Floodplain Management

Floodplain management is an essential element of the North Bay-Mattawa Conservation Authority’s (NBMCA) mission to protect communities and the environment. NBMCA uses floodplain mapping and land-use planning to regulate development in flood-prone areas, reducing flood risks and ensuring the safety and resilience of urban and rural communities.

The Role of NBMCA in Floodplain Mapping

Under the Conservation Authorities Act, NBMCA is responsible for conducting floodplain mapping and regulating activities in flood-prone areas. The objectives of NBMCA's floodplain mapping efforts are:

• Guide Development: Prevent new development in high-risk flood zones.
• Mitigate Risks for Existing Developments: Identify flood mitigation strategies for properties already in flood-prone areas.
• Protect Communities: Safeguard people, properties, and infrastructure from flood damage.

Floodplain mapping involves detailed technical studies using local watershed data. These studies help to identify areas at risk of flooding and guide decisions for safe development and emergency preparedness. The mapping process adheres to Provincial standards and is carried out by qualified engineers.

Recent Projects and Improvements

In the past five years, NBMCA has received funding from both the Province of Ontario and local municipalities to enhance floodplain mapping across the region. Ongoing mapping projects focus on four sub-watersheds: Chippewa Creek, Parks Creek, and Jessup’s Creek in City of North Bay and Lansdowne Creek in the Municipalities of Callander and East Ferris.

City of North Bay Floodplain Maps

Chippewa Creek - First map is the index Map - refer to the index to locate the map you want to view. Click on map below.

Parks Creek and Jessup's Creek  - First map is the index Map - Refer to the index to locate the map you want to view. Click on map below.

Municipality of Callander Floodplain Maps

Lansdowne Creek  - Click on maps to enlarge.

What is a Floodplain?

A floodplain is land that is vulnerable to flooding, often located adjacent to rivers, streams, and lakes. Recognizing the boundaries of floodplains is crucial for effective land-use planning, emergency management, and protecting the community from flood hazards. Through floodplain mapping, NBMCA helps guide development away from high-risk zones and provides information on mitigating risks for existing development.

Consultants use computer models to assess flood risks from various storm and snowmelt scenarios. These studies include hydrology and hydraulic reports, which will result in detailed floodplain maps identifying areas at risk from major flood events, such as the 100-year flood and Timmins Regional Storm.

Public Consultation and Information Sessions

To engage the public and ensure transparency, NBMCA is hosting a series of Public Information sessions (see sidebar) to share the results of the floodplain mapping projects. This is an opportunity for residents and property owners to learn more about the mapping process, ask questions, and provide feedback. 

Get Involved!

We encourage all affected property owners and residents to participate in the public consultation process. Your feedback is invaluable in ensuring that the floodplain mapping reflects the needs of the community and contributes to effective flood risk management.

For more information, please contact the NBMCA office at 705-474-5420 or email comments@nbmca.ca. Stay informed and contribute to a safer, more resilient community.

Media Release - January 20, 2025