New Castle
- Tuesday, May 21, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Dover Public Library, 35 Loockerman Plaza, Dover
- Thursday, May 23, 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Lewes Public Library, 111 Adams Avenue, Lewes
This initiative represents a pivotal movement towards climate resilience in Delaware, reflecting a broader recognition of the need for innovative solutions to combat the adverse impacts of climate change. By empowering residents with knowledge and tools to protect their properties, DNREC is laying the groundwork for a more flood-resilient future, demonstrating a proactive response to the environmental challenges that lie ahead.
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