Recognition comes as Vermont communities mark anniversaries of the 2023 and 2024 floods
Vermont Emergency Management (VEM) and the Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) today congratulated Hardwick Floodplain Administrator Kristen Leahy on being named the 2026 recipient of the Larry R. Johnston Local Floodplain Manager of the Year Award by the Association of State Floodplain Managers.
The national award recognizes outstanding individual contributions to floodplain management and flood hazard reduction at the local level.
Leahy was recognized for her decade of service to the Town of Hardwick and her leadership in helping residents and businesses navigate flood recovery, strengthen community resilience, and prepare for future flood events.
"Kristen's work exemplifies what this award represents," said Rebecca Pfeiffer, River Corridor and Floodplain Protection Program Manager with the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC). "She has dedicated herself to helping her community understand flood risk, recover from repeated flooding, and make informed decisions that will strengthen resilience for years to come."
Over her tenure, Leahy has helped advance the town's flood resilience efforts, supported residents through multiple flood disasters, and become a trusted resource for communities across Vermont facing similar challenges.
Following the floods of 2023 and 2024, Leahy played a key role in recovery efforts, working directly with residents, coordinating with state and federal partners, and sharing lessons learned with other communities.
"Kristen's leadership has benefited not only Hardwick, but communities throughout Vermont," said Lisa Kolb, State Hazard Mitigation Officer. "Her willingness to share her expertise and work collaboratively has helped strengthen local mitigation efforts and build resilience across the state."
The award comes as Vermont communities mark the anniversaries of the devastating floods of 2023 and 2024. Since those events, towns and cities across the state have worked to recover, rebuild, and invest in projects and planning efforts that will help reduce future flood damage.
"While this award recognizes one individual, it also reflects the commitment of local officials, volunteers, first responders, and community members across Vermont who continue to do the hard work of building more resilient communities," said DEC Commissioner Misty Sinsigalli.
The Larry R. Johnston Local Floodplain Manager of the Year Award is presented annually by the Association of State Floodplain Managers to honor individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership in reducing flood hazards and advancing effective floodplain management practices at the local level.
The Department of Environmental Conservation is responsible for protecting Vermont's natural resources and safeguarding human health for the benefit of this and future generations. Visit dec.vermont.gov and follow the Department of Environmental Conservation on Facebook and Instagram.
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