The Michigan Stormwater-Floodplain Association (MSFA) is the Michigan Chapter of the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM). MSFA began in 1987 to promote the common interest in floodplain and stormwater management, enhance cooperation among various local, state and federal governmental agencies, and to encourage effective and innovative approaches to managing the State's floodplain and stormwater management systems. The Association’s mission is to mitigate the losses, costs and human suffering caused by flooding and to promote wise use of the natural and beneficial functions of floodplains. MSFA supports comprehensive nonstructural and structural management of Michigan's floodplains and related water resources and the concept of "No Adverse Impact". MSFA members represent local, state and federal government agencies, citizen groups, private consulting firms, academia, the insurance industry, and lenders. MSFA’s goals are to help the public and private sectors:

1. Reduce the loss of human life and property damage resulting from flooding.
2. Preserve the natural and cultural values of floodplains.
3. Promote flood mitigation to prevent the loss and encourage wise use of floodplains.
4. Avoid actions that exacerbate flooding and or stream degradation.
5. Promote a watershed approach to stormwater management.
6. Promote the use of best management practices to minimize accelerated erosion and control sedimentation.

Applicant Criteria:

1. Masters Student in Biosystems, Civil, or Environmental Engineering, or related Natural Resources Planning program with a specialization related to the mission and goals of the MSFA at a Michigan University.
2. Have a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 or above at the end of Spring Semester 2013.

Along with this completed form you MUST also attach:

1. A copy of your program of study showing courses remaining and a photocopy of your transcript.
2. A current resume that includes a statement of your career objectives and your graduation date.
3. A one-page typed essay highlighting your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, past and present work experiences, the occupation you propose to pursue upon graduation and your level of commitment to the mission and goals of the MSFA.
4. Letter of recommendation from a faculty of your department.

The academic year 2013/2014 award amount is $1,500. Applicants can expect a response in January 2014. Questions may be directed to any MSFA Board Member listed under Contacts at http://mi.floods.org. Scholarship recipients will be recognized at the 2014 MSFA Annual Conference, March 4 -7, 2014, McCamly Plaza Hotel, Battle Creek, MI. Awardees are required to participate in the conference as an MSFA guest (conference fee and lodging will be covered by MSFA). MSFA board members will assist you in meeting other conference attendees, including vendors and prospective employers.

APPLICATION: http://mi.floods.org