When Waters Rise: Flood Preparedness for Rural Communities

Floods can have devastating impacts on rural communities, affecting families, farms, livestock, crops, and infrastructure. In this episode, Ellen Duysen of the Central States Center for Agricultural Safety and Health and Carolyn Sheridan of the Ag Health and Safety Alliance discuss lessons learned from the Midwest floods of 2019 and Iowa’s historic flooding in 2024. The conversation highlights the importance of emergency planning, personal safety, recovery resources, and community support. Listeners will learn practical steps farmers and rural residents can take to prepare for future disasters and protect themselves, their families, and their livelihoods. Episode Resources First Aid Resources, GPCAH Topic Page Flood Information, Ready.gov Flood Maps, FEMA Plan Ahead to Save Lives, Reduce Damage, Press Release by Ellen Duysen