What does BFE stand for in floodplain management?

In floodplain management, BFE stands for Base Flood Elevation. This term refers to the computed elevation to which floodwater is anticipated to rise during a base flood, which is defined as a flood that has a 1% chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. The Base Flood Elevation is a critical reference point used in floodplain management and insurance purposes, as it helps determine the flood risk for properties within a floodplain. Communities use BFE to establish regulations and guidelines for building and development within flood-prone areas, ensuring structures are raised to an appropriate height that minimizes flood risk. Understanding BFE is essential for compliance with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and for implementing effective floodplain management strategies.