Peterborough earns top state flood rating, offering insurance discounts

Town of Peterborough received the highest class rating in the state from the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System (CRS) for its dedication to floodplain management and education.

Danica Miller, director of planning and building, explained the town has been part of the CRS program since the 90s, and one of her goals when she started was to move the town from a class eight to class seven.

“It’s nice because there’s a lot of work behind the scenes that benefits residents,” Miller said.

Of the five New Hampshire towns participating in FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program CRS, Peterborough is ranked the highest.

The CRS is a voluntary program rewarding communities for not only implementing National Flood Program requirements, but going above the expectations set by the federal government.

Peterborough received a class seven ranking because of its public outreach, regulatory standards, stormwater management and flood data maintenance.

This means anyone with a commercial or residential mortgage with a National Flood Insurance Program will receive a 15% discount on their insurance premiums. This discount starts on or after Oct. 1, 2026.

“It’s money back in your pocket, and just shows how much we’re doing to educate the community about floodplains,” Miller said.

Miller stressed the importance of protecting natural resources and properties to all departments in the town government.

With recent government cuts, Miller said they were unsure if this program would survive, but after shutting down for a while, the program returned and officially awarded Peterborough with Class Seven status.

Floodplain management for the town and management of this program are organized by Miller, who also serves as Peterborough’s Floodplain Administrator.

In addition to the help of the Geographic Information System staff, the town will benefit from this federal award.

Miller added that FEMA has updated their floodplain maps for the Contoocook Watershed, which has led to questions from residents. For additional questions or concerns, contact Danica Miller at 603-924-8000 ext 104.