The Goddard Forum 2025 builds on past and ongoing efforts to address flood risk in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic, with support from Penn State University's Institute of Energy and the Environment, Hamer Center for Community Design, and Penn State Sustainability.
- Community Flash Flood Prediction and Warning Preparedness: Workshop on Flood Warning System Implementation, Operation and Maintenance, November 17, 2023, State College, PA - summary report pdf
- Flooding in Pennsylvania: Hazard, Risk, Response: Millennium Cafe Flash Talks, Spring 2025, State College, PA - series overview pdf
- Flooding in Pennsylvania under Extreme Climate and Changing Federal Institutional Arrangements: Session at Climate Solutions Symposium, May 19-20, 2025, State College, PA - session overview pdf
Goddard Forum 2025 - Flood Risk in the Mid-Atlantic,
September 9-10, 2025, Harrisburg, PA
To enhance collaboration and engagement in flood risk management efforts in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic, we plan to coordinate and host a stakeholder engagement series of events as part of the Maurice Goddard Forum. This forum aims to facilitate discussions with key agencies such as PEMA, FEMA, and potentially with the participation of the local NOAA office, as well as with floodplain managers, local communities, and other stakeholders. By engaging directly with these organizations, participants can gain insight into ongoing flood preparedness initiatives and explore opportunities for collaboration.
One of the key objectives is to meet with other interested stakeholders to discuss flood risk mitigation strategies. We envision a field trip to offer firsthand exposure to current preparedness measures and the evolving strategies of agencies and other stakeholders. Additionally, the Forum will create a platform for dialogue on how a range of partners can contribute to strengthening flood resilience efforts in Pennsylvania.
The program may include in-person meetings, site visits, and discussions designed to foster collaboration and identify actionable next steps. Input on additional areas of focus is welcomed to ensure a comprehensive and productive engagement.
For those interested in participating, further details will be provided as planning progresses. The Forum represents an opportunity to build meaningful connections and drive impactful change in flood risk management in Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic.
Contact:
Christopher Scott, cascott@psu.edu
Goddard Chair and Professor, Dept. of Ecosystem Science & Management
Associate Director, Institute of Energy & the Environment, iee.psu.edu
