The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NeDNR) hosts at least one free training per month (usually on the 3rd Thursday - based upon staff availability) focusing on one of a great variety of floodplain management topics. These training opportunities are virtual, allowing you to join in from your home/office, without the hassle and expense of travel. Some of the most popular may be offered twice a year.
NeDNR will still provide two in-person workshops each year, the locations will vary by year.
Please sign up to receive training, workshop, updates, and other floodplain management notifications from NeDNR Floodplain Division using the link at the bottom of this page.
If you have specific training needs, please contact Elijah Kaufman or Michele York. For any questions regarding registration, continuing education credit (CEC) or scheduled classes please contact Michele York. Please note that CECs may not be available for all classes.
Upcoming Training Opportunities Through NeDNR
Flood Insurance Myths, Facts & Resources
Thursday, June 12, 2025
9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. CT
Join NeDNR staff for an informative 1-hour virtual presentation detailing where to find resources and discussing some of the most common myths about flood insurance, such as:
"You can’t buy flood insurance if you don’t live in a mapped floodplain."
"You can’t buy flood insurance if you live in a high-risk flood area."
"Homeowners and renters’ insurance includes flood insurance."
"You can’t purchase flood insurance if your property has flooded previously."
"Federal disaster assistance will always pay for flood damage."
This free class is suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as anyone interested in floodplain management, insurance, and community recovery after a flood.
This class is approved for continuing education credits for Certified Floodplain Managers and for Nebraska county/municipality Treasurers of communities that participate in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Please register in advance for this FREE class as participation is limited: REGISTER
Floodplain Development Permitting with Confidence - After Hours!
Tuesday June 24, 2025
6:00 p.m. - 08:00 p.m. CT
Please join NeDNR staff for an informative 2-hour virtual class on the fundamentals of permitting floodplain development. This evening class is suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as any community officials that are involved in the permitting
process. The class will address the following topics:
- NeDNR's Model Floodplain Development Permit Application
- NeDNR's Floodplain Interactive Map
- When Elevations Certificates are required
This class is perfect for those unable to attend a class during the day!
Continuing education credits are approved for both Certified Floodplain Managers and for Treasurers of Nebraska municipalities or counties that participate in the NFIP.
Please register in advance for this FREE class as participation is limited: REGISTER
Future Proposed Training Topics
Virtual Classes
- July 2025 - The New Interactive Map and the NeRFF map
- August 2025 - Map Adoption Process
- September 2025 - The New Model Permit
- October 2025 - Permitting Process
- November 2025 - Higher Standards
- December 2025- Basic Floodplain Management
Virtual AFTER HOUR Classes
- Quarter 1 (July-September 2025) New Model Ordinances & Floodplain Development Permits
- Quarter 2 (October - December 2025) Basic Floodplain Management
- Quarter 3 (January - March 2026) Interactive Maps and NeRFF
- Quarter 4 (April - July 2026) Floodplain Management Scenarios and Having Difficult Conversations
In-person Workshops
- September 2025 - McCook, NE - Basic Floodplain Management & Substantial Damage
- April 2026 - Grand Island, NE - Nebraska Floodplain Conference:
- Day 1: Basic Floodplain Management
- Day 2: Floodplain Day
Recently Recorded Classes
These and other floodplain management videos can be found on NeDNR’s YouTube page. You may also click on each of the following class titles to find a description of the class and a link to the video recording.
*PLEASE NOTE: Certificates of Completion or Continuing Education Credits (CECs) toward the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) or Nebraska Treasurer credentials are available only for those individuals participating in the live virtual training session.
Introducing Nebraska's New Model Floodplain Ordinance (recording coming soon)
On May 15, 2025, NeDNR staff gave an informative 1-hour virtual presentation detailing the new model floodplain ordinance and why it may be time to update your community's ordinance. The new model:
- Was revised with the input of a committee of Nebraska Floodplain Administrators, Emergency Managers, Zoning Officials and other subject matter experts
- Has improved alignment with State and Federal minimum standards
- Includes a new Higher Standards Guide
- Expands on the administrative procedures for substantial damage and substantial improvement
- Includes many formatting updates since the last revision in 2017.
Pack. Prepare. Be Aware. How to Increase Flood Awareness in your Community (recording coming soon)
What if we were #NebraskaReady before a natural disaster, not just #NebraskaStrong afterward?
On April 17, 2025 NeDNR staff presented an informative 1-hour virtual class focused on educating those in your community that are most at-risk for flooding and arming them with information of ways to reduce that risk. This free class is suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as anyone involved with floodplain management, permitting, or emergency management.
Before and After Disaster Strikes: Substantial Damage 101
On March 13 and March 25, 2025 NeDNR staff presented an informative 2-hour virtual class on what to do before and after a flood, fire, tornado or other disaster strikes in a Special Flood Hazard Area. The aftermath of a disaster is not a good time to learn about permitting, your floodplain management program, or substantial damage assessments. This class covered the following topics, and more:
- Pre-disaster preparation actions and planning
- Informing the public
- What to do when a building is damaged
- Permitting requirements and substantial damage
This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as anyone involved with floodplain management, permitting, or emergency management.
Presentation Slides - Substantial Damage and Improvement
The Elevation Certificate: What Every Floodplain Administrator Needs to Know
On January 22, 2025, Elijah Kaufman, CFM with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources presented an informative 2-hour virtual class introducing floodplain administrators to the Elevation Certificate. The Elevation Certificate (EC) is one of the more common yet crucial documents a floodplain administrator will review. ECs verify that floodplain development has been completed in accordance with the local floodplain development permit and with state and federal floodplain management regulations. Elevation Certificates are also required for any structural development in communities that participate in the Community Rating System (CRS), and for Letters of Map Amendments (LOMA) and Letters of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F) applications.
Introduction to 2D Mapping for Floodplain Managers
On November 14, 2024, Jamie Reinke, PE, CFM with NeDNR presented a 1-hour virtual class to help floodplain managers understand and use 2-Dimensional study results for managing development and communicating flood hazards in their communities, with a specific focus on highlighting the differences in how the data is represented in the Flood Insurance Study (FIS), Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), and other regulatory resources. This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as anyone involved with or interested in floodplain administration.
The Letter of Map Change (LOMC): What the Floodplain Administrator Needs to Know
On September 19, 2024 NeDNR staff presented a 1-hour virtual class detailing the basics of the Letter of Map Amendments (LOMA), Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) and Letter of Map Revision Based on Fill (LOMR-F). This included how and when to request a revision or amendment to a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) to create changes to flood insurance risk zones, floodplain and/or floodway. This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators and anyone involved in floodplain administration. This class covered the following topics, and more:
- Introduction to LOMC: LOMA, LOMR and LOMR-F
- LOMA versus LOMR-F
- Requirements for submitting a LOMC
- Understanding FEMA's review process
- Fees and Processing Times
Mitigation Concepts and Funding
On August 23, 2024 staff from the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and Nebraska Department of Natural Resources presented an informative 1-hour virtual class on mitigation measures and funding opportunities available. This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as mitigation project stakeholders. The class covered the following topics, and more:
- Mitigation principles
- Types of mitigation activities
- Partnership opportunities
- Mitigation planning
- FEMA funding available: HMGP, BRIC and FMA
Flood Risk and Mapping Projects in Nebraska
On May 30, 2024, Jamie Reinke, Floodplain Management Division Manager with NeDNR presented a one-hour virtual class detailing our overall program, ongoing projects and our plan for mapping in future years.NeDNR partners with FEMA to update flood risk data throughout the state. There are many flood risk projects in various stages and this presentation highlighted those projects, the differences in project types, and what local officials can expect during a mapping project. NeDNR's goal is to provide the state with the best data possible and technical assistance to help communities take action to reduce their flood risk and protect lives and property.
Easy as 1-2-3: How and Why to Update Your Floodplain Ordinance
On March 28, 2024 Elijah Kaufman with NeDNR presented a 1-hour virtual class detailing the benefits of adopting an updated floodplain ordinance. The class cover the following topics, and more:
- Why the antique floodplain ordinance needs to be updated
- Making the floodplain ordinance more practical
- What needs to be in the floodplain ordinance
- The ordinance adoption process
This class was particularly helpful for community is slated to receive new floodplain maps. Communities receiving new maps are required to update their ordinance to adopt the new maps. Mapping projects in the following counties are approaching completion: Wayne, Cass, Nuckolls, Thayer, Kearney, Dixon, Cheyenne, Deuel, Cedar, and Boone; as well as the cities of Bayard and Bridgeport.
This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as any community members or officials responsible for floodplain administration.
Nebraska Procedures for "No-Rise" Certification
The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NeDNR) regularly receives questions from Floodplain Administrators regarding the requirements of a no-rise analysis or less than 1 foot of rise analysis. On February 15, 2024 Jamie Reinke, PE, CFM, with NeDNR provided Floodplain Administrators, Engineers and those involved in floodplain permitting with information related to both analyses in the context of their responsibilities for reviewing the documentation. The discussion covered the following topics:
- State Statutes
- FEMA requirements
- Deliverables associated with no-rise analysis
- Deliverables that should be submitted for a less than 1 foot rise analysis
This class was suitable for floodplain administrators, engineers, and anyone involved in the floodplain development permitting process.
Floodplain Development Permitting with Confidence
On January 18, 2024 Chuck Chase with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources presented an informative 1-hour virtual class on the fundamentals of permitting floodplain development. This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as any community officials that are involved in the permitting process. The class covered the following topics:
- NeDNR's Model Floodplain Development Permit Application
- NeDNR's Floodplain Interactive Map
- When Elevation Certificates are required
Substantial Development Estimator (SDE) 3.0 Tool: How to Easily Prepare a Database of At-Risk Properties
The aftermath of a disaster is not a good time to learn about permitting, the floodplain program or Substantial Damage Assessments. On Thursday, September 21, 2023 Chuck Chase and Elijah Kaufman presented an informative 1-hour virtual class on how to easily create a database of at-risk properties before a disaster occurs. The class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as anyone interested in floodplain management. The class covered the following topics, and more:
- Review of the free SDE 3.0 Tool for post-disaster support
- How to upload multiple properties from the County Assessor
- Benefits of the database for your other NFIP responsibilities
Laying the Groundwork for Permitting Non-Structural Development
On July 27, 2023, Elijah Kaufman, CFM, with NeDNR presented a 1-hour virtual class detailing the concept of permitting non-structural development such as fill, grading, dredging, etc. in your community's floodplain. These types of development are just as important to be permitted due to possible adverse impacts on a floodplain's natural ability to retain excess water, sometimes more so than a structure! This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as anyone responsible for local floodplain administrator and/or permitting.
Presentation Slides Laying the Groundwork for Permitting Non-Structural Development
Getting Started with CRS
On April 27, 2023 Todd Tucker with FEMA Region VII, Adele Phillips with NeDNR, and Gene Kohls with Insurance Services Office (ISO) presented an informative 1-hour virtual class on the fundamentals of the CRS program for floodplain administration. The course was suitable for floodplain administrators and any community officials. Community Rating System is a voluntary incentive program that recognizes and encourages community floodplain management practices that exceed the minimum requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Flood insurance premiums are discounted in CRS communities to reflect that reduced flood risk.
Getting Started with CRS Presentation Slides
Climate and Your Community
On February 23, 2023, NeDNR was very excited to host Doug Kluck, Central Region Climate Services Director with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Center for Environmental Information for an exciting 1-hour virtual class covering the following topics:
- Nebraska's historical climate variations
- Current climate outlook
- Climate considerations at the community level
- helpful tools for local officials
- Tips for talking about climate
Climate and Your Community Presentation Slides
Introducing the CAC and CAV
You never know how well something is working until you inspect it.
On November 17, 2022, Elijah Kaufman, CFM, with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources presented a 1-hour virtual class introducing the concepts of Community Assistance Contacts (CACs) and Community Assistance Visits (CAVs). Communities that participate in the NFIP will soon receive a CAC or CAV to help them identify, prevent and resolve floodplain management issues BEFORE they develop into larger problems. Participants gained an understand of:
- The goals of the NFIP including federal, state, and local roles
- The difference between a CAC and a CAV
- Why CACs and CAVs are important
- What happens during a CAC or CAV
- How you can prepare
- Important definitions, tools, and resources
- What CACs and CAVs may look like in the future
Introduction to CACs and CAVs Presentation Slides
A Beginner's Guide to Floodplains
On September 15, 2022, Elijah Kaufman, CFM, with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources presented an informative 1-hour virtual class on the very basics of floodplains. The class was suitable for floodplain officials, insurance partners, concerned citizens, and anyone who needed a basic understanding of Nebraska floodplains and understanding flood risk. Elijah provided answers to the following questions:
- What is a floodplain?
- How do I determine if a property is in a floodplain?
- What constitutes development in a floodplain?
- What authority does a Floodplain Administrator hold?
A Beginner's Guide to Floodplains Presentation Slides
Why the State Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan belongs in your Floodplain Toolbox
On May 12, 2022, Adele Phillips, CFM, with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources presented a one hour virtual class regarding the new draft of the 2022 State of Nebraska Flood Hazard Mitigation Plan and how it can benefit communities.The class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, emergency managers, and any community members responsible for hazard mitigation and planning.Her presentation included the following topics:
- The planning process
- Flood risk across Nebraska
- Flood mitigation actions
- Mitigation and recovery funding resources
- Risk data for your jurisdictions
- An overview of the online tool "National Risk Index for Natural Hazards
Agricultural and Accessory Structures
On Thursday, February 17, 2022 NeDNR's Elijah Kaufman, CFM, presented a virtual class on how to correctly implement FEMA's agricultural and accessory structures policy issued in 2020. This free class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as any community members responsible for local floodplain administration. The class covered the following topics: an introduction to the concept and definition of FEMA’s Agricultural Structures, permitting agricultural and accessory structures, wet floodproofing requirements, considering and granting variances, and more.
Agricultural Structures Presentation Slides
Before and After Disaster Strikes: Substantial Damage 101
On Thursday, January 20, 2022 NeDNR's Elijah Kaufman, CFM, and Adele Phillips, CFM, presented an informative 2 hour virtual class on what to do before and after a disaster strikes in your Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators, as well as any community members responsible for local floodplain administration. The class covered the following topics: Pre-disaster preparation actions and planning, informing the public, what to do when a building is damaged, permitting requirements and substantial damage, and more.
Wetlands and Wildlife: Avoiding Environmental Impacts in the Floodplain
On Thursday, December 16, 2021 NeDNR hosted a virtual class for all floodplain administrators and those with interest in natural resource protection. Presenters and topics included:
- Corey King, Wetlands Coordinator with the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), presented on NRCS jurisdiction, the typical process for NRCS projects, and Wetlands Protection Policy.
- Jessica Tapp, Environmental Specialist with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC), discussed state-recognized threatened and endangered species, when to use NGPC’s Conservation and Environmental Review Tool, and what types of projects NGPC typically reviews.
- NeDNR’s Adele Phillips, Flood Mitigation Planner, provided an overview of the floodplain development permitting process and other agencies or jurisdictions about which to be aware.
Wetlands And Wildlife Presentation Slides
Enforcing Your Floodplain Ordinance
On January 21, 2021 NeDNR staff presented an informative 1-hour virtual class on the fundamentals of enforcing floodplain management regulations. This class was suitable for both novice and seasoned floodplain administrators. The class addressed the following topics: collecting evidence of violations, strategies for achieving compliance without legal action, legal tools for enforcing the floodplain ordinance, and enforcement process recommendations.
EnforcingYourOrdinancePresentationSlides
Other Training Resources
- The Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM) offers many in-person and online training including the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) certification program.
- FEMA and ASFPM launched a free online NFIP 101: Introduction to Floodplain Management course.
- The Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) offers training designed for emergency management and disaster services team members.
- FEMA offers multiple training programs including:
- Information regarding other training/workshops can be found here.
