Spotlight on Innovative Mapping & Data Tools

May 3, 2017

W. Dave CanaanCharlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services

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“Innovation”

Merriam-Webster:1. The introduction of

something new2. A new idea, method or

device

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“Innovation”

We cannot solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.

Albert Einstein

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“Innovation”

Innovation is not just something new….. It is something that changes behavior, course of action, etc. Simon Sinek

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• Creek Maintenance• Floodplain Map Review• Losses Avoided Tool• Stream Restoration

Ranking System

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Creek MaintenanceSince 1950’s

Cleared creek banks

Rip-rap

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Asked the tough questions

Minimal decreases in flooding

70% decrease in staffing

Local seed money for buyout program

Change in Action/Behavior?

Flood Map Review Application

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Flood Map Review Application

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Change in Action/Behavior?Early 2000 - Floodplain Maps

Less than 20 comments

Big crowds

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Change in Action/Behavior?2010 – 2017 - Floodplain Maps

Over 50 comments

26,780 pageviews

More engaged

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Flood Losses Are CostlyBuilding losses

Contents lossesVehicles and outbuildings

Displacement losses

Emergency response

Custom

Losses Avoided Tool

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Losses Avoided Tool

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Change in Action/Behavior?Communicate success

Answering the “What if…”

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Percent StreamMiles Suitable

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Stream Restoration Ranking System

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Very little biology300+ miles to

prioritize

Change in Action/Behavior?

Don’t have to walk 300 miles of stream

More efficient prioritization of CIP’s

Bridge flood and water quality disciplines

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Thank You

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