VFPMP Public Survey Report

<p>The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR), through the Virginia Flood Protection Master Plan Public Outreach Campaign (VFPMP POC), conducted a statewide public survey to inform the development of the VFPMP. This survey provided value to the overall planning process by identifying current public sentiments, gathering supplemental information on community concerns, and helping to understand how Virginians perceive flood risk, rank resilience priorities, and view the state government’s role in advancing long term solutions. More than 300 respondents from across the Commonwealth participated in the survey, representing a broad range of age groups, occupations, and communities. Respondents most frequently identified state and local government entities as the most responsible for reducing flood risk and increasing resilience. Many respondents who identified other entities as most responsible noted the best approach is a combination of efforts across levels of government and individual property owners. Overall, the survey findings underscore broad support for advancing flood resilience across Virginia among members of the public who were surveyed. Importantly, the survey results reinforce the core priorities already identified within the VFPMP, confirming alignment between the plan and public sentiment. These results will continue to guide the VFPMP’s development and ensure it reflects the priorities and needs of communities statewide.</p>