Mannion, Stirpe introduce legislation to combat CNY flooding

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State Sen. John Mannion (D-Geddes) and Assemblyman Al Stripe (D-Syracuse) are introducing new legislation to combat flooding in central New York.

Using recommendations from a report recently released by the Upstate Flood Mitigation Task Force, Mannion and Stirpe are looking to improve flood response in central New York. Stirpe said an updated flood plan is needed to handle current weather conditions.

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The mapping would use the Hydrologic Engineering Center River Analysis System, a method used by the Army Corps of Engineers, which would allow experts to predict flow patterns and determine the best course of action during periods of heavy rain. Mannion said the mapping needs to be completed across central New York because of the impact each water system can have on another.

“We really need both of those basins, the Mohawk River and Oswego River basins, completely mapped,” Mannion said. “There is an extensive amount of water in both of those systems.”

The Oswego River Basin covers 5,122 square miles and receives flows from seven of the 11 Finger Lakes. Flooding most often occurs in the flat, northernmost portion of the basin and findings from the task force show that there are $13,644,000 in structural losses and $16 million in recreational damages annually due to flooding.