The Open Channel Summer 2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Message Greetings to evryone and thanks so much for taking the time to read our first official maga- zine! I hope that 2006 has been a great year so far, both professionally and personally. I would like to thank the many active members of the association for all of their help, support and tremendous energy dedicated to furthering the goals of our highly respected organization. In accordance with the original mission and purposes of CASFM, as stated in the bylaws and arti- cles of incorporation, I am confident that the board and general members of CASFM consis- tently and appropriately carry out actions, "to unite in common organization those profession- ally engaged in activities related to stormwater and floodplain management..." and to, "provide a means of local representation on a statewide basis regarding policies and activities dealing with stormwater and floodplain management within the state of Colorado". Our state has been touted time and again as a leader in the industry by respected professionals in the U.S. and in other countries around the world. I would like to highlight just a few of the many exciting and challenging tasks that the association has been involved with during the past year or so. For example, CASFM proudly sponsored several individuals in 2005 and 2006 by providing financial assistance for their vol- unteer efforts in the Gulf Coast region in response to the devastating impacts of Hurricane Katrina. Many lessons have been learned from the hurricane disaster on a national level and right here at home in Colorado, and CASFM members have no doubt changed their way of thinking about flood protection and hazard mitigation. Furthermore, the association can be proud to boast a very high level of membership (nearly 600 members this year) with only one other state in the nation having more members in their chapter. In addition, Colorado is extremely fortunate to have representation at the national level, within the Association of State Floodplain Managers ( ASFPM), by being one of the only states having more than one member on the ASFPM Board of Directors. Colorado also has a significant number of Certified Floodplain Managers, which further indicates the professional dedication to reducing losses and negative impacts related to flooding and stormwater runoff. Lastly, CASFM hosts and sponsors excellent conferences, workshops, and training oppor- tunities for its members and other interested parties. The 2005 annual conference in Steam- boat Springs attracted the highest attendance ever, and the 2006 conference in Glenwood Springs is sure to be a huge success as well. In closing, I invite you to become or remain active as a volunteer in the association to ensure its continued success and to reap the countless rewards that can be realized by joining forces with your peers and colleagues. Please join me in welcoming our new members, and congratulating those who have made significant contributions to the industry through their hard work and creativity. Best of luck to all of you! Tom Browning, P.E., CFM CASFM Chair Summer 2006 5