The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) uses a Community Rating System (CRS) that can unlock significant flood insurance savings for communities. Nature-based solutions—such as open space protection and wetland restoration—can effectively reduce flood risk and are creditable components of the CRS. The conservation community can and should partner with municipalities to plan and design “nature-based solutions” that restore and protect natural areas, reduce flood risk and earn citizens a discount on their flood insurance rates.
