Lower American River Flood Control Task Force, Sacramento, California (1994-1999)

CONCUR designed and facilitated a negotiated dialogue between 34 interest groups that comprise the Lower American River Task Force, charged with developing a flood control plan for this federally recognized Wild and Scenic river, needed to protect the residents and $6 billion of property in Sacramento, the State Capitol. This ground-breaking plan integrates flood control with environmental protection, including habitat restoration, fisheries management and recreational enhancements. Participants include the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency, the California Department of Water Resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the California Dept. of Fish and Game, environmental groups and homeowners associations. CONCUR also designed and facilitated a joint fact-finding committee, staffed by technical and scientific experts from the major parties. This iterative decision-making process, alternating between policymakers and fact-finders, allowed the Task Force to reach a unanimous agreement to design integrated flood control improvements for the river and resulted in Congressional appropriations in excess of $300 million to modify Folsom dam, raise levees and strengthen river banks to substantially increase the level of flood protection for Sacramento and surrounding communities.