HomeMy WebLinkAboutGalveston County HMP_Appendices_APA2022 Multi-Jurisdictional2022 Multi-Jurisdictional
Hazard Mitigation PlanHazard Mitigation Plan
Galveston County
Appendices
May 2022
Appendix A. Adoption Resolutions
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan A-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX A. ADOPTION RESOLUTIONS
Galveston County adoption resolution will be included in this appendix upon receipt of the Federal Emergency
Management Agency (FEMA) Approval Pending Adoption (APA) status. This appendix also includes an
example resolution to be submitted by Galveston County authorizing adoption of the Galveston County Hazard
Mitigation Plan Update.
Appendix A. Adoption Resolutions
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan A-2
2022 Update
RESOLUTION NO. XXXX-XX
A RESOLUTION OF THE Governing Body OF THE Jurisdiction Name
AUTHORIZING THE ADOPTION OF THE
2022 GALVESTON COUNTY, TX HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN UPDATE
WHEREAS, all jurisdictions within Galveston County, Texas have exposure to natural hazards that
increase the risk to life, property, environment, and the County and local economy; and
WHEREAS; pro-active mitigation of known hazards before a disaster event can reduce or eliminate
long-term risk to life and property; and
WHEREAS, The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-390) established new requirements
for pre and post disaster hazard mitigation programs; and
WHEREAS; a coalition of Galveston County municipalities with like planning objectives has been
formed to pool resources and create consistent mitigation strategies within Galveston; and
WHEREAS, the coalition has completed a planning process that engages the public, assesses the risk and
vulnerability to the impacts of natural hazards, develops a mitigation strategy consistent with a set of
uniform goals and objectives, and creates a plan for implementing, evaluating and revising this strategy;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the [jurisdiction name]:
1) Adopts in its entirety, the 2022 Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan Update (the
“Plan”) as the jurisdiction’s Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan and resolves to execute the actions
identified in the Plan that pertain to this jurisdiction.
2) Will use the adopted and approved portions of the Plan to guide pre - and post-disaster mitigation
of the hazards identified.
3) Will coordinate the strategies identified in the Plan with other planning programs and
mechanisms under its jurisdictional authority.
4) Will continue its support of the Mitigation Planning Committee as described within the Plan.
5) Will help to promote and support the mitigation successes of all participants in this Plan.
6) Will incorporate mitigation planning as an integral component of government and partner
operations.
7) Will provide an update of the Plan in conjunction with the County no less than every five years.
PASSED AND ADOPTED on this Xst, Xnd, Xrd, Xth day of MONTH, YEAR, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
Appendix A. Adoption Resolutions
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan A-3
2022 Update
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
______________________________
Mayor, Town/Village of _____________
ATTEST: _________________________
Clerk, Town/Village of ________
Appendix B. PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX B. PARTICIPATION MATRIX
The matrix in Appendix B is intended to give a broad overview of FEMA, the State of Texas, county, municipal
and stakeholder personnel that participated in the Galveston County HMP update planning process. Meeting
attendees and input provided are also included. All participants were encouraged to attend the kick-off meeting
and mitigation workshop. During the planning process the consultant contacted each participant to offer support,
explain the process, and facilitate the submittal and review of critical documents.
The participating jurisdictions agreed to abide by the Planning Partner Expectations and Planning Committee
Guidelines which established a Steering Committee. The Steering Committee served as the core of the working
group. Participation is defined as having input to the hazard analysis (providing critical facility, hazard event,
vulnerability data), and as having participated in the mitigation workshop or alternate annex meetings as
described in the HMP for the purpose of creating a mitigation strategy to be included in each municipalities
annex in Section 9. A list of participating jurisdictions and representatives is found in Table B-1.
A number of stakeholders were invited to participate in the planning process. Stakeholders were invited to
meetings, asked to complete a stakeholder survey, requested to provide input on their involvement in Galveston
County, and review and comment on the draft plan. However, due to the limitations on participation posed by
the pandemic starting in 2020 and the strains on time and resources for many local governments and other
community organizations, participation of stakeholders at the municipal level was limited. In accordance with
FEMA guiding principles for inclusive participation at various levels, the planning team will place a high priority
on an expanded effort on stakeholder participation with local planning committees in future plan updates. A list
of stakeholders and their participation is found in Table B-2.
A Strengths, Weakness, Obstacles and Opportunities exercise (SWOO) was completed by the planning
partnership. Participants were asked to fill out the SWOO for each of the hazards of concern for the 2022 HMP
update. The results were compiled and presented to the planning partnership at the risk assessment presentation.
The results were also used by the participants to help identify capabilities and potential mitigation actions. The
results from this activity are found in Table B-3.
In preparation for the draft plan public review, each jurisdiction was asked to have their ‘mitigation team’ review
their annex to ensure it was complete and accurate for posting to the Galveston County Office of Emergency
Management website.
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-2
2022 Update
Table B-1. Participation Matrix
Jurisdiction Name Title / Position Attended Pre-Kick Off Meeting Attended SC #1 (9/16/21) Attended PP #1 (9/28/21) Attended SC #2 (11/18/21) Attended Risk Assessment (12/21/21) Attended MAW (12/2/21) Attended Draft Plan Presentation (1/25/22) Feedback Provided? Steering Committee Member Designated Project Point of Contact Galveston County James Gentile Director of Contract Services, County Contract Services X X X X
Galveston County Julie Diaz Director, Parks and Cultural Services X X
Galveston County Laura Norman Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator X X X X X X X X X
Galveston County Lee Crowder Road Administrator, County Roads and Bridges X X X X X
Galveston County Martha Lee Assistant Director, Parks and Cultural Services X X X X X
Galveston County Michael Shannon County Engineer, Engineering & Right of Way X X X X X
Galveston County Randy Valcin Director of Public Health Surveillance, Galveston County
Health District X X
Galveston County William Riordan Facilities Director, County Facilities X X X
Galveston County Scott Tafuri Emergency Management Coordinator X X X
Galveston County Joey Brower Homeland Security Planner X X
Galveston County Alyssa Young Finance/Administration Coordinator X X
Bayou Vista (C) Jimmie Gillane Emergency Management Coordinator X X
Bayou Vista (C) John Bocquet Police Sargent X X
Bayou Vista (C) Russel Buhler Building Inspector X
Clear Lake Shores (C) Brent Spiers City Admin/EMC X X X X
Clear Lake Shores (C) Kevin Harrell Building Official X X
Dickinson (C) Greg Trantham Co-Emergency Mgt Coordinator X X X X
Dickinson (C) Derek Hunt Co-Emergency Mgt Coordinator X X X
Dickinson (C) Selmer Ray Burgess, CBO, CFM Building Official X
Friendswood (C) Steven Simmons Deputy Fire Marshal X X X X X
Friendswood (C) Niki Bender X X
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-3
2022 Update
Jurisdiction Name Title / Position Attended Pre-Kick Off Meeting Attended SC #1 (9/16/21) Attended PP #1 (9/28/21) Attended SC #2 (11/18/21) Attended Risk Assessment (12/21/21) Attended MAW (12/2/21) Attended Draft Plan Presentation (1/25/22) Feedback Provided? Steering Committee Member Designated Project Point of Contact Friendswood (C) Brian Rouane Building Official X
Hitchcock (C) Arnie Cross Director of Community Development X
Hitchcock (C) Wilmon Smith Police Chief X X X
Hitchcock (C) Jeff Evans Police Captain X X
Hitchcock (C) Ruth Ann Sorrell City Secretary X
Hitchcock (C) Leroy Thomas Public Works X
Jamaica Beach (C) Brad Heiman Police Chief X X
Jamaica Beach (C) Ana Mondragon Director of Operations X X X X
Kemah (C) Walter Gant Emergency Management Coordinator X X
La Marque (C) Kyle Hunter Emergency Management X X X X
League City (C) Ryan Edghill Emergency Management X X X X X X
League City (C) Kristin Gauthier Emergency Management X X X
League City (C) Kris Carpenter Planning Manager X
Santa Fe (C) Bobby Shores Police Captain X X X X
Santa Fe (C) Butch Pean Detective X X
Tiki Island (V) Graham George Emergency Management Coordinator X X
Tiki Island (V) Steven Broussard Emergency Management Coordinator X X
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-4
2022 Update
Table B-2. Stakeholder Participation Matrix
Organization/Title Stakeholder Type Notified of Planning Process Invited to Meetings Attended Meetings Invited to Take Survey Completed Survey Notified of Posting of Draft Plan Clear Creek Independent School District Academic X X X X X
Dickinson Independent School District Academic X X X X X X
Friendswood Independent School District Academic X X X X
Galveston College Academic X X X X
Galveston Independent School District Academic X X X X
High Island Independent School District Academic X X X X
Hitchcock Independent School District Academic X X X X
Santa Fe Independent School District Academic X X X X
Texas A&M University at Galveston Academic X X X X X
Texas City Independent School District Academic X X X X X
University of Texas Medical Branch Academic X X X X
Port of Galveston Business/Commerce X X X X
Port of Texas City Business/Commerce X X X X
Galveston County Emergency Communications District Emergency Services X X X X
Galveston County Emergency Communications District #2 Emergency Services X X X X X X
Port of Texas City Security Council Emergency Services X X X X
San Leon Volunteer Fire Department Emergency Services X X X X
Santa Fe Fire and Rescue Emergency Services X X X X X
NWS Federal Government X X X X X X
NOAA Federal Government X X X X
TX DOT Highway/DPW X X X X
Galveston County Health District Hospital/Health Care X X X X X X
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-5
2022 Update
Organization/Title Stakeholder Type Notified of Planning Process Invited to Meetings Attended Meetings Invited to Take Survey Completed Survey Notified of Posting of Draft Plan Gulf Coast Center Hospital/Health Care X X X X X X
Brazoria County Neighbor X X X X
Chambers County Neighbor X X X X
Harris County OEM Neighbor X X X X
Bolivar Peninsula Special Utility District Utilities X X X X X X
Gulf Coast Water Authority Utilities X X X X
Galveston County Water Control and Improvement District #1 Utilities X X X X X X
Galveston County Water Control and Improvement District #19 Utilities X X X X
Table B-3. Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Obstacles Exercise
Hazard Strengths Weaknesses Obstacles Opportunities
Erosion
(Coastal and
Inland)
• Long History of grant programs
and awards to identify off shore
sand sources.
• The inland portion of the County
is not susceptible to coastal
erosion. Beach replenishment
programs are routinely undertaken
by coastal communities.
• R&B performs maintenance on
lateral drainage ditches, rip rap
erosion control shoreline, all
weather roads.
• Based on my experience, there is
a spirit of cooperation and
partnership between units of
government.
• Bulkhead Ordinance in force.
• Construct an engineer beach and
dune
• Any community along the Gulf
or Bay is vulnerable.
• R&B continues to build or
maintain roads in areas regularly
inundated by tide water.
• Based on my limited experience,
evacuation tracking and tracing.
Though my city does not have
an issue with this, others do and
I hear about it frequently.
• No routine visible inspections of
all bulkheads are actually
performed. Most are complaint
based or noticed while an
• Funding, permitting,
financing.
• Private property owners need
access to private property.
• Lack of interest by some
partners, an attitude of
malaise. There are many
residents and partners who
benchmark all storm events
(what we seem to focus on)
to those past. They say, "It's
not like Ike" or "we rode it
out last time" or "I left and
nothing happened , I won't
do that again." Persistent
messaging, concise
information, not overloading
• Protect the evacuation route of
Bolivar Peninsula
• The time is now to sharpen
your ax, not when you need to
use it. Time hinders and time
prepares. Need to utilize our
preparation and planning
process, now in the 'off-season'
in prep for what may be
coming.
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-6
2022 Update
Hazard Strengths Weaknesses Obstacles Opportunities
inspection of something else is
being performed.
folks too early is a concern
of mine.
Dam/Levee
Failure
• Excellent maintained hurricane
and seawall system
• R&B performs excellent
maintenance of Federal sponsored
levee projects, i.e. TC LM
Hurricane Protection Levee,
Galveston Seawall.
• Age of some equipment, needs
update.
• Most of the County, none. Texas
City is the most vulnerable.
• Limited level of protection of the
levee or seawall
• I wonder about inspections of
facilities and possible
encroachments.
• Funding
• Financial, cost to improve
the current project.
• Public officials not interested
in taxing the public for
infrastructure improvements.
• Provide better response to
events.
• Education , communication of
levee capabilities, warning
systems etc.
• Opportunities to educate public
and private on the importance
of this and the affect it has on
other communities not
immediately protected - that
consideration should weigh
heavily in the decision process.
Drought • The County averages high rainfall
rates and high humidity during the
year.
• R&B has the opportunity to
provide increase maintenance on
lateral ditches and storm-water
system.
• We message a lot based on NWS
and other official sources.
• Water Conservation rules.
• Start a program for the
desalinization of seawater, store
more surface water
• The region is susceptible to
drought.
• Soil disturbance during
construction
• Funding, permitting,
regulatory etc.
• Construction maintenance is
needed for proper
functioning drainage system.
• Convincing people that green
grass or clean dust-free car
vs drinking water should not
be considered a choice.
• Reduce dependency on surface
water, and demand on Brazos
River.?
• To conserve or reserve storm
water in drainage ponds or
reservoirs.
• Education, when needed.
Expansive
Soils
• Engineer to build in known
conditions
• Modern construction techniques
help to limit foundation damage
due to soil movement.
• Many older structures are prone
to foundation damage. Extreme
rainfall followed by dry spells
can cause issues.
• Adoption of more stringent
codes causes higher building
costs.
• Explain what this is and how it
could impact me or my city.
Extreme
Temperature
• Available shelters
• Residents are well adapted to the
regions heat and have ample
places to go to cool off, such as
the beach.
• Messaging and early
communication.
• Can't provide shelters for 100%
of population
• Winter weather can wreak havoc
on the state's power grid causing
cascade failures within
infrastructure systems. Buildings
are poorly insulated for cold
weather within the region.
• Lack of public buy in as it being
a real issue (extreme weather
winter storm Uri changed
perceptions earlier this year)
• Financial
• Winterization of
infrastructure can be
expensive.
• Energy consumption is
increased in either event.
Something outside the
purview of most cities, as
they are not providers.
• Emergency generators at public
facilities
• Public support for better
winterization is at an all-time
high due to the 2021 freeze.
• Education of public, providing
possible solutions to survival if
power is lost, importance of
preparation.
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-7
2022 Update
Hazard Strengths Weaknesses Obstacles Opportunities
Expansive
Soils
• Engineer to build in known
conditions
• Modern construction techniques
help to limit foundation damage
due to soil movement.
• Many older structures are prone
to foundation damage. Extreme
rainfall followed by dry spells
can cause issues.
• Adoption of more stringent
codes causes higher building
costs.
• Explain what this is and how it
could impact me or my city.
Flood • Developing a master drainage
plan.
• Communities within the county
are well equipped to respond to
floods.
• Early messaging, accurate
forecasting, public and private
partners that understand
• CFR program and building codes
• Low lying coastal elevations,
subsidence, and conflicts
• The region is prone to flooding.
Many new buyers seem to ignore
floodplains and don't purchase
insurance.
• You cannot change elevation of
coastal communities.
• Funding, environmental,
geographical
• Flood control is very
expensive and often requires
the purchase of residential
homes.
• My city is in the direct line
of storm water run-off from
Houston and others located
upstream on clear creek
watershed. Their concern is
getting water quickly to the
drain and flowing into the
receiving waters. We have
the same issue but are
heavily influenced by not
only our own water but that
comes from others and
impacts our ability to drain.
• Proactive engineering
strategies
• Public interest in flood control
is high following Harvey and
federal funding is available
through various mitigation
grants.
• Improved seawall/bulkhead
construction techniques.
Having upstream designers
consider impacts on those
downstream, with increased
flows, velocity and delivery.
Hail • N/A • N/A • N/A • Keep sending the message
Hurricane/
Tropical Storm
• Strong EOC, planning, staff,
experienced response
• Most jurisdictions within the
County have planned and
prepared for hurricane response
with experience through various
storms.
• Early forecasting, good
predictions, early season
preparation for citizens to prepare
• Constant community contact and
updates through a community call
out system.
• Communication with public
• There has been turnover within
several jurisdictions which will
cause a learning curve for staff.
• Apathy on part of some in
population, inability to make
messages meaningful to them,
resistance by some in public to
take things seriously.
• Citizens who won't heed the
warnings or advice.
• Geography, education
• Financing and support for
EM programs during slow
periods.
• Comparisons to other storms
and a prevailing attitude of
"I'm staying, I stayed for
Rita/Harvey/Ike/etc. And I
lived." Too bad there is no
one who could speak from
Bolivar when it was wiped
clean and many lives lost.
• Social media, news media,
volunteer programs
• Harvey, the Winter Storm, and
other events have occurred
recently which cause support
for various preparedness
initiatives.
• Education, Preparation,
Execution for all county and
state partners. Continued
partnership meetings and
updates, this is our consistent
event that we plan for annually.
Continued public messaging
and alerts that are of
substantive importance to the
public.
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-8
2022 Update
Hazard Strengths Weaknesses Obstacles Opportunities
Land
Subsidence
• GHSD to permit water wells,
monitor water levels and control
discharges
• The regional subsidence district
tracks ground water usage and
issues permits only as necessary.
• Permit the departments ground
water wells.
• Establishing a district and
working to advocate subsidence
issues.
• Increased need for water
• Disruptions in surface water can
cause increased pumping on
water wells.
• Most people are unaware of the
existence of the district and
issues it champions.
• Regulatory, geographical,
environmental, financial
• Usage of water wells can be
difficult to enforce or
monitor.
• Environmental, financial
• It is a multi-faceted problem
and relies on many
specialized disciplines to
identify root causes and
formulate solutions. Water
pumping from commercial,
public and private water
wells, coastal erosion,
geologic formations,
commercial extraction
activities, weather can play a
role, and help find an
answer. Liability is a concern
and they are
• Restrict or limit use of ground
water
• To better understand the
program, and identify feasible
solutions.
Lightning • Building codes and engineering to
ground strikes.
• New technology allows for rapid
messaging by the NWS.
• Lightning tracking through NWS
and good forecasting based on
storm behavior.
• Structures built before newer
codes
• Regulatory, financial • N/A
Pandemic • Recently provided a response,
UTMB
• Local jurisdictions are very aware
of pandemic protocols due to
COVID-19.
• A county health department and
emergency management team that
took control and did a
FANTASTIC job offering
COVID shots that were timely,
easy to get and convenient.
Figuring that out 'on-the-fly' was
a huge task. Many hours devoted
and many lives saved. I was not a
proponent of the vaccine, but
when I decided to get my two
• Communication
• The Health District does not
communicate well with local
jurisdictions.
• Environmental, financial
• Political will for pandemic
control measures can fade
quickly.
• Changes above the local and
state level. Mixed messages
from federal government.
Changes in approach and
vulnerable populations.
Vaccine availability, vaccine
efficacy, and drug company
numbers. An unrealistic
accounting system of active,
deaths, recovered, etc.
People want information but
sometimes too much is too
• Assist UTMB
• Better streamline updates and
communications from the
County to jurisdictions.
• If it should come to pass again,
dust off the plan, change the
name and run again. I thought
it was a good process/program.
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-9
2022 Update
Hazard Strengths Weaknesses Obstacles Opportunities
shots I got them at the Walter Hall
drive-through. No complaints
were heard from those working
and putting the time and effort.
I'm sure there was challenges and
grumbling but the strength of
promoting a unified and
professional image went a long
way with everyone who
witnessed.
• Community outreach and
communication including
prohibiting gatherings and entry
to city owned facilities without
proper PPE procedures.
much and it fuels a lot of fear
and anxiety.
Severe Winter
Weather
• With the February 2021 winter
storm, locals have a better idea of
what to expect.
• Provide response to icing road
conditions, including traffic
control and sanding bridges.
• We had adequate warning that the
storm and cold front were
approaching based on
temperatures experienced behind
the front. NWS did a fine job.
• Community outreach and
communication.
• The power grid and critical
infrastructure is still susceptible
to extreme cold.
• Low experience for operators in
icing conditions.
• Not prepared for something that
we've not seen.
• Citizens who don't need advice
• Winterizing all facilities and
infrastructure can be costly.
• Rare opportunities to
respond and contribute to
these conditions.
• Energy delivery, that is
outside our purview and
control. ERCOT issues,
outside our control. Aging
Electrical Infrastructure -
outside our control. Building
methods don't adequately
cover cold events.
• Open mitigation funding for
potential projects.
• Improve planning, exercise
winter weather procedures, test
equipment
• Improve building methods and
codes to include insulation
against extreme cold. Exposed
water lines, sprinklers and the
like do fine in extreme hot
weather - not the same during a
cold event.
Tornado • Many of the planning and
preparedness measures for
tornado's are the same for other
types of incidents. The region
tends to have weak and short
lived tornadoes when compared to
others.
• Already built to windstorm
requirements in most cases. NWS
is doing great job.
• Community outreach and
communication.
• Many in the region associate
warning sirens with chemical
emergencies.
• Older structures may be lacking
adequate structural support and
materials to withstand impacts
and high winds.
• Already build out to
Hurricane force winds.
Tornados are less likely (in
most people's minds) and
don't get the same attention,
preparation or warning.
• Educate persons specifically to
the dangers of tornados and
when they can be expected and
how quickly the develop.
Tsunami • Many of the digital warning
systems could also be used for
Tsunamis
• The region does not prepare for
or communicate tsunami dangers
to the public.
• Tsunamis are seen as low
risk or unlikely on the Gulf
Coast. Siren systems for
• N/A
APPENDIX B: PARTICIPATION MATRIX
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan B-10
2022 Update
Hazard Strengths Weaknesses Obstacles Opportunities
beach and bay communities
would be expensive.
• Convincing people it could
happen here.
Utility Failure • Communities maintain backup
generators for critical facilities
and many have standby contracts
to obtain additional equipment.
• Using generators on residential
homes, large building and
municipal/public safety buildings.
Quick reporting. Responsive
utilities with information
available to public via internet or
app.
• Large grid failures can make it
difficult to obtain additional
equipment.
• Most people can't afford a
generator set-up or two-three
days without power. Consumers
have some unrealistic
expectations.
• Spare generators are
expensive to maintain.
• Education.
• Open mitigation grant
opportunities.
• Educating public on processes
and efforts to restore.
Wildfire • County wide, mutual aid
agreements allow for responses to
larger fires. The region has a low
risk of wildfire due to typically
high humidity levels, high annual
rainfall, and urbanization.
• Local fire departments do not
have a lot of experience in
responding to large urban-
wildland interface fires.
• N/A • N/A
Wind Storms • The region has a lot of experience
in planning for and responding to
windstorms.
• NWS does a great forecasting job.
We are used to the potential
hurricane and the winds it may
bring.
• Community outreach and
communication. Building code
adherence.
• N/A • Sometimes with extended
anticipation, interest wanes
and people discount the
importance of the message.
• Education of public. I think it is
an on-going issue and one we
cannot simply discount.
APPENDIX C. MEETING DOCUMENTATION
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan C-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX C. MEETING DOCUMENTATION
Appendix C includes meeting agendas, sign-in sheets and minutes (where applicable and available) for
meetings convened during the development of the Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update.
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #1
September 16, 2021 | 1:00 pm CT
Planning Partnership Meeting #1 | Agenda
PAGE | 1
Virtual Meeting
Join by Computer: https://bit.ly/3zeJyR1
Or
Dial-in Number (toll): 832-856-3579 | Conference ID: 984 648 808#
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. In-Kind Services Tracking
3. Benefits of Hazard Mitigation and Overview
• Purpose and expected outcomes of the Hazard Mitigation Plan
• 2022 enhancements
4. Project Organization
• Key Agencies
• Municipal Participants
• Stakeholders
5. Steering Committee Roles and Responsibilities
6. Public and Stakeholder Outreach
• Strategy – press releases, social media posts, capture of miscellaneous outreach, HMP website
• Tracking
7. Data Collection Status
8. Hazards of Concern Identification
9. Critical Facilities and Lifelines
10. Goals and Objectives
11. Schedule
• Overview and Milestones
• Meeting Schedule
12. Questions / Wrap-Up
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #1
September 16, 2021 | 1:00 pm CT
Steering Committee Meeting #1 | Minutes
PAGE | 1
Purpose of Meeting: Steering Committee Meeting #1
Location of Meeting: Microsoft Teams
Date/Time of Meeting: September 16, 2021 – 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm
Attendees: ☒ Laura Norman, County OEM
☒ Michael Shannon, County Engineer
☒ Lee Crowder, County Roads and Bridges
☒ Martha Lee, County Parks
☒ Will Riordan, County Facilities
☐ James Gentile, County Contract Services
☐ Julie Diaz, County Parks & Cultural Services
☐ Randy Valcin, County Health
☒ Heather Apgar, Tetra Tech
☒ Kate Long, Tetra Tech
Agenda Summary: Introduce Steering Committee to the HMP update process, discuss mitigation planning, project organization, roles and responsibilities, data collection, hazards of concern, and schedule of plan.
Item No. Description Action By:
1. Welcome and Introductions
• Tetra Tech started the meeting by introducing themselves and asking everyone to document their attendance in the meeting chat and introduce themselves. N/A
2.
In-Kind Tracking
• With this being a federally-funded project, the County is responsible to match their share of the grant. In order to do, we are asking each of you to track your time spent working on the HMP.
• We will provide several tools to use to help you keep track of your time. This includes attending meetings, completing surveys, filling out worksheets, etc.
Steering Committee to keep track of time; Tt will provide
tools to do so
3.
Benefits of Hazard Mitigation and Overview
• Hazard mitigation is part of the emergency management cycle – it’s any sustained action(s) taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to life and property from hazards.
• This is the required 5-year update to the 2017 HMP; participating and adopting the HMP allows you to remain eligible for FEMA pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding.
• 2022 Update enhancements – annex approach and will work with the County and participating municipalities to create/update their chapter of the plan.
N/A
4.
CRS Integration
• Several municipalities participate in the CRS program; therefore, to help those
municipalities, the HMP update will follow both FEMA requirements and the CRS Coordinator’s Manual.
N/A
5.
Project Organization and Overview
• Steering Committee – responsible for providing guidance and leadership throughout the planning process; oversee the planning process and act as points of contact for the municipalities and stakeholders.
• Planning Partnership – made up of the Steering Committee and participating municipalities
• Stakeholders - play an important role in the planning process; help us learn about
more specific topics and provide input from their points of view
Tt to send the list of stakeholders to the Steering Committee for their review and comment
6. Public and Stakeholder Outreach
• Public outreach is a key element in the HMP process and one of the requirements of the planning process.
Tt will send social media text and graphics to the
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #1
September 16, 2021 | 1:00 pm CT
Steering Committee Meeting #1 | Minutes
PAGE | 2
• Tetra Tech will be sending social media text and graphics to the Steering Committee to post on their websites and social media accounts. Steering Committee
7.
Project Scope
• Risk Assessment
• Capabilities
• Mitigation Strategy
• Other Sections of HMP
• Submit to TDEM for review/comment
• Submit to FEMA for review/comment/approval
• Plan adoption
• Implement the plan
N/A
8.
Hazards of Concern Identification
• The list of hazards from the last plan was presented to the Steering Committee and then the list of suggested hazards for the 2022 update. Tetra Tech will develop a survey to collect input from the Committee to finalize the list of hazards of concern.
Tt to send hazard
of concern survey; Steering Committee to complete by 10/1/21
• 2022 proposed hazards:
o Flood (Coastal and Inland)
o Drought
o Hurricane/Tropical Storm
o Extreme Temperature (Heat and Cold)
o Tornado
o Windstorm
o Hailstorm
o Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
o Dam/Levee Failure
o Severe Winter Weather
o Coastal and Inland Erosion
o Expansive Soils
o Lightning
o Land Subsidence
o Tsunami
o Pandemic
o Utility Failure
9.
Critical Facilities and Lifelines
• Tetra Tech asked the Steering Committee what types of facilities should we include as critical facilities. Once the critical facility list is put together, the Committee will be asked to review and add facilities as needed.
Steering
Committee to review critical facility lists after Tt sends out.
10.
Goals and Objectives
• The Steering Committee will need to review the goals and objectives from the 2017 HMP and update as needed. Tetra Tech will send out a survey to collect input and
finalize the goals and objectives for the 2022 update.
Tt to send goals and objectives survey; Steering
Committee to
complete survey
by 10/1/21
8.
Schedule
• Organize resources now through late-September 2021
• Risk assessment October-November 2021
• Mitigation strategy – December 2021
• Maintenance strategy – December 2021
• Public draft (14 days public review period) early January 2022
• TDEM – mid-January 2022
• FEMA – mid-February 2022
• Adoption – late-March 2022
N/A
9. Questions/Wrap Up N/A
9/16/2021
1
Galveston County, Texas
Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2022 Update
Steering Committee Kick-Off Meeting | September 16, 2021
Agenda
•Welcome and Introductions
•In-Kind Services Tracking
•Benefits of Hazard Mitigation
•Hazard Mitigation Planning Overview
•Project Organization
•Steering Committee Responsibilities
•Public and Stakeholder Outreach
•Update Hazards of Concern and Risk
Assessment
•Critical Facilities and Lifelines
•Goals and Objectives
•Schedule
•Questions/Next Steps/Wrap Up
3
2
3
9/16/2021
2
Introductions
•Tell us…
What’s your name?
Where you are from?
What is your mitigation experience?
What do you want to focus on during this process
or what is your area of expertise?
What are your resilience concerns for Galveston
County?
4
In-Kind Tracking
5
4
5
9/16/2021
3
Hazard Mitigation – What is it?
Mitigation is a sustained action taken to reduce or
eliminate long-term risk to life and property from a
hazard event
-or-
Any action taken to reduce future disaster losses
6
“provides the blueprint for reducing the potential
losses identified in the risk assessment, based
on existing authorities, policies, programs and
resources, and local ability…” (CFR).
“provides the blueprint for reducing the potential
losses identified in the risk assessment, based
on existing authorities, policies, programs and
resources, and local ability…” (CFR).
Prepare /
Prevent
ResponseRecovery
Mitigation
Event
Hazard Mitigation Works!
•According to the January 2019 National Institute of Building Sciences Natural
Hazard Mitigation Saves: 2018 Interim Report, federal mitigation grants save
$6 for every $1 spent!
7
6
7
9/16/2021
4
Why Update?
•The mitigation plan update
will:
Help the County prepare for and
mitigate the effects of disasters
Continue to allow the County and
participating partners to be
eligible for pre- and post-disaster
mitigation funding
Support CRS participation/rating
of municipalities
8
Hazard Losses (1950 – May 2021)
Coastal Flood $700,000
Drought $1 million (property)
$109.6 million (crop)
Excessive Temperature -
Flash Flood $10+ billion (property)
$10,000 (crop)
Hail $3.023 million
High Wind $20,000
Hurricane/Tropical Storm $1.258 billion
Lightning $3.529 million
Thunderstorm $53.133 million (property)
$8,500 (crop)
Tornado/Funnel Cloud $36.212 million
Wildfire $0
Winter Storm (Cold/Wind
Chill)
$12 million
TOTAL $11,367,617,000 (property)
$109,618,500 (crop)
Source: NOAA-NCEI 2021
What’s at Risk?
•FEMA Disaster Declarations
9
8
9
9/16/2021
5
CRS Integration
•HMPs qualify for CRS points as “Floodplain Management
Plans” through Activity 510
•To achieve a Class 4, specific outreach requirements inActivity 510 must be met
•Tetra Tech will structure and document meetings to meet
prerequisites for CRS Class 4 and achieve as many points
as possible through Activity 510. We will also work with the
communities to help them throughout the process.
•Communities still need to meet the other Class 4
prerequisites (e.g., watershed management plan, Activity
610) and present the documentation of participation during
individual verifications to meet Class 4.
•All meetings must be open to the public
•All meetings must be publicized and documented on theCounty’s website
10
CRS Communities:
•Dickinson – Class 8
•Friendswood – Class 7
•Jamaica Beach – Class 8
•Kemah – Class 8
•League City – Class 5
•Tiki Island – Class 7
Meeting Name CRS Step
Steering Committee
Kick-Off
-
Planning Partnership
Kick-Off
-
Public Kick-Off Step 2 – held in floodprone areas within 2
months of partnership kick-off
Risk Assessment
Presentation and SWOO
Step 4 – Asses the Hazard
Step 5 – Assess the problem
Goals and Objectives
Meeting
Step 6 – Set Goals
Mitigation Strategy
Workshop
Step 7 – Review possible activities
Plan Review Meeting Step 8 – Draft an action plan
Project Organization
11
Steering Committee
Planning Partnership
All municipalities, Steering Committee members
Stakeholders
Texas Division of Emergency
Management (TDEM)
Core Planning Team
Galveston County OEM
Tetra Tech
10
11
9/16/2021
6
Steering Committee Roles and Responsibilities
12
PROVIDE GUIDANCE AND
LEADERSHIP THROUGHOUT
THE PLANNING PROCESS
OVERSEE THE PLANNING
PROCESS
ACT AS THE POINT OF CONTACT FOR
ALL PARTNERS AND STAKEHOLDERS
Planning Process Overview
13 ImplementationPhase 1
Organize the Resources
Phase 2
Risk Assessment
Phase 3
Public
Involvement
Strategy
Phase 4
Update Mitigation Strategy
Phase 5
Update
Maintenance
Strategy
Phase 6
Assemble the Plan
Phase 7
Plan Review and Adoption
Phase 8
Project Management
Stakeholder and Public Input
12
13
9/16/2021
7
Project Scope
14
Risk
Assessment
Capability
Assessment
Mitigation
Strategy
Update Other
Sections of
HMP
Submit HMP
to TDEM and
FEMA
Adopt the
HMP
Implement
the HMP
Update Risk Assessment
•Update assets
•Examine previous impacts
•Analyze risks
•Review with Steering Committee and
Planning Partnership
•Risk assessment meeting – open to
the public
15
14
15
9/16/2021
8
2016 Hazards of Concern
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Drought
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Extreme Heat
•Tornado
•Windstorm
•Hailstorm
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Severe Winter Weather
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Expansive Soils
•Lightning
•Land Subsidence
•Tsunami
16
Potential 2022 Hazards of Concern
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Drought
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Extreme Temperature (Heat and Cold)
•Tornado
•Windstorm
•Hailstorm
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Severe Winter Weather
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Expansive Soils
•Lightning
•Land Subsidence
•Tsunami
•Pandemic
•Utility Failure
•Inland Erosion ?
17
16
17
9/16/2021
9
EXERCISE – Identifying Hazards of Concern
•Looking at the hazards included in the 2017 plan…
Have additional hazards impacted the County since 2017?
Have hazard been mitigated and no longer cause damage?
Should hazards be regrouped to align with the 2019 State HMP?
Should additional hazards be included?
•How have hazards affected the county? Where are your problem areas?
•Quick survey!
We will send around a quick online survey to get your input on the hazards of concern for the
2022 HMP – Stay tuned!
18
Community Lifelines
•Review 2017 critical facility inventory to ensure complete
•Crosswalk and identify lifelines
Lifelines provide indispensable service that enables the continuous operation of critical business and
government functions, and is critical to human health and safety, or economic security
Critical Facilities are those facilities considered critical to the health and welfare of the population and that are
especially important following a hazard. As defined for this HMP, critical facilities include essential facilities,
transportation systems, lifeline utility systems, high-potential loss facilities, and hazardous material facilities.
Essential facilities are a subset of critical facilities that include those facilities that are important to ensure a full
recovery following the occurrence of a hazard event. For the County risk assessment, this category was defined
to include police, fire, EMS, schools/colleges, shelters, senior facilities, and medical facilities.
19
18
19
9/16/2021
10
Community Lifelines
•To be reviewed:
Critical infrastructure
Bus Stops
Bus Routes
EMS sites
Fire departments
Police departments
Rail lines
Roadways
Healthcare Facilities
Long Term Care Facilities
Lakes/streams
Trails
Green Acres
Open Space
Parcels
Parks
Preserved Farms
Recreation and Open Space Inventory (ROSI)
Schools
20
Community Lifelines
•What additional facilities and lifelines should we add? Types to consider:
Utility locations – substations, pump stations, treatment plants
Critical food establishments – food pantries, grocery stores, senior nutrition
COVID-19 locations – testing and vaccination sites
Others?
21
20
21
9/16/2021
11
Mitigation Strategy
•Goals
What outcomes do you want to achieve?
•Actions
What specific actions will be taken to reduce risk from hazards?
•Action Plan
How will the actions be prioritized and implemented?
22
Goals
Actions
Action
Plan
Goals and Objectives Review and Update
23
Goal 1: Minimize loss of life, injury, damage to property, the
economy, and natural systems
Objective
1.1:
Protect the life, health and safety of residents
Objective
1.2:
Protect existing/new critical facilities and infrastructure
Objective
1.3:
Provide protection for future/existing developments
Objective
1.4:
Provide backup power to critical facilities/infrastructure
Objective
1.5:
Minimize impacts from all hazards
Goal 2: Maintain and enhance emergency management/mitigation
capabilities
Objective
2.1:
Update/develop plans, studies, and mapping for all
hazards
Objective
2.2:
Incorporate/improve hazard mitigation strategies into
ordinances, plans and polices
Objective
2.3:
Conduct/develop drills/training for all hazards
Objective
2.4:
Implement and maintain the Galveston County
Multi‐Jurisdictional Hazard
Mitigation Plan
Objective
2.5:
Participate in programs that promote hazard mitigation
strategies
Objective
2.6:
Build, obtain, and maintain critical facilities and
equipmentGoal 3: Maintain public education and awareness activities
Objective
3.1:
Expand Public Outreach Campaigns for all hazards
Objective
3.2:
Promote disaster preparedness planning for families
22
23
9/16/2021
12
Public and Stakeholder Outreach
•Social Media Posts
•Press Release
•HMP website – will work with the County to set this
up
•Planning Partnership meetings open to the public
•Stakeholder Survey
•Public Survey
•Neighboring County Outreach
Notified of planning process
Survey
24
Next Steps / Upcoming Schedule
•Take online survey to update goals –to be distributed via email
•Confirm access to OneDrive –access to be provided in separate email
•Planning Partnership Kick-Off (Steering Committee and Municipalities) – September 29th
•Steering Committee Meeting to discuss goals/objectives– mid-October
•Risk Assessment Meeting – October/November (tentatively)
•Mitigation Strategy Workshop – December (tentatively)
25
24
25
9/16/2021
13
Questions?
26
Galveston County Project Contacts
Laura Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
(856) 307-7100 | dmcnulty@co.gloucester.nj.us
Tetra Tech Project Contacts
Heather Apgar, CFM, Project Manager
(973) 630-8046 | heather.apgar@tetratech.com
Kate Long, Lead Planner
(607) 216-6901 | kate.long@tetratech.com
Thank
You!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
26
27
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Planning Partnership Meeting #1
September 29, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Planning Partnership Meeting #1 | Agenda
PAGE | 1
Virtual Meeting
Join by Computer: https://bit.ly/3hyYX8I
Or
Dial-in Number (toll): 832-856-3579 | Conference ID: 159 723 362#
1.Welcome and Introductions
2.In-Kind Services Tracking
3.Benefits of Hazard Mitigation and Overview
Purpose and expected outcomes of the Hazard Mitigation Plan
2022 enhancements
4.Project Organization
Key Agencies
Municipal Participants
Stakeholders
5.Public and Stakeholder Outreach
Strategy – press releases, social media posts, capture of miscellaneous outreach, HMP website
Tracking
6.Planning Partnership – Responsibilities and Expectations
7.Updating Annexes
Mitigation Team
Capability Assessment
Community Lifelines
Hazards of Concern
Risk Assessment
8.Mitigation Strategy
9.Schedule
Overview and Milestones
10.Questions / Wrap-Up
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Planning Partnership Meeting #1
September 29, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Planning Partnertship Meeting #1 | Minutes
PAGE | 1
Purpose of Meeting: Planning Partnership Meeting #1
Location of Meeting: Galveston County Office of Emergency Management/Microsoft Teams
Date/Time of Meeting: September 29, 2021 – 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Attendees: ☒Galveston County
☒ Bayou Vista (C)
☒ Clear Lake Shores (C)
☒ Dickinson (C)
☐ Friendswood (C)
☒ Hitchcock (C)
☐ Jamaica Beach (C)
☐ Kemah (C)
☒ La Marque (C)
☒ League City (C)
☒ Santa Fe (C)
☒ Tiki Island (V)
☒ Tetra Tech
SEE SIGN-IN SHEET FOR NAMES
Agenda
Summary:
Introduce Planning Partnership to the HMP update process, discuss mitigation planning, project organization, roles
and responsibilities, data collection, hazards of concern, HMP update process and municipal worksheets, and schedule
of plan.
Item No. Description Action By:
1.
Welcome and Introductions
• Tetra Tech started the meeting by introducing themselves and
asking everyone to document their in-person attendance on the
provided sign-in sheets.
N/A
2.
In-Kind Tracking
• With this being a federally-funded project, the County is
responsible to match their share of the grant. In order to do, we
are asking each of you to track your time spent working on the
HMP.
• We will provide several tools to use to help you keep track of
your time. This includes attending meetings, completing surveys,
filling out worksheets, etc.
All to keep track of time spent on HMP:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_InKind
3.
Benefits of Hazard Mitigation and Overview
• Hazard mitigation is part of the emergency management cycle –
it’s any sustained action(s) taken to reduce or eliminate long-term
risk to life and property from hazards.
• This is the required 5-year update to the 2017 HMP; participating
and adopting the HMP allows you to remain eligible for FEMA
pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding.
• 2022 Update enhancements – annex approach and will work with
the County and participating municipalities to create/update their
chapter of the plan.
N/A
4.
CRS Integration
• Several municipalities participate in the CRS program; therefore,
to help those municipalities, the HMP update will follow both
FEMA requirements and the CRS Coordinator’s Manual.
N/A
5.
Project Organization and Overview
• Steering Committee – responsible for providing guidance and
leadership throughout the planning process; oversee the
planning process and act as points of contact for the
municipalities and stakeholders.
N/A
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Planning Partnership Meeting #1
September 29, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Planning Partnertship Meeting #1 | Minutes
PAGE | 2
• Planning Partnership – made up of the Steering Committee and
participating municipalities
• Stakeholders - play an important role in the planning process;
help us learn about more specific topics and provide input from
their points of view
6.
Project Scope
• Risk Assessment
• Capabilities
• Mitigation Strategy
• Other Sections of HMP
• Submit to TDEM for review/comment
• Submit to FEMA for review/comment/approval
• Plan adoption
• Implement the plan
N/A
7.
Hazards of Concern Identification
• The list of hazards from the last plan was presented to the
Steering Committee and then the list of suggested hazards for
the 2022 update. Tetra Tech will develop a survey to collect input
to finalize the list of hazards of concern.
All to complete hazard of concern
survey by 10/8/21:
https://forms.gle/uHTfkHW1KtGDJ17K8
• 2022 proposed hazards:
o Flood (Coastal and
Inland)
o Drought
o Hurricane/Tropical
Storm
o Extreme
Temperature (Heat
and Cold)
o Tornado
o Windstorm
o Hailstorm
o Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
o Dam/Levee Failure
o Severe Winter Weather
o Coastal and Inland Erosion
o Expansive Soils
o Lightning
o Land Subsidence
o Tsunami
o Pandemic
o Utility Failure
8.
Municipal Annexes and Worksheets
• To meet FEMA requirements, all participating municipalities will
need to review how hazard mitigation is incorporated into
municipal planning mechanisms and capabilities; how their
community has been impacted by hazard events since the last
update; and review the completion of mitigation actions included
in the last HMP:
o Worksheet A – Hazard Event History
o Worksheet B – Capability Assessment
o Worksheet C – NFIP Floodplain Administration
o Worksheet D – Mitigation Action Review
o Worksheet E – Building Permit Information
Participating Municipalities to complete
Worksheets A-E by 10/8/21
9.
Critical Facilities and Lifelines
• Tetra Tech asked the Steering Committee what types of facilities
should we include as critical facilities. Once the critical facility list
is put together, the Planning Partnership will be asked to review
and add facilities as needed.
All to review critical facility lists after Tt
sends out.
10.
Goals and Objectives
• The Steering Committee will need to review the goals and
objectives from the 2017 HMP and update as needed. Tetra Tech
All to complete goals and objectives
survey by 10/8/21:
https://forms.gle/yJwyhm2hM4HTCVER9
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Planning Partnership Meeting #1
September 29, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Planning Partnertship Meeting #1 | Minutes
PAGE | 3
will send out a survey to collect input and finalize the goals and
objectives for the 2022 update.
11.
Public and Stakeholder Outreach
• Public outreach is a key element in the HMP process and one of
the requirements of the planning process.
• Tetra Tech will be sending social media text and graphics to the
Steering Committee to post on their websites and social media
accounts.
Tt will send social media text and
graphics to the Steering Committee
12.
Schedule
• Organize resources now through late-September 2021
• Risk assessment October-November 2021
• Mitigation strategy – December 2021
• Maintenance strategy – December 2021
• Public draft (14 days public review period) early January 2022
• TDEM – mid-January 2022
• FEMA – mid-February 2022
• Adoption – late-March 2022
N/A
13.
Questions/Wrap Up/Next Steps
• Municipal Worksheets due to Tetra Tech or County OEM by
October 8th
• Risk Assessment Meeting: October/November 2021 (date TBD)
• Mitigation Strategy Workshop: December 2021 (date TBD)
N/A
9/29/2021
1
Galveston County, Texas
Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2022 Update
Planning Partnership Kick-Off Meeting | September 29, 2021
Agenda
•In-Kind Services Tracking
•Benefits of Hazard Mitigation
•Hazard Mitigation Planning Overview
•Project Organization
•Planning Partnership Responsibilities
•Public and Stakeholder Outreach
•Completing Worksheets
•Critical Facilities and Lifelines
•Goals and Objectives
•Schedule
•Questions/Next Steps/Wrap Up
2
1
2
9/29/2021
2
In-Kind Tracking
3
Hazard Mitigation – What is it?
Mitigation is a sustained action taken to reduce or
eliminate long-term risk to life and property from a
hazard event
-or-
Any action taken to reduce future disaster losses
4
“provides the blueprint for reducing the potential
losses identified in the risk assessment, based
on existing authorities, policies, programs and
resources, and local ability…” (CFR).
“provides the blueprint for reducing the potential
losses identified in the risk assessment, based
on existing authorities, policies, programs and
resources, and local ability…” (CFR).
Prepare /
Prevent
ResponseRecovery
Mitigation
Event
3
4
9/29/2021
3
Hazard Mitigation Works!
•According to the January 2019 National Institute of Building Sciences Natural
Hazard Mitigation Saves: 2018 Interim Report, federal mitigation grants save
$6 for every $1 spent!
5
Why Update?
•The mitigation plan update
will:
Help the County prepare for and
mitigate the effects of disasters
Continue to allow the County and
participating partners to be
eligible for pre- and post-disaster
mitigation funding
Support CRS participation/rating
of municipalities
6
Hazard Losses (1950 – May 2021)
Coastal Flood $700,000
Drought $1 million (property)
$109.6 million (crop)
Excessive Temperature -
Flash Flood $10+ billion (property)
$10,000 (crop)
Hail $3.023 million
High Wind $20,000
Hurricane/Tropical Storm $1.258 billion
Lightning $3.529 million
Thunderstorm $53.133 million (property)
$8,500 (crop)
Tornado/Funnel Cloud $36.212 million
Wildfire $0
Winter Storm (Cold/Wind
Chill)
$12 million
TOTAL $11,367,617,000 (property)
$109,618,500 (crop)
Source: NOAA-NCEI 2021
5
6
9/29/2021
4
What’s at Risk?
•FEMA Disaster Declarations
7
CRS Integration
•HMPs qualify for CRS points as “Floodplain
Management Plans” through Activity 510
•To achieve a Class 4, specific outreach requirements
in Activity 510 must be met
•Tetra Tech will structure and document meetings to
meet prerequisites for CRS Class 4 and achieve as
many points as possible through Activity 510. We will
also work with the communities to help them
throughout the process.
•All planning partnership meetings must be open to the
public
•All meetings must be publicized and documented on
the County’s website
8
CRS Communities:
•Dickinson – Class 8
•Friendswood – Class 7
•Jamaica Beach – Class 8
•Kemah – Class 8
•League City – Class 5
•Tiki Island – Class 7
Meeting Name CRS Step
Steering Committee
Kick-Off
-
Planning Partnership
Kick-Off
-
Public Kick-Off Step 2 – held in floodprone areas within 2
months of partnership kick-off
Risk Assessment
Presentation and SWOO
Step 4 – Asses the Hazard
Step 5 – Assess the problem
Goals and Objectives
Meeting
Step 6 – Set Goals
Mitigation Strategy
Workshop
Step 7 – Review possible activities
Plan Review Meeting Step 8 – Draft an action plan
7
8
9/29/2021
5
Project Organization
9
Steering Committee
Emergency Management
Contract Services
Roads and Bridges
Parks and Cultural Services
Engineering
County Facilities
Health District
Planning Partnership
All municipalities, Steering Committee members
Bayou Vista (C)
Clear Lake Shores (C)
Dickinson (C)
Friendswood (C)
Hitchcock (C)
Jamaica Beach (C)
Kemah (C)
La Marque (C)
League City (C)
Santa Fe (C)
Tiki Island (V)
Stakeholders
School Districts
Colleges/Universities
Emergency Services
NOAA
Port of Galveston
State DOT
Texas Division of Emergency
Management (TDEM)
Core Planning Team
Galveston County OEM
Tetra Tech
Planning Partnership Roles and Responsibilities
•As the municipal representative for your community, you need to actively
participate throughout the process in order to be included in the plan. This
includes:
Coordinate and facilitate local efforts
Attend meetings
Provide information and feedback (e.g., complete municipal worksheets)
Involve the public and community stakeholders in the planning process
Identify mitigation actions for your community
Adopt the plan
Implement the plan and monitor its progress
•All participation will be documented in the HMP
10
9
10
9/29/2021
6
Participation Tracker
11
Jurisdiction Name
Requirements Met (Y/N)
Planning
Process
Hazard
Identification
and Risk
Assessment
Mitigation
Strategy
Plan Review,
Evaluation, and
Implementation
Plan
Adoption
State
Requirements
Galveston County
Bayou Vista (C)
Clear Lake Shores (C)
Dickinson (C)
Friendswood (C)
Hitchcock (C)
Jamaica Beach (C)
Kemah (C)
La Marque (C)
League City (C)
Santa Fe (C)
Tiki Island (V)
Planning Process Overview
12 ImplementationPhase 1
Organize the Resources
Phase 2
Risk Assessment
Phase 3
Public
Involvement
Strategy
Phase 4
Update Mitigation Strategy
Phase 5
Update
Maintenance
Strategy
Phase 6
Assemble the Plan
Phase 7
Plan Review and Adoption
Phase 8
Project Management
Stakeholder and Public Input
11
12
9/29/2021
7
Project Scope
13
Risk
Assessment
Capability
Assessment
Mitigation
Strategy
Update Other
Sections of
HMP
Submit HMP
to TDEM and
FEMA
Adopt the
HMP
Implement
the HMP
Update Risk Assessment
•Update assets
•Examine previous impacts
•Analyze risks
•Review with Steering Committee and
Planning Partnership
•Risk assessment meeting – open to
the public
14
13
14
9/29/2021
8
2016 Hazards of Concern
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Drought
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Extreme Heat
•Tornado
•Windstorm
•Hailstorm
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Severe Winter Weather
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Expansive Soils
•Lightning
•Land Subsidence
•Tsunami
15
Potential 2022 Hazards of Concern
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Drought
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Extreme Temperature (Heat and Cold)
•Tornado
•Windstorm
•Hailstorm
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Severe Winter Weather
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Expansive Soils
•Lightning
•Land Subsidence
•Tsunami
•Pandemic
•Utility Failure
•Inland Erosion ?
16
15
16
9/29/2021
9
Worksheet A – Hazard Event History
17
Update the Capability Assessment
•Capabilities
Planning and Regulatory Capability
Administrative and Technical
Capability
Financial Capability
Education and Outreach
18
17
18
9/29/2021
10
Worksheet B – Capability Assessment
19
Worksheet C – NFIP FPA Questionnaire
20
19
20
9/29/2021
11
Worksheet E – Building Permits
21
Update the Mitigation Strategy
•Review the goals and objectives – we
will send out a survey link to provide
input
•Determine status of mitigation actions
•Identify new mitigation actions/projects
Focus on specific, implementable and
achievable actions!
Look at your list of critical facilities and
lifelines – what do they need to be
operational during a disaster?
•Conduct Mitigation Strategy Workshop
22
Goal
#2022 HMP Goal Statement
1 Minimize loss of life, injury, damage to property, the economy, and natural
systems
2 Maintain and enhance emergency management/mitigation capabilities
3 Maintain public education and awareness activities
21
22
9/29/2021
12
Worksheet D – Action Review
23
Community Lifelines
•Review 2017 critical facility inventory to ensure complete
•Crosswalk and identify lifelines
Lifelines provide indispensable service that enables the continuous operation of critical business and
government functions, and is critical to human health and safety, or economic security
Critical Facilities are those facilities considered critical to the health and welfare of the population and that are
especially important following a hazard. As defined for this HMP, critical facilities include essential facilities,
transportation systems, lifeline utility systems, high-potential loss facilities, and hazardous material facilities.
Essential facilities are a subset of critical facilities that include those facilities that are important to ensure a full
recovery following the occurrence of a hazard event. For the County risk assessment, this category was defined
to include police, fire, EMS, schools/colleges, shelters, senior facilities, and medical facilities.
24
23
24
9/29/2021
13
Update Other Sections of Plan
•County Profile
Taking the previous profile from the last plan and updating it accordingly
•Planning Process
Documentation of the update process
•Plan Maintenance
Incorporation into other plans as well as identifying way to incorporate other plans into the
updated HMP
Identify a game plan for annually reviewing and updating the HMP
25
Submit HMP for Review
•Review Draft with Planning Team
•14-day Public Comment Period
•Conduct Public Meeting to Review the Draft
•Submit for Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) Review
30 days
•Submit for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Review
45 days
•“Approvable Pending Adoption” Status
26
25
26
9/29/2021
14
Adopt the HMP
•Galveston County and at least one participating municipality need to adopt the
HMP
•Once FEMA approves the plan, adoption can begin
•Adoption deadline – TBD
27
Implement the HMP
•Regular Planning Team meetings
•Stakeholder meetings
•Implement mitigation actions and projects
Integrate actions where appropriate
Public and Stakeholder Outreach
•Social Media Posts
•Press Release
•HMP website – will work with the County to set this
up
•Planning Partnership meetings open to the public
•Stakeholder Survey
•Public Survey
•Neighboring County Outreach
Notified of planning process
Survey
28
27
28
9/29/2021
15
Next Steps / Upcoming Schedule
•Take online survey to update goals –to be distributed via email
•Planning Partnership Kick-Off (Steering Committee and Municipalities) – Today!
•Complete Municipal Worksheets
Due back to the County and/or Tetra Tech by October 8, 2021
•Steering Committee Meeting to discuss goals/objectives– mid-October
•Risk Assessment Meeting –November (tentatively)
•Mitigation Strategy Workshop – December (tentatively)
29
Questions?
30
29
30
9/29/2021
16
Galveston County Project Contacts
Laura Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
(281) 309-5013| laura.norman@co.galveston.tx.us
Tetra Tech Project Contacts
Heather Apgar, CFM, Project Manager
(973) 630-8046 | heather.apgar@tetratech.com
Kate Long, Lead Planner
(607) 216-6901 | kate.long@tetratech.com
Thank
You!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
31
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #2
November 18, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Steering Committee Meeting #2 | Agenda
PAGE | 1
Galveston County, Texas – 2022 Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
Steering Committee Meeting #2 | November 18, 2021 | 2:00 pm CST
Virtual Meeting
Join by Computer: https://bit.ly/3x1l0LK
Or
Dial-in Number (toll): 832-856-3579 | Conference ID: 285 583 569#
1. Welcome and Introductions
2. Project Schedule and Status Review
• Municipal Participation Status Update
• Data Collection Status Update
• Stakeholder and Public Outreach Strategy
3. Hazards of Concern Review
4. Critical Facilities and Lifelines
5. Confirmation of Goals and Objectives
6. Strengths, Weaknesses, Obstacles, and Opportunities (SWOO) Assessment
• Purpose and Examples
• Discussion
• Complete SWOO survey - https://forms.gle/Ei6s8Srj2Trv8WQ46 (due December 1st)
7. Next Steps
• As hazard profiles are complete, we will post on OneDrive for your review and input
• Continued public outreach
• Complete surveys (due December 3rd)
→ Problem Areas – https://arcg.is/0Sfeb8
→ New Development – https://arcg.is/by0G8
→ Critical Facilities - https://arcg.is/brDzv
• Mitigation Workshop – December 2nd @ 2:00 pm
• Risk assessment meeting – December 9th @ 2:00 pm
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #2
November 18, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Steering Committee Meeting #2 | Minutes
PAGE | 1
Purpose of Meeting: Steering Committee Meeting #2
Location of Meeting: Microsoft Teams
Date/Time of Meeting: November 18, 2021 – 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Attendees: ☒ Laura Norman, County OEM
☐ Michael Shannon, County Engineer
☒ Lee Crowder, County Roads and Bridges
☒ Martha Lee, County Parks
☐ Will Riordan, County Facilities
☒ James Gentile, County Contract Services
☐ Julie Diaz, County Parks & Cultural Services
☐ Randy Valcin, County Health
☒ Tyler Tipton, PHEP Manager, GCHD
☒ Heather Apgar, Tetra Tech
☒ Megan Brotherton, Tetra Tech
Agenda
Summary:
Review project schedule and status, hazards of concern, critical facilities and lifelines, goals and objectives, SWOO
exercise and next steps.
Item No. Description Action By:
1. Welcome N/A
2.
Project Schedule and Status Review
• Municipal Participation Status Update
o Worksheets have been received from everyone, except Bayou Vista is
missing one worksheet
o Annexes are being developed based on the worksheets received
o Surveys on new development and problem areas will be sent to planning
partners this week
o December 3rd – Mitigation strategy workshop will focus on identifying
mitigation action for the County and the planning partners
o December 9th – Risk assessment presentation
• Data Collection Status Update
o Data is being collected
o The list of Critical Facilities needs to be reviewed and updated
• Stakeholder and Public Outreach Strategy
o Public outreach materials have been developed by Tetra Tech for use by the planning partners
o List of suggested stakeholders was previously sent to the Steering Committee
• January 2022 – Draft plan will be available for planning partner review
o Hazard Profile sections will be posted on OneDrive as they are completed for review and input
• February 2022 – Final draft will be submitted to TDEM and FEMA
Tt to send out list of Critical Facilities for planning partner and Steering
Committee input
and updates. Tt to send public outreach materials for County approval.
Tt to send
approved outreach materials to the Steering Committee. Steering
Committee to
document
outreach efforts and send to Tt. Steering Committee to review and revise stakeholder list.
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #2
November 18, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Steering Committee Meeting #2 | Minutes
PAGE | 2
3. Hazards of Concern Review
• Added Pandemic and Utility Failure to the previous list
• No other additions N/A
4.
Critical Facilities and Lifelines
• List of critical facilities was developed from County GIS data
• FEMA-defined lifelines enable the continuous operation of critical government and business functions that are essential to human health and safety and/or economic security.
Tt to send list of critical facilities. Steering
Committee to remove facilities if not needed for risk assessment. Update lifeline categories as needed.
5.
Confirmation of Goals and Objectives
• Three goals were confirmed at the last meeting.
• New Goal #4 was added to address vulnerabilities from high-hazard dams.
• Objectives were updated to align with the State HMP and other recent county plans in Texas.
• Objectives include language to reflect FEMA lifelines.
N/A
6.
Strengths, Weaknesses, Obstacles, and Opportunities (SWOO) Assessment
• Purpose and Examples
o Helps with the identification of mitigation actions
• Discussion
• Complete SWOO survey - https://forms.gle/Ei6s8Srj2Trv8WQ46 (due December 1st)
Tt to send out link. Planning partners to complete the SWOO exercise.
7.
Next Steps
• As hazard profiles are complete, we will post on OneDrive for your review and input
• Continued public outreach
• Complete surveys (due December 3rd)
o Problem Areas – https://arcg.is/0Sfeb8
o New Development – https://arcg.is/by0G8
o Critical Facilities - https://arcg.is/brDzv
• Mitigation Workshop – December 2nd @ 2:00 pm
• Risk assessment meeting – December 9th @ 2:00 pm
Planning partners to submit completed surveys by 12/3.
11/18/2021
1
Galveston County, Texas
Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2022 Update
Steering Committee Meeting #2| November 18, 2021
Agenda
•Welcome and Introductions
•Project Schedule and Status Review
•Hazards of Concern
•Mission Statement, Goals and Objectives
•Strengths, Weaknesses, Obstacles, and Opportunities
•Next Steps
3
2
3
11/18/2021
2
Project Schedule
4
Schedule
•Overview and Milestones
Planning Process
Currently working on reviewing plans,
studies, and codes/ordinances
Steering Committee Meeting #2 – TODAY!
Risk Assessment and Hazard Ranking
Meeting – December 9th
•Update Risk Assessment
Hazard profiles and vulnerability
assessment are underway
•Public Involvement Strategy – ongoing
throughout the planning process
Need your help to get the word out about
the HMP – post on your website and social
media. Tetra Tech will send out graphics
to use.
•Mitigation Strategy
Mitigation Strategy Workshop with FEMA
and TDEM– December 2nd
•Draft Plan to Steering Committee by
January 2022
•Final draft plan to TDEM and FEMA by
February 2022
4
5
11/18/2021
3
Project Status
6
Phase 1
Organize the Resources
Phase 2
Risk Assessment
Phase 3
Public
Involvement
Strategy
Phase 4
Update Mitigation
Strategy
Phase 5
Update
Maintenance
Strategy
Phase 6
Assemble the
Plan
Phase 7
Plan Review and
Adoption
Phase 8
Project
Management
Data Collection – In
Progress
•Plan Collection – In
progress
•General Building Stock
–Update in Progress
•Critical Facility Inventory
-In Progress
Risk Assessment - In
Progress
•Hazard Profile Drafts –
In progress
•Vulnerability
Assessment – In
progress
•Risk Assessment
Meeting – December
9th
Public Involvement - In
Progress
•Public Survey
•Stakeholder Surveys
•Public Outreach –Tetra
Tech to provide
materials
Mitigation Strategy
•Confirm Goals And
Objectives - Today
•SWOO - Today
•Municipal Annex
Updates - In Progress
•Identify Problem Areas -
In Progress
•Develop Mitigation
Strategy – Pending
•Mitigation Workshop –
December 2nd
Participation Status
•Annex updates are in progress
•Info gathering worksheets were sent out to everyone; we received worksheets from
everyone
Need to follow-up with:
–Bayou Vista – missing one worksheet
•Next Steps
Review and identify critical facilities – December 3rd
–Tetra Tech will send out list of facilities and survey for review and input
Review and confirm risk ranking – December 9
th
Identify mitigation actions – December/January
7
6
7
11/18/2021
4
Public and Stakeholder Outreach
•Press Release and Social Media
Tetra Tech to provide sample press release and social media posts for your use
•Survey (public and stakeholder)
County is reviewing surveys before we distribute
Next step – distribute and advertise survey links and brochure
Stakeholders begin to complete survey
Municipalities to post an HMP project link and flyer on their website; press release sent to
newspapers
•Outreach – present key info on the HMP process at local meetings
Tetra Tech can provide some talking points if needed
8
Hazards of Concern
9
8
9
11/18/2021
5
2022 Hazards of Concern
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Drought
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Extreme Temperature (Heat and Cold)
•Tornado
•Windstorm
•Hailstorm
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Severe Winter Weather
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Expansive Soils
•Lightning
•Land Subsidence
•Tsunami
•Pandemic
•Utility Failure
10
Critical Facilities and Lifelines
11
10
11
11/18/2021
6
Critical Facilities and Community
Lifelines
•To be reviewed:
Airport
Bank
Bridge
Bus Facility
Childcare Facility
Communication Facility
County Building
Dam
DMV
Drainage Ditch
Electric Power Facility
Electric Substation
EMS
Energy Facility
EOC
Farmers Market
Ferry
Fire Station
Food Bank
Gas Station
Grocery Store
HazMat Superfund
HazMat TRI
Heliport
Homeless Shelter
Hospital
Major Employer
Military
Municipal Building
Nursing Home
Police Station
Polling Site
Port Facility
Post Office
Post-Secondary Education
Potable Water Pump
Station
Potable Water Tank
Potable Water Treatment Plant
Potable Water Well
Primary Education
Prison
Public Health
Department
Public Works Building
Radio Tower
Secondary Education
Train Station
Transportation
Wastewater Lift Station
Wastewater Pump Station
Wastewater Tank
Wastewater Treatment
Plant
Wastewater Wet Well
12
Critical Facilities and Lifelines
•What are lifelines?
A lifeline enables the continuous operation of critical government and business functions and is
essential to human health and safety or economic security.
Lifelines are the most fundamental services in the community that, when stabilized, enable all
other aspects of society to function.
When disrupted, decisive intervention (e.g., rapid re-establishment or employment of
contingency response solutions) is required to stabilize the incident.
•Tetra Tech conducted a preliminary review of the critical facilities and assigned the
lifeline categories to each
•We will be distributing a list of facilities for your review and input. We will also be
using an online survey to collect new facilities to be included.
All input is due December 3rd!
13
12
13
11/18/2021
7
Critical Facilities and Lifelines
14
Finalize Goals and
Objectives
14
15
11/18/2021
8
Goals and Objectives Review and Update
16
Goal 1: Minimize loss of life, injury, damage to property, the economy, and
natural systems from natural and human-caused hazard events
Objective 1.1: Protect the life, health and safety of residents
Objective 1.2: Protect existing/new critical facilities and community
lifelines
Objective 1.3: Enforce regulatory measures to ensure that current and
new development will not put people in harm’s way or
increase threats to existing properties.
Objective 1.4: Provide backup power to critical facilities and community
lifelines
Objective 1.5: Minimize impacts from all hazards
Objective 1.6: Build, enhance, and support partnerships to
continuously become less vulnerable to hazards
Goal 2: Maintain and enhance emergency management/mitigation
capabilities
Objective 2.1: Update/develop plans, studies, and mapping for all
hazards of concern for the County
Objective 2.2: Incorporate/improve hazard mitigation strategies into
ordinances, plans and polices
Objective 2.3: Conduct/develop drills/training for all hazards of
concern for the County
Objective 2.4: Implement and maintain the Galveston County
Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
Objective 2.5: Participate in programs that promote hazard mitigation
strategies
Objective 2.6: Build, obtain, and maintain critical facilities, community
lifelines,and equipment
Goal 3: Enhance and Maintain public education and awareness activities
Objective 3.1: Expand Public Outreach Campaigns for all hazards
Objective 3.2: Promote and encourage disaster preparedness
planning of appropriate hazard mitigation measures
for families
Goal 4: Address long-term vulnerabilities from high hazard dams *NEW*
Objective 4.1: Ensure dam infrastructure is routinely inspected and
maintained.
Objective 4.2: Ensure Emergency Action Plans are developed and
updated.
Objective 4.3: Support the identification and access to funding to
repair, replace, or decommission dams.
Strengths, Weaknesses, Obstacles,
and Opportunities (SWOO)
16
17
11/18/2021
9
Strengths, Weaknesses, Obstacles, and
Opportunities
The purpose of the SWOO is to identify mitigation strategies and capabilities that
will meet the goals and objectives of the plan update. It is also used to develop
potential mitigation actions for the participating jurisdictions.
•Strengths – what we do well
•Weaknesses – what could we do better
•Obstacles – things that stand in the way, and either prevents you from doing
something or something that need to be overcome
•Opportunities – used to develop mitigation strategies
18
SWOO Exercise
Thinking about the 2017 hazards of concern and any
new hazards for this update…what are some strengths,
weaknesses, obstacles and opportunities the Planning
Area has for each? Complete the online form
(https://forms.gle/Ei6s8Srj2Trv8WQ46)
19
Hazard: Severe Winter Storm
S Not a frequent occurrence
W Not a frequent occurrence and may
not have the resources to respond
Ob Funding; limited staff for prolonged
events
Opps Shared services
Hazard: Flood
S Minimal exposure to flood risk
W Silt and debris buildup in streams
can lead to localized flooding
Ob Funding for culvert and catch basin
maintenance
Opps Installing stream gages
Hazard: Severe Storms
S Tree trimming programs are in place
W Aging infrastructure; lack of
underground utilities
Ob Cost to retrofit existing utility
infrastructure
Opps Underground utilities; enhance
public outreach program
Here are some
examples to help
brainstorm:
18
19
11/18/2021
10
2022 SWOO Discussion/Example
20
Hazard
Strengths Weaknesses
What do the Planning Area do well in
terms of:
Plans and Regulations
Codes, Ordinances, Planning
Studies, Comprehensive Plans,
Adaptation and Resiliency Plans
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
Natural Systems Protection
Education and Awareness Programs?
Preparedness
Others?
What can the Planning Area do better or what
are identified gaps in terms of:
Plans and Regulations
Codes, Ordinances, Planning Studies,
Comprehensive Plans, Adaptation and
Resiliency Plans
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
Natural Systems Protection
Education and Awareness Programs?
Preparedness
Others?
2022 SWOO Discussion/Example
21
Hazard
Obstacles Opportunities
What is preventing the Planning Area to
implement:
Plans and Regulations
Codes, Ordinances, Planning
Studies, Comprehensive Plans,
Adaptation and Resiliency Plans
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
Natural Systems Protection
Education and Awareness Programs?
Preparedness
Others?
What can the Planning Area implement terms
of:
Plans and Regulations
Codes, Ordinances, Planning Studies,
Comprehensive Plans, Adaptation and
Resiliency Plans
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
Natural Systems Protection
Education and Awareness Programs?
Preparedness
Others?
20
21
11/18/2021
11
Next Steps
22
Next Steps
•Review Hazard Profiles
•Review Risk Assessment Results
•Identify Problems and Problem Areas
•Develop Mitigation Strategy
•Review Draft Plan
•Submit Draft Plan for TDEM/FEMA Review
•Adopt FEMA - Approved Plan
•Implement Projects and Maintain the Plan Increase Resilience!
23
22
23
11/18/2021
12
Questions?
24
Galveston County Project Contacts
Laura Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
(856) 307-7100 | dmcnulty@co.gloucester.nj.us
Tetra Tech Project Contacts
Heather Apgar, CFM, Project Manager
(973) 630-8046 | heather.apgar@tetratech.com
Thank
You!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
24
25
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Mitigation Strategy Workshop
December 2, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Meeting Location | 1353 FM 646 – Suite 201; Dickinson, TX
Mitigation Strategy Workshop| Agenda
PAGE | 1
1. Opening Remarks
2. In-Kind Tracking
• Use the Word tracker or online tracker to document time spent working on the HMP
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_inKind
3. Project Overview and Status
• Where we are in the process, participation status, public outreach, survey discussions
4. Mitigation Strategy
• Focus on the hazards of highest concern to your community
• At least one mitigation per each hazard of concern
• Filling out Action Worksheets
5. Updating Your Mitigation Strategy
• Review goals and objectives
6. Next Steps
7. Questions
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Mitigation Action Workshop
December 2, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Mitigation Action Workshop| Minutes
PAGE | 1
Purpose of Meeting: Mitigation Action Workshop
Location of Meeting: 1353 FM-646 Suite 201, Dickinson, TX or Microsoft Teams
Date/Time of Meeting: December 2, 2021 – 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Attendees: ☒ Laura Norman, County OEM
☒ Galveston County
☒ Galveston County Engineering Department
☐ Bayou Vista
☐ Clear Lake Shores
☐ Dickinson
☒ Friendswood
☐ Hitchcock
☒ Jamaica Beach
☐ Kemah
☒ La Marque
☒ League City
☒ Santa Fe
☐ Tiki Island
☒ Heather Apgar, Tetra Tech
☒ Megan Brotherton, Tetra Tech
Agenda
Summary:
Review project schedule and status, hazards of concern, critical facilities and lifelines, goals and objectives, SWOO
exercise and next steps.
Item No. Description Action By:
1. Welcome N/A
2.
In-Kind Tracking
• Keep track of your time spent working on the HMP. This will help the County meet
their local match requirement for the grant used to update the plan.
• Use the Word tracker or online tracker
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_inKind
Jurisdictions
continue to track
time
3.
Project Overview and Status
• What is mitigation?
o Mitigation describes actions taken to help reduce or eliminate the long-term
risks/damages cause by hazards
o Developing an HMP is one of several steps to take to mitigate hazards
o Mitigation helps us:
▪ Plan for the future
▪ Recovery quickly after disasters
▪ Identify mitigations
▪ Access FEMA funds
• Why are we updating the plan?
o The HMP needs to be updated every 5 years to:
▪ Prepare for and mitigate the effects of hazards
▪ Allow the County and municipalities to be eligible for pre disaster
funding
▪ Supports CRS participation – helps your municipality’s CRS rating
• Why are you spending time on this?
o In order to stay eligible for funding, you need to participate in and adopt the
County’s HMP
N/A
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Mitigation Action Workshop
December 2, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Mitigation Action Workshop| Minutes
PAGE | 2
o For every $1 spent on hazard mitigation, the U.S. saves $6 on future disaster
costs
o Many jurisdictions have been leveraging FEMA funding for years including
elevations, flood control measures, and updating the HMP
• Schedule
o All annex worksheets need to be returned to Tt by December 29th. We will
get them send out to you as part of the meeting follow-up. Tt will be
available to help you identify projects and complete the worksheets.
o Draft plan review with the Steering Committee and Planning Partners will be
in January – public review January and plan submitted to TDEM/FEMA by the
end of January
• Annex Progress
o The SWOO, critical facilities, problem areas, and new development surveys
are due by 12/3.
o After our 12/21 meeting, you will need to confirm your hazard ranking.
o Next is identify mitigation actions to include in the 2022 plan
o Annexes will need to be finalized by January 4th (before public review
period)
4.
Mitigation Strategy
• Focus on the hazards of highest concern to your community
• At least TWO mitigation actions per each hazard of concern
o Dam and Levee Failure
o Drought
o Earthquake
o Erosion
o Expansive Soils
o Extreme Temperatures
o Flood
o Hail
o Hurricane and Tropical Storm
o Land Subsidence
o Lightning
o Pandemic
o Severe Winter Storm
o Thunderstorm Wind
o Tornadoes
o Wildfire
• One action may cover all hazards and will count toward one of the two actions for
each hazard.
• Reduce risk by:
o Manipulating the hazard – flood control projects, levees
o Reducing or eliminating exposure – property acquisitions
o Reducing vulnerability – floodproof structures, elevations, install hurricane
shutters
o Increasing capability – develop plans, codes/ordinances to help address
hazards (prevent building in floodplain, increase code requirements for wind)
• Risk reduction measures can be turned into mitigation actions
• Requirements for the Mitigation Strategy
o TDEM and FEMA want creative/big projects that would work well under the
BRIC grant program
▪ Flood control measures, multi-jurisdictional projects
Jurisdictions to
begin developing
mitigation actions
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Mitigation Action Workshop
December 2, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Mitigation Action Workshop| Minutes
PAGE | 3
o 2017 actions – remove general ones and make them more specific; remove
maintenance (this should be an ongoing capability)
o Minimum of TWO projects per hazard of concern
• Mitigation actions to consider:
o Local debris management plan
o Repetitive loss/severe repetitive loss properties– mitigate through elevations
or acquisitions.
o Public education and outreach programs
o Generators at critical facilities
o Actions to address high hazard dams
• Connect to the Mitigation Strategy
o The risk assessment, capability assessment, hazards of concern, and problem
areas will be used to identify the best projects and actions for your
community.
o Make a clear connection between vulnerability and proposed mitigation
actions.
o The results of the capability assessment may alert you to plans and
ordinances that need to be updated. Include an action to update the plan
and incorporate the HMP. Or update an ordinance to include higher
freeboard for properties in the floodplain.
o Provide a factual basis for the proposed projects and activities in your plan.
Tie the actions to vulnerability reduction.
• Focus on:
o Connecting the risk assessment to the mitigation strategy
o Actions that you can achieve in the next five years – whether you have the
funding now or will need grant funding
o Diverse actions – identify a variety of actions that cover all hazards and
action types (structural, natural systems protection, etc.)
5.
Updating Your Mitigation Strategy
• Review goals and objectives - think about how the projects you identify will meet the
goals and objectives of the HMP
• Start with your problems
o Turn challenges into mitigation actions
o Look at your historic impacts – are certain areas always damaged by storm
events?
o Do you have repetitive loss or severe repetitive loss properties? Areas that
are always flooding?
o Do you have stormwater flooding issues? What can be done to reduce or
eliminate?
o Do you have critical facilities that need backup power? Are they located in
hazard areas?
o Have you submitted FEMA grant applications for projects that were not
funded?
• Use the actions from the last plan that you did not complete as actions for this plan. If
needed, modify those to be more specific or address different aspects of the original
problem.
• Cover at least one of the FEMA mitigation types with each action
o Plans and regulations
o Structure and infrastructure
o Natural systems protection
o Education and awareness programs
Tt to send
proposed action
table and
instructions
Jurisdictions to
begin developing
mitigation actions
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Mitigation Action Workshop
December 2, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Mitigation Action Workshop| Minutes
PAGE | 4
• Complete the proposed action table for each action you will be including in the plan,
focusing on highlighted areas
6.
Next Steps
• Actions and annexes – identify actions and return worksheets to Tt by 12/29
• Risk assessment and hazard ranking – TBD at the 12/21 meeting
• Review draft annex by 1/4 (before public review)
7. Questions
None
12/6/2021
1
Galveston County, Texas
Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2022 Update
Mitigation Strategy Workshop| December 2, 2021
Agenda
•Introduction
•In-Kind Tracking
•Project Overview and Status – where we are in the process
•Development of:
Mitigation Strategy/Actions/Projects
Action Worksheets using the Mitigation Action Development
Worksheets
•Next Steps
•Questions
2
1
2
12/6/2021
2
In-Kind Tracking Reminder
•Document your time working on the HMP (e.g.,
attend meetings, complete worksheets and
surveys, emails, etc.)
•Use the Word tracker or online tracker
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_i
nKind
3
What is Hazard Mitigation?
4
Plan for the
future
Recovery
quickly after
disasters
Identify
mitigation
actions
Access to
FEMA
funding
Prepare /
Prevent
ResponseRecovery
Mitigation
Event
3
4
12/6/2021
3
Why Update?
•Every five years, FEMA requires a County’s HMP to be
updated.
•The mitigation plan update will:
Help the County prepare for and mitigate the effects of disasters
Continue to allow the County and participating communities to be
eligible for pre- and post-disaster mitigation funding
Support CRS participation/rating of municipalities
5
Why are you spending time on this? Because
mitigation works!
•For every $1 spent on hazard
mitigation, the U.S. saves $6 in future
disaster costs!
•The County has been leveraging FEMA
funding for years – receiving money to
prepare and update this plan, install
generators at critical facilities, etc.
6
5
6
12/6/2021
4
Project Schedule Review
7
✓September 2021 Kick-Off Meetings
✓September-October 2021 Data Collection
❏October-December 2021 Update Hazard Profiles – in progress
✓December 2, 2021 Mitigation Strategy Workshop –TODAY!
❏December 21, 2021 Risk Assessment Presentation
❏December 2021 Develop Mitigation Actions – due to Tetra Tech by 12/29
❏Now – January 2022 Plan Development
❏December - January Review Draft Plan
❏January 4, 2022 Draft Plan Review Meeting
❏January 5-19, 2022 Public Review Period
❏Late-January 2022 Submit plan to TDEM and FEMA
Annex Progress
•Looking ahead…
Complete the surveys sent out on 11/22
–SWOO – due TODAY!
–Critical Facilities – due 12/3
–Problem Areas – due 12/3
–New Development – due 12/3
Confirm hazard ranking
Status updates on previous mitigation actions
Identify new mitigation actions for the 2022
update
Complete action worksheets
Finalize annexes by January 2022
•Orange municipalities – missing a worksheet
•Green municipalities – annex in good shape; need to
identify mitigation actions
8
Status (12/2/2021)
Galveston County Annex in progress
Bayou Vista (C)Annex in progress; missing Worksheet A (event history)
Clear Lake Shores (C)Annex in progress
Dickinson (C)Annex in progress
Friendswood (C)Annex in progress
Hitchcock (C)Annex in progress
Jamaica Beach (C)Annex in progress
Kemah (C)Annex in progress
La Marque (C)Annex in progress
League City (C)Annex in progress
Santa Fe (C)Annex in progress
Tiki Island (V)Annex in progress
7
8
12/6/2021
5
Mitigation Strategy
9
2022 Hazards of Concern
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Drought
•Expansive Soils
•Extreme Temperature (Heat and Cold)
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Hailstorm
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Land Subsidence
•Lightning
•Pandemic
•Severe Winter Weather
•Tornado
•Tsunami
•Utility Failure
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Windstorm
10
9
10
12/6/2021
6
Risk Reduction
•How do you reduce risk for a hazard?
Manipulate the Hazard
–Structural flood control
Reduce/Eliminate Exposure
–Acquire floodprone properties
Reduce Vulnerability
–Retrofit (floodproofing)
Increase Capability
–$, preparation, technical assistance, planning enforcement
11
Using Your Mitigation Strategy to Reduce Risk
•What is a Mitigation Strategy?
A group of projects or actions to reduce the impacts of the hazards of concern on your
community
–Plans and Regulations
–Structure and Infrastructure Studies and Projects
–Natural Systems Protection Studies and Projects
–Education and Awareness Programs
•Terms to describe the Mitigation Strategy include:
Mitigation Action Plan or Action Plan
Mitigation Projects or Initiatives or Actions
12
Your Mitigation Strategy
table is included in your
annex. We will use action
worksheets to collect details
on the actions you will
include in the 2022 Update.
11
12
12/6/2021
7
Requirements for the Mitigation Strategy
Update
•TDEM and FEMA would like to see more creative/big projects that would work well
under the BRIC grant program
•2017 projects
If a project is not finished and still a priority, include in 2022 HMP
Remove general projects or make more specific
Remove routine maintenance
Remove ongoing capabilities
•Minimum of 2 mitigation actions for EACH hazard of concern
One action can cover multiple hazards and jurisdictions. For example, education program on
mitigation technics you can implement – applies to all hazards and all jurisdictions.
13
Other Mitigation Actions to Consider
•Local Disaster Debris Management
Plans
•Actions to address high hazard or
significant hazard dams
•Public education and outreach
programs
•Generators at critical facilities
•Floodproofing critical facilities
•Addressing repetitive and severe
repetitive loss properties
14
13
14
12/6/2021
8
Connecting to the Mitigation Strategy
•Need a clear connection between
vulnerability and proposed
mitigation actions.
•Capability assessment provides
insight into challenges and
opportunities for the mitigation
strategy.
•Provides the factual basis for
activities proposed in the mitigation
strategy.
Mitigation
Strategy
Risk
Assessment
Capability
Assessment
Hazards of
Concern
Problem
Areas in
Community
15
Where do you need to focus?
•Stronger connection between the risk assessment and mitigation
strategy
•More specific, achievable actions
Specific projects, in specific locations, in a specific timeframe
•Diverse actions
You need at least 2 actions per hazard of concern. Think about actions that can
cover multiple hazards.
Include a variety in the types of actions
16
15
16
12/6/2021
9
Update the Mitigation Strategy
Action Types
Initiative Table – actions and projects
17
Update the Mitigation Strategy
•Review the Goals and Objectives of the HMP
•Start with problems
Turn challenges/obstacles/gaps into mitigation
actions
Examine historic impacts
Review the risk and capability assessment
results
RL/SRL properties
Stormwater/urban flooding areas
Critical facilities and lifelines located in a
hazard area (if feasible)
Additional areas of vulnerability
Previous FEMA HMA submitted projects –
awarded/unawarded
•Identify new Mitigation Actions/Projects/Strategies
•REMEMBER – 2 actions for every hazard of
concern!
•Modify ‘carry-over’ projects from the 2017 HMP
More specific or to address different aspects of
the original problem
18
17
18
12/6/2021
10
Mitigation Action Types
19
Range of Mitigation Actions
•Primary types of mitigation actions to reduce long-term vulnerabilities include:
•Zoning codes
•Ordinances
•Open space plan
•Debris management plan
Local Plans and Regulations
•Elevation
•Drainage improvements
•Property acquisitions
•Stormwater improvements
Structural Projects
•Stream and wetland restoration
•Erosion control
•Water quality improvement
•Environmental corridors
Natural Systems Protection
•Public awareness
•Education programs
•Real estate disclosure
•Map information
•Environmental education
Education and Outreach
20
19
20
12/6/2021
11
Proposed Action Table
•Each municipality will need to complete
the Proposed Hazard Mitigation
Initiatives table in your annex
•Each column needs to be filled in. Tetra
Tech will assist you with completing each
cell.
•Action Worksheets will need to be
completed for all projects.
Initiative
Number
Mitigation
Initiative
Name Description of the Problem and Solution
New or
Existing
Assets?
Hazard(s) to be
Mitigated Goals Met
2021-
Your
Town-001
Repetitive
Loss
Property
Outreach
Problem: There are 100 repetitive loss properties located in
the Borough. According to NFIP claims records, these
properties have experienced extensive flood damage through
the years. Without proper mitigation, the structures will
continue to experience flood damages.
Existing Flood, Severe
Storm,
Hurricanes/
Tropical Storms
All
Solution: Conduct outreach to the property owners to inform
them of their repetitive loss designation and provide
mitigation options to protect the structures. If the property
owners choose elevation or acquisition, the Borough will
develop a grant application to fund acquisitions or elevations
of the properties.
Lead and
Support
Agencies
Potential
Funding
Sources Estimated BenefitsEstimated CostTimelinePriorityMitigation Category CRS CategoryMunicipal
Floodplain
Administrator,
Property
Owner
Borough Budget
for outreach;
FEMA FMA or
HMGP for
mitigation
measures
Increase
resilience of
structure and
Borough;
decrease flood
damages
<$10,000 for
outreach;
mitigation costs
vary depending
on project
One year for
outreach; 5
years for
mitigation
measures
High EAP, SIP PP, PI
21
How do you fill in the Action Worksheets?
•The entire worksheet needs to be filled in;
however, Tetra Tech will assist with this. We
ask that each municipality fill in (at least) the
highlighted cells.
•We need one worksheet for each action.
•Focus on providing highly detailed:
Description of the Problem
Description of the Solution
22
21
22
12/6/2021
12
Next Steps
•Actions and Annexes
Tetra Tech will reach out to help you with identify mitigation actions
We will be sending out a worksheet to help capture additional problem areas.
Complete the online survey to identify areas as well.
•Review your hazard ranking and adjust as needed (to be discussed at our 12/21
meeting)
•Review your draft annex prior to posting for public review.
23
Questions?
24
23
24
12/6/2021
13
Galveston County Project Contacts
Laura Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
(281) 309-5013|laura.norman@co.galveston.tx.us
Tetra Tech Project Contacts
Heather Apgar, CFM, Project Manager
(973) 630-8046 | heather.apgar@tetratech.com
Thank
You!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
25
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Risk Assessment Presentation
December 21, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Meeting Location | 1353 FM 646 – Suite 201; Dickinson, TX
Risk Assessment Presentation| Agenda
PAGE | 1
1. Opening Remarks
2. In-Kind Tracking
• Use the Word tracker or online tracker to document time spent working on the HMP
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_inKind
3. Project Status –
• Where we are in the process, participation status, public outreach, survey discussions
4. Risk Assessment Overview –
• Hazards of concern risk ranking
• Results of each risk assessment for each hazard
• How will this information be used in the HMP
5. Using the Risk Assessment in Developing Mitigation Actions
6. Next Steps
7. Questions
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Risk Assessment Presentation
December 21, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Risk Assessment Presentation | Minutes
PAGE | 1
Purpose of Meeting: Risk Assessment Presentation
Location of Meeting: 1353 FM-646 Suite 201, Dickinson, TX or Microsoft Teams
Date/Time of Meeting: December 21, 2021 – 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm
Attendees: ☒ Galveston County OEM
☐ Bayou Vista
☐ Clear Lake Shores
☐ Dickinson
☐ Friendswood
☐ Hitchcock
☐ Jamaica Beach
☐ Kemah
☐ La Marque
☐ League City
☐ Santa Fe
☐ Tiki Island
☒ Heather Apgar, Tetra Tech
☒ Megan Brotherton, Tetra Tech
Agenda
Summary: Review project schedule and status, present risk ranking, and go over how to review and provide input
Item No. Description Action By:
1. Welcome N/A
2.
In-Kind Tracking
• Keep track of your time spent working on the HMP. This will help the County meet
their local match requirement for the grant used to update the plan.
• Use the Word tracker or online tracker
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_inKind
Jurisdictions
continue to track
time
3.
Project Schedule:
• Hazard Profiles are underway
• Mitigation Action Worksheets are due December 29
o Two actions are required for each hazard
• Draft plan to TDEM by the last week in January
N/A
4.
Public Outreach and Engagement
• Public and Stakeholder outreach surveys will be distributed today
o Post outreach materials to social media and jurisdictional websites
o Send Tt copies of the posts to include in the plan
Tt and Jurisdictions
5.
Risk Assessment Overview
Risk is defined as:
• A function of hazard, exposure, and vulnerability. We are also looking at capabilities
and climate change. Combining all of these things gives us the risk of each hazard of
concern.
The risk assessment:
• Gives us a better understanding of the risks the Planning Area faces
• Initial results are based on best available data at the time of the plan update
• Some hazards we did a qualitative assessment (e.g., disease outbreak, extreme heat).
The hazards that do not have defined mapping or extents were the ones where the
qualitative assessment was done.
• Other hazards we performed a quantitative assessment where we were able to use
N/A
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Risk Assessment Presentation
December 21, 2021 | 2:00 pm CT
Risk Assessment Presentation | Minutes
PAGE | 2
mapping to determine the number of people and structures exposed, along with
estimated structural damages. This was done for hurricane/wind and flood.
6.
Ranking the Hazards of Concern
This shows the overall ranking for the County for each hazard, with the highest ranked on top
and the lowest on bottom. Rankings were done for the County and for each municipality.
Some of the rankings different from 2017:
• We used best available data and looked at population, economy, property (buildings),
capabilities to respond to or address the hazard, climate change projections, and
probability of occurrence.
• We also used different thresholds for the impacts listed above.
• We incorporated your capabilities to respond/address the hazard and the potential for
climate change impacts
This shows the different levels assigned to each hazard and what was used to calculate the risk
factor ranking.
Overall output for each hazard of concern:
• Coastal and Inland Erosion - Low
• Dam/Levee Failure - Low
• Drought - Medium
• Expansive Soils - High
• Extreme Temperatures (Heat and Cold) - Medium
• Flood (Coastal and Inland) - Medium
• Hailstorm - Low
• Hurricane/Tropical Storm - High
• Land Subsidence - Low
• Lighting - Low
• Pandemic - Low
• Severe Winter Storm - Low
• Tornado - Medium
• Tsunami - Low
• Utility Failure - Medium
• Wildfire (Urban and Rural) - Low
• Windstorm - Medium
N/A
7.
Questions and Comments
• Dam & Levee Failure: Galveston Seawall is categorized as a levee and upgrades are
currently under construction. Provide updated info to Tt.
• Sinkholes can be categorized under expansive soils.
• Erosion map? The entire coastline is subject to erosion. Tt to get clarification from GIS.
• Events that occurred in non-participating jurisdictions can be included.
• Expansive Soils may need to be adjusted to a lower ranking.
• Flood should be changed to high.
Tt and Jurisdictions
8.
Next Steps
• Mitigation Action Worksheets due by Wednesday, December 29
• Risk Assessment finalization due by Wednesday, December 29
• Draft Plan Review, January 4, 2022
• Public Review Period, January 5-19, 2022
12/27/2021
1
Galveston County, Texas
Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2022 Update
Risk Assessment Presentation| December 21, 2021
Agenda
•Welcome
•In-Kind Tracking
•Project Overview and Status – where we are in the process
•Risk Assessment Overview
•Review Calculated Hazard Ranking
•Next Steps
2
1
2
12/27/2021
2
In-Kind Tracking Reminder
•Document your time working on the HMP (e.g.,
attend meetings, complete worksheets and
surveys, emails, etc.)
•Use the Word tracker or online tracker
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_i
nKind
3
Project Schedule Review
4
✓September 2021 Kick-Off Meetings
✓September-October 2021 Data Collection
❏October-December 2021 Update Hazard Profiles – in progress
✓December 2, 2021 Mitigation Strategy Workshop
❏December 21, 2021 Risk Assessment Presentation –TODAY!
❏December 29, 2021 Mitigation Action Worksheets due to Tetra Tech – two actions per hazard!
❏December 29, 2021 Hazard Ranking Review due to Tetra Tech
❏Now – January 2022 Plan Development
❏January 2022 Review Draft Plan
❏January 4, 2022 Draft Plan Review Meeting
❏January 10-24, 2022 Public Review Period
❏January 28, 2022 Submit plan to TDEM and FEMA
3
4
12/27/2021
3
Annex Progress
•Looking ahead…
Confirm hazard ranking
Status updates on previous mitigation
actions
Identify new mitigation actions for the
2022 update
Complete action worksheets
Finalize annexes by January 7, 2022
•Orange municipalities – missing a worksheet
•Green municipalities – annex in good shape;
need to identify mitigation actions
5
Status (12/2/2021)
Galveston County Annex in progress
Bayou Vista (C)Annex in progress; missing Worksheet A (event history)
Clear Lake Shores (C)Annex in progress
Dickinson (C)Annex in progress
Friendswood (C)Annex in progress
Hitchcock (C)Annex in progress
Jamaica Beach (C)Annex in progress
Kemah (C)Annex in progress
La Marque (C)Annex in progress
League City (C)Annex in progress
Santa Fe (C)Annex in progress
Tiki Island (V)Annex in progress
Public and Stakeholder Outreach
•Surveys are ready to distribute!
•We will send out different tools
to use to help with public
outreach – please share!
Social media – Facebook, Twitter
Let Tetra Tech know when you post
so we can grab screen shots to
include in the plan
6
5
6
12/27/2021
4
Risk Assessment Overview
7
What is Risk?
Risk is defined as a function of :
Hazard
•Source of potential danger or adverse condition
Exposure
•Manmade or natural features that are exposed to the hazard
Vulnerability
•Damage susceptibility of the exposed features
8
7
8
12/27/2021
5
Purpose of the Risk Assessment
•To get a better understanding of the risks you
face
•Initial results based on available data
•Quantitative data (population/structures
exposed, structural damages within hazard
zones) used when available
•Qualitative community input (such as
unmapped flood areas) integrated to adjust
results
•Local community input to adjust relative
rankings
9
Spatial
Hazard
Data
County
Specific
Building
Data
Scientific
Modeling
(HAZUS v5
& ArcGIS)
Historic
Data
Comprehensive
List of Expected
Damages ($$$)
Ranking the Hazards of Concern
How are the rankings calculated? What is the preliminary ranking?
10
9
10
12/27/2021
6
2022 Hazards of Concern
•Coastal Erosion and Retreat
•Dam/Levee Failure
•Drought
•Expansive Soils
•Extreme Temperature (Heat and Cold)
•Flood (Coastal and Inland)
•Hailstorm
•Hurricane/Tropical Storm
•Land Subsidence
•Lightning
•Pandemic
•Severe Winter Weather
•Tornado
•Tsunami
•Utility Failure
•Wildfire (Urban and Rural)
•Windstorm
11
Preliminary Hazard Ranking Formula
12
Probability
of
Occurrence
(30%)
Impacts
(30%)
Adaptive
Capacity
(30%)
Climate
Change
(10%)
Preliminary
Hazard
Ranking
Impact to
Economy
Impact to
Population
Impact to
Property
Local community
input to adjust
preliminary
rankings
Local community
input to adjust
preliminary
rankings
11
12
12/27/2021
7
Ranking the Hazards of Concern
What information plays a role in determining the risk rankings?
Preliminary Hazard Ranking
14
13
14
12/27/2021
8
Preliminary Hazard Ranking
15
Hazard of Concern 2017 Countywide Ranking
2022 Countywide
Preliminary Ranking
Dam and Levee Failure Low Low
Drought Low Medium
Erosion Low Low
Expansive Soils Low High
Extreme Temperature Low Medium
Flood Low Medium
Hail Low Low
Hurricane and Tropical Storm Medium High
Land Subsidence Low Low
Lightning Low Low
Pandemic Not profiled Low
Severe Winter Storm Low Low
Tornado Low Medium
Tsunami Low Low
Utility Failure Not profiled Low
Wildfire Low Low
Windstorm High Medium
Municipal Preliminary Rankings
16
Clear Lake Shores (C)Dickinson (C)Friendswood (C) Hitchcock (C) Jamaica Beach (C) Kemah (C) La Marque (C) League City (C) Santa Fe (C) Bayou Vista (V) Tiki Island (V)
Erosion Low Low Low High Low Medium Low Medium High Low High
Dam and Levee Failure Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Drought Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Medium Medium
Expansive Soils Low High High High Low Low High High Low High Low
Extreme Temperature Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium
Flood High High Low High High High Low Low Low High High
Hail Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Hurricane High High Medium High High High High High Medium High High
Land Subsidence Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Lightning Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Pandemic Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Severe Winter Storm Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Tornado Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium
Tsunami Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Utility Failure Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium
Wildfire Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low Low
Windstorm Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium Medium
15
16
12/27/2021
9
Why are the rankings different from
the last plan?
•We used a different methodology for the 2022 HMP
Population
Property
Economy
Capabilities to respond to/address the hazard
Climate change projections
Probability of occurrence
•We used different thresholds for the impacts listed above
•We incorporated your capabilities to respond/address the hazard and the
potential for climate change impacts
17
Hazard Ranking Input – 2022 HMP
18
Impact on Population – Function of population exposed
Low – 14% or less population exposed
Medium – 15%-29% population exposed
High – 30%+ population exposed
Impact on property – Function of structures exposed
Low – 14% or less structures exposed
Medium – 15%-29% structures exposed
High – 30%+ structures exposed
Impact on economy – Function of damages to building stock
Low – 9% or less loss estimate of total replacement cost
Medium – 10%-19% loss estimate of total replacement cost
High – 19%+ loss estimate of total replacement cost
Capability – Function of level of planning, policies, enforcement
Low – outdated policies; limited to no deployable resources; limited capabilities to respond; long recovery
Medium – minimum requirements; mitigation strategies identified but not implemented; moderate county capabilities
High – exceed requirements; mitigation/protective measures in place; county/jurisdiction has ability to recover quickly because resources are readily available,
and capabilities are high
Climate Change – Function of climate predictions
Low - No local data is available; modeling projects are uncertain on whether there is increased future risk; confidence level is low (inconclusive evidence)
Medium - Studies and modeling projections indicate a potential for exacerbated conditions due to climate change
High - Studies and modeling projections indicate exacerbated conditions/increased future risk due to climate change
17
18
12/27/2021
10
Coastal and Inland Erosion
•Previous events include erosion along beaches as
a result of coastal storms
Any significant events in the last 5 years?
•Looked at both coastal and inland erosion impacts
Coastal – 100-ft shoreline buffer
Inland – K factor >0.49 (susceptibility to erosion)
19
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Low
Property -
Low
Economy -
Medium
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
High
Ranking -
Low
20
19
20
12/27/2021
11
Dam and Levee Failure
•One dam and six levee systems
Galveston County Water Industrial Reservoir Dam – high
hazard
Galveston County Industrial Water Reservoir Levee
System
Old Fort San Jacinto Levee System
Pelican Island Levee 4
Pelican Island Levee System
Shoal Point Levee System
Texas City Hurricane Flood Protection
•No reported failures or incidents in the County
Are they any in the last five years we should include?
21
Probability -
Rare
Population -
Medium
Property -
Medium
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
Drought
•Previous Events
Between 1996 and 2021, 9 reported drought events in Galveston County; however, this may not represent all
drought events that impacted the area.
The County was included in 7 USDA Declarations for drought
events between 2012 and 2021.
•Exposure
Entire Planning Area is vulnerable
Increased vulnerability to populations at higher risk (65+ / <5 years old)
•Potential impacts:
Increased wildfire/brush fire risk
Impacts to agriculture/farms
Drinking water supply (groundwater and surface water)
22
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Medium
Property -
Medium
Economy -
Medium
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
High
Ranking -
Medium
21
22
12/27/2021
12
Expansive Soils
•Little to no information on expansive soil incidents
in the County.
Expansive soils cause structures to move unevenly and
crack and cause roads and sidewalks to buckle.
•Impacts
People and structures located in areas with >6%
extensibility (shrink-swell potential of soils) – high is
anything over 6%
23
Probability -
Rare
Population -
High
Property -
High
Economy -
High
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
High
Extreme Temperature
•Previous Events
Looked at both hot and cold events
Between 2000 and 2021, the County had 67 days with
temperatures over 90°F and two days with temperatures
below 32°F
•Exposure
Entire Planning Area is vulnerable
Increased vulnerability to populations at higher risk (65+
/ <5 years old)
24
Probability -
Frequent
Population -
Medium
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
High
Ranking -
Medium
23
24
12/27/2021
13
Flood
•Previous Events
Looked at riverine, coastal, flash, and stormwater flooding
10 FEMA disaster declarations since 1973 specific to
flooding; 113 reported flood events since 1996
•Exposure
People and property located in the 1% annual chance
flood area
25
Probability -
Frequent
Population -
Medium
Property -
Low
Economy -
High
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
High
Ranking -
Medium
26
25
26
12/27/2021
14
Hail
•Previous Events
120 hail events since 1957 causing over $3 million in
property damage (as reported to NOAA).
Largest hail diameter – 4.5 inches in Hitchcock on April 2,
2013
•Exposure
Entire population and building stock vulnerable
27
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Low
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
Hurricane and Tropical Storm
•Previous Events
4 events since 2017; 16 FEMA disaster declarations
related to hurricanes and tropical storms
Most recent event to hit the County – Hurricanes Laura
and Nicholas
•Exposure
Population and property exposed to storm surge
Used Category 4 storm surge to develop ranking
28
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
High
Property -
High
Economy -
High
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
High
Ranking -
High
27
28
12/27/2021
15
29
Land Subsidence
•Previous Events
No record of subsidence incidents since 2017; however, it
is a continuous hazard, and its effects are often
combined with other events
Rates of decreased over time, but the effects are still a
risk
•Exposure
Limited exposure to population and buildings
30
Probability -
Rare
Population -
Low
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
29
30
12/27/2021
16
Lightning
•Previous Events
Three recorded lightning strike since 2017; over
$900,000 in property damage
•Exposure
All people and property exposed and vulnerable; however,
damage from lightning strikes are considered minimal
31
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Low
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
Pandemic
•Previous Events
Looked at COVID-19, Flu, and West Nile Virus
•Exposure
Entire County is exposed and vulnerable; however, not
occurring multiple times a year with significant impacts
Severe events can lead to staffing and bed shortages in
hospitals
32
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Medium
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
31
32
12/27/2021
17
Severe Winter Storm
•Previous Events
Snow event in December 2017
Most recent event occurred February 2021 – below-
freezing temperatures, power outages
•Exposure
All people and property in the Planning Area are
vulnerable
Populations of 65+ and <5 may be more at risk
33
Probability -
Rare
Population -
Medium
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
Tornado
•Previous Events
15 reported tornadoes/funnel clouds since 2017; over
$780,000 in property damage
•Exposure
All people and property in the Planning Area exposed and
vulnerable
34
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Medium
Property -
Medium
Economy -
Medium
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Medium
33
34
12/27/2021
18
Tsunami
•Previous Events
No recorded tsunamis in Galveston County or Texas
•Exposure
Looked at population and buildings located in the tsunami
hazard area – evacuation areas plus high tide (322 ft
from mapped shoreline)
Only 0.4% of population exposed and 0.8% of buildings
exposed
35
Probability -
Rare
Population -
Low
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
Utility Failure
•Previous Events
Looked at power outages and events that downed power
lines and utility poles
•Exposure
Entire County is exposed and vulnerable; however, overall
impacts or low to medium
36
Probability -
Frequent
Population -
Medium
Property -
Low
Economy -
Medium
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Medium
35
36
12/27/2021
19
Wildfire
•Previous Events
No events identified during our research
Any events to include?
•Exposure
People and property located in the Wildland-Urban
Interface/Intermix (WUI) areas
WUI is the area where houses meet or intermingle with
undeveloped wildland vegetation.
37
Probability -
Rare
Population -
Low
Property -
Low
Economy -
Low
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
Medium
Ranking -
Low
38
37
38
12/27/2021
20
Windstorm
•Previous Events
Wind-related events associated with thunderstorms
Since 2017, 22 wind-related events (associated with
thunderstorms); $63,000 in property damage and
$6,500 in crop damage
•Exposure
Looked at population and property exposed to a 500-year
event (Category 4 wind gusts – 130-156 mph)
39
Probability -
Occasional
Population -
Medium
Property -
Medium
Economy -
Medium
Capacity –
Medium
Climate
Change –
High
Ranking -
Medium
40
39
40
12/27/2021
21
Next Steps
41
Next Steps
•Mitigation Actions – worksheets due Wednesday, December 29th
If you need help completing, please reach out to Tetra Tech
•Finalize risk assessment – due to Tetra Tech by Wednesday, December
29th
•Finalize annexes by January 7, 2022
•Submit Draft Plan for TDEM/FEMA Review
•Adopt FEMA - Approved Plan
•Implement Projects and Maintain the Plan Increase Resilience!
42
41
42
12/27/2021
22
Questions?
43
Galveston County Project Contacts
Laura Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
(281) 309-5013|laura.norman@co.galveston.tx.us
Tetra Tech Project Contacts
Heather Apgar, CFM, Project Manager
(973) 630-8046 | heather.apgar@tetratech.com
Thank
You!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
43
44
Galveston County, TX Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update
Draft Plan Presentation
January 25, 2022 | 2:00 pm CT
Meeting Location | 1353 FM 646 – Suite 201; Dickinson, TX
Draft Plan Presentation| Agenda
PAGE | 1
1. Opening Remarks
2. In-Kind Tracking
• Use the Word tracker or online tracker to document time spent working on the HMP
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_inKind
3. Project Status –
• Where we are in the process, participation status, public outreach, survey discussions
4. Draft Plan Overview –
• What’s new
• Review each section
• Plan Maintenance
• Finalizing the Plan
5. Section Contents of HMP
6. Next Steps
7. Questions
2/2/2022
1
Galveston County, Texas
Hazard Mitigation Plan – 2022 Update
Draft Plan Presentation| January 25, 2022
Agenda
•In-Kind Tracking
•Draft Plan Review
What’s New
Section-by-section content overview
Review guidelines
Finalizing the plan
•Next Steps
•Questions
2
1
2
2/2/2022
2
In-Kind Tracking Reminder
•Document your time working on the HMP (e.g.,
attend meetings, complete worksheets and
surveys, emails, etc.)
•Use the Word tracker or online tracker
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Galveston_i
nKind
3
What’s New in the 2022 Update?
•Critical facilities – updated inventory and included community lifelines
•Hazards of concern – incorporated new hazards, concise hazard profiles, included recent
events
•Climate change impacts and adaptive capacity to reduce vulnerability used in hazard
ranking
•Jurisdictional annexes – each municipality and the County have their own ‘chapter’
Enhanced capability assessment including integration
Mitigation actions for every hazard of concern
3
4
2/2/2022
3
Section Contents
•Volume I
Section 1 – Introduction
–Mitigation planning overview
–Participating jurisdictions
–2022 updates and summary of
changes since last plan
Section 2 – Planning
Process
–Plan participants (committees,
stakeholders, etc.)
–Activities
–Ongoing process
Section Contents
•Section 3 – County Profile
History & Physical Setting
Major Hazard Event History
Population and Demographics
General Building Stock
Land Use and Population Trends
Critical Facilities & Lifelines
5
6
2/2/2022
4
Section Contents
•Section 4 – Risk Assessment
Methodology and Tools –
–Describes the various procedures and tools used to complete the risk assessment.
–Steps to do so included identifying and profiling each hazard of concern; determine exposure to each hazard; and assess the
vulnerability of exposed population/buildings/economy.
Identification of Hazards of Concern
–Process to go through all potential hazards and identify the hazards that have the potential to impact Galveston County
Hazard Profiles
–Created individual sections for each hazard of concern.
–Each section includes:
–Hazard Profile – description, location, extent, worst-case scenario, previous occurrences, climate change projections, and
probability of future events
–Vulnerability Assessment – impact on life/health/safety, impact on building stock and critical facilities, impact on economy,
impact on the environment, future changes that may impact vulnerability, and changes in vulnerability since the last plan
Hazard Ranking
–Provides a preliminary ranking (high, medium, low) of each hazard to show the County and municipalities hazards of greatest risk
7
Section Contents
•Section 5 – Capability Assessment
Capability Assessment
–Available plans, programs, & resources
–Administrative and technical capabilities
–Fiscal capabilities
•Section 6 - Mitigation Strategies
Past accomplishments
Goals and Objectives
Mitigation strategy development and update
–Action identification
–Evaluation and prioritization
–Benefit/cost review
2022 Goals
1. Minimize loss of life, injury, damage to
property, the economy, and natural
systems from natural and human-caused
hazard events
2. Maintain and enhance emergency
management/mitigation capabilities
3. Enhance and Maintain public education
and awareness activities
4. Address Long-Term Vulnerabilities from
High Hazard Dams
7
8
2/2/2022
5
Section Contents
•Section 7 – Plan Maintenance
HMP Coordinator
Ongoing Planning Partnership – meet annually
to discuss HMP
Monitoring
Continuous evaluation and progress reports
–FEMA action worksheets and BATool℠
Updating
Integrating the HMP with existing and future
programs
Continued public involvement
BAToolSM
•Online progress reporting for individual mitigation actions – pre-populated by Tetra
Tech
Galveston County
9
10
2/2/2022
6
Plan Maintenance Review
11
Section Contents
•Volume II
Section 8 – Planning
Partnership
–Participating jurisdictions
–Introduction to jurisdictional
annexes
Section 9 – Jurisdictional
Annexes
–Points of Contact and Who Participated
–Municipal Profile
–Capabilities
–Risk Assessment
–Status of Past Mitigation Actions
–Current Mitigation Actions
11
12
2/2/2022
7
Section Contents - Appendices
•Appendices
Appendix A Plan Adoption
Appendix B Participation Documentation
Appendix C Meeting Documentation
Appendix D Public and Stakeholder Outreach Documentation
Appendix E Mitigation Strategy Supplementary Data
Appendix F Plan Maintenance Tools
Appendix G Linkage Procedures
Appendix H Critical Facilities
Review the Draft Plan
•The entire plan will be posted on the Galveston County website for a 14-day review
period (starting Monday, January 31st)
You can review sections of the plan during the public review, and we will incorporate any
applicable revisions into the final deliverable to the State and FEMA
•TDEM will begin their review concurrently with the public review period. This will
help with their review/approval process and submittal to FEMA.
•Public feedback to be incorporated as appropriate prior to submittal to
TDEM/FEMA for their review.
If needed, we will hold a brief meeting to discuss public comments and how to incorporate –
date TBD
13
14
2/2/2022
8
Next Steps
•Draft Posted for Public Review and Comment – 14 Days
•Submit to TDEM – January 31st
•Submit to FEMA – once TDEM reviews and approves the HMP
•Estimated 45-day FEMA review period
•BAToolSM Webinar to Review Plan Maintenance
•Plan Adoption by County and Participating Municipalities
•Leverage the plan to create mitigation principles in Galveston County!
15
Questions?
16
15
16
2/2/2022
9
Galveston County Project Contacts
Laura Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
(281) 309-5013|laura.norman@co.galveston.tx.us
Tetra Tech Project Contacts
Heather Apgar, CFM, Project Manager
(973) 630-8046 | heather.apgar@tetratech.com
Thank
You!
This Photo by Unknown Author is licensed under CC BY-SA
17
APPENDIX D: PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan D-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX D. PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
This appendix provides documentation of public and stakeholder outreach. Stakeholder involvement in this
planning process was broad and productive as discussed and further documented in Section 3 (Planning
Process). Public and stakeholder input has been incorporated throughout this HMP as appropriate, as
identified in Section 3 and the References section.
D.1 Website and Social Media Posts
The following provides screenshots of websites, news articles, and social media posts.
Figure D-1. County Postings About HMP
APPENDIX D: PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan D-2
2022 Update
Figure D-2. Municipal Postings About HMP
D.2 Stakeholder Surveys
This section contains information and results gathered from the Galveston County Stakeholder Survey. Unlike
steering committee or planning partnership members, stakeholders may not be involved in all stages of the
planning process, but they may have information or input to provide. In order to gather that information, the
surveys were sent to the following stakeholders that provide various services to the County (emergency
APPENDIX D: PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan D-3
2022 Update
services, academic/research, public works, utility providers, business/commerce, hospitals/medical services,
and transportation). Results of the surveys are provided below, with personal information redacted.
D.1.1 Stakeholder Survey
The stakeholder survey was designed to
help identify general needs for hazard
mitigation and resiliency within Galveston
County from its perspective, as well as to
identify specific projects that may be
included in the mitigation plan. It was
distributed to identified stakeholders,
including the various county and municipal
departments and agencies in the county. As
of January 28, 2022, 8 stakeholders
completed the survey, 40% of which in the
emergency services category, 20% in
academic/research, 20% in public work, and
20% in utilities.
Hazard and Damage Identification
Half of respondents said the buildings/facilities/structures they have worked in and/or are responsible for have
been impacted by a hazard; 25% said no and 25% were unsure. Those that experienced damage stated that the
structures had wind and flood damage from hurricanes, with some reporting complete destruction of buildings.
When asked what areas are most vulnerable to hazards in the County, answers included storm surge flooding,
hazardous material releases, flooding from heavy rainfall, structures not built to withstand hurricane impacts,
exposed water lines, and road/underpass flooding. Over 60% of respondents believe the facilities and
infrastructure for their organization are equipped to handle a disaster and/or are resilient to damages; 25% said
no; and 12/5% says maybe.
Community Preparedness
A majority of respondents (75%) stated that their organization has an emergency operations plan. Half of the
respondents stated they are covered by a Continuity of Operations Plan, a Continuity of Government Plan.
One respondent indicated that they have risk and vulnerability assessments and one was unsure of what plans
are available in their organization.
Figure D-3. Stakeholder Category
APPENDIX D: PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan D-4
2022 Update
Figure D-4. Plans of Stakeholders
Project Identification
Respondents identified the following projects or programs that could reduce their organization’s vulnerability
to damages, including operation of service:
• Reduce vulnerability to water systems
• Storage and emergency operations building to place equipment and materials prior to a hurricane or
other event to allow for access during the event
• Relocating water lines to reduce risk of line being severed during a storm
• Improvements to drainage systems
The following were identified as recently implemented projects that reduced vulnerabilities to hazard events:
• Elevated operations center in Dickinson
• Elevated 1 million gallon storage tank to provide drinking water during power outages or damages
Respondents were also asked to detail how their organization has been involved in response to the ongoing
COVID-19 pandemic. Respondents detailed the following:
• Weather briefings to support outdoor testing and vaccination operations
• Testing, vaccinations, contact tracing, and data collection
• Providing potable water throughout the pandemic
• Testing center for fire, police, EMS, and municipal employees
• Emotional support and resources
The following services and infrastructure needs were identified by respondents as needing to be built or
improved upon within their communities in order to mitigate damages experienced by the pandemic:
• Crew living quarters
• Air filtration systems
• Water and wastewater operations
D.1.2 Neighboring County Survey
The neighbor survey was sent to the surrounding counties of Galveston County due to their proximity to and
because effects of hazard events that impact Galveston County would be similar to that of their neighbors. As
of January 28, 2022, one county completed the survey. The respondent stated Galveston County is involved in
APPENDIX D: PUBLIC AND STAKEHOLDER OUTREACH
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan D-5
2022 Update
their county’s comprehensive emergency operations planning. Together, they are part of UASI, HGAC,
MACC and various hurricane and evacuation plans. During emergency operations and disaster response, the
counties communicate through conference calls, MACC, and mutual aid requests. They are also part of an
evacuation hub plan.
D.3 Galveston County Public Survey Results
This section contains information and results gathered from the Galveston County Public Survey. The main
objective of this survey was to gather information from citizens regarding their level of knowledge regarding
hazard vulnerability and knowledge of hazard mitigation information for their local communities. 144
respondents completed this survey over a period of two months during the planning process. The survey was
available on Galveston County OEM website (https://gcoem.org/) and several municipalities posted a link to
the survey through their social media accounts. Survey responses are provided at the end of the appendix.
D.3.1 Public Survey Results
Demographically, survey respondents were from six of the participating municipalities within Galveston
County, with 34% having lived in the county for 20 years or more, and the vast majority (96.5%) in their own
home. The most common (38.9%) age of respondents was over the age of 60. Residents were asked the ways
in which they receive their information concerning a natural disaster. The majority (71.3%) of respondents rely
on the internet to receive information concerning natural disasters. Over half (59.1%) receive information
through TV news and slightly under half (46.1%) receive information through municipal websites.
Survey respondents were asked how concerned they were about 21 different hazards, on a scale of not
concerned to extremely concerned. Respondents were most concerned (reporting “concerned”, “very
concerned”, or “extremely concerned”) about hurricanes/tropical storms, flooding, and severe storms.
About 57% of respondents’ properties are not located in the floodplain, with 36.5% within a floodplain and 6%
are unsure. A majority of those have flood insurance (85%), 13% do not have flood insurance, and 1.7% are
unsure if they have flood insurance. Residents were then asked what types of projects they believe local,
county, state, or federal government agencies could be doing in order to reduce the damage and disruption of
disasters in Galveston County including:
• Improve and strengthen infrastructure, such as elevating roadways and improving drainage systems
(82.6%)
• Work on improving the damage resistance of utilities (electricity, communications, water/wastewater
facilities etc.) (75.9%)
• Buy out flood prone properties and maintain as open-space (47.1%)
• Install or improve protective structures, such as bulkheads, floodwalls or levees to protect against
flooding (41.3%)
• Strengthen codes, ordinances and plans to require higher hazard risk management standards and/or
provide greater control over development in high hazard areas (40.3%)
• Assist vulnerable property owners with securing funding to mitigate their properties (30.7%)
• Replace inadequate or vulnerable bridges and causeways (28.8%)
• Inform property owners of ways they can mitigate damage to their properties (25.0%)
• Provide better information about hazard risks and high-hazard areas (25.0%)
• Improve and strengthen critical facilities such as police, schools, hospitals (22.1%)
• Enhance dune restoration and beach nourishment projects/programs (18.2%)
APPENDIX E: MITIGATION STRATEGY SUPPLEMENT
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan E-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX E. MITIGATION STRATEGY SUPPLEMENT
This appendix summarizes additional activities and resources provided to plan participants to support the
update of the mitigation strategy.
E.1 Mitigation Strategy Workshop Resources
On December 2, 2021 a Mitigation Strategy Workshop was held for all plan participants. The workshop was
conducted as a hybrid meeting due to current coronavirus pandemic. The workshop was led by the contract
consultant and supplemented by emails and phone calls between jurisdictions and the contract consultant, for
all participating jurisdictions to support the development of mitigation strategies. Resources available at the
workshop and follow up discussions included the following to assist with the identification of mitigation
alternatives and the development of the mitigation strategy workshops found in Section 9 (Jurisdictional
Annexes).
1.FEMA Local Mitigation Handbook
2.Strengths, Weaknesses, Obstacles and Opportunities exercise results
3.Public survey results
4.Galveston County Potential Mitigation Actions
5.FEMA Mitigation action types (Table E-1)
6.FEMA Mitigation Ideas
7.FEMA Region 6 Funding Sources for Texas
E.1.1 Types of Mitigation Actions
A mitigation action is a specific action, project, activity, or process taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk
to people and property from hazards and their impacts. Implementing mitigation actions helps achieve the
plan’s mission and goals. The actions to reduce vulnerability to threats and hazards form the core of the plan
and are a key outcome of the planning process.
The primary types of mitigation actions to reduce long-term vulnerability are:
•Local Plans and Regulations (LPR)
•Structure and Infrastructure Projects (SIP)
•Natural Systems Protection (NSP)
•Education and Awareness Programs (EAP)
Table E-1. FEMA Mitigation Action Types
Mitigation Type Description Examples
Local Plans and
Regulations
These actions include government authorities,
policies, or codes that influence the way land and
buildings are developed and built.
•Comprehensive plans
•Land use ordinances
•Subdivision regulations
•Development review
•Building codes and enforcement
•NFIP Community Rating System
•Capital improvement programs
•Open space preservation
•Stormwater management regulations and
master plans
Structure and
Infrastructure Projects
These actions involve modifying existing
structures and infrastructure to protect them from
•Acquisitions and elevations of structures
in flood prone areas
APPENDIX E: MITIGATION STRATEGY SUPPLEMENT
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan E-2
2022 Update
Mitigation Type Description Examples
a hazard or remove them from a hazard area.
This could apply to public or private structures
as well as critical facilities and infrastructure.
This type of action also involves projects to
construct manmade structures to reduce the
impact of hazards.
Many of these types of actions are projects
eligible for funding through the FEMA Hazard
Mitigation Assistance program.
•Utility undergrounding
•Structural retrofits
•Floodwalls and retaining walls
•Detention and retention structures
•Culverts
•Safe rooms
Natural Systems
Protection
These are actions that minimize damage and
losses and also preserve or restore the functions
of natural systems.
•Sediment and erosion control
•Stream corridor restoration
•Forest management
•Conservation easements
•Wetland restoration and preservation
Education and
Awareness Programs
These are actions to inform and educate citizens,
elected officials, and property owners about
hazards and potential ways to mitigate them.
These actions may also include participation in
national programs, such as StormReady or
Firewise Communities. Although this type of
mitigation reduces risk less directly than
structural projects or regulation, it is an
important foundation. A greater understanding
and awareness of hazards and risk among local
officials, stakeholders, and the public is more
likely to lead to direct actions.
•Radio or television spots
•Websites with maps and information
•Real estate disclosure
•Presentations to school groups or
neighborhood organizations
•Mailings to residents in hazard-prone
areas
•StormReady
•Firewise Communities
Galveston County HMP
Suggested Mitigation Actions
2022
The General Mitigation Actions tab contains ideas for actions to address each hazard.
The Jurisdictional tabs identify actions to address capability gaps that were identified in each jurisdiction's capability assessment
worksheets.
Actions can be reworded to more accurately fit jurisdictional needs.
Risk can be reduced through mitigation by manipulating the hazard, reducing exposure to the hazard, reducing the vulnerability and/or
increasing capability. And, where mitigation is not yet possible, the risk can be reduced through preparation, response and/or recovery.
These lists are not meant to be exhaustive, but to inspire thought.
Not every potential action needs to be included in your plan.
General Mitigation Action
Coastal &
Inland
Erosion
Dam & Levee
Failure Drought
Expansive
Soils
Extreme
Temperatures Flood Hail
Hurricane &
Tropical
Storm
Land
Subsidence Lightning Pandemic
Severe Winter
Storm
Thunderstor
m Wind Tornadoes Tsunami Utility Failure Wildfire
Where appropriate, support retrofitting,
purchase or relocation of structures located in
hazard areas, prioritizing those that have
experienced repetitive losses and/or are
located in high- or medium-risk hazard areas.X X X X X X X X X X X X X X
Purchase generators for critical facilities and
infrastructure that lack adequate backup
power.X X X X X X X X X X X X
Replace earthen dams and levees with
hardened structures X X
Consider open space land uses in identified
hazard areas X X X X X X X
Ground water recharge through stormwater
management X X
Develop a public education program on
drought resilience X
Utilize drought-resistant landscapes on
community-owned facilities X
Construct regional stormwater control facilities X
Educate the public on land instability hazards
and appropriate risk reduction alternatives.X X X
Develop a regular tree maintenance program to
remove growth from utility lines.X X X
Harden infrastructure by locating utilities
underground.X X X X X X X X
Establish evacuation sanctuaries within areas
of potential tsunami inundation zones.X
Develop and communicate evacuation routes.X X X X X
Clear fuels such as dry brush and diseased
trees on public land.X
Create and maintain defensible space around
structures and infrastructure.X
Develop public awareness campaigns on illness
prevention.X
Stock sufficient amounts of PPE and other
supplies or materials needed for staff to
function during a pandemic outbreak.X
Retrofit public buildings to meet social
distancing and contactless service guidelines.X
Galveston County
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Galveston County
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Zoning/Land Use Code
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Subdivision Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions
in the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop an inventory of buildable land
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Planning Board
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Zoning Board of Adjustments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of joining or improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop flood hazard maps to adequately address the flood risk
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps Address outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
NFIP Gaps Amend the flood damage prevention ordinance.
NFIP Gaps
Develop local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g. site plan review) that support floodplain management and
meeting the NFIP requirements. For instance, the planning board or zoning board could consider efforts to
reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions.
Other
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Bayou Vista
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Bayou Vista
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Zoning/Land Use Code
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Subdivision Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Emergency Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use
decisions in the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop a database to track building permits in hazard areas
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Planning Board
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Zoning Board of Adjustments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Planning Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Economic Development Commission/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Public Works/Highway Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop maintenance programs to reduce risk
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire an Emergency Manager
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps
Determine feasibility of joining or improving the current classification of the Community Rating System
(CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Hire a certified floodplain manager.
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Clear Lake Shores
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Clear Lake Shores
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions in
the community.
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Planning Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop mutual aid agreements
Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Continue working to join the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps Address outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Dickinson
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Dickinson
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Disaster Debris Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions
in the community.
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Hire personnel skilled or trained in website development
Education and Outreach Gaps Add hazard mitigation information to website
Education and Outreach Gaps Begin using social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Friendswood
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Friendswood
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use
decisions in the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop an inventory of buildable land
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Address outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Hitchcock
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Hitchcock
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions in
the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop an inventory of buildable land
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire professionals trained in conducting damage assessments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire an Emergency Manager
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in website development
Education and Outreach Gaps Add hazard mitigation information to website
Education and Outreach Gaps Begin using social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop warning systems for hazard events
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of joining or improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop flood hazard maps to adequately address the flood risk during heavy rain events.
NFIP Gaps Hire a certified floodplain manager.
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps Increase floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps Address outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
NFIP Gaps Amend the flood damage prevention ordinance last dated April 21, 2008.
NFIP Gaps
Develop local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g. site plan review) that support floodplain management and
meeting the NFIP requirements. For instance, the planning board or zoning board could consider efforts to
reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Jamaica Beach
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Jamaica Beach
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Disaster Debris Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Floodplain Management or Watershed Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use
decisions in the community.
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Planning Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Organize an Economic Development Commission/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop an Emergency Management/Public Safety Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop Warning Systems / Services
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in website development
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop warning systems for hazard events
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps
Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program. Re-certify
Director of Operations as a floodplain manager.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Kemah
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Kemah
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Subdivision Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Disaster Debris Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions in
the community.
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Planning Board
Organize a Zoning Board of Adjustments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Planning Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps Train floodplain management staff (CFM) to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps
Develop local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g. site plan review) that support floodplain management and
meeting the NFIP requirements. For instance, the planning board or zoning board could consider efforts to
reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
La Marque
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - La Marque
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions in
the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop a database to track building permits in hazard areas
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop maintenance programs to reduce risk
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire an Emergency Manager
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Begin using social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of joining or improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Support efforts for staff to become a certified floodplain manager.
NFIP Gaps Obtain funding to assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Determine funding options to overcome the staffing cost barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps Address outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
NFIP Gaps Amend the flood damage prevention ordinance of 2014.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
League City
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - League City
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Floodplain Management or Watershed Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions
in the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop a database to track building permits in hazard areas
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop an inventory of buildable land
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop flood hazard maps to adequately address the flood risk
NFIP Gaps Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps
Develop local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g. site plan review) that support floodplain management and
meeting the NFIP requirements. For instance, the planning board or zoning board could consider efforts to
reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Santa Fe
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Santa Fe
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Zoning/Land Use Code
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Subdivision Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Emergency Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Disaster Debris Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Floodplain Management or Watershed Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use decisions in
the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop a database to track building permits in hazard areas
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop an inventory of buildable land
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Planning Board
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Zoning Board of Adjustments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Planning Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Economic Development Commission/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Public Works/Highway Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Construction/Building/Code Enforcement Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop an Emergency Management/Public Safety Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop Warning Systems / Services
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop maintenance programs to reduce risk
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop mutual aid agreements
Administrative and Technical Gaps Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire professionals trained in conducting damage assessments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire an Emergency Manager
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in website development
Education and Outreach Gaps Add hazard mitigation information to website
Education and Outreach Gaps Begin using social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop warning systems for hazard events
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of joining or improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Hire a certified floodplain manager.
NFIP Gaps Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the barriers to running an effective NFIP program by increasing public awareness of the program.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
Tiki Island
Capability Gap Addressed Potential Actions - Tiki Island
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Zoning/Land Use Code
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Emergency Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Disaster Debris Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Floodplain Management or Watershed Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use
decisions in the community.
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Economic Development Commission/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Public Works/Highway Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire professionals trained in conducting damage assessments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in website development
Education and Outreach Gaps Begin using social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the staffing barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps Amend the flood damage prevention ordinance.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
All Gaps
Capability Gap Addressed All Potential Actions
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Zoning/Land Use Code
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Subdivision Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Site Plan Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery/ Reconstruction Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Growth Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Environmental Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Emergency Management Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Change Ordinance
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Capital Improvement Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Disaster Debris Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Floodplain Management or Watershed Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Stormwater Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Open Space Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Habitat Conservation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Economic Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Shoreline Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Wildfire Protection Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Community Forest Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Transportation Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt an Agriculture Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Climate Action/ Resiliency/Sustainability Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Tourism Plan
Develop and adopt a Business/ Downtown Development Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Continuity of Operations Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Strategic Recovery Planning Report
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Threat & Hazard Identification & Risk Assessment (THIRA)
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Post-Disaster Recovery Plan
Planning and Regulatory Gaps Develop and adopt a Public Health Plan
Other
Integrate the hazard mitigation plan into other plans, ordinances and programs that dictate land use
decisions in the community.
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop a database to track building permits in hazard areas
Development and Permitting Gaps Develop an inventory of buildable land
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Planning Board
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize a Zoning Board of Adjustments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Planning Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Mitigation Planning Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Environmental Board/Commission
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Open Space Board/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Organize an Economic Development Commission/Committee
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Public Works/Highway Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop a Construction/Building/Code Enforcement Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop an Emergency Management/Public Safety Department
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop Warning Systems / Services
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop maintenance programs to reduce risk
Administrative and Technical Gaps Develop mutual aid agreements
Administrative and Technical Gaps Write and implement a Human Resources Manual
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with knowledge of land development and land management practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire engineers or professionals trained in building or infrastructure construction practices
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire planners or engineers with an understanding of natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire staff with expertise or training in benefit/cost analysis
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire professionals trained in conducting damage assessments
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in GIS and/or HAZUS – Multi-Hazards (MH) applications
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire scientist familiar with natural hazards
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire surveyor(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire an Emergency Manager
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire grant writer(s)
Administrative and Technical Gaps Hire a Resilience Officer
Education and Outreach Gaps Hire personnel skilled or trained in website development
Education and Outreach Gaps Add hazard mitigation information to website
Education and Outreach Gaps Begin using social media for hazard mitigation education and outreach
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop citizen boards or commissions that address issues related to hazard mitigation
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop warning systems for hazard events
Education and Outreach Gaps Develop natural disaster/safety programs for outreach in schools
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of joining or improving the current classification of the Community Rating System (CRS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of the Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule (BCEGS)
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a StormReady community
Community Classification Gaps Determine feasibility of becoming a Firewise community
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of properties that have been damaged by flooding
NFIP Gaps Maintain a list of property owners interested in flood mitigation (elevation or acquisition).
NFIP Gaps Develop RiskMAP projects
NFIP Gaps Develop flood hazard maps to adequately address the flood risk
NFIP Gaps Hire a certified floodplain manager.
NFIP Gaps Develop resources to determine possible future flooding conditions from climate change.
NFIP Gaps Assist/train floodplain management staff to support the floodplain management program.
NFIP Gaps Overcome the barriers to running an effective NFIP program.
NFIP Gaps Address outstanding NFIP compliance violations.
NFIP Gaps Amend the flood damage prevention ordinance.
NFIP Gaps
Develop local ordinances, plans or programs (e.g. site plan review) that support floodplain management and
meeting the NFIP requirements. For instance, the planning board or zoning board could consider efforts to
reduce flood risk when reviewing variances such as height restrictions.
NFIP Gaps
Continue to maintain good standing and compliance under the NFIP through implementation of floodplain
management programs that, at a minimum, meet the NFIP requirements:
•Enforce the flood damage preven on ordinance.
•Par cipate in floodplain iden fica on and mapping updates.
•Provide public assistance/informa on on floodplain requirements and impacts.
REGION 6 TEXAS MITIGATION ASSISTANCE RESOURCE GUIDE
NOVEMBER 2020
About the Texas Mitigation Assistance Resource Guide
November 2020 ii
PURPOSE OF THE GUIDE
According to the National Institute of Building Sciences 2019 Natural Hazard Mitigation Saves report, every federal grant
dollar invested in mitigation results in $6 saved, on average, during disaster recovery. However, finding those initial dollars
to invest, and determining the best way to spend them, can pose a challenge for communities across the nation. Many
resources exist, but they can be difficult to access and may not fit the needs of the community.
This guide aims to fill that gap by providing an initial list of federal and state resources, including grants, technical
assistance, loans, and other means of support. It will help state, local and tribal officials determine a possible source(s) of
funding and technical assistance for their potential mitigation projects. For more information on available federal grants,
visit grants.gov.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE GUIDE
The federal assistance resources were compiled by a FEMA contract provider. The information was verified from each
agency/organization’s website. The state-specific resources are referenced in the State Hazard Mitigation Plan.
GUIDE ORGANIZATION
This guide provides information about federal and state resources that are currently available in Texas. The guide
is organized alphabetically by agency/department.
HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE
Each resource includes information such as the name of the program, resource type, hazards addressed, and type
of mitigation, as well as practical details on cost-sharing and eligibility requirements. The guide also provides state-
specific information on where to find the next steps for applying and additional details.
The icons at the top of each page display key information:
RESOURCE TYPE
Grants
Resources that provide
financial support, often
with a cost-share
requirement
Loans
Resources that provide
initial financial support,
often for low or no interest
Technical Assistance
Resources that provide
guidance and key
information for success
MITIGATION TYPE
Education and Outreach
Sustained programs to educate residents
and community leaders about risks,
vulnerabilities, and mitigation
opportunities
Planning and Regulations
Policies or codes that influence the way
land is developed and buildings are
constructed
Natural Systems Protection
Actions that minimize damage and losses through
preservation or restoration of natural systems
Structure and Infrastructure
Actions modifying existing structures/infrastructure
to remove them from a vulnerable area, or
construction of new structures to protect existing
development
November 2020 iii
FEDERAL, STATE, AND PRIVATE / NOT -FOR-PROFIT RESOURCES
Some of the resources are funded by the federal government, some by the state, and others are a combination. A small
sample of not-for-profit resources, at the national level, are included in this guide. The “Next Steps” section for each
resource provides information about how to access the resource.
QUESTIONS?
Communities are generally encouraged to contact their State Hazard Mitigation Officer for hazard mitigation assistance.
They may also contact their FEMA regional office or find contact information for each program through the websites
included in this guide.
FEMA Region 6 Office: https://www.fema.gov/about/organization/region-6
November 2020 iv
Table of Contents
Department or Organization Program Name Page
United States Department of
Agriculture (USDA)
Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) 1
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) 1
Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWPP) 2
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) 3
Forest Legacy Program (FLP) 4
Forest Stewardship Program 5
Housing Preservation Grants 6
Source Water Protection Program (SWPP) 7
USDA Disaster Assistance Programs 7
Water and Environmental Programs 8
Wetland Mitigation Banking Program 9
Climate Adaptation Knowledge
Exchange Climate Adaptation Knowledge Exchange 9
Department of Commerce
Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration Grants 10
Coastal Resilience Grants 11
Disaster Loan Assistance 11
EDA Disaster Recovery 12
EDA Disaster Supplemental Funding 12
Department of Defense – Army
Corps of Engineers
Continuing Authorities Program 13
Ecosystem Restoration 14
Emergency Operations 14
Floodplain Management Services (FPMS) Program 15
Inspection of Completed Works Program 16
Silver Jackets 16
Small Flood Control 17
Environmental Protection Agency
Brownfields Program Grant Funding 18
Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund 18
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund 19
Environmental Finance Centers 20
Environmental Justice Grants and Technical Assistance 20
Greening America's Communities 21
Nonpoint Source Water Quality (Section 319) Grants 21
Smart Growth Support 22
Water Infrastructure and Resiliency Finance Center 22
Wetlands Protection Program Development Grants 23
Georgetown Climate Center Georgetown Adaptation Resources 23
November 2020 v
Department or Organization Program Name Page
Department of Homeland Security –
Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA)
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities
(BRIC) 24
Emergency Management Performance Grants 25
Flood Mitigation Assistance Program 26
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program 26
National Dam Safety Program 27
Public Assistance 404 and 406 Program 28
Department of Housing and Urban
Development
Community Development Block Grant - Disaster
Recovery 29
Community Development Block Grant - Mitigation 29
Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program 30
Department of Interior
Disaster Recovery Grants 31
Housing Improvement Program 31
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grants 32
North American Wetland Conservation Fund 33
Tribal Resilience Program 33
WaterSMART Programs 34
National Fire Prevention
Association Firewise 35
National Fish and Wildlife
Foundation
Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program 35
National Coastal Resilience Fund 36
Resilient Communities Program 37
Texas A&M
Forest Management 37
Water Resources Outreach and Training Program 38
Wetland Restoration Program 38
Texas General Land Office Texas Coastal Management Program 39
Texas State Soil and Water
Conservation Board Water Quality and Flood Control Programs 39
Texas Water Development Board
Agricultural Water Conservation Grants Program 40
Agricultural Water Conservation Loan Program 40
Flood Infrastructure Fund, Loan, and Grant 41
Regional Water Plans/Planning Group Grants 41
State Participation Program 42
State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) 43
Texas Water Development Fund (DFund) 43
Department of Transportation Emergency Relief Program 44
Department of Treasury Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for
Individuals and Businesses 45
Wildlife Conservation Society Climate Adaptation Fund 45
November 2020 1
Conservation Reserve Program (CRP)
Grant
Department or Organization Farm Service Agency (FSA), United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Generally, to be eligible for CRP enrollment, a farmer must have
owned or operated the land for at least 12 months prior to the previous
CRP sign-up period. The land must be either be: cropland (including
field margins) that was planted to an agricultural commodity for 4 of
the previous 6 crop years, and which is physically and legally capable
of being planted in a normal manner to an agricultural commodity; or
certain marginal pastureland that is suitable for use as a riparian buffer
or for similar water quality purposes.
Funding Available Variable annually
Cost Sharing The rental payment does not require a cost share.
Restrictions See eligible applicants
Website fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-
programs/conservation-reserve-program/index
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA conservation programs can be found
at nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
The Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) is a voluntary program for agricultural landowners to receive
rental payments when they convert marginal farmlands to vegetated cover. Participants enroll in CRP
contracts for 10 to 15 years. This reduces soil erosion, supports farmers, reduces sedimentation and
pollution in water sources, and establishes wildlife habitat. The wetland enhancement, shoreline
protection, and riparian buffer practices enhance resilience by reducing downstream flooding during storm
events.
One effort of the CRP is the Floodplain Wetlands Initiative, which restores the functions and values of
wetland ecosystems that had been devoted to agricultural use. Wetland restoration reverses the
degradation of the wetland areas on what is often marginal soil. For farmers and landowners facing crop
damage from flooding, restoring wetlands to receive floodwaters can also increase flood storage capacity
– while significantly reducing farming risks.
Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP)
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
November 2020 2
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Applicants may include individuals, legal entities, joint operations, or
tribes that meet the stewardship threshold for at least two priority
resource concerns when they apply. They must also agree to meet or
exceed the stewardship threshold for at least one additional priority
resource concern by the end of the contract. Producers must have
effective control of the land for the term of the proposed contract.
Funding Available Payment rates vary by state
Cost Sharing Farmers receive a payment for conservation practices.
Restrictions Unknown
Website nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/financial/csp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) helps agricultural producers maintain and improve their
existing conservation systems and adopt additional conservation activities to address priority resource
concerns. CSP pays participants for conservation performance— the higher the performance, the higher
the payment. Many conservation practices (riparian forest buffers, cover crops, etc.) reduce runoff and
erosion, reducing flooding downstream.
CSP provides two possible types of payments through 5-year contracts: annual payments for installing
new conservation activities and maintaining existing practices, and supplemental payments for adopting a
resource-conserving crop rotation.
Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWPP)
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
EWP - Recovery: Applicants may include individuals, legal entities,
joint operations, or tribes that meet the stewardship threshold for at
least two priority resource concerns when they apply. They must also
agree to meet or exceed the stewardship threshold for at least one
additional priority resource concern by the end of the contract.
Producers must have effective control of the land for the term of the
proposed contract.
EWP - Floodplain Easements: Landowners can apply directly for
assistance at the local NRCS office when project funding for floodplain
easements become available.
Funding Available Variable depending on the scope of the project
November 2020 3
Cost Sharing
NRCS can pay up to 75% of the cost for eligible emergency recovery
projects. Local sponsors must acquire the remaining 25% in cash or
in-kind services. Contact NRCS for more information for funding of
floodplain easement projects.
Restrictions
The EWP Program cannot be used:
• To address problems that existed prior to the disaster.
• To improve the level of protection above the existing level at
the time of the disaster.
• For projects’ operation and maintenance.
• To repair private or public transportation facilities or utilities.
• To install non-essential restoration work that will not reduce or
eliminate adverse impacts from the natural disaster.
• To restore projects installed by another federal agency.
Website nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/landscape/ewp
p
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
Congress established the Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) program to respond to emergencies
created by natural disasters. The EWP program offers technical and financial assistance to help local
communities mitigate imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other
natural occurrences that impair a watershed. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)
administers the EWP program, which consists of two options: EWP – Recovery, and EWP – Floodplain
Easement (FPE).
NRCS offers financial and technical assistance for various activities under EWP – Recovery, including:
• Removing debris from stream channels, road culverts, and bridges.
• Reshaping and protecting eroded streambanks.
• Correcting damaged or destroyed drainage facilities.
• Establishing vegetative cover on critically eroding lands.
• Repairing levees and structures.
• Repairing conservation practices.
In addition to recovery projects, NRCS may purchase EWP floodplain easements instead of trying to
recover damaged floodplain lands if it proves to be more cost-effective than recovery.
Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP)
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Agricultural producers, owners of non-industrial private forestland, and
tribes are eligible to apply for EQIP. Eligible land includes cropland,
November 2020 4
rangeland, pastureland, non-industrial private forestland, and other
farm or ranch lands.
Socially disadvantaged, beginning and limited resource farmers,
tribes, and veterans are eligible for an increased payment rate and
may receive an advance payment of up to 50% to purchase the
materials and services needed to implement the conservation
practices included in their EQIP contract.
Funding Available Varies by state
Cost Sharing 75% federal, 90% in certain cases (socially disadvantaged, veterans,
beginning farmers, etc.)
Restrictions
Applicants must:
• Control or own eligible land.
• Comply with adjusted gross income limitation (AGI) provisions.
• Comply with the highly erodible land and wetland conservation
requirements.
• Develop an NRCS EQIP plan of operations.
Additional restrictions and program requirements may apply.
Website nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/sc/programs/financial/eqip/?cid=n
rcseprd1384284
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides financial and technical assistance to
agricultural producers to address natural resource concerns and deliver environmental benefits such as
improved water and air quality, conserved ground and surface water, reduced soil erosion, and
sedimentation, or improved or created wildlife habitat.
While not designed to be an emergency response or hazard mitigation program, EQIP can play a vital
role in helping producers prevent the worst impacts of and recover from natural disasters like floods,
hurricanes, wildfires, and drought. Through EQIP, NRCS provides financial assistance to repair and
prevent the excessive soil erosion caused or affected by natural disasters. These practices include
activities like stream bank restoration, grassed waterways, and buffers. NRCS-funded conservation
practices protect the land from erosion, support disaster recovery, and repair, and can help mitigate loss
from future natural disasters.
Forest Legacy Program (FLP)
Other- Purchase
Department or Organization Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
A proposed project is eligible if it meets federal requirements as well
as minimum eligibility:
• It is within, or partially within, a designated forest legacy area.
November 2020 5
• It has a minimum of 75% forestland or a documented plan that
includes sufficient landowner capacity to reforest to at least
75% forestland.
• It can be managed in ways consistent with the purpose for
which it was acquired by FLP.
• The landowner is willing to sell or donate the interest in
perpetuity.
• The landowner acknowledges that the conservation easement
will be held by a government entity if federal funds are used
for the acquisition.
Funding Available States can submit up to three projects which cannot exceed $10
million, or $7 million for individual projects.
Cost Sharing At least 25% of the total project cost
Restrictions Project selection is based on national priorities
Website fs.fed.us/managing-land/private-land/forest-legacy/program
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
The purpose of the Forest Legacy Program is to identify and conserve environmentally important forest
areas that are threatened by conversion to non-forest uses. Providing economic incentives to landowners
to keep their land as forests encourage sustainable forest management and supports strong markets for
forest products. Forest protection can be a valuable tool for natural resource conservation and can reduce
flooding and hazard risk downstream within a watershed.
Landowners may participate in the Forest Legacy Program by either selling their property outright or by
retaining ownership and selling only a portion of the property’s development rights; both are held by state
agencies or another unit of government. The use of a conservation easement, a legal agreement between
a landowner and a non-profit land trust or governmental agency allows the land to remain in private
ownership while ensuring that its environmental values are retained.
Forest Stewardship Program
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Forest Service, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Non-industrial private forest landowners
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Participants must agree to manage their property following an
approved Forest Stewardship Management Plan
Website fs.fed.us/managing-land/private-land/forest-stewardship
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
November 2020 6
About the Resource
The Forest Stewardship Program encourages long-term stewardship of important state and private forest
landscapes by helping landowners more actively manage their forest and related resources. Protected
forests can reduce flooding and hazard risk downstream within a watershed, and well-managed forests
can reduce wildfire risk. The program provides assistance to owners of forest land and other lands where
good stewardship, including agroforestry applications, will enhance and sustain the long-term productivity
of multiple forest resources, and produce healthy, resilient forest landscapes. Special attention is given to
landowners in landscape areas identified by State Forest Action Plans and those new to, or in the early
stages of, managing their land in a way that embodies multi-resource stewardship principles. The
program provides landowners with the professional planning and technical assistance they need to keep
their land in a productive and healthy condition. Assistance offered through the Forest Stewardship
Program also provides landowners with enhanced access to other USDA conservation programs, forest
certification programs, and forest product and ecosystem service markets.
Housing Preservation Grants
Grant
Department or Organization Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
State, tribal, and local governments, and nonprofit organizations.
Eligible areas include rural towns with 20,000 or fewer people and
federally recognized tribal lands.
Funding Available $15.3 million in 2020
Cost Sharing Up to 100% federal
Restrictions
Applicants must have the necessary background and experience, with
a proven ability to perform the repair and rehabilitation of low-income
housing.
Website rd.usda.gov/programs-services/housing-preservation-grants
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Contact your local USDA representative to get started on applying for
the grant. Their information can be found at: rd.usda.gov/contact-
us/state-offices
About the Resource
The Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) program provides grants to sponsoring organizations for the
repair or rehabilitation of low- and very low-income housing. The grants are competitive and are made
available in areas where there is a concentration of need. Those assisted must own very-low- or low-
income housing, either as homeowners, landlords, or members of a cooperative. Very low income is
defined as below 50% of the area median income (AMI); low income is between 50 and 80% of AMI.
Applicants provide grants or low-interest loans to repair or rehabilitate housing for low- and very-low-
income homeowners. Rental property owners may also receive assistance if they agree to make units
available to low- and very-low-income families.
Eligible expenses include:
• Repairing or replacing electrical wiring, foundations, roofs, insulation, heating systems, and
water/waste disposal systems.
• Accessibility features.
November 2020 7
• Labor and materials.
• Administrative expenses.
Eligible homeowners can apply for funding to repair damages caused by natural hazards or to harden
their structures against future hazard events.
Source Water Protection Program (SWPP)
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Farm Service Agency (FSA), United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Open; producers in participating states are encouraged to take part in
SWPP by using suggested conservation practices and becoming a
member of the local team responsible for developing the SWPP
Funding Available N/A. This a technical assistance program.
Cost Sharing N/A. This a technical assistance program.
Restrictions Must be in a participating state. Contact your local FSA office for more
information.
Website fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/conservation-programs/source-
water-protection/index
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator. Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
The Source Water Protection Program (SWPP) is a joint project of the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) and the National Rural Water Association (NRWA), a non-profit
water and wastewater utility membership organization. The SWPP is designed to help prevent pollution of
surface and groundwater used as the primary source of drinking water by rural residents. Water quality
projects often meet flood mitigation goals and vice versa. SWPP funds can be used for flood mitigation
when the projects also improve water quality.
USDA Disaster Assistance Programs
Grant
Department or Organization Farm Service Agency (FSA), United States Department of Agriculture
(USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Eligible applicants vary depending on the specific sub-program
November 2020 8
Funding Available Amount of funding available varies based on sub-program
Cost Sharing Cost-sharing requirements vary depending on the sub-program.
Restrictions Restrictions vary based on sub-program
Website fsa.usda.gov/programs-and-services/disaster-assistance-
program/index
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program, administered by local offices. Find your local
USDA representative’s contact information here: farmers.gov/service-
center-locator
About the Resource
The Farm Service Agency provides several disaster assistance programs. These include the Emergency
Conservation Program, Emergency Forest Restoration Program, Emergency Loan Program, and Tree
Assistance Program, as well as a mix of other programs aimed at specific agricultural sectors. While
focused on recovery, many of these programs provide funding for conservation practices that enhance
resilience.
Water and Environmental Programs
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Rural Development, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants Details vary by program, but most programs are open to state, local,
and federally recognized tribes
Funding Available Amount of funding available varies based on sub-program
Cost Sharing Cost-sharing requirements vary depending on the sub-program.
Restrictions Restrictions vary based on sub-program
Website rd.usda.gov/programs-services/all-programs/water-environmental-
programs
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Your local USDA representative can help you apply for this program.
Find their contact information here: farmers.gov/service-center-locator.
Additional USDA programs can be found at
nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/programs/.
About the Resource
The USDA's Rural Development Water and Environmental Programs (WEP) provide technical assistance,
loans, grants, and loan guarantees for drinking water, sanitary sewer, solid waste, and storm drainage
facilities in rural areas and cities and towns of 10,000 or less. WEP also makes grants to non-profit
organizations to provide technical assistance and training to help rural communities with their water,
wastewater, and solid waste problems. Water quality projects often meet flood mitigation goals and vice
versa.
WEP includes Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants, Grants for Rural and Native Alaskan
Villages, Water & Waste Disposal Loans & Grants, and more.
November 2020 9
Wetland Mitigation Banking Program
Other - Credit
Department or Organization Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), United States
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Operational Coordination
Eligible Applicants
• City or township governments.
• Public and State-controlled institutions of higher education.
• Nonprofits that do not have a 501(c)(3) status with the IRS,
other than institutions of higher education.
• Federally recognized tribal governments.
• State governments.
• Special district governments.
• County governments.
• Private institutions of higher education.
• For-profit organizations other than small businesses.
Funding Available $5 million (2020 round)
Cost Sharing Banking programs that are strictly In-Lieu Fee are not eligible for the
NRCS Wetland Mitigation Banking Program.
Restrictions There are no specific restrictions for this program
Website nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/programs/farmbill/?cid=nr
cseprd362686
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Applications for this federal program can be submitted at Grants.gov
during the open application period.
About the Resource
The Wetlands Mitigation Banking Program helps establish wetland mitigation banks to help producers
meet their wetland conservation compliance responsibilities. Producers must comply to maintain eligibility
for many USDA programs administered by the FSA and NRCS and to maintain eligibility for the federal
crop insurance premium subsidy administered by the Risk Management Agency.
This program assists with establishing the banks, not with securing the wetlands.
Climate Adaptation Knowledge Exchange
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Climate Adaptation Knowledge Exchange
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Threats and Hazard Identification
Eligible Applicants N/A – this is a technical assistance resource. Anyone can access the
materials, which are targeted to local governments and organizations.
Funding Available N/A
November 2020 10
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Available to all
Website cakex.org
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This not for profit resource is an international online forum to share
information. Access the website to learn more.
About the Resource
The Climate Adaptation Knowledge Exchange is the world’s largest and most used source of climate
adaptation case studies and resources. The materials can be filtered by scale (community to
national/international); sector addressed (conservation, land use planning, infrastructure, etc.); hazards
(flood, erosion, sea level rise, etc.); region; and more. Refer to the materials or upload your own to share
lessons, ideas, and opportunities with others in the field.
Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration Grants
Grant
Department or Organization National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of
Commerce
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure, Education
and Outreach
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Sea Level Rise, Storm Surge, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Institutions of higher education, non-profits, commercial (for profit)
organizations, U.S. territories, and state, local, and tribal governments.
Funding Available $4 million in Community-based Restoration Program funding available
for coastal and marine habitat restoration in 2020.
Cost Sharing
None is required, but applicants are encouraged to demonstrate a 1:1
non-federal match for the NOAA funds requested to conduct the
proposed project.
Restrictions
The FY2020 funding opportunity required a pre-proposal application
and an invitation-only proposal application. Land acquisition and
marine debris removal are ineligible.
Website fisheries.noaa.gov/grant/coastal-and-marine-habitat-restoration-grants
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Application information for this federal program is available on the
website. Application periods will include explanatory webinars.
About the Resource
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Community-Based Restoration Program
recognizes that habitat protection and restoration are essential elements of a strategy for sustainable
commercial and recreational fisheries. Investing in habitat restoration projects leads to real, lasting
differences for communities, businesses, and the environment. The program grants support restoration
projects that use a habitat-based approach to rebuild productive and sustainable fisheries, contribute to
the recovery and conservation of protected resources, and promote healthy ecosystems and resilient
communities.
Restoration includes activities that return degraded or altered marine, estuarine, coastal, and freshwater,
migratory fish habitats to functioning conditions, and techniques that return NOAA trust species to their
historic habitats. These projects support economic recovery. They can also prevent future hazards and
hazard losses by protecting natural resources in critical areas of the coastal floodplain.
November 2020 11
Coastal Resilience Grants
Grant
Department or Organization National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Department of
Commerce
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Sea Level Rise, Storm Surge, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Institutions of higher education, nonprofit, and for-profit organizations,
U.S. territories and states, tribes, and local governments including
counties, municipalities, and cities
Funding Available In 2018, NOAA granted roughly $9 million
Cost Sharing
Federal funds awarded under this program must be matched with non-
federal funds at a 2:1 ratio. For a project requesting $500,000 in
federal funding, for example, the award recipient would need to
provide $250,000 in non-federal matching contributions, for a total
project budget of $750,000.
Restrictions Past funding opportunities have included a pre-proposal application
and an invitation-only proposal application.
Website fisheries.noaa.gov/grant/noaa-coastal-resilience-grants
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Application information for this federal program is available on the
website. Application periods will include explanatory webinars.
About the Resource
The NOAA Coastal Resilience Grants program, jointly administered by NOAA’s National Ocean Service
and NOAA Fisheries, implements projects that build resilient U.S. coastal communities and ecosystems.
Resilience is the ability to prepare and plan for, absorb, recover from, and more successfully adapt to
adverse events such as extreme weather or long-term changing environmental conditions. This program
is intended to build resilience through projects that conserve and restore sustainable ecosystem
processes and functions and reduce the vulnerability of coastal communities and infrastructure from the
impacts of extreme weather events, climate hazards, and changing ocean conditions.
Disaster Loan Assistance
Loan
Department or Organization Small Business Administration, Department of Commerce
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Businesses, private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters
Funding Available
Businesses may borrow up to $2 million. Homeowners may borrow up
to $200,000 to repair/replace a disaster-damaged private residence or
$40,000 for a homeowner or renter to repair/replace damaged
personal property.
November 2020 12
Cost Sharing Loan
Restrictions Varies by applicant type
Website disasterloan.sba.gov/ela/Information/Index
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Decisions are made based on individual disaster declarations. Refer to
the SBA website for more information.
About the Resource
The Small Business Administration (SBA) provides low-interest disaster loans to businesses of all sizes,
private non-profit organizations, homeowners, and renters. SBA disaster loans can be used to repair or
replace the following items damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster: real estate, personal property,
machinery and equipment, and inventory and business assets.
EDA Disaster Recovery
Grant
Department or Organization Economic Development Administration, Department of Commerce
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Varies by disaster
Funding Available Varies by disaster $587 million was available in FY 2019.
Cost Sharing Up to 80% federal
Restrictions Varies by disaster
Website eda.gov/programs/disaster-recovery
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered through the state. More
information can be found on the Texas EDC website at texasedc.org
About the Resource
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) has a long history of successfully supporting disaster
recovery and resiliency efforts. EDA's role in disaster recovery is to facilitate the timely and effective
delivery of federal economic development assistance to support long-term community economic recovery
planning and project implementation, redevelopment, and resiliency. EDA coordinates regional disaster
recovery efforts in partnership with its extensive network of Economic Development Districts (EDDs),
University Centers, institutions of higher education, and other partners in designated impact areas.
EDA Disaster Supplemental Funding
Grant
Department or Organization Economic Development Administration, Department of Commerce
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Varies by disaster
Funding Available Varies by disaster
Cost Sharing Varies by disaster
Restrictions Varies by disaster
November 2020 13
Website eda.gov/disaster-recovery/supplemental
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered through the state. More
information can be found on the Texas EDC website at texasedc.org
About the Resource
Congress often appropriates supplemental funds for economic recovery after significant disasters.
Between Fiscal Years 2018 and 2019, EDA received $1.2 billion in supplemental disaster appropriations
($600 million each year) from Congress to help regions recover from the economic harm and distress
resulting from natural disasters in 2017-2019. With the support of these funds, American regions and
communities hard hit by major disasters are rebuilding stronger, more resilient economies.
Continuing Authorities Program
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood, Sea Level Rise, Storm Surge
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants State, regional, and local governments, tribes, and other non-federal
public agencies
Funding Available Varies by sub-program
Cost Sharing
Varies by sub-program, but many programs follow the following
guidelines:
Feasibility Study: 100%/0% for initial $100,000; 50%/50% remaining
cost
Implementation: 75% federal
Restrictions
Varies by sub-program (streambank and shoreline protection,
hurricane and storm damage reduction projects, and flood damage
reduction projects)
Website nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Public-Services/Continuing-Authorities-
Program
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
There are 4 USACE districts that cover Texas, the Dallas District, the
Fort Worth District, the Galveston District, and the Albuquerque
District. Find your district here: swf.usace.army.mil/Locations
About the Resource
The Continuing Authorities Program (CAP) allows the USACE to plan, design, and implement certain
types of water resources projects without additional project-specific congressional authorization. Under
CAP, the USACE can plan and implement projects of limited size, cost, scope, and complexity. Projects
include streambank and shoreline protection, hurricane and storm damage reduction projects, and flood
damage reduction projects.
All projects in this program include a feasibility phase and an implementation phase.
November 2020 14
Ecosystem Restoration
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Communities and local governments
Funding Available Variable by project type
Cost Sharing
Variable with project type, but generally:
Feasibility: 100%/0% for initial $100,000; 50%/50% remaining cost
($100,000 limit does not apply for dredging projects)
Implementation: 75% federal for project modifications; 65% federal for
dredging and aquatic ecosystem restoration projects
Restrictions $10 million federal project limit
Website nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Public-Services/Ecosystem-Restoration-
Authorities
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
There are 4 USACE districts that cover Texas, the Dallas District, the
Fort Worth District, the Galveston District, and the Albuquerque
District. Find your district here: swf.usace.army.mil/Locations
About the Resource
Ecosystem Restoration is one of the primary missions of the USACE. The purpose of the USACE
ecosystem restoration activities is to restore significant ecosystem function, structure, and dynamic
processes that have been degraded. Ecosystem restoration efforts involve examining the problems
contributing to the system degradation and developing alternative means to solve these problems. The
intent of restoration is to partially or fully re-establish the attributes of a natural, functioning, self-regulating
system. Restoration opportunities associated with wetlands, riparian, and other floodplain and aquatic
systems are likely to be most appropriate for USACE involvement.
The three ecosystem restoration authorities within the program are Project Modifications for
Improvements to the Environment, Beneficial Use of Dredged Materials, and Aquatic Ecosystem
Restoration.
Emergency Operations
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Operational Coordination
Eligible Applicants State and local governments
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Disaster response and recovery program
November 2020 15
Website swg.usace.army.mil/Business-With -Us/Emergency-Management-
Office
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
There are 4 USACE districts that cover Texas, the Dallas District, the
Fort Worth District, the Galveston District, and the Albuquerque
District. Find your district here: swf.usace.army.mil/Locations
About the Resource
Emergency preparedness and response are primarily state and local responsibilities. However, when the
nature of the disaster exceeds the capabilities of state and local interests, the USACE may provide help
to save human life, prevent immediate human suffering, or mitigate property damage.
The USACE participates in the National Response Framework as the primary agency for planning,
preparedness, and response under Emergency Support Function (ESF) #3, Public Works and
Engineering. The purpose of ESF #3 is to provide lifesaving or life-protecting assistance to augment
efforts of the affected state(s) and local response efforts following a major or catastrophic disaster.
The USACE's Rehabilitation and Inspection Program provides the inspection of flood control projects, the
rehabilitation of damaged flood control projects, and the rehabilitation of federally authorized and
constructed hurricane or shore protection projects.
Floodplain Management Services (FPMS) Program
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants State, regional, and local governments, tribes, and other non-federal
public agencies
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing None. State and local governments can receive technical assistance
free of charge.
Restrictions This program provides studies only. Design and construction are not
included.
Website nae.usace.army.mil/Missions/Public-Services/Flood-Plain-
Management-Services
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
There are 4 USACE districts that cover Texas, the Dallas District, the
Fort Worth District, the Galveston District, and the Albuquerque
District. Find your district here: swf.usace.army.mil/Locations
About the Resource
The USACE provides the full range of technical services and planning guidance needed to support
effective floodplain management. General technical assistance efforts under this program include
determining site-specific data on obstructions to flood flows, flood formation, and timing; flood depths,
stages, or floodwater velocities; the extent, duration, and frequency of flooding; information on natural and
cultural floodplain resources; and flood loss potentials before and after the use of floodplain management
measures. The types of studies conducted under the FPMS program include floodplain
delineation/hazard, dam failure analyses, hurricane evacuation, flood warning, floodway, flood damage
reduction, stormwater management, flood-proofing, and inventories of flood-prone structures.
November 2020 16
Inspection of Completed Works Program
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Communities with critical infrastructure completed by the USACE
Funding Available Not applicable. This is a technical assistance program.
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Only for previously completed projects
Website mvp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Programs-Project-
Management/District-Programs/Inspection-of-Completed-Works
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
There are 4 USACE districts that cover Texas, the Dallas District, the
Fort Worth District, the Galveston District, and the Albuquerque
District. Find your district here: swf.usace.army.mil/Locations
About the Resource
The USACE's Inspection of Completed Works Program is designed to ensure that non-federal owners of
federally built critical infrastructure, such as a flood damage reduction project, perform essential
maintenance in accordance with the operation and maintenance manuals. Annual compliance inspections
identify maintenance deficiencies, operational problems, and corrective actions. When necessary, the
USACE provides technical assistance before, during, and after each flood emergency. Through these
compliance inspections, the USACE ensures that the project will operate and function as designed.
Silver Jackets
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Operational Coordination
Eligible Applicants N/A. The Silver Jackets offer technical assistance to communities.
Funding Available N/A. The Silver Jackets offer technical assistance to communities.
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions There are no restrictions.
Website silverjackets.nfrmp.us
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Learn more about the Texas Silver Jackets at
silverjackets.nfrmp.us/State-Teams/Texas
About the Resource
Silver Jackets teams across the United States bring together multiple state, federal, and sometimes tribal
and local agencies, to learn from one another about reducing the risk of floods and other natural
disasters. The collaboration, shared knowledge, and relationships enhance response and recovery efforts
when hazard events do occur. Each state Silver Jackets team is unique. Common state agency
November 2020 17
participants include those with mission areas of hazard mitigation, emergency management, floodplain
management, natural resources management or conservation, etc. Federal participation typically includes
the USACE, FEMA, and often others such as the National Weather Service and the U.S. Geological
Survey.
Small Flood Control
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Department of Defense
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants State and local governments
Funding Available N/A. This a technical assistance program.
Cost Sharing
Feasibility Study: 100%/0% for initial $100,000; 50%/50% remaining
cost
Design and implementation: 65% federal/35% non-federal. At least 5%
must be in cash; the rest may be in kind.
Restrictions Projects must pass a cost/benefit analysis
Website mvp.usace.army.mil/Missions/Civil-Works/Programs-Project-
Management/District-Programs/Small-Flood-Control-Projects
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
There are 4 USACE districts that cover Texas, the Dallas District, the
Fort Worth District, the Galveston District, and the Albuquerque
District. Find your district here: swf.usace.army.mil/Locations
About the Resource
Under the Small Flood Control Program, the USACE works with communities to plan, design, and
construct certain small flood control projects that have not already been specifically authorized by
Congress. Both structural (levees, channels, or dams, for instance) and nonstructural (floodproofing or
evacuation, for example) solutions are considered. Studies are required to evaluate potential projects.
Each project selected must be economically justified; that is, the benefits resulting from a project must
exceed the cost incurred to construct the project. It also must be environmentally acceptable and
complete within itself. In addition, each separate project is limited to a total federal cost of not more than
$10 million, including studies, design, and implementation.
November 2020 18
Brownfields Program Grant Funding
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Communities
Funding Available Amount available varies based on the funding program.
Cost Sharing Cost-sharing varies depending on the funding program.
Restrictions
Grant programs are available for assessment, cleanup, environmental
job training, and more. Restrictions vary based on the specific grant
program.
Website epa.gov/brownfields/types-brownfields-grant-funding
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Grant applications for these federal programs vary based on the sub-
grant. Detailed information is available on the website.
About the Resource
The EPA's Brownfields Program provides direct funding for brownfields assessment, cleanup, revolving
loans, and environmental job training, and it provides technical information on brownfields financing
matters. Separate grant programs are available for assessment, cleanup, environmental job training, and
more. While not envisioned as a mitigation program, brownfield cleanup can prevent toxic materials from
spreading during a hazard event.
Clean Water State Revolving Loan Fund
Loan
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Funding is provided to states, and states distribute it to local
communities. Tribal and territorial funding is also available.
Funding Available Varies by state
Cost Sharing Loan
Restrictions Varies by state
Website epa.gov/cwsrf
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered by the state. More information
can be found at twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/CWSRF/index.asp
About the Resource
The EPA's Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) program is a federal-state partnership that
provides communities a permanent, independent source of low-cost financing for a wide range of water
quality infrastructure projects. CWSRF can fund a wide variety of water quality protection efforts. The
November 2020 19
program’s flexibility and broad range of project eligibilities enable states to target CWSRF funds to their
specific water quality priorities. Water quality projects often meet flood mitigation goals and vice versa.
States are responsible for the operation of their CWSRF program. Under the CWSRF, states may provide
various types of assistance, including loans, refinancing, purchasing, or guaranteeing local debt and
purchasing bond insurance. States may also set specific loan terms, including interest rates from 0% to
market rate and repayment periods of up to 30 years. States have the flexibility to target financial
resources to their specific community and environmental needs.
Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
Loan
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Funding is provided to states, and states distribute it to local
communities. Tribal and territorial funding is also available.
Funding Available Varies by state
Cost Sharing Loan
Restrictions Varies by state
Website epa.gov/drinkingwatersrf
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered by the state. More information
can be found at twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/DWSRF/index.asp
About the Resource
Under the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF), the EPA provides grants to all 50 states plus
Puerto Rico to capitalize state DWSRF loan programs. The states contribute an additional 20% to match
the federal grants. The program also provides direct grant funding for the District of Columbia, U.S. Virgin
Islands, American Samoa, Guam, and the Commonwealth of Northern Marianas. Water quality projects
often meet flood mitigation goals and vice versa.
The 51 DWSRF programs function like infrastructure banks by providing low-interest loans to eligible
recipients for drinking water infrastructure projects. As money is paid back into the state’s revolving loan
fund, the state makes new loans to other recipients. These recycled repayments of loan principal and
interest earnings allow the state's DWSRF to “revolve” over time.
States are responsible for operating their DWSRF programs. Under the DWSRF, states may provide
various types of assistance, including:
• Loans.
• Refinancing.
• Purchasing.
• Guaranteeing local debt.
• Purchasing bond insurance.
States may also set specific loan terms, including interest rates from 0% to the market rate, and
repayment periods of up to 30 years.
November 2020 20
Environmental Finance Centers
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants States, tribes, local governments, and the private sector
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions N/A Technical assistance
Website epa.gov/waterfinancecenter/efcn
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
The Region VI Water Finance Center is housed at the University of
New Mexico: southwestefc.unm.edu
About the Resource
The EPA's Environmental Finance Centers (EFCs) deliver targeted technical assistance to, and partner
with states, tribes, local governments, and the private sector in providing innovative solutions to manage
the costs of environmental financing and program management. Potential environmental projects may
include hazard mitigation projects.
Environmental Justice Grants and Technical Assistance
Grant
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants
Incorporated non-profit organizations— including, but not limited to,
environmental justice networks, faith-based organizations and those
affiliated with religious institutions; federally recognized tribal
governments—including Alaska Native Villages and tribal
organizations
Funding Available $1.5 million in 2019
Cost Sharing None. The grant is 100% federal.
Restrictions 1-year projects
Website epa.gov/environmentaljustice/environmental-justice-grants-funding-
and-technical-assistance
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Grant opportunities for this federal program are posted on grants.gov.
Refer to EPA's website for more information about application periods
and requirements.
About the Resource
The EPA's Environmental Justice Small Grants (EJSG) program awards grants that support community-
driven projects designed to engage, educate, and empower communities to better understand local
November 2020 21
environmental and public health issues and develop strategies for addressing those issues, building
consensus in the community, and setting community priorities. The grants can be used for education and
outreach about hazard mitigation efforts.
Greening America's Communities
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Cities and towns
Funding Available Technical assistance provided in kind
Cost Sharing Unknown
Restrictions Technical assistance
Website epa.gov/smartgrowth/greening-americas-communities
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Grant opportunities for this federal resource are posted on grants.gov.
Refer to EPA's website for more information about application periods
and requirements.
About the Resource
Greening America's Communities (formerly known as Greening America's Capitals) is an EPA program
that helps cities and towns develop an implementable vision of environmentally friendly neighborhoods
that incorporates innovative green infrastructure, hazard mitigation, and other sustainable/resilient design
strategies. EPA provides design assistance to help support sustainable communities that protect the
environment, economy, and public health and to inspire local and state leaders to expand this work
elsewhere.
Nonpoint Source Water Quality (Section 319) Grants
Grant
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Funding is provided to states, and states distribute to local
communities. Tribal 319 funding is also available.
Funding Available Varies by state; total funds in 2019: $165.4 million
Cost Sharing Each state receives different funding per year
Restrictions Varies by state
Website epa.gov/nps
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered through the state. More
information can be found at tceq.texas.gov/waterquality/nonpoint-
source/grants.
November 2020 22
About the Resource
Clean Water Act Section 319(h) funds are provided only to designated state and tribal agencies to
implement their approved nonpoint source management programs. State and tribal nonpoint source
programs include a variety of components, including technical assistance, financial assistance, education,
training, technology transfer, demonstration projects, and regulatory programs. Water quality projects
often meet flood mitigation goals and vice versa.
Each year, EPA awards Section 319(h) funds to states in accordance with a state-by-state allocation
formula that EPA developed in consultation with the states. Tribal funding is also available under Clean
Water Act Section 319(h).
Smart Growth Support
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Office of Sustainable Communities, Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Planning
Eligible Applicants Eligible applicants vary depending on the specific sub-program
Funding Available Amount of funding available varies based on sub-program
Cost Sharing Cost-sharing requirements vary depending on the sub-program
Restrictions Restrictions vary based on sub-program
Website epa.gov/smartgrowth/about-smart-growth
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Grant opportunities are posted on grants.gov. Refer to EPA's website
for more information about application periods and requirements.
About the Resource
The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Office of Community Revitalization works on smart growth
issues by:
• Conducting research.
• Producing reports and other publications.
• Providing examples of outstanding smart growth communities and projects.
• Working with tribes, states, regions, and communities through grants and technical assistance.
Smart growth can incorporate elements of green infrastructure and/or land preservation and can create
more resilient communities.
Water Infrastructure and Resiliency Finance Center
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood, Sea Level Rise, Storm Surge
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
November 2020 23
Eligible Applicants Communities
Funding Available N/A. This a technical assistance program.
Cost Sharing N/A. This a technical assistance program.
Restrictions Technical Assistance
Website epa.gov/waterfinancecenter
Next Steps for Texas
Communities N/A - no application necessary
About the Resource
The Water Finance Center provides financing information to help local decision-makers make informed
decisions about drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure, to protect human health and
the environment. Water quality projects often meet flood mitigation goals and vice versa.
Wetlands Protection Program Development Grants
Grant
Department or Organization Environmental Protection Agency
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Funding is provided through each EPA region
Funding Available Variable by EPA region
Cost Sharing 75% federal
Restrictions Variable by EPA region
Website epa.gov/wetlands/wetland-program-development-grants-and-epa-
wetlands-grant-coordinators
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Application information is available at epa.gov/wetlands/region-6-
wetland-program-development-grant-request-applications
About the Resource
Wetlands Protection Development Grants (WPDGs) provide eligible applicants an opportunity to conduct
projects to strengthen wetland protection programs. Eligible projects promote the coordination and
acceleration of research, investigations, experiments, training, demonstrations, surveys, and studies
relating to the causes, effects, extent, prevention, reduction, and elimination of water pollution. Wetland
protection is an important type of natural resource protection hazard mitigation project.
Georgetown Adaptation Resources
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Georgetown Climate Center
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Threats and Hazard Identification
Eligible Applicants Technical assistance is available to all
Funding Available N/A
November 2020 24
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions None
Website georgetownclimate.org/adaptation/featured.html
Next Steps for Texas
Communities More resources are available at the website
About the Resource
The Georgetown Climate Center provides resources to policymakers and others helping communities
adapt to climate change.
Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC)
Grant
Department or Organization Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure, Natural Systems Protection, Local
Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
States and territories that have had a major disaster declaration under
the Stafford Act in the 7 years prior to the annual application period
start date are eligible to apply to FEMA for federal assistance under
BRIC as applicants. Local governments and tribes are elibible to apply
to states and territories as subapplicants.
Funding Available
On an annual basis, FEMA will assess the amount of funding set aside
for BRIC and determine what portion of that amount will be available
during the following application period for the BRIC program. FEMA
will announce its determination in the annual Notice of Funding
Opportunity for the BRIC program.
Cost Sharing Unknown at this time. Cost sharing requirements will be provided with
the annual Notice of Funding Opportunity.
Restrictions
More information on ineligible activities can be found in the HMA
Guidance, located here: fema.gov/media-library-data/1424983165449-
38f5dfc69c0bd4ea8a161e8bb7b79553/HMA_Guidance_022715_508.
pdf
Website fema.gov/grants/mitigation/building-resilient-infrastructure-
communities
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
The first NOFO will be available in fall 2020. States, territories, and
federally recognized tribes are potential applicants. Local
governments, tribal governments, state agencies, and tribal agencies
are potential sub-applicants. The State Hazard Mitigation Officer can
provide more information.
About the Resource
BRIC supports states, local communities, tribes, and territories in pre-disaster mitigation projects to
reduce long-term risk from natural hazards. The BRIC program's guiding principles are supporting
communities through capability- and capacity-building; encouraging and enabling innovation; promoting
partnerships; enabling large projects; maintaining flexibility; and providing consistency.
BRIC is a new FEMA pre-disaster hazard mitigation program that replaces the Pre-Disaster Mitigation
(PDM) program and is a result of amendments made to Section 203 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster
November 2020 25
Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act) by Section 1234 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act
of 2018 (DRRA). The Notice of Funding Opportunity for the first funding round is anticipated in fall 2020.
Emergency Management Performance Grants
Grant
Department or Organization Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants States or territories. May make available to subgrantee communities.
Funding Available $350 million (FY19)
Cost Sharing
The recipient's contribution can be cash (hard match) or third-party in-
kind (soft match). Eligible EMPG program applicants agree to make
available non-federal funds to carry out an EMPG award in an amount
not less than 50% of the total project cost.
Restrictions
Grant funds may not be used for:
• Prohibited equipment.
• Weapons systems and ammunition.
• Costs to support the hiring of sworn public safety officers for
the purposes of fulfilling traditional public safety duties or to
supplant traditional public safety positions and responsibilities.
• Activities and projects unrelated to the completion and
implementation of the EMPG Program.
Website fema.gov/grants/preparedness/emergency-management-performance
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Reach out to your State Hazard Mitigation Officer for more information.
About the Resource
The purpose of the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) Program is to provide federal
funds to states to assist state, local, territorial, and tribal governments in preparing for all hazards. Title VI
of the Stafford Act authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to make grants for
providing a system of emergency preparedness for the protection of life and property in the United States
from hazards. It vests responsibility for emergency preparedness jointly in the federal government, states,
and their political subdivisions. The federal government, through the EMPG Program, provides the
necessary direction, coordination, guidance, and assistance to support a comprehensive all-hazards
emergency preparedness system. The EMPG Program will provide federal funds to assist state, local,
tribal, and territorial emergency management agencies to obtain the resources required to support the
National Preparedness Goal’s associated mission areas and core capabilities.
November 2020 26
Flood Mitigation Assistance Program
Grant
Department or Organization Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must be states, U.S. territories, or federally recognized
tribes. Local governments may apply as sub-applicants under their
states or territories.
Funding Available $210 million (FY19)
Cost Sharing Federal funding is available for up to 75% of the eligible activity costs.
Restrictions Applying communities must be members of the National Federal
Insurance Program.
Website fema.gov/grants/mitigation/floods
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered through the state. Tribes can
apply directly. More information can be found at
twdb.texas.gov/flood/grant/fma.asp
About the Resource
The goal of FEMA's Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program is to reduce or eliminate claims under
the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). FMA provides funding to states, territories, federally
recognized tribes, and local communities for projects and planning that reduce or eliminate the long-term
risk of flood damage to structures insured under the NFIP. FMA funding is also available for management
costs. Funding is appropriated by Congress annually.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
Grant
Department or Organization Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
In general, individuals, businesses, and private nonprofits via local
governments, can apply for HMGP funding. Individuals must be
sponsored through an appropriate subapplicant such as a local
government, state agency, tribe or tribal agency, or private nonprofit.
Applications are submitted to the state, eligible tribe, or territory, which
receives HMGP funds from FEMA.
Funding Available The available funding is determined based upon the disaster
declaration.
Cost Sharing Matching requirements are up to 75% for a federal match and a
minimum of 25% for a non-federal match. Note that funding from other
November 2020 27
federal sources cannot be used for the 25% share with one exception:
funding provided to states, tribes, or territories under the Community
Development Block Grant (CDBG) program from the Department of
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) can be used to meet the non-
federal share requirement.
Restrictions
To be considered for funding under HMGP, a project must:
• Conform with the approved state and local mitigation plan
• Benefit the disaster area
• Conform with environmental regulations
• Solve a problem and be technically feasible
• Meet all applicable state and local codes and standards
• Demonstrate cost-effectiveness
• Consider a range of alternatives
Website fema.gov/grants/mitigation/hazard-mitigation
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal program is administered through the state. Tribes can
apply directly. More information can be found at
tdem.texas.gov/hazard-mitigation
About the Resource
The purpose of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) is to help communities implement hazard
mitigation measures following a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration in the areas of the state, tribe, or
territory requested by the Governor or Tribal Executive. The key purpose of this grant program is to enact
mitigation measures that reduce the risk of loss of life and property from future disasters. The primary
guidance document for this program is the Hazard Mitigation Assistance Guidance. The HMGP is
authorized under Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act.
National Dam Safety Program
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Non-federal dams that (i) are in a state or territory with a state or
territorial dam safety program; (ii) are classified as having "high hazard
potential" by the dam safety agency in the dam's state or territory ; (iii)
have an emergency action plan approved by the state or territory's
dam safety agency; and (iv) the state or territory in which the dam is
located determines either of these criteria – the dam fails to meet
minimum dam safety standards public. An "eligible high hazard
potential dam" does not include: (i) a licensed hydroelectric dam; or (ii)
a dam built under the federal authority of the Secretary of Agriculture.
Funding Available $10 million
Cost Sharing Non-federal cost share requirement of not less than 35%, which may
be partially or fully in-kind.
Restrictions
Dams on tribal lands are not eligible to receive HHPD grant funding.
The Indian Dam Safety Act of 1994 establishes a Dam Safety
Maintenance and Repair Program within the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
Website fema.gov/emergency-managers/risk-management/dam-safety
November 2020 28
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Grant funds go to states. Technical assistance is available to
everyone.
About the Resource
For 30 years, the federal government has used the National Dam Safety Program (NDSP) to protect
Americans from dam failure. The NDSP is a partnership of states, federal agencies, and other
stakeholders that encourages and promotes the establishment and maintenance of effective federal and
state dam safety programs to reduce the risks to human life, property, and the environment from dam-
related hazards.
Public Assistance 404 and 406 Programs
Grant
Department or Organization Federal Emergency Management Agency, Department of Homeland
Security
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include states, federally recognized tribal
governments (including Alaska Native villages and organizations, as
long as they are not privately owned), U.S. territories, local
governments, and certain organizations.
Funding Available Mitigation funding limits are determined based on a benefit-cost
analysis or as a sage of the damaged facility's repair cost.
Cost Sharing The federal share of assistance is not less than 75% of the eligible
cost.
Restrictions
Mitigation funding is generally only available for eligible disaster-
damaged facilities. Projects must directly reduce the potential of
similar damage to the facility and must be cost-effective, technically
feasible, and compliant with environmental and historic preservation
laws, regulations, and Executive Orders.
Website fema.gov/assistance/public
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Contact your State Hazard Mitigation Officer for more information.
About the Resource
The FEMA Public Assistance (PA) program provides grants to state, local, tribal, and territorial
governments, and certain types of private non-profit (PNP) organizations, so that communities can quickly
respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies declared by the President.
Through the program, FEMA provides supplemental federal disaster grant assistance for debris removal;
life-saving emergency protective measures; and the repair, replacement, or restoration of disaster-
damaged publicly owned facilities, and the facilities of certain PNP organizations. The PA program also
encourages protection of these damaged facilities from future events by providing assistance for cost-
effective hazard mitigation measures during the recovery process.
November 2020 29
Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Recovery
Grant
Department or Organization Department of Housing and Urban Development
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
State and local governments act as grantees. Those who receive
funding include state agencies, non-profit organizations, economic
development agencies, citizens, and businesses.
Funding Available Varies depending on the disaster
Cost Sharing
Varies depending on the cost type
More information on costs can be found here:
hudexchange.info/resources/documents/CDBG-DR-Cost -Types-
Summary.pdf
Restrictions
Each activity must be CDBG-eligible, address a disaster-related
impact in a Presidentially declared county, and meet a national
objective. Eligible grantees are states, units of general local
government, tribes, and insular areas.
Website
hudexchange.info/programs/cdbg-dr/
hudexchange.info/programs/cdbg-dr/cdbg-dr-grantee-contact-
information/#all-disasters
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information can be found at:
texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/RuralEconomicDevelopment/Rur
alCommunityDevelopmentBlockGrant(CDBG).aspx
About the Resource
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) provides flexible grants to help cities,
counties, and states recover from Presidentially declared disasters, especially in low-income areas,
subject to availability of supplemental appropriations. In response to Presidentially declared disasters,
Congress may appropriate additional funding for the CDBG Program as Disaster Recovery grants, to
rebuild the affected areas and provide crucial seed money to start the recovery process. Since this
Disaster Recovery assistance may fund a broad range of recovery activities, HUD can help communities
and neighborhoods that otherwise might not recover due to limited resources.
Community Development Block Grant - Mitigation
Grant
Department or Organization Department of Housing and Urban Development
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery See CDBG-DR
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants States
Funding Available Variable by year and opportunity
Cost Sharing Variable by year and opportunity
November 2020 30
Restrictions Restrictions may vary, depending on the specific opportunity.
Website hudexchange.info/programs/cdbg-mit
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This federal resource is administered through the state. More
information can be found at:
texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/RuralEconomicDevelopment/Rur
alCommunityDevelopmentBlockGrant(CDBG).aspx
About the Resource
The Community Development Block Grant- Mitigation Program is designed to provide assistance to areas
affected by recent disasters through funding high-impact activities aimed at reducing future losses from
natural hazards.
Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program
Loan
Department or Organization Department of Housing and Urban Development
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants
States, metropolitan, cities, and urban counties (i.e., CDBG
entitlement recipients), non-entitlement communities that are assisted
in the submission of applications by states that administer the CDBG
program, non-entitlement communities eligible to receive CDBG funds
under the HUD-administered small cities CDBG program. The public
entity may be the borrower, or it may designate a public agency as the
borrower.
Activities eligible under Section 108 include:
• Acquisition of real property.
• Rehabilitation of publicly owned real property.
• Housing rehabilitation eligible under CDBG.
• Construction, reconstruction, or installation of public facilities
(including street, sidewalk, and other site improvements).
• Related relocation, clearance, and site improvements.
• Loan to for-profit businesses for economic development
purposes.
• Payment of interest on the guaranteed loan and issuance
costs of public offerings.
• Debt service reserves.
• Finance fees.
• Public works and site improvements.
• In limited circumstances, affordable housing construction.
Funding Available
Current availability of funding can be found here:
hudexchange.info/resource/5197/current-availability-of-section-108-
financing-cdbg-entitlement-and-State-grantees/
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions
All projects must benefit low-moderate income persons, aid in the
elimination of slums and blight, or meet the urgent needs of the
community.
Website hudexchange.info/programs/section-108
November 2020 31
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information can be found at:
texasagriculture.gov/GrantsServices/RuralEconomicDevelopment/Tex
asAgriculturalFinanceAuthority/AgriculturalLoanGuaranteeProgram.as
px
About the Resource
The Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program (Section 108 of the Housing and Community Development Act
of 1974) provides communities with financing for economic development, housing rehabilitation, public
facilities, and other physical development projects, including improvements to increase their resilience
against natural disasters. The flexibility of the program makes it one of the most important public
investment tools that HUD offers to state and local governments. Section 108 offers state and local
governments the ability to transform a small portion of their CDBG funds into federally guaranteed loans
large enough to pursue physical and economic revitalization projects capable of revitalizing entire
neighborhoods.
Disaster Recovery Grants
Grant
Department or Organization National Park Service, Department of Interior
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Dependent on Congressional authorization specific to disaster; must
be affected by specific disaster
Funding Available Varies depending on the disaster
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Must be affected by specific disaster
Website nps.gov/preservation-grants/disaster-recovery/index.html
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Funds are made available for specific disasters. Refer to the NPS
website for more information.
About the Resource
Congress responds to some major disasters by appropriating Emergency Supplemental funding from the
Historic Preservation Fund (ESHPF) for recovery, allowing state and tribal Historic Preservation Offices to
work on various recovery projects, including compliance activities, survey and inventory of historic
resources in areas impacted by the disaster, recovery, and repair of historic properties damaged during
the disaster, and other activities related to disaster recovery, as approved by the National Park Service
(NPS). All funded repair work must substantially mitigate the threat and include steps to mitigate future
damages.
Housing Improvement Program
Grant
Department or Organization Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Interior
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
November 2020 32
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Member of a federally recognized tribe or an Alaska Native; live in an
approved tribal service area; have an income that does not exceed
150% of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS)
Poverty Guidelines; have present housing that is substandard, as
defined by the regulations; have no other resource for housing
assistance; and have not acquired the present housing through a
federally sponsored housing program that includes such housing
assistance.
Funding Available
Interim Improvements: Provides up to $7,500 in housing repairs for
conditions that threaten the health and/or safety of the occupants.
Repairs and Renovation: Provides up to $60,000 in repairs and
renovation to improve the condition of a homeowner’s dwelling to meet
applicable building code standards. Replacement Housing: Provides a
modest replacement home if a homeowner’s dwelling cannot be
brought to applicable building code standards. New Housing: Provides
a modest new home. People who do not own a home may be eligible
if they own or lease land suitable for housing and the lease is for not
less than 25 years when assistance is received.
Cost Sharing No cost-share required
Restrictions Consult the eligibility guidelines found here:
bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/housing-improvement-program
Website bia.gov/bia/ois/dhs/housing-improvement-program
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Contact your local BIA representative. Their information can be found
at:
bia.gov/sites/bia.gov/files/assets/bia/ois/Region%20Contact%20list%2
0rev%205.1.20.docx
About the Resource
The Housing Improvement Program (HIP) is a home repair, renovation, replacement and new housing
grant program administered by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and by federally recognized tribes. It is
aimed at American Indians and Alaska Native (AI/AN) individuals and families who have no immediate
resources for standard housing. Repairs can include those required as part of recovery or to reinforce the
structure.
National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grants
Grant
Department or Organization Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Interior
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Flood, Sea Level Rise, Storm Surge
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants State agencies, coastal states only
Funding Available $20 million in 2019
Cost Sharing
Open to applicants who have established a fund that is used for
acquiring coastal wetlands, other natural areas, or open space, at a
75% grant share of total project costs, up to the maximum award of
$1,000,000. Open to others at a 50% cost
Restrictions Must meet cost-share
Website fws.gov/coastal/CoastalGrants/index.html
November 2020 33
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Contact the Southeast Region of the US Fish and Wildlife Service:
fws.gov/southeast/about/
About the Resource
The National Coastal Wetlands Conservation Grants (NCWCG) program annually provides grants of up to
$1 million to coastal and Great Lakes states and territories to protect, restore, and enhance coastal
wetland ecosystems and associated uplands. The grants are funded through the Sport Fish Restoration
and Boating Trust Fund, which is supported by excise taxes on fishing equipment and motorboat fuel.
Wetland conservation is an important type of natural resource protection hazard mitigation project.
North American Wetland Conservation Fund
Grant
Department or Organization Fish and Wildlife Service, Department of Interior
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
A list of eligible and ineligible activities can be found in Eligibility
Criteria & Processes:
fws.gov/migratorybirds/pdf/grants/EligibilityCriteria.pdf
Funding Available $23.9 million in 2019
Cost Sharing 1:1 matching.
Restrictions
According to the NAWCA website, projects must provide long-term
conservation for wetlands-associated migratory birds and other
wetlands-associated wildlife. Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection
and Restoration Act-derived funds eligible for NAWCA projects may be
used only in U.S. coastal wetlands ecosystems.
Website fws.gov/birds/grants/north-american-wetland-conservation-act.php
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Contact the Southeast Region of the US Fish and Wildlife Service:
fws.gov/southeast/about/
About the Resource
The North American Wetland Conservation Fund Program provides matching grants to wetlands
conservation projects in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It includes a Standard Program and a
Small Grants Program. Wetland conservation is an important type of natural resource protection hazard
mitigation project.
Tribal Resilience Program
Grant
Department or Organization Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of Interior
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Federally recognized tribes
November 2020 34
Funding Available $8,731,454 awarded in FY2019
Cost Sharing Not required
Restrictions
Proposals should be for projects that can be completed within 2 years.
Because funding is limited, awards shall not exceed $150,000 for any
one proposal for Categories 1-2, 4, and 7 (training, planning, ocean
and coastal management, relocation); $15,000 for any one proposal in
Categories 3 and 5 (travel); and $65,000 for any one proposal in
Category 6 (capacity-building support for scoping efforts).
Website bia.gov/bia/ots/Tribal-resilience-program
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
This is a federal program. Apply to the BIA during open Request for
Proposal windows.
About the Resource
The BIA's Tribal Resilience Program (TRP) provides grants to tribes to build capacity and resilience for
tribally designed resilience training, adaptation planning, vulnerability assessments, supplemental
monitoring, capacity building, and youth engagement.
WaterSMART Programs
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Bureau of Reclamation, Department of Interior
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Drought, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants States, tribes, and local entities in western states
Funding Available Between $1,000 and $20,000,000
Cost Sharing Not required
Restrictions
Western states: Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota,
South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, California, Nevada, Utah,
Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona
Website usbr.gov/watersmart
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Information can be found on the USBR website, and applications may
be submitted during open application periods through grants.gov.
About the Resource
Through WaterSMART, the Bureau of Reclamation will continue to work with states, tribes, and local
entities as they plan for and implement actions to increase their water supply through investments to
modernize existing infrastructure and attention to local water conflicts. WaterSMART is an umbrella for a
variety of programs, including water and energy efficiency grants, drought planning grants, and watershed
management planning grants.
November 2020 35
Firewise
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization National Fire Prevention Association
Type of Mitigation Action Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed Wildfire
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Public Information and Warning
Eligible Applicants Communities
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions None
Website nfpa.org/Public-Education/Fire-causes-and-risks/Wildfire/Firewise-
USA
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More resources from this non-profit organization are available at the
website
About the Resource
Firewise USA is a voluntary program that provides a framework to help neighbors get organized, find
direction and take action to increase the ignition resistance of their homes and community.
Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Grant Program
Grant
Department or Organization National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants Local governments or organizations
Funding Available Awards range from $20,000 to $50,000 with an average size of
$30,000 and 40-50 grants awarded per year
Cost Sharing Matching required
Restrictions
All projects must have:
• On-the-ground activities such as wetland, river, or coastal
habitat restoration and/or targeted green infrastructure
creation and monitoring.
• Community partners united to achieve ecological and
educational outcomes.
• Integrated education, outreach, and training on the restoration
project through broad community engagement activities or
participation and integration with K-12 environmental
curriculum.
• Measurable ecological, educational, and community benefits.
Website nfwf.org/fivestar/Pages/home.aspx
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information on this not for profit resource is available at the
website
November 2020 36
About the Resource
The Five Star and Urban Waters Restoration Program seeks to develop nationwide-community
stewardship of local natural resources, preserving these resources for future generations and enhancing
habitat for local wildlife. Projects seek to address water quality issues in priority watersheds, such as
erosion due to unstable streambanks, pollution from stormwater runoff, and degraded shorelines caused
by development.
National Coastal Resilience Fund
Grant
Department or Organization National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed Storm Surge
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants
Eligible applicants include non-profit 501(c) organizations, state and
territorial government agencies, local governments, municipal
governments, tribal governments, educational institutions, or
commercial (for-profit) organizations. Tribal governments include both
federally recognized tribes and tribes that are not federally recognized.
Funding Available $30 million (2019)
Cost Sharing Matching required
Restrictions Financial Assistance
Website nfwf.org/programs/national-coastal-resilience-fund
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information on this not for profit resource is available at the
website
About the Resource
The National Coastal Resilience Fund restores, increases, and strengthens natural infrastructure to
protect coastal communities while also enhancing habitats for fish and wildlife. Established in 2018, the
National Coastal Resilience Fund invests in conservation projects that restore or expand natural features
such as coastal marshes and wetlands, dune and beach systems, oyster and coral reefs, forests, coastal
rivers and floodplains, and barrier islands that minimize the impacts of storms and other naturally
occurring events on nearby communities., The National Coastal Resilience Fund restores, increases, and
strengthens natural infrastructure to protect coastal communities while also enhancing habitats for fish
and wildlife. Established in 2018, the National Coastal Resilience Fund invests in conservation projects
that restore or expand natural features such as coastal marshes and wetlands, dune and beach systems,
oyster and coral reefs, forests, coastal rivers and floodplains, and barrier islands that minimize the
impacts of storms and other naturally occurring events on nearby communities. The National Coastal
Resilience Fund is supported by NOAA, Shell Oil Company, and TransRe.
November 2020 37
Resilient Communities Program
Grant
Department or Organization National Fish and Wildlife Foundation
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants Local governments or organizations
Funding Available $12 million, plus additional local funding to $24 million
Cost Sharing Matching required
Restrictions Grants will be offered once a year to support priority projects in select
states and communities
Website nfwf.org/resilientcommunities/Pages/home.aspx
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information on this not for profit resource is available at the
website
About the Resource
The program focuses on water quality and quantity declines, forest health concerns, and sea-level rise.
The program will emphasize community inclusion and assistance to traditionally underserved populations
in vulnerable areas.
Forest Management
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Forest Service, Texas A&M
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Texas A&M Forest Service provides technical assistance to
landowners and communities throughout the state.
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions None identified
Website https://tfsweb.tamu.edu/LandownerAssistance/
Next Steps for Texas
Communities More information on this state resource is available on the website.
About the Resource
The Forest Service provides technical assistance to landowners and communities to better manage their
forests, protect water resources, and prevent the worst impacts of wildfire.
November 2020 38
Water Resources Outreach and Training Program
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Texas Water Resources Institute, Texas A&M
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants The Water Resources Outreach and Training Program is targeted at
interested citizens, students, and water professionals.
Funding Available N/A
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions None identified
Website twri.tamu.edu/
Next Steps for Texas
Communities More information on this state resource is available on the website.
About the Resource
The Water Resources Outreach and Training Program provides workshops and technical resources for
citizens, students, and water professionals. One popular course is the Texas Watershed Planning
Program, which trains attendees in sustainable, proactive approaches to managing water quality
throughout the state. Water quality projects can often mitigate against flooding.
Wetland Restoration Program
Technical Assistance
Department or Organization AgriLife Extension, Texas A&M
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants The Wetlands Restoration Program focuses on public lands.
Education classes are also provided for adults and children.
Funding Available N/A – Restoration services are provided directly.
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions None identified
Website tcwp.tamu.edu/wetland-restoration/
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information on this state resource is available on the website and
in the weekly newsletter
About the Resource
The Wetlands Restoration Program is focused on providing resources to the Houston-Galveston region
by helping to restore wetlands to their natural state and by providing hands-on education to students and
adults through volunteer experiences. Restoring these wetlands can support flood risk reduction.
November 2020 39
Texas Coastal Management Program
Grant
Department or Organization Coast, Texas General Land Office
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed Coastal
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Cities, counties, state agencies, public universities, regional
governments, and nonprofit organizations
Funding Available The amount available depends on the project type.
Cost Sharing Construction and administrative projects require a 40% applicant
match. Projects of special merit do not require a match.
Restrictions
Projects must be in the coastal zone. The program requires a
competitive pre-application and then a full application by invitation
only.
Website glo.texas.gov/coast/grant-projects/funding/index.html
Next Steps for Texas
Communities More information on this state resource is available on the website.
About the Resource
The Texas Coastal Management Program grants are designed to address environmental concerns in the
coastal zone. Project types include public access enhancement, data collection, coastal hazard and
resiliency planning, coastal resource improvement or enhancement, and projects of special merit.
Projects must implement a previously approved local, regional, state, or federal plan.
Water Quality and Flood Control Programs
Grant, Technical Assistance
Department or Organization Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood, Drought
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Varies by program. Reach out to your local Soil and Water
Conservation District for more information.
Funding Available Varies by program
Cost Sharing Varies by program
Restrictions Varies by program
Website tsswcb.texas.gov/index.php/programs
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More information on this state resource is available on the website or
through your local Soil and Water Conservation District.
About the Resource
The Texas State Soil and Water Conservation Board maintains water-related programs, including the
Flood Control Program, which funds dam construction and maintenance; Water Quality Management
Planning Program, which funds site-specific water quality planning; Texas Nonpoint Source Management
November 2020 40
Program to protect water pollution from nonpoint sources; and the Water Supply Enhancement Program,
which assists with water management given drought.
Agricultural Water Conservation Grants Program
Grant
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure, Local
Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed Drought, Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience (may vary based on annual solicitation criteria)
Eligible Applicants State agencies and political subdivisions
Funding Available Varies; current program funding authorization is $1,200,000 per fiscal
year
Cost Sharing Varies; local match is always encouraged and sometimes required
Restrictions
Funding is only available for agricultural water conservation projects
and programs, as defined by statute. Funding may also be restricted to
projects within regional water planning areas that have identified
Irrigation Conservation as a goal in their regional water plans.
Website twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/AWCG/index.asp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Applications for this state resource can be found on the grant website.
About the Resource
The grant program offers funding to state agencies and local communities to support agricultural irrigation
conservation and water conservation. Types of fundable projects include technical assistance,
demonstrations and technology transfer, equipment cost share, and research and education.
Agricultural Water Conservation Loan Program
Loan
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure, Local
Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed Drought, Erosion, Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience (may vary)
Eligible Applicants Political subdivisions
Funding Available Varies; contact TWDB staff to determine funding availability
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Funding is only available for agricultural water conservation projects
and programs, as defined by statute.
Website twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/AWCL/index.asp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Applications for this state resource can be found on the grant website
November 2020 41
About the Resource
The loan program allows for conservation projects or programs, including those that fund political
subdivisions or individual persons.
Flood Infrastructure Fund
Grant, Loan
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure, Education
and Outreach
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Community Resilience
Eligible Applicants Cities, counties, and any district or authority created under Article III,
Section 52 or Article XVI, Section 59 of the Texas Constitution
Funding Available Varies
Cost Sharing Structure of financial assistance can be found in the Flood Intended
Use Plan.
Restrictions See program website for specific requirements
Website http://www.twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/FIF/index.asp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Applications for this state resource can be found on the website.
About the Resource
The Flood Infrastructure Fund provides grants and loans to cities, counties, and other governmental
districts and authorities for a wide range of flood mitigation projects. The projects include structural,
nonstructural, and nature-based projects. Funding is available for planning/engineering and
construction/rehabilitation phases, as well as education and outreach, stream guages, and warning
systems.
Regional Water Plans/Planning Group Grants
Grant
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations, Education and Outreach
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Planning
Eligible Applicants Regional Water Planning Groups. These groups include individuals
representing at least 12 interest groups.
Funding Available Varies
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions
Funds may not be used for activities which the Board determines
sufficient data exist, activities related to the preparation of applications
for permits or other approvals, administration costs, or cost/benefit
analysis.
November 2020 42
Website twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/RWPG/index.asp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Applications for this state resource can be found on the grant website
About the Resource
The Planning Group Grants allows for communities in a regional group to develop a water plan, including
determining water needs, supplies available during drought conditions, sites for reservoir construction,
regulatory/legislative recommendations for improving water management, and other elements. The plan
will contain specific water management strategies, including conservation, identified needs with no
feasible solutions, and alternative strategies. The plans address concerns around drought and may also
relate to other hazards, such as floods.
State Participation Program
Other
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Political subdivisions of the state and non-profit water supply
corporations
Funding Available Funding is dependent on legislative appropriations. No maximum
funding limit.
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions
Program funding dependent upon legislative appropriations or
available funds. Water supply projects must be consistent with the
current state water plan. Reservoir funding must be segmented or
phased; permitting is required prior to a construction commitment.
Limited to funding of excess capacity portion; up to 80% of total water
project costs and 50% for wastewater costs. Entities receiving
assistance greater than $500,000 must adopt a water conservation
and drought contingency plan. U.S. Iron and Steel requirements. No
maximum funding limit.
Website twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Twice-a-year funding cycle (February 1/August 1); includes a
prioritization process. For specific questions on the program, please
contact Financial_Assistance@twdb.texas.gov.
About the Resource
The State Participation Program assists local communities by allowing the state to take on a temporary
ownership interest in a regional water, wastewater, or flood control project.
November 2020 43
State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT)
Loan
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Drought
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Planning
Eligible Applicants Political subdivisions and nonprofit water supply corporations with a
project included in the state water plan
Funding Available No maximum funding limit
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions
Projects must be recommended water management strategies
included in the state water plan. Communities must complete an
Infrastructure Financing Survey and meet other requirements.
Website twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/SWIFT/index.asp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Applications for this state resource can be found on the website
About the Resource
This program helps communities develop cost-effective water supplies with low-interest loans. Eligible
projects include conservation and reuse, desalinating groundwater and seawater, building new pipelines,
developing reservoirs and well fields, and purchasing water rights, as well as numerous other strategies.
Projects may incorporate hazard mitigation elements, especially around flood and drought.
Texas Water Development Fund (DFund)
Loan
Department or Organization Texas Water Development Board
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection, Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed Flood, Drought
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Political subdivisions and nonprofit water supply corporations
Funding Available No maximum funding limit
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions
Water supply projects must be consistent with the current state water
plan, and entities receiving assistance greater than $500,000 must
adopt a water conservation and drought contingency plan. There may
be other requirements specific to different project types.
Website twdb.texas.gov/financial/programs/TWDF/index.asp
Next Steps for Texas
Communities Applications for this state resource can be found on the website
November 2020 44
About the Resource
The loan program offers assistance for water supply, wastewater, and flood control. Flood control may
include both structural and nonstructural protection solutions and improvement, including modifying
stream channels and flood warning systems.
Emergency Relief Program
Grant
Department or Organization Federal Highway Administration, Department of Transportation
Type of Mitigation Action Structure and Infrastructure
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery Yes
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants States may request ER funds, which can be used for either
“emergency repairs” or “permanent repairs.”
Funding Available
$100 million is authorized annually under 23 U.S.C. 125. Congress
has periodically provided additional funds for the ER program through
supplemental appropriations. MAP-21 eliminated the cap of $100
million per state event.
Cost Sharing
For Interstate highways, the federal share is 90%. For all other
highways, the federal share is 80%. The federal share for permanent
ER repairs may amount to 90% if the combined eligible ER expenses
incurred by the state in a federal fiscal year exceeds the annual
apportionment of the state under 23 U.S.C. section 104 for the fiscal
year in which the disasters or failures occurred.
Restrictions Must be in affected disaster areas
Website fhwa.dot.gov/programadmin/erelief.cfm
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
States apply to FHWA. Contact the Texas Department of
Transportation for more information.
About the Resource
The Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) Emergency Relief (ER) Program provides grants for the
repair or reconstruction of federal-aid highways and roads on federal lands that have suffered serious
damage as a result of either natural disasters or catastrophic failures from an external cause. The
program supplements the commitment of resources by states, their political subdivisions, or other federal
agencies to help pay for unusually heavy expenses resulting from extraordinary conditions. The
applicability of the ER program to a natural disaster is based on the extent and intensity of the disaster.
Damage to highways must be severe, occur over a wide area, and result in unusually high expenses to
the highway agency. Applicability of ER to a catastrophic failure due to an external cause is based on the
criteria that the failure was not the result of an inherent flaw in the facility, but was sudden, caused a
disastrous impact on transportation services, and resulted in unusually high expenses to the highway
agency.
November 2020 45
Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and
Businesses
Other - Tax Relief
Department or Organization Internal Revenue Service, Department of Treasury
Type of Mitigation Action Local Planning and Regulations
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants U.S. taxpayers, including individuals and businesses affected by
federally declared disasters
Funding Available N/A (tax relief)
Cost Sharing N/A
Restrictions Varies by specific program; must be affected by disaster
Website irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/disaster-
assistance-and-emergency-relief-for-individuals-and-businesses
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
Decisions are made based on individual disaster declarations. Refer to
the IRS website for more information about your community's
situation.
About the Resource
Special tax law provisions may help taxpayers and businesses recover financially from the impact of a
disaster, especially when the federal government declares their location to be a major disaster area.
Depending on the circumstances, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may grant additional time to file
returns and pay taxes. Both individuals and businesses in a federally declared disaster area can get a
faster refund by claiming losses related to the disaster on the tax return for the previous year, usually by
filing an amended return. The IRS also offers audio presentations on planning for disaster. These
presentations discuss business continuity planning, insurance coverage, record keeping, and other tips to
stay in business after a major disaster.
Climate Adaptation Fund
Grant
Department or Organization Wildlife Conservation Society
Type of Mitigation Action Natural Systems Protection
Hazard Addressed All
Specific to Recovery No
National Mitigation
Framework Core Capability Long-Term Vulnerability Reduction
Eligible Applicants Conservation nonprofits
Funding Available
The WCS Climate Adaptation Fund provides a total of $2.5 million in
grant awards (between $50,000 and $250,000 each) to conservation
non-profit organizations each year.
Cost Sharing Unknown
Restrictions
Project proposals must:
• Focus on the functionality of ecosystems, rather than
conserving individual species.
November 2020 46
• Be designed for long-term conservation impact.
• Create the potential for impact at a landscape scale.
• Use strategic, targeted communication activities to amplify
adaptation outcomes.
• Be designed with climate adaptation for wildlife and
ecosystems as a core goal or outcome of the work.
• Propose conservation goals and actions that are grounded in
the best available science.
• Conduct on-the-ground implementation, not research,
planning, or tool development.
Website wcsclimateadaptationfund.org/program-information
Next Steps for Texas
Communities
More resources from this nonprofit program are available at the
website.
About the Resource
The Wildlife Conservation Society's (WCS) Climate Adaptation Fund provides grant awards to
conservation non-profits across the United States to catalyze innovative, science-driven projects
responding to the impacts of climate change on wildlife and people.
Mitigation Ideas
A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
January 2013
01024.13
2 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Acknowledgements
FEMA’s Risk Analysis Division funded the development of this document, which updates Mitigation Ideas: Possible
Mitigation Measures by Hazards Type created by FEMA Region V in 2002. The primary authors and project managers
were Julie Baxter and Karen Helbrecht from FEMA and Stacy Franklin Robinson, Sara Reynolds, Adam Reeder, and
Hilary Kendro from the Strategic Alliance for Risk Reduction (STARR). Laura Coventry (STARR) provided layout and design
support. Special thanks to the following FEMA program areas for their contributions to this project: Hazard Mitigation
Planning, Building Sciences, Environmental and Historic Preservation, Flood Mitigation and Insurance, and Hazard
Mitigation Assistance.
3
Table of Contents
Introduction ....................................................................................................................................................4
Drought............................................................................................................................................................5
Earthquake ......................................................................................................................................................9
Erosion ............................................................................................................................................................15
Extreme Temperatures ................................................................................................................................19
Flood ...............................................................................................................................................................21
Hail ..................................................................................................................................................................33
Landslide ........................................................................................................................................................35
Lightning ......................................................................................................................................................39
Sea Level Rise ................................................................................................................................................41
Severe Wind .................................................................................................................................................45
Severe Winter Weather ...............................................................................................................................51
Storm Surge ..................................................................................................................................................55
Subsidence ....................................................................................................................................................59
Tornado ..........................................................................................................................................................63
Tsunami .........................................................................................................................................................65
Wildfire ..........................................................................................................................................................69
Multiple Hazards ..........................................................................................................................................75
FEMA Resources/Publications ..................................................................................................................83
FEMA Contacts .............................................................................................................................................88
Table of Contents
4 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Introduction
The purpose of this document is to provide a resource that communities can use to identify
and evaluate a range of potential mitigation actions for reducing risk to natural hazards
and disasters.
The focus of this document is mitigation,which is action taken to reduce or eliminate
long-term risk to hazards.Mitigation is different from preparedness,which is action taken to
improve emergency response or operational preparedness.
Ideas for mitigation actions are presented for the following natural hazards:
▪Drought
▪Earthquake
▪Erosion
▪Extreme temperatures
▪Flood
▪Hail
▪Landslide
▪Lightning
▪Sea level rise
▪Severe wind
▪Severe winter weather
▪Storm surge
▪Subsidence
▪Tornado
▪Tsunami
▪Wildfire
Actions that may mitigate multiple hazards are presented in the last section,entitled
“Multiple Hazards.”
The suggested mitigation actions are summarized into four types:(1)Local Planning and
Regulations,(2)Structure and Infrastructure Projects,(3)Natural Systems Protection,and (4)
Education and Awareness Programs.Examples of activities that can be used to accomplish
each mitigation goal are identified,as well as the relevant FEMA publications or resources,
if applicable.
This document is intended to be a starting point for gathering ideas and should not be used
as the only source for identifying actions.Communities should seek innovative and different
ideas for reducing risk that meet their unique needs.The actions listed are not necessarily
eligible for Federal assistance programs.Users should review specific program guidance
and contact their State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO)or regional FEMA office for more
information.
Examples of mitigation actions are
planning and zoning, floodplain
protection, property acquisition and
relocation, or public outreach projects.
Examples of preparedness actions are
installing disaster warning systems,
purchasing radio communications
equipment, or conducting emergency
response training.
Introduction
Drought
A drought is a period of unusually constant dry weather
that persists long enough to cause deficiencies in water
supply (surface or underground). Droughts are slow-onset
hazards, but, over time, they can severely affect crops,
municipal water supplies, recreational resources, and wildlife.
If drought conditions extend over a number of years, the
direct and indirect economic impacts can be significant. High
temperatures, high winds, and low humidity can worsen
drought conditions and also make areas more susceptible to
wildfire. In addition, human actions and demands for water
resources can accelerate drought-related impacts.
6 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
D-1 Assess Vulnerability to
Drought Risk
To better understand and assess local vulnerability to drought,
consider actions such as:
▪Gathering and analyzing water and climate data to gain a better
understanding of local climate and drought history.
▪Identifying factors that affect the severity of a drought.
▪Identifying available water supplies.
▪Determining how the community and its water sources have been
impacted by droughts in the past.
D-2 Monitor Drought
Conditions
Monitoring drought conditions can provide early warning for
policymakers and planners to make decisions through
actions including:
▪ Identifying local drought indicators, such as precipitation,
temperature, surface water levels, soil moisture, etc.
▪ Establishing a regular schedule to monitor and report conditions
on at least a monthly basis.
Monitoring the water supply and its functions can save water in the
long run through actions such as:
▪Regularly checking for leaks to minimize water supply losses.
▪Improving water supply monitoring.
D-3 Monitor Water Supply
D-4 Plan for Drought Plan for future drought events in your area through actions such as:
▪Developing a drought emergency plan.
▪Developing criteria or triggers for drought-related actions.
▪Developing a drought communication plan and early warning
system to facilitate timely communication of relevant information
to officials, decision makers, emergency managers, and the general
public.
▪Developing agreements for secondary water sources that may be
used during drought conditions.
▪Establishing an irrigation time/scheduling program or process so
that all agricultural land gets the required amount of water.
Through incremental timing, each area is irrigated at different
times so that all water is not consumed at the same time. Spacing
usage may also help with recharge of groundwater.
7DroughtMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
D-5 Require Water Conservation
During Drought Conditions
Require mandatory water conservation measures during drought
emergencies,including:
▪Developing an ordinance to restrict the use of public water
resources for non-essential usage, such as landscaping, washing
cars, filling swimming pools, etc.
▪Adopting ordinances to prioritize or control water use, particularly
for emergency situations like fire fighting.
D-6 Prevent Overgrazing Prevent overgrazing,which has been linked to drought vulnerability,
through actions such as:
▪Establishing a grazing policy or permitting program to
prevent overgrazing.
▪Reducing the number of animals and improving
range management.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
D-7 Retrofit Water Supply
Systems
Improve water supply and delivery systems to save water through
actions such as:
▪Designing water delivery systems to accommodate drought events.
▪Developing new or upgrading existing water delivery systems to
eliminate breaks and leaks.
D-8 Enhance Landscaping and
Design Measures
Natural Systems Protection
Encourage drought-tolerant landscape design through measures
such as:
▪Incorporating drought tolerant or xeriscape practices into landscape
ordinances to reduce dependence on irrigation.
▪Providing incentives for xeriscaping.
▪Using permeable driveways and surfaces to reduce runoff and
promote groundwater recharge.
8 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
D-9 Educate Residents on
Water Saving Techniques
Encourage citizens to take water-saving measures,such as
the following:
▪Installing low-flow water saving showerheads and toilets.
▪Turning water flow off while brushing teeth or during other
cleaning activities.
▪Adjusting sprinklers to water the lawn and not the sidewalk
or street.
▪Running the dishwasher and washing machine only when they
are full.
▪Checking for leaks in plumping or dripping faucets.
▪Installing rain-capturing devices for irrigation.
▪Encouraging the installation of graywater systems in homes to
encourage water reuse.
D-10 Educate Farmers on
Soil and Water Conservation
Practices
Encourage farmers to implement soil and water conservation
practices that foster soil health and improve soil quality to help
increase resiliency and mitigate the impacts of droughts.Potential
conservation practices include the following:
▪Rotating crops by growing a series of different types of crops on
the same fields every season to reduce soil erosion.
▪Practicing contour farming by farming along elevation contour
lines to slow water runoff during rainstorms and prevent soil
erosion, allowing the water time to absorb into the soil.
▪Using terracing on hilly or mountainous terrain to decrease soil
erosion and surface runoff.
▪Planting “cover crops,” such as oats, wheat, and buckwheat, to
prevent soil erosion.
▪Using zero and reduced tillage to minimize soil disturbance and
leave crop residue on the ground to prevent soil erosion.
▪Constructing windbreaks to prevent evaporation from reclaiming
salt-affected soil.
▪Collecting rainwater and using natural runoff to water plants.
D-11 Purchase Crop Insurance
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 20, P-85, 361, 453
Preserve economic stability during a drought by encouraging
agricultural interests to obtain crop insurance to cover potential
losses due to drought.
Other drought-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Extreme Temperatures” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Earthquake
An earthquake is a sudden release of energy that creates
a movement in the earth’s crust. Most earthquake-related
property damage and deaths are caused by the failure
and collapse of structures due to ground shaking. The
level of damage depends upon the extent and duration of
the shaking. Other damaging earthquake effects include
landslides, the down-slope movement of soil and rock (in
mountain regions and along hillsides), and liquefaction.
10 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
EQ-1 Adopt and Enforce
Building Codes
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 83, 224, 232, 254, 266,
313, 349, P-749, P-750
EQ-2 Incorporate Earthquake
Mitigation into Local Planning
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 83, 224, 254, 266, 313, 349
Building codes reduce earthquake damage to structures.Consider
actions such as:
▪Adopting and enforcing updated building code provisions to
reduce earthquake damage risk.
▪Adopting the International Building Code (IBC) and International
Residential Code (IRC).
Earthquake risk can be reduced through local planning,codes,and
ordinances,including:
▪Creating a seismic safety committee to provide policy
recommendations, evaluate and recommend changes in seismic
safety standards, and give an annual assessment of local and
statewide implementation of seismic safety improvements.
▪Developing and distributing guidelines or passing ordinances that
require developers and building owners to locate lifelines,
buildings, critical facilities, and hazardous materials out of areas
subject to significant seismic hazards.
▪Incorporating structural and non-structural seismic strengthening
actions into ongoing building plans and activities in the capital
improvement plan to ensure that facilities remain operational for
years to come.
▪Supporting financial incentives, such as low interest loans or tax
breaks, for home and business owners who seismically retrofit
their structures.
EQ-3 Map and Assess Community
Vulnerability to Seismic Hazards
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 83, 154, 366, ROVER
To better understand and assess local vulnerability to earthquakes,
consider actions such as:
▪Developing an inventory of public and commercial buildings that
may be particularly vulnerable to earthquake damage, including
pre-1940s homes and homes with cripple wall foundations.
▪Collecting geologic information on seismic sources, soil conditions,
and related potential hazards.
▪Creating an earthquake scenario to estimate potential loss of life
and injuries, the types of potential damage, and existing
vulnerabilities within a community to develop earthquake
mitigation priorities.
▪Using Hazus to quantitatively estimate potential losses from
an earthquake.
▪Maintaining a database to track community vulnerability to
earthquake risk.
▪Using GIS to map hazard areas, at-risk structures, and associated
hazards (e.g., liquefaction and landslides) to assess high-risk areas.
11EarthquakeLocal Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
EQ-4 Conduct Inspections of
Building Safety
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 154, 155, 202, 221, 224, 225,
226, 233, 306, 307, 395, ROVER
Inspections can be used to assess earthquake risk,such as:
▪Establishing a school survey procedure and guidance document to
inventory structural and non-structural hazards in and around
school buildings.
▪Using rapid visual screening to quickly inspect a building and
identify disaster damage or potential seismic structural and
non-structural weaknesses to prioritize retrofit efforts, inventory
high-risk structures and critical facilities, or assess post-disaster risk
to determine if buildings are safe to re-occupy.
▪Consulting industry standard publications such as American
Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) 31 - Seismic Evaluation of Existing
Buildings, ASCE 41 - Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings,
and Applied Technology Council (ATC) 20 - Procedures for
Postearthquake Safety Evaluation of Buildings.
12 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
EQ-5 Protect Critical Facilities
and Infrastructure
Reduce potential damage to critical facilities and infrastructure from
future seismic events through actions such as:
▪Conducting seismic retrofitting for critical public facilities most at
risk to earthquakes.
▪Requiring bracing of generators, elevators, and other vital
equipment in hospitals.
▪Identifying and hardening critical lifeline systems (i.e., critical public
services such as utilities and roads) to meet “Seismic Design
Guidelines and Standards for Lifelines” or equivalent standards
such as American Lifelines Alliance (ALA) guidance. This may
distinguish a manageable earthquake from a social and
economic catastrophe.
▪Reviewing construction plans for all bridges to determine their
susceptibility to collapse and retrofitting problem bridges.
▪Using flexible piping when extending water, sewer, or natural
gas service.
▪Installing shutoff valves and emergency connector hoses where
water mains cross fault lines.
EQ-6 Implement Structural
Mitigation Techniques
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 307, 320, 345, 356, 361,
395, 396, 412, 453, 547, P-774
Use structural mitigation measures to reduce damage from future
seismic events,such as:
▪Strengthening and retrofitting non-reinforced masonry buildings
and non-ductile concrete facilities that are particularly vulnerable
to ground shaking.
▪Retrofitting building veneers to prevent failure.
▪Building a safe room to provide protection during an earthquake.
▪Installing window film to prevent injuries from shattered glass.
▪Anchoring rooftop-mounted equipment (i.e., HVAC units, satellite
dishes, etc).
▪Constructing masonry chimneys greater than 6 feet above a roof
with continuous reinforced steel bracing.
13EarthquakeMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
EQ-7 Increase Earthquake
Risk Awareness
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA E-74, 474, 526, 527, 528,
529, 530, P-811; EMI IS-22
There are many ways to increase awareness of earthquake
risk,including:
▪Working with insurance industry representatives to increase public
awareness of the importance of earthquake insurance. Residential
structural improvements can be factored into the process of
obtaining insurance coverage or reduced deductibles.
▪Developing an outreach program about earthquake risk and
mitigation activities in homes, schools, and businesses.
▪Educating homeowners on safety techniques to follow during and
after an earthquake.
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and design
professionals.
EQ-8 Conduct Outreach
to Builders,Architects,
Engineers,and Inspectors
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 232, 313, 389, P-420, 454
Building susceptibility to earthquake damage can be improved if
design professionals are made aware of proper design and building
requirements.Outreach activities include:
▪Conducting information sessions or other forms of outreach on
seismic code provisions for new and existing buildings to enhance
code use and enforcement by local architects, engineers,
contractors, and code enforcement personnel.
▪Training building department staff and officials on Form ATC-20 for
post-earthquake building evaluation. The ATC-20 report and
addendum, prepared by the Applied Technology Council, provide
procedures and guidelines for making on-the-spot evaluations and
decisions regarding continued use and occupancy of earthquake-
damaged buildings.
14 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
Property owners can retrofit existing structures to reduce damage
from seismic events.Potential actions include the following:
▪Educating homeowners about structural and non-structural
retrofitting of vulnerable homes and encouraging retrofit.
▪Developing a technical assistance information program for
homeowners. Teaching them how to seismically strengthen their
houses can be an effective mitigation activity. The program can
include providing local government building departments with
copies of existing strengthening and repair information
for distribution.
▪Developing an outreach program to encourage homeowners to
secure furnishings, storage cabinets, and utilities to prevent injuries
and damage. Examples include anchoring tall bookcases and file
cabinets, installing latches on drawers and cabinet doors,
restraining desktop computers and appliances, using flexible
connections on gas and water lines, mounting framed pictures and
mirrors securely, and anchoring and bracing propane tanks and
gas cylinders.
▪Establishing a library of technical documents on structural and
non-structural mitigation options as well as model ordinances and
procedures that have been used by other jurisdictions to reduce
earthquake risk.
Other earthquake-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the section entitled
“Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
EQ-9 Provide Information
on Structural and
Non-Structural Retrofitting
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA E-74, 412, 413, 414, 530, 547
Erosion
Erosion is the wearing away of land, such as loss of riverbank,
beach, shoreline, or dune material. It is measured as the rate
of change in the position or displacement of a riverbank or
shoreline over a period of time. Short-term erosion typically
results from periodic natural events, such as flooding,
hurricanes, storm surge, and windstorms, but may be
intensified by human activities. Long-term erosion is a result
of multi-year impacts such as repetitive flooding, wave action,
sea level rise, sediment loss, subsidence, and climate change.
Death and injury are not typically associated with erosion;
however, it can destroy buildings and infrastructure.
16 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
ER-1 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Erosion
Erosion risk can be better assessed and monitored with mapping
techniques,including the following:
▪Using GIS to identify and map erosion hazard areas.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability to erosion.
▪Using GIS to identify concentrations of at-risk structures.
▪Improving mapping of hazard areas to educate residents about
unexpected risks.
ER-2 Manage Development in
Erosion Hazard Areas
Erosion damage can be mitigated by regulating how development
occurs in hazard areas,such as the following:
▪Adopting sediment and erosion control regulations.
▪Adopting zoning and erosion overlay districts.
▪Developing an erosion protection program for high hazard areas.
▪Employing erosion control easements.
▪Prohibiting development in high-hazard areas.
▪Developing and implementing an erosion management plan.
▪Requiring mandatory erosion surcharges on homes.
▪Locating utilities and critical facilities outside of areas susceptible to
erosion to decrease the risk of service disruption.
ER-3 Promote or Require Site
and Building Design Standards
to Minimize Erosion Risk
Development can be designed to minimize damage due to erosion
using the following techniques:
▪Constructing open foundation systems on buildings to
minimize scour.
▪Constructing deep foundations in erosion hazard areas.
▪Clustering buildings during building and site design.
▪Designing and orienting infrastructure to deter erosion
and accretion.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
ER-4 Remove Existing Buildings
and Infrastructure from Erosion
Hazard Areas
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-55
To prevent damage to buildings and infrastructure from erosion,
consider acquiring and demolishing or relocating at-risk buildings
and infrastructure and enforcing permanent restrictions on
development after land and structure acquisition.
17ErosionMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Natural Systems Protection
ER-5 Stabilize Erosion
Hazard Areas
To stabilize slopes susceptible to erosion,consider options such as:
▪Preventing erosion with proper bank stabilization, sloping or
grading techniques, planting vegetation on slopes, terracing
hillsides, or installing riprap boulders or geotextile fabric.
▪Stabilizing cliffs with terracing or plantings of grasses or other
plants to hold soil together.
▪Prohibiting removal of natural vegetation from dunes and slopes.
▪Planting mature trees in the coastal riparian zone to assist in
dissipation of the wind force in the breaking wave zone.
▪Using a hybrid of hard/soft engineering techniques (i.e., combine
low-profile rock, rubble, oyster reefs, or wood structures with
vegetative planting or other soft stabilization techniques).
▪Implementing marine riparian habitat reinstatement
or revegetation.
▪Using a rock splash pad to direct runoff and minimize the potential
for erosion.
▪Using bioengineered bank stabilization techniques.
18 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
ER-6 Increase Awareness
of Erosion Hazards
Consider ways to help citizens become more aware of specific
erosion risks in your area,such as:
▪Notifying property owners located in high-risk areas.
▪Disclosing the location of high-risk areas to buyers.
▪Developing a brochure describing risk and potential
mitigation techniques.
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and
design professionals.
Other erosion-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled “Subsidence,”
“Landslide,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Extreme
Temperatures
Extreme heat and extreme cold constitute different
conditions in different parts of the country. Extreme
cold can range from near freezing temperatures in the
southern United States to temperatures well below zero
in the northern states. Similarly, extreme heat is typically
recognized as the condition where temperatures
consistently stay ten degrees or more above a region’s
average high temperature for an extended period.
Fatalities can result from extreme temperatures,
as they can push the human body beyond its limits
(hyperthermia and hypothermia).
20 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
ET-1 Reduce Urban Heat
Island Effect
As urban areas develop and buildings and roads replace open land
and vegetation,urban regions become warmer than their rural
surroundings,forming an “island”of heat.Several methods for
reducing heat island effects include:
▪Increasing tree plantings around buildings to shade parking lots
and along public rights-of-way.
▪Encouraging installation of green roofs, which provide shade and
remove heat from the roof surface and surrounding air.
▪Using cool roofing products that reflect sunlight and heat away
from a building.
Education and Awareness Programs
ET-2 Increase Awareness of
Extreme Temperature Risk
and Safety
The impacts of extreme temperatures on public health can be
lessened if citizens know how to prepare and protect themselves.
Ideas for increasing awareness include the following:
▪Educating citizens regarding the dangers of extreme heat and cold
and the steps they can take to protect themselves when extreme
temperatures occur.
ET-3 Assist Vulnerable
Populations
Measures should be taken to ensure vulnerable populations are
adequately protected from the impacts of extreme temperatures,
such as:
▪Organizing outreach to vulnerable populations, including
establishing and promoting accessible heating or cooling centers in
the community.
▪Requiring minimum temperatures in housing/landlord codes.
▪Encouraging utility companies to offer special arrangements for
paying heating bills, if not already required by state law.
▪Creating a database to track those individuals at high risk of death,
such as the elderly, homeless, etc.
ET-4 Educate Property Owners
Extreme cold may cause water pipes to freeze and burst, which can
About Freezing Pipes
cause flooding inside a building. Ideas for educating property owners
include the following:
▪ Educating homeowners and builders on how to protect their pipes,
including locating water pipes on the inside of building insulation or
keeping them out of attics, crawl spaces, and vulnerable outside walls.
▪ Informing homeowners that letting a faucet drip during extreme cold
weather can prevent the buildup of excessive pressure in the pipeline
and avoid bursting.
Other extreme temperature-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Severe Winter Weather,” “Drought,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Flood
A flood is the partial or complete inundation of
normally dry land. The various types of flooding
include riverine flooding, coastal flooding, and
shallow flooding. Common impacts of flooding
include damage to personal property, buildings,
and infrastructure; bridge and road closures; service
disruptions; and injuries or even fatalities.
22 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
F-1 Incorporate Flood Mitigation
in Local Planning
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 268, 473
Comprehensive planning and floodplain management can mitigate
flooding by influencing development.Strategies include:
▪Determining and enforcing acceptable land uses to alleviate the
risk of damage by limiting exposure in flood hazard areas.
Floodplain and coastal zone management can be included in
comprehensive planning.
▪Developing a floodplain management plan and updating
it regularly.
▪Mitigating hazards during infrastructure planning. For example,
decisions to extend roads or utilities to an area may increase
exposure to flood hazards.
▪Adopting a post-disaster recovery ordinance based on a plan to
regulate repair activity, generally depending on property location.
▪Passing and enforcing an ordinance that regulates dumping in
streams and ditches.
▪Establishing a ”green infrastructure” program to link, manage, and
expand existing parks, preserves, greenways, etc.
▪Obtaining easements for planned and regulated public use of
privately-owned land for temporary water retention and drainage.
F-2 Form Partnerships
to Support Floodplain
Management
Partnerships between local,state,and regional entities help expand
resources and improve coordination.Consider the following actions:
▪Developing a stormwater committee that meets regularly to
discuss issues and recommend projects.
▪Forming a regional watershed council to help bring together
resources for comprehensive analysis, planning, decision-making,
and cooperation.
▪Establishing watershed-based planning initiatives to address the
flood hazard with neighboring jurisdictions.
▪Forming a citizen plan implementation steering committee to
monitor progress on local mitigation actions. Include a mix of
representatives from neighborhoods, local businesses, and
local government.
23Flood Local Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
F-3 Limit or Restrict
Development in
Floodplain Areas
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 268, 473
Flooding can be mitigated by limiting or restricting how
development occurs in floodplain areas through actions such as:
▪Prohibiting or limiting floodplain development through regulatory
and/or incentive-based measures.
▪Limiting the density of developments in the floodplain.
▪Requiring that floodplains be kept as open space.
▪Limiting the percentage of allowable impervious surface within
developed parcels.
▪Developing a stream buffer ordinance to protect water resources
and limit flood impacts.
▪Prohibiting any fill in floodplain areas.
The use of building codes and development standards can ensure
structures are able to withstand flooding.Potential actions include:
▪Adopting the International Building Code (IBC) and International
Residential Code (IRC).
▪Adopting ASCE 24-05 Flood Resistant Design and Construction.
ASCE 24 is a referenced standard in the IBC that specifies minimum
requirements and expected performance for the design and
construction of buildings and structures in the flood hazard areas
to make them more resistant to flood loads and flood damage.
▪Adding or increasing “freeboard” requirements (feet above base
flood elevation) in the flood damage ordinance.
▪Prohibiting all first floor enclosures below base flood elevation for
all structures in flood hazard areas.
▪Considering orientation of new development during design (e.g.,
subdivisions, buildings, infrastructure, etc.).
▪Setting the design flood elevation at or above the historical high
water mark if it is above the mapped base flood elevation.
▪Using subdivision design standards to require elevation data
collection during platting and to have buildable space on lots
above the base flood elevation.
▪Requiring standard tie-downs of propane tanks.
F-4 Adopt and Enforce
Building Codes and
Development Standards
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 268, P-762
24
Local Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
F-5 Improve Stormwater
Management Planning
Rainwater and snowmelt can cause flooding and erosion in
developed areas.Stormwater management practices to prevent
this include:
▪Completing a stormwater drainage study for known problem areas.
▪Preparing and adopting a stormwater drainage plan and ordinance.
▪Preparing and adopting a community-wide stormwater
management master plan.
▪Regulating development in upland areas in order to reduce
stormwater run-off through a stormwater ordinance.
▪Linking flood hazard mitigation objectives with EPA Stormwater
Phase II initiatives.
▪Developing engineering guidelines for drainage from
new development.
▪Requiring a drainage study with new development.
▪Encouraging the use of Low Impact Development techniques
F-6 Adopt Polices to Reduce
Stormwater Runoff
In addition to stormwater management,techniques to reduce rain
runoff can prevent flooding and erosion,such as:
▪Designing a “natural runoff” or “zero discharge” policy for
stormwater in subdivision design.
▪Requiring more trees be preserved and planted in landscape
designs to reduce the amount of stormwater runoff.
▪Requiring developers to plan for on-site sediment retention.
▪Requiring developers to construct on-site retention basins for
excessive stormwater and as a firefighting water source.
▪Encouraging the use of porous pavement, vegetative buffers, and
islands in large parking areas.
▪Conforming pavement to land contours so as not to provide easier
avenues for stormwater.
▪Encouraging the use of permeable driveways and surfaces to
reduce runoff and increase groundwater recharge.
▪Adopting erosion and sedimentation control regulations for
construction and farming.
25Flood Local Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
F-7 Improve Flood
Risk Assessment
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 416, 467-1, B-797
Heighten awareness of flood risk with the following:
▪Incorporating the procedures for tracking high water marks
following a flood into emergency response plans.
▪Conducting cumulative impact analyses for multiple development
projects within the same watershed.
▪Conducting a verification study of FEMA’s repetitive loss inventory
and developing an associated tracking database.
▪Regularly calculating and documenting the amount of flood-prone
property preserved as open space.
▪Requiring a thorough watershed analysis for all proposed dam or
reservoir projects.
▪Developing a dam failure study and emergency action plan.
▪Using GIS to map areas that are at risk of flooding.
▪Obtaining depth grid data and using it to illustrate flood risk
to citizens.
▪Incorporating digital floodplain and topographic data into GIS
systems, in conjunction with Hazus, to assess risk.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
exposure to flood risk.
▪Revising and updating regulatory floodplain maps.
F-8 Join or Improve Compliance
with NFIP
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 209, FIA-15A,
NFIP Technical Bulletins
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)enables property
owners in participating communities to purchase insurance
protection against flood losses.Actions to achieve eligibility and
maintain compliance include:
▪Participating in NFIP.
▪Adopting ordinances that meet minimum Federal and state
requirements to comply with NFIP.
▪Conducting NFIP community workshops to provide information
and incentives for property owners to acquire flood insurance.
▪Designating a local floodplain manager and/or CRS coordinator
who achieves CFM certification.
▪Completing and maintaining FEMA elevation certificates for
pre-FIRM and/or post-FIRM buildings.
▪Requiring and maintaining FEMA elevation certificates for all new
and improved buildings located in floodplains.
26
Local Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
F-9 Manage the Floodplain
Beyond Minimum
Requirements
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 209, 213, 268, 480;
FIA-15A
In addition to participation in NFIP,implementing good floodplain
management techniques that exceed minimum requirements can
help minimize flood losses.Examples include:
▪Incorporating the ASFPM’s “No Adverse Impact” policy into local
floodplain management programs.
▪Revising the floodplain ordinance to incorporate cumulative
substantial damage requirements.
▪Adopting a “no-rise” in base flood elevation clause for the flood
damage prevention ordinance.
▪Extending the freeboard requirement past the mapped floodplain
to include an equivalent land elevation.
▪Including requirements in the local floodplain ordinance for
homeowners to sign non-conversion agreements for areas below
base flood elevation.
▪Establishing and publicizing a user-friendly, publicly-accessible
repository for inquirers to obtain Flood Insurance Rate Maps.
▪Developing an educational flyer targeting NFIP policyholders on
increased cost of compliance during post-flood
damage assessments.
▪Annually notifying the owners of repetitive loss properties of Flood
Mitigation Assistance funding.
▪Offering incentives for building above the required freeboard
minimum (code plus).
F-10 Participate in the CRS
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 209, 213, 268, 480;
FIA-15A
The Community Rating System (CRS)rewards communities that
exceed the minimum NFIP requirements.Depending upon the
level of participation,flood insurance premium rates are discounted
for policyholders.Potential activities that are eligible to receive
credit include:
▪Advising the public about the local flood hazard, flood insurance,
and flood protection measures.
▪Enacting and enforcing regulations that exceed NFIP
minimum standards so that more flood protection is provided for
new development.
▪Implementing damage reduction measures for existing buildings
such as acquisition, relocation, retrofitting, and maintenance of
drainageways and retention basins.
▪Taking action to minimize the effects of flooding on people,
property, and building contents through measures including flood
warning, emergency response, and evacuation planning.
F-11 Establish Local
Funding Mechanisms
for Flood Mitigation
Potential methods to develop local funding sources for flood
mitigation include:
▪Using taxes to support a regulatory system.
▪Using impact fees to help fund public projects to mitigate impacts of
land development (e.g., increased runoff).
▪Levying taxes to finance maintenance of drainage systems and
capital improvements.
27FloodMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
F-12 Remove Existing Structures
from Flood Hazard Areas
Communities may remove structures from flood-prone areas to
minimize future flood losses by acquiring and demolishing or
relocating structures from voluntary property owners and preserving
lands subject to repetitive flooding.
F-13 Improve Stormwater
Drainage System Capacity
Rainwater and snowmelt can cause flooding and erosion in
developed areas.Structural stormwater management projects that
prevent this include:
▪Installing, re-routing, or increasing the capacity of a storm
drainage system.
▪Increasing drainage or absorption capacities with detention and
retention basins, relief drains, spillways, drain widening/dredging or
rerouting, logjam and debris removal, extra culverts, bridge
modification, dike setbacks, flood gates and pumps, or channel
redirection.
▪Increasing capacity of stormwater detention and retention basins.
▪Increasing dimensions of drainage culverts in flood-prone areas.
▪Using stream restoration to ensure adequate drainage and diversion
of stormwater.
▪Requiring developers to construct on-site retention basins for
excessive stormwater and as a firefighting water source.
▪Providing grassy swales along roadsides.
F-14 Conduct Regular
Maintenance for Drainage
Systems and Flood
Control Structures
Regular maintenance will help drainage systems and flood control
structures continue to function properly.Potential activities include:
▪Performing regular drainage system maintenance, such as sediment
and debris clearance, as well as detection and prevention of discharges
into stormwater and sewer systems from home footing drains,
downspouts, or sewer pumps.
▪Implementing an inspection, maintenance, and enforcement program
to help ensure continued structural integrity of dams and levees.
▪Routinely cleaning debris from support bracing underneath
low-lying bridges.
▪Routinely cleaning and repairing stormwater drains.
▪Regularly clearing sediment build-up on riverbanks near aerial lines.
▪Inspecting bridges and identifying if any repairs or retrofits are needed
to prevent scour.
▪Incorporating ice jam prevention techniques as appropriate.
28 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
F-15 Elevate or Retrofit
Structures and Utilities
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 54, P-85, 114, P-259, 347,
P-348, P-499
Structures and utilities can be elevated to reduce flood
damage,including:
▪Elevating structures so that the lowest floor, including the
basement, is raised above the base flood elevation.
▪Raising utilities or other mechanical devices above expected
flood levels.
▪Elevating and anchoring manufactured homes or, preferably,
keeping manufactured homes out of the floodplain.
▪Relocating utilities and water heaters above base flood elevation
and using tankless water heaters in limited spaces.
F-16 Floodproof Residential and
Non-Residential Structures
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-55, 114, P-259
Floodproofing techniques may protect certain structures from flood
damage,including:
▪Wet floodproofing in a basement, which may be preferable to
attempting to keep water out completely because it allows for
controlled flooding to balance exterior and interior wall forces and
discourages structural collapse.
▪Encouraging wet floodproofing of areas above base flood elevation.
▪Using water resistant paints or other materials to allow for easy
cleanup after floodwater exposure in accessory structures or in a
garage area below an elevated residential structure.
▪Dry floodproofing non-residential structures by strengthening
walls, sealing openings, or using waterproof compounds or plastic
sheeting on walls to keep water out.
29FloodMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
F-17 Protect Infrastructure
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-259, 345, 543, B-797
Mitigation techniques can be implemented to help minimize losses
to infrastructure from flood events, such as:
▪ Elevating roads and bridges above the base flood elevation to
maintain dry access. In situations where flood waters tend to wash
roads out, construction, reconstruction, or repair can include not
only attention to drainage, but also stabilization or armoring of
vulnerable shoulders or embankments.
▪ Raising low-lying bridges.
▪ Floodproofing wastewater treatment facilities located in flood
hazard areas.
▪ Floodproofing water treatment facilities located in flood
hazard areas.
▪ Depending on its infrastructure capabilities, using check valves,
sump pumps, and backflow prevention devices in homes
and buildings.
▪ Using bioengineered bank stabilization techniques.
Techniques to protect critical facilities from flood events include:
▪ Requiring that all critical facilities including emergency operations
centers (EOC), police stations, and fire department facilities be
located outside of flood-prone areas.
▪ Requiring all critical facilities to meet requirements of Executive
Order 11988 and be built 1 foot above the 500-year
flood elevation.
▪ Installing/upgrading stormwater pumping stations.
▪ Raising electrical components of sewage lift stations above base
flood elevation.
▪ Raising manhole openings using concrete pillars.
▪ Installing watertight covers or inflow guards on sewer manholes.
▪ Installing flood telemetry systems in sewage lift stations.
▪ Installing back-up generators for pumping and lift stations in
sanitary sewer systems along with other measures (e.g., alarms,
meters, remote controls, and switchgear upgrades).
▪ Building earthen dikes around flood-threatened critical facilities.
▪ Using bioengineered bank stabilization techniques.
F-18 Protect Critical Facilities
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-259, 345, 543, B-797
F-19 Construct Flood
Control Measures
Small flood control structures can be built to prevent flood damage.
Examples include:
▪Using minor structural projects that are smaller and more localized
(e.g., floodwalls or small berms) in areas that cannot be mitigated
through non-structural activities or where structural activities are
not feasible due to low densities.
▪Using revetments (hardened materials placed atop existing
riverbanks or slopes) to protect against floods.
▪Using bioengineered bank stabilization techniques.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
30 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Natural Systems Protection
F-20 Protect and Restore Natural
Flood Mitigation Features
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 268
Natural resources provide floodplain protection,riparian buffers,and
other ecosystem services that mitigate flooding.It is important to
preserve such functionality with the following:
▪Protecting and enhancing landforms that serve as natural
mitigation features (i.e., riverbanks, wetlands, dunes, etc.).
▪Using vegetative management, such as vegetative buffers, around
streams and water sources.
▪Protecting and preserving wetlands to help prevent flooding
in other areas.
▪Establishing and managing riparian buffers along rivers
and streams.
▪Retaining natural vegetative beds in stormwater channels.
▪Retaining thick vegetative cover on public lands flanking rivers.
F-21 Preserve Floodplains
as Open Space
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 268
Preserving natural areas and vegetation benefits natural resources
while also mitigating potential flood losses.Techniques include:
▪Developing an open space acquisition, reuse, and preservation
plan targeting hazard areas.
▪Developing a land banking program for the preservation of the
natural and beneficial functions of flood hazard areas.
▪Using transfer of development rights to allow a developer to
increase densities on another parcel that is not at risk in return for
keeping floodplain areas vacant.
▪Compensating an owner for partial rights, such as easement or
development rights, to prevent a property from being developed.
F-22 Increase Awareness of
Flood Risk and Safety
Ideas for increasing flood risk awareness include the following:
▪Encouraging homeowners to purchase flood insurance.
▪Annually distributing flood protection safety pamphlets or
brochures to the owners of flood-prone property.
▪Educating citizens about safety during flood conditions, including
the dangers of driving on flooded roads.
▪Using outreach programs to advise homeowners of risks to life,
health, and safety.
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and
design professionals.
▪Establishing a Program for Public Information (PPI) with a PPI
committee (as suggested by Activity 332 of the CRS
Coordinator’s Manual).
31FloodMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
F-23 Educate Property
Owners about Flood
Mitigation Techniques
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA Building Code Tool Kit (FEMA CD)
Educate property owners regarding options for mitigating their
properties from flooding through outreach activities such as:
▪Using outreach activities to facilitate technical assistance programs
that address measures that citizens can take or facilitate funding for
mitigation measures.
▪Encouraging homeowners to install backflow valves to prevent
reverse-flow flood damages.
▪Encouraging residents in flood-prone areas to elevate homes.
▪Educating the public about securing debris, propane tanks, yard
items, or stored objects that may otherwise be swept away,
damaged, or pose a hazard if picked up and washed away
by floodwaters.
▪Asking residents to help keep storm drains clear of debris during
storms (not to rely solely on Public Works).
Other flooding-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Storm Surge,” “Erosion,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
32 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
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Hail
Hailstorms are a potentially damaging outgrowth of
severe thunderstorms. Hailstorms frequently accompany
thunderstorms, so their locations and spatial extents
overlap. Hail can cause substantial damage to vehicles, roofs,
landscaping, and other areas of the built environment. U.S.
agriculture is typically the area most affected by hail storms,
which cause severe crop damage even during minor events.
34 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
HA-1 Locate Safe Rooms to
Minimize Damage
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 320, 453
Locate tornado safe rooms inside or directly adjacent to houses to
prevent hail-induced injuries that may occur when taking shelter
during a severe thunderstorm.
HA-2 Protect Buildings from
Hail Damage
For new construction as well as retrofitting existing buildings,
techniques to minimize hail damage include:
▪Including measures such as structural bracing, shutters, laminated
glass in window panes, and hail-resistant roof coverings or flashing
in building design to minimize damage.
▪Improving roof sheathing to prevent hail penetration.
▪Installing hail resistant roofing and siding.
▪Contacting the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety
(IBHS) to learn more about the most appropriate type of roof
covering for your geographic region.
Education and Awareness Programs
HA-3 Increase Hail
Risk Awareness
Conduct outreach activities to increase public awareness of hail
dangers,including:
▪Mailing safety brochures with monthly water bills.
▪Posting warning signage at local parks, county fairs, and other
outdoor venues.
▪Teaching school children about the dangers of hail and how to take
safety precautions.
Other hail-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the section entitled “Multiple Hazards”
for other possible ideas.
Landslide
The movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth
down a slope by force of gravity is considered a
landslide. Landslides occur when the slope or soil
stability changes from stable to unstable, which may
be caused by earthquakes, storms, volcanic eruptions,
erosion, fire, or additional human-induced activities.
Slopes greater than 10 degrees are more likely to
slide, as are slopes where the height from the top
of the slope to its toe is greater than 40 feet. Slopes
are also more likely to fail if vegetative cover is low
and/or soil water content is high. Potential impacts
include environmental disturbance, property and
infrastructure damage, and injuries or fatalities.
36 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
LS-1 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Landslides
Improve data and mapping on specific landslide risks in the
community by:
▪Studying areas where riparian landslides may occur.
▪Completing an inventory of locations where critical facilities, other
buildings, and infrastructure are vulnerable to landslides.
▪Using GIS to identify and map landslide hazard areas.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability to landslides.
▪Assessing vegetation in wildfire-prone areas to prevent landslides
after fires (e.g., encourage plants with strong root systems).
LS-2 Manage Development
in Landslide Hazard Areas
Landslide risk can be mitigated by regulating development in
landslide hazard areas through actions such as:
▪Creating a plan to implement reinforcement measures in
high-risk areas.
▪Defining steep slope/high-risk areas in land use and comprehensive
plans and creating guidelines or restricting new development in
those areas.
▪Creating or increasing setback limits on parcels near high-risk areas.
▪Locating utilities outside of landslide areas to decrease the risk of
service disruption.
▪Restricting or limiting industrial activity that would strip slopes of
essential top soil.
▪Incorporating economic development activity restrictions in
high-risk areas.
37LandslideMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
LS-3 Prevent Impacts
to Roadways
To prevent roadway damage and traffic disruptions from landslides,
consider options such as:
▪Implementing monitoring mechanisms/procedures (i.e., visual
inspection or electronic monitoring systems).
▪Applying soil stabilization measures, such as planting soil-
stabilizing vegetation on steep, publicly-owned slopes.
▪Using debris-flow measures that may reduce damage in sloping
areas, such as stabilization, energy dissipation, and flow
control measures.
▪Establishing setback requirements and using large setbacks when
building roads near slopes of marginal stability.
▪Installing catch-fall nets for rocks at steep slopes near roadways.
LS-4 Remove Existing Buildings
and Infrastructure from
Landslide Hazard Areas
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 182
To help mitigate landslide hazards,communities can acquire and
demolish or relocate at-risk buildings and infrastructure and enforce
permanent restrictions on development after land and structure
acquisition.
Other landslide-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled “Erosion,”
“Subsidence,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
38 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
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Lightning
Lightning is a discharge of electrical energy that results
from the buildup of positive and negative charges in a
thunderstorm, which creates a “bolt” when the buildup
of charges becomes strong enough. On average, 55
people are killed and hundreds are injured each year
by lightning strikes in the United States. Lightning can
strike communications equipment (e.g., radio or cell
towers, antennae, satellite dishes, etc.) and hamper
communication and emergency response. Lightning strikes
can also cause significant damage to buildings, critical
facilities, and infrastructure, largely by igniting a fire.
Lightning can also ignite a wildfire.
40 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
L-1 Protect Critical Facilities
and Equipment
Protect critical facilities and infrastructure from lighting damage
with the following measures:
▪Installing lightning protection devices and methods, such as
lightning rods and grounding, on communications infrastructure
and other critical facilities.
▪Installing and maintaining surge protection on critical
electronic equipment.
Education and Awareness Programs
L-2 Conduct Lightning
Awareness Programs
Use outreach programs to promote awareness of lightning dangers.
This could include ideas such as:
▪Developing a lightning brochure for distribution by recreation
equipment retailers or outfitters in mountainous areas.
▪Mailing safety brochures with monthly water bills.
▪Posting warning signage at local parks.
▪Teaching school children about the dangers of lightning and how
to take safety precautions.
Other lightning-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the section entitled
“Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Sea Level Rise
Sea level rise causes land loss in low-lying coastal areas,
such as coastal wetlands and barrier islands, and occurs
at the highest rates where land is already subsiding. Sea
level rise also exacerbates erosion and flooding as new
areas become vulnerable to storm surge, wave action,
and tides.1 Climate change models predict that sea level
risk will accelerate in the next century. This could result
in billions of dollars in losses.
1 Adapting to Climate Change:A Planning Guide for State Coastal Managers,
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Office of Ocean and Coastal
Resource Management,2010.
42 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
SLR-1 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise
To better understand and assess local vulnerability to sea level rise,
consider actions such as:
▪ Modeling various “what-if” scenarios to estimate
potential vulnerabilities in order to develop sea level rise
mitigation priorities.
▪ Using GIS to map hazard areas, at-risk structures, and associated
hazards (e.g., flood and storm surge) to assess high-risk areas.
▪ Developing an inventory of public buildings and infrastructure that
may be particularly vulnerable to sea level rise.
▪ Adding future conditions hydrology and areas that may be
inundated by sea level rise to Digital Flood Insurance Rate
Maps (DFIRM).
SLR-2 Manage Development in
High-Risk Areas
Local governments can mitigate future losses resulting from sea level
rise by regulating development in potential hazard areas through
land use planning,including:
▪Using zoning, subdivision regulations, and/or a special sea level rise
overlay district to designate high-risk areas and specify the
conditions for the use and development of specific areas.
▪Promoting conservation and management of open space, wetlands,
and/or sea level rise boundary zones to separate developed areas
from high-hazard areas.
▪Prohibiting the redevelopment of areas destroyed by storms or
chronic erosion in order to prevent future losses.
▪Encouraging compact community design in low-risk areas.
▪Establishing setbacks in high-risk areas that account for potential
sea level rise.
SRL-3 Prevent Infrastructure
Expansion in High-Risk Areas
Future development can be protected from damage resulting from
sea level rise through the following:
▪Setting guidelines for annexation and service extensions in
high-risk areas.
▪Locating utilities and critical facilities outside of areas susceptible to
sea level rise to decrease the risk of service disruption.
▪Requiring all critical facilities to be built 1 foot above the 500-year
flood elevation (considering wave action) or the predicted sea level
rise level, whichever is higher.
43Sea Level RiseMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
SRL-4 Protect Buildings
and Infrastructure
Existing structures,infrastructure,and critical facilities can be
protected from sea level rise through the following:
▪Acquiring and demolishing or relocating structures located in
high-risk areas.
▪Retrofitting structures to elevate them above potential sea level
rise levels.
▪Retrofitting critical facilities to be 1 foot above the 500-year flood
elevation (considering wave action) or the predicted sea level rise
level, whichever is higher.
▪Replacing exterior building components with more hazard-
resistant materials.
Natural Systems Protection
SLR-5 Preserve High-Hazard
Areas as Open Space
Preserve open space to benefit natural resources and to reduce risk
to structures from potential sea level rise.Techniques include:
▪Developing an open space acquisition, reuse, and preservation
plan targeting hazard areas.
▪Developing a land banking program for the preservation and
management of the natural and beneficial functions of flood
hazard areas.
▪Adopting rolling easements along the shoreline to promote natural
migration of shorelines.
▪Using transfer of development rights to allow a developer to
increase densities on another parcel that is not at risk in return for
keeping floodplain areas vacant.
▪Compensating an owner for partial rights, such as easement or
development rights, to prevent a property from being developed.
44 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Natural Systems Protection
SLR-6 Protect and Restore
Natural Buffers
Natural resources provide floodplain protection,riparian buffers,and
other ecosystem services that mitigate sea level rise.It is important
to preserve such functionality with the following:
▪Examining the appropriate use of beach nourishment, sand
scraping, dune-gap plugs, etc., for coastal hazards.
▪Implementing dune restoration, plantings (e.g., sea oats), and use
of natural materials.
▪Examining the appropriate use of sediment-trapping vegetation,
sediment mounds, etc., for coastal hazards.
▪Planting sediment-trapping vegetation to buffer the coast against
coastal storms by collecting sediment in protective features such as
dunes or barrier islands.
▪Performing sand scraping—using bulldozers to deposit the top foot
of sand above the high-tide line—to reinforce the beach without
adding new sand.
▪Using sediment mounds to act as artificial dunes or plugs for
natural dune gaps in order to slow the inland progress of storm-
related wind and water.
Education and Awareness Programs
SLR-7 Increase Awareness of
Sea Level Rise
Improve public awareness of risks due to sea level rise through
outreach activities such as:
▪Encouraging homeowners to purchase flood insurance.
▪Using outreach programs to facilitate technical assistance programs
that address measures that citizens can take or facilitate funding for
mitigation measures.
▪Annually distributing flood protection safety pamphlets or
brochures to the owners of property in high-risk areas.
▪Educating citizens about safety during flood conditions, including
the dangers of driving on flooded roads.
▪Using outreach programs to advise homeowners of risks to life,
health, and safety.
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and
design professionals.
▪Disclosing the location of possible sea level rise areas to
potential buyers.
Other sea level rise-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled “Flood,”
“Storm Surge,” “Erosion,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Climate change is likely to exacerbate the effects of other hazards as well. See the other sections for possible ideas.
Severe Wind
Severe wind can occur alone, such as during straight-
line wind events and derechos, or it can accompany
other natural hazards, including hurricanes and severe
thunderstorms. Severe wind poses a threat to lives,
property, and vital utilities primarily due to the effects of
flying debris or downed trees and power lines. Severe wind
will typically cause the greatest damage to structures of
light construction, particularly manufactured homes.
46 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
SW-1 Adopt and Enforce
Building Codes
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-85, P-804
Adopt regulations governing residential construction to prevent wind
damage.Examples of appropriate regulations are:
▪Adopting the International Building Code (IBC) and International
Residential Code (IRC).
▪Adopting standards from International Code Council (ICC)-600
Standard for Residential Construction in High-Wind Regions.
▪Reviewing building codes and structural policies to ensure they are
adequate to protect older structures from wind damage.
▪Requiring or encouraging wind engineering measures and
construction techniques that may include structural bracing, straps
and clips, anchor bolts, laminated or impact-resistant glass,
reinforced pedestrian and garage doors, window shutters,
waterproof adhesive sealing strips, or interlocking roof shingles.
▪Requiring tie-downs with anchors and ground anchors appropriate
for the soil type for manufactured homes.
▪Prohibiting the use of carports and open coverings attached to
manufactured homes.
▪Requiring the use of special interlocking shingles designed to
interlock and resist uplift forces in extreme wind conditions to
reduce damage to a roof or other structures.
▪Improving nailing patterns.
▪Requiring building foundation design, braced elevated platforms,
and protections against the lateral forces of winds and waves.
▪Requiring new masonry chimneys greater than 6 feet above a roof
to have continuous reinforced steel bracing.
▪Requiring structures on temporary foundations to be securely
anchored to permanent foundations.
SW-2 Promote or Require Site
and Building Design Standards
to Minimize Wind Damage
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-499, 550
Damage associated with severe wind events can be reduced or
prevented if considered during building and site design.Examples
include the following:
▪Using natural environmental features as wind buffers in
site design.
▪Incorporating passive ventilation in the building design.
▪Incorporating passive ventilation in the site design. Passive
ventilation systems use a series of vents in exterior walls or at
exterior windows to allow outdoor air to enter the home in a
controlled way.
▪Encouraging architectural designs that limit potential for
wind-borne debris.
▪Improving architectural design standards for optimal
wind conveyance.
▪Encouraging wind-resistant roof shapes (e.g., hip over gable).
47Severe WindLocal Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
SW-3 Assess Vulnerability to
Severe Wind
In order to better understand and assess local vulnerability to severe
wind,consider actions such as:
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability to severe wind.
▪Using GIS to map areas that are at risk to the wind hazard
associated with different hurricane conditions (e.g., Category 1, 2, 3,
etc.) and to identify concentrations of at-risk structures.
▪Creating a severe wind scenario to estimate potential loss of life
and injuries, the types of potential damage, and existing
vulnerabilities within a community to develop severe wind
mitigation priorities.
▪Using Hazus to quantitatively estimate potential losses from
hurricane wind.
SW-4 Protect Power Lines and
Infrastructure
The regular maintenance and upkeep of utilities can help prevent
wind damage.Possible strategies are:
▪Establishing standards for all utilities regarding tree pruning
around lines.
▪Incorporating inspection and management of hazardous trees into
the drainage system maintenance process.
▪Preemptively testing power line holes to determine if they
are rotting.
▪Inspecting utility poles to ensure they meet specifications and are
wind resistant.
▪Burying power lines to provide uninterrupted power after severe
winds, considering both maintenance and repair issues.
▪Upgrading overhead utility lines (e.g., adjust utility pole sizes, utility
pole span widths, and/or line strength).
▪Avoiding use of aerial extensions to water, sewer, and gas lines.
▪Using designed-failure mode for power line design to allow lines
to fall or fail in small sections rather than as a complete system to
enable faster restoration.
▪Installing redundancies and loopfeeds.
48 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
SW-5 Retrofit Residential
Buildings
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 320, 361, 453, P-499, P-804
The following types of modifications or retrofits to existing
residential buildings can reduce future wind damage:
▪Improving the building envelope.
▪Installing hurricane shutters or other protective measures.
▪Retrofitting gable end walls to eliminate wall failures in high winds.
▪Replacing existing non-ductile infrastructure with ductile
infrastructure to reduce their exposure to hazardous events.
▪Retrofitting buildings with load-path connectors to strengthen the
structural frames.
▪Installing safe rooms.
▪Reinforcing garage doors.
▪Inspecting and retrofitting roofs to adequate standards to provide
wind resistance.
SW-6 Retrofit Public Buildings
and Critical Facilities
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 361, P-499, 550
Public buildings and critical facilities can be retrofitted to reduce
future wind damage with the following actions:
▪Improving roof coverings (e.g., no pebbles, remove ballast
roof systems).
▪Anchoring roof-mounted heating, ventilation, and air
conditioning units.
▪Retrofitting buildings with load-path connectors to strengthen the
structural frames.
▪Retrofitting or constructing the emergency operations center to
FEMA 361 standards.
▪Avoiding placing flag poles or antennas near buildings.
▪Upgrading and maintaining existing lightning protection systems
to prevent roof cover damage.
▪Requiring upgrading of reused buildings that will house
critical facilities.
▪Protecting traffic lights and other traffic controls from high winds.
▪Converting traffic lights to mast arms.
49Severe WindMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
SW-7 Increase Severe
Wind Risk Awareness
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-431, P-804
Improve public awareness of severe wind through outreach activities
such as:
▪Informing residents of shelter locations and evacuation routes.
▪Educating homeowners on the benefits of wind retrofits such as
shutters, hurricane clips, etc.
▪Ensuring that school officials are aware of the best area of refuge in
school buildings.
▪Instructing property owners on how to properly install temporary
window coverings before a storm.
▪Educating design professionals to include wind mitigation during
building design.
Other severe wind-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled “Multiple
Hazards” and “Tornadoes” for other possible ideas.
50 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
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Severe Winter
Weather
Severe winter storms may include snow, sleet, freezing
rain, or a mix of these wintry forms of precipitation.
Severe winter weather can down trees, cause
widespread power outages, damage property, and
cause fatalities and injuries.
52 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
WW-1 Adopt and Enforce
Building Codes
Buildings and infrastructure can be protected from the impacts of
winter storms with the following regulations:
▪Adopting the International Building Code (IBC) and International
Residential Code (IRC).
▪Ensuring the development and enforcement of building codes for
roof snow loads.
▪Discouraging flat roofs in areas that experience heavy snows.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
WW-2 Protect Buildings
and Infrastructure
Buildings and infrastructure can be protected from the impacts of
winter storms with the following techniques:
▪Adding building insulation to walls and attics.
▪As buildings are modified, using new technology to create or
increase structural stability.
▪Retrofitting public buildings to withstand snow loads and prevent
roof collapse.
WW-3 Protect Power Lines Power lines can be protected from the impacts of winter storms with
the following techniques:
▪Establishing standards for all utilities regarding tree pruning
around lines.
▪Burying overhead power lines.
▪Using designed-failure mode for power line design to allow lines
to fall or fail in small sections rather than as a complete system to
enable faster restoration.
▪Installing redundancies and loopfeeds.
WW-4 Reduce Impacts
to Roadways
The leading cause of death during winter storms is from automobile
or other transportation accidents,so it is important to consider ways
to lessen roadway impacts.Potential strategies include:
▪Planning for and maintaining adequate road and debris
clearing capabilities.
▪Using snow fences or “living snow fences” (e.g., rows of trees or
other vegetation) to limit blowing and drifting of snow over critical
roadway segments.
▪Installing roadway heating technology to prevent ice/snow buildup.
53Severe Winter WeatherMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
WW-5 Conduct Winter Weather
Risk Awareness Activities
Public awareness of severe winter storms can be improved through
the following efforts:
▪Informing the public about severe winter weather impacts.
▪Producing and distributing family and traveler emergency
preparedness information about severe winter weather hazards.
▪Including safety strategies for severe weather in driver education
classes and materials.
▪Encouraging homeowners to install carbon monoxide monitors
and alarms.
▪Educating citizens that all fuel-burning equipment should be
vented to the outside.
WW-6 Assist Vulnerable
Populations
Protect vulnerable populations from the impacts of severe winter
storms through the following efforts:
▪Identifying specific at-risk populations that may be exceptionally
vulnerable in the event of long-term power outages.
▪Organizing outreach to vulnerable populations, including
establishing and promoting accessible heating centers in
the community.
Other winter weather-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Extreme Temperatures” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
54 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
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Storm Surge
A storm surge is a large dome of water, often 50 to
100 miles wide, that rises anywhere from 4 to 5 feet
in a Category 1 hurricane and up to more than 30 feet
in a Category 5 storm. Storm surge arrives prior to a
hurricane’s landfall, and the greater the hurricane’s
intensity, the sooner the surge arrives. Storm surge can
be devastating to coastal regions, causing flooding,
severe beach erosion, and property damage along the
immediate coast. Furthermore, water can rise very rapidly
due to storm surge, posing a serious threat to people
remaining in inundation areas.
56 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
SS-1 Adopt Building Codes
and Development Standards
Building codes and development standards can be established to
mitigate storm surge damage.Possible regulations include:
▪Adopting the International Building Code (IBC) and International
Residential Code (IRC).
▪Adopting ASCE-24-05 Flood Resistant Design and Construction.
ASCE 24, created by the American Society of Civil Engineers, is a
referenced standard in the IBC that specifies minimum
requirements and expected performance for the design and
construction of buildings and structures in flood hazard areas to
make them more resistant to flood loads and flood damage.
▪Establishing design standards for buildings located in areas
susceptible to storm surge.
▪Implementing V-zone construction requirements for new
development located in coastal A-zones.
▪Adopting building requirements for higher elevation in
inundation zones.
▪Requiring open foundations (e.g., piles or piers) in coastal areas.
▪Requiring deep foundations in order to avoid erosion and scour.
SS-2 Improve Land Use
Planning and Regulations
Land uses should be planned and regulated to minimize the impact
of storm surge.Possible measures to implement include:
▪Developing and maintaining a beach management plan.
▪Adopting shoreline setback regulations and establishing coastal
setback lines.
▪Adopting coastal zone management regulations.
▪Eliminating all obstructions in areas along the coast subject to
inundation by the 1-percent-annual-chance flood event with
additional hazards associated with storm-induced waves (also
known as the V-zone).
▪Planning for future storm surge heights due to sea level rise.
▪Limiting or prohibiting development in areas along the coast
subject to inundation by the 1-percent-annual-chance flood event
with additional hazards associated with storm-induced waves
(referred to as the V-zone on Flood Insurance Rate Maps).
▪Adopting coastal A-zones, areas of special flood hazard that extend
inland and are subject to breaking waves between 1.5 and 3 feet,
and ensuring that they are mapped accurately.
▪Adopting and enforcing coastal A-zones in A-zones.
SS-3 Minimize Risk to New
Facilities and Infrastructure
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-55, P-499, B-797
Infrastructure and critical facilities can be protected from storm
surge damage through the following:
▪Locating future critical facilities outside of areas susceptible to
storm surge.
▪Requiring that all critical facilities meet requirements of Executive
Order 11988 and be built 1 foot above the 500-year flood elevation
(considering wave action).
57Storm SurgeLocal Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
SS-4 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Storm Surge
Storm surge risk can be better assessed and monitored with
mapping techniques,including the following:
▪Using GIS to map areas that are at risk to inundation by
storm surge.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability to storm surge.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
SS-5 Construct Structural
Control Techniques
Structural controls can be used to lessen the impact of storm surge.
Examples include the following:
▪Constructing groins to capture material along the shoreline in order
to trap and retain sand.
▪Installing geotextile sand tubes to trap sand or protect
beachfront properties.
▪Building a coastal berm to absorb waves and protect the shoreline
from erosion.
▪Building a storm berm to keep rock protection in place and provide
a slow supply of sediment to the coastal system.
SS-6 Protect Infrastructure
and Critical Facilities
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-55, P-499, B-797
Infrastructure and critical facilities can be protected from damage by
storm surge through the following:
▪Reorienting near-shore roads so they are parallel (not
perpendicular) to the beach to prevent the channelization of storm
surge and wind inland.
▪Constructing seawalls or other structures to protect critical facilities
located on the shoreline.
▪Relocating existing vulnerable critical facilities outside of
high-risk areas.
58 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Natural Systems Protection
SS-7 Protect and Restore
Natural Buffers
Natural resources provide floodplain protection,riparian buffers,
and other ecosystem services that mitigate storm surge risk.It is
important to preserve such functionality with the following:
▪Examining the appropriate use of beach nourishment, sand
scraping, dune-gap plugs, etc., for coastal hazards.
▪Implementing dune restoration, plantings (e.g., sea oats), and use
of natural materials.
▪Evaluating the appropriate use of sediment-trapping vegetation,
sediment mounds, etc., for coastal hazards.
▪Planting sediment-trapping vegetation to make the coast more
resistant to coastal storms by collecting sediment in protective
features such as dunes or barrier islands.
▪Performing sand scraping—using bulldozers to deposit the top foot
of sand above the high-tide line—to reinforce the beach without
adding new sand.
▪Using sediment mounts to act as artificial dunes or plugs for
natural dune gaps in order to slow the inland progress of
storm-related wind and water.
Education and Awareness Programs
SS-8 Provide Information
on High-Risk Areas
Increase public awareness of storm surge risk through the
following actions:
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and
design professionals.
▪More accurately mapping problem areas to educate residents
about unanticipated risks. Upgrading maps provides a truer
measure of risks to a community.
▪Educating property owners in high-risk areas about
mitigation options.
▪Educating the public about risks, preparedness measures, and
evacuation procedures.
Other storm surge-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Flood” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Subsidence
Subsidence is the gradual settling or sudden sinking
of the Earth’s surface due to subsurface movement of
earth materials. The level of subsidence ranges from a
broad lowering to collapse of land surface. Most causes
of subsidence are human-induced, such as groundwater
pumpage, aquifer system compaction, drainage of
organic soils, underground mining, hydrocompaction,
natural compaction, sinkholes, and thawing
permafrost. Areas located above or adjacent to karsts
topography have a greater risk of experiencing
subsidence. Sudden collapses of surface areas can
damage and destroy buildings and infrastructure.
60 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
SU-1 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Subsidence
Some areas with subsidence risk may not be fully identified in your
community.Consider actions such as:
▪Using GIS to map areas that are susceptible to subsidence.
▪Identifying and mapping old mining areas or geologically unstable
terrain so that development can be prevented or eliminated.
▪Using ground-penetrating radar to detect lava tubes and map
their location.
▪Supporting mapping efforts to identify areas of existing permafrost.
▪Improving accuracy of hazard area maps to educate residents
about unanticipated risks. Upgrading maps provides a truer
measure of risks to a community.
SU-2 Manage Development
in High-Risk Areas
Development regulations should consider areas with poor soil
conditions,including the following:
▪Prohibiting development in areas that have been identified as
at-risk to subsidence.
▪Restricting development in areas with soil that is considered poor
or unsuitable for development.
SU-3 Consider Subsidence
in Building Design
If subsidence is considered during building design,future damage
may be prevented.Potential actions include:
▪Educating design professionals about where to locate information
on subsidence rates and maps.
▪Incorporating structural designs that can resist loading associated
with subsidence.
▪Adopting an ordinance promoting permafrost sensitive
construction practices.
▪Including potential subsidence in freeboard calculations for
buildings in flood-prone areas.
SU-4 Monitor Subsidence
Risk Factors
Several risk factors can be monitored to help predict subsidence,
such as the following:
▪Monitoring areas at risk to subsidence by remaining aware of
changes in groundwater levels.
▪Monitoring areas where natural resources are removed
from underground.
▪Filling or buttressing subterranean open spaces, as with
abandoned mines, to prevent or alleviate collapse.
61SubsidenceMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
SU-5 Remove Existing Structures
from Subsidence Hazard Areas
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 20, P-85, 361, 453
To prevent property loss,acquire and demolish or relocate buildings
and infrastructure in high-risk areas.
Education and Awareness Programs
SU-6 Educate Residents
about Subsidence
Increase residents’knowledge of subsidence through the following:
▪Promoting community awareness of subsidence risks and impacts.
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and
design professionals.
Other subsidence-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Landslide,” “Erosion,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
62 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
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Tornado
A tornado is a violently rotating column of air that has
contact with the ground and is often visible as a funnel
cloud. The destruction caused by tornadoes ranges from
light to catastrophic depending on the intensity, size,
and duration of the storm. Typically, tornadoes cause
the greatest damage to structures of light construction,
including residential dwellings and particularly
manufactured homes. Tornadoes are more likely to
occur during the months of March through May and
tend to form in the late afternoon and early evening.
64 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
T-1 Encourage Construction of
Safe Rooms
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 20, P-85, 320, 361,
P-431, 453
Promote the construction and use of safe rooms by:
▪ Requiring construction of safe rooms in new schools, daycares, and
nursing homes.
▪ Encouraging the construction and use of safe rooms in homes and
shelter areas of manufactured home parks, fairgrounds, shopping
malls, or other vulnerable public structures.
▪ Encouraging builders and homeowners to locate tornado safe
rooms inside or directly adjacent to houses to prevent injuries due
to flying debris or hail.
▪ Developing a local grant program to assist homeowners who wish
to construct a new safe room.
▪ Consulting guidance from FEMA P-320 - Taking Shelter From the
Storm: Building a Safe Room For Your Home or Small Business and
International Code Council (ICC)-500 Standard for the Design and
Construction of Storm Shelters.
T-2 Require Wind-Resistant
Building Techniques
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-804
Require or encourage wind engineering measures and construction
techniques that may include the following:
▪Structural bracing
▪Straps and clips
▪Anchor bolts
▪Laminated or impact-resistant glass
▪Reinforced pedestrian and garage doors
▪Window shutters
▪Waterproof adhesive sealing strips
▪Interlocking roof shingles
Also,improve the selection of building materials so that wind-
resistant materials are more readily available to the public.Consult
guidance from ICC-600 Standard for Residential Construction in
High-Wind Regions.
Education and Awareness Programs
T-3 Conduct Tornado
Awareness Activities
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 182
Conduct outreach activities to increase awareness of tornado risk.
Activities could include the following:
▪ Educating citizens through media outlets.
▪ Conducting tornado drills in schools and public buildings.
▪ Teaching school children about the dangers of tornadoes and how
to take safety precautions.
▪ Distributing tornado shelter location information.
▪ Supporting severe weather awareness week.
▪ Promoting use of National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) weather radios.
Other tornado wind-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Severe Wind” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
Tsunami
A tsunami is a series of great waves that are created
by undersea disturbances, such as earthquakes or
volcanic eruptions. As opposed to typical waves that
crash at the shoreline, tsunamis bring a continuously
flowing “wall of water” that has the potential to cause
devastating damage in coastal areas immediately
along the shore. Areas at greatest risk are less than 50
feet above sea level and within 1 mile of the shoreline.
Most deaths that occur during a tsunami result from
drowning. Associated risks include flooding, polluted
water supplies, and damaged gas lines.
66 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
TSU-1 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Tsunami
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-646, 646-A
Tsunami risk can be better assessed and monitored with mapping
techniques,including the following:
▪Using GIS to map areas that are vulnerable to inundation
by tsunamis.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability to tsunamis.
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents and
design professionals.
▪Educating map users on the appropriate uses and limitations
of maps.
▪More accurately mapping problem areas to educate residents
about unanticipated risks. Upgrading maps provides a truer
measure of risks to a community.
TSU-2 Manage Development
in Tsunami Hazard Areas
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-55
Planning and regulations can mitigate tsunami damage in many
ways,such as:
▪Adopting and enforcing building codes and design standards that
contain requirements for tsunami-resistant design.
▪Limiting new development in tsunami run-up areas.
▪Encouraging new development that is configured to minimize
tsunami losses by using site planning strategies that slow water
currents, steer water forces, and block water forces.
TSU-3 Protect Against Fire
Following Tsunami
Communities can encourage wildfire mitigation measures (i.e.,tree
breaks)in tsunami-prone areas to reduce impacts of fires that may
occur after a tsunami hits the coastline.
67TsunamiStructureandInfrastructureProjects
TSU-4 Build Tsunami Shelters Ensure the population is adequately protected from tsunami
inundation by constructing tsunami shelters.
TSU-5 Protect Buildings
and Infrastructure
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-646, 646-A
Ensure buildings and infrastructure are adequately protected from
tsunami inundation with the following:
▪Requiring coastal structures to be built to standards that allow for
proper vertical evacuation and to be specially designed and
constructed to resist both tsunami and earthquake loads.
▪Locating new and relocating existing infrastructure and critical
facilities outside of the tsunami hazard area.
▪Elevating existing buildings above the inundation level.
▪Relocating fire-prone infrastructure such as electrical lines or
case tanks.
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
TSU-6 Increase Public
Awareness of Tsunami Hazard
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-646, 646-A
Improve public awareness and better prepare citizens for evacuation
during a tsunami by the following:
▪Educating citizens regarding the dangers of tsunami and inform
them of emergency procedures and routes to use should a
tsunami warning be issued.
▪Conducting tsunami drills.
▪Designating tsunami inundation zones and marking
evacuation routes.
▪Developing maps showing possible tsunami inundation areas and
steering developers away from high-risk areas.
▪Participating in NOAA’s TsunamiReady Community program.
Other tsunami-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the sections entitled
“Flood,” “Storm Surge,” and “Multiple Hazards” for other possible ideas.
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Wildfire
A wildfire is any outdoor fire that is not controlled,
supervised, or arranged. Wildfire probability depends
on local weather conditions; outdoor activities such
as camping, debris burning, and construction; and
the degree of public cooperation with fire prevention
measures. Wildfires can result in widespread damage
to property and loss of life.
70 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
WF-1 Map and Assess
Vulnerability to Wildfire
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-754
The first step in local planning is to identify wildfire hazard
areas and assess overall community vulnerability.Potential
actions include:
▪Using GIS mapping of wildfire hazard areas to facilitate analysis
and planning decisions through comparison with zoning,
development, infrastructure, etc.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability to wildfire.
▪Creating a wildfire scenario to estimate potential loss of life and
injuries, the types of potential damage, and existing vulnerabilities
within a community to develop wildfire mitigation priorities.
WF-2 Incorporate
Wildfire Mitigation in the
Comprehensive Plan
Communities can review comprehensive plans to ensure wildfire
mitigation has been addressed. The comprehensive plan may
include the following:
▪ Recognizing the existence of wildfire hazards and identifying areas
of risk based on a wildfire vulnerability assessment.
▪ Describing policies and recommendation for addressing wildfire
risk and discouraging expansion in the wildland-urban interface.
▪ Including considerations of wildfire hazards in land use, public
safety, and other elements of the comprehensive plan.
WF-3 Reduce Risk through
Land Use Planning
Local governments can mitigate future losses by regulating
development in wildfire hazard areas through land use
planning,including:
▪Using zoning and/or a special wildfire overlay district to designate
high-risk areas and specify the conditions for the use and
development of specific areas.
▪Addressing density and quantity of development, as well
emergency access, landscaping and water supply.
▪Promoting conservation of open space or wildland-urban
boundary zones to separate developed areas from
high-hazard areas.
▪Setting guidelines for annexation and service extensions in
high-risk areas.
71WildfireLocal Planning and Regulations
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
WF-4 Develop a Wildland-
Urban Interface Code
Communities can develop regulations for safer construction and
incorporate mitigation considerations into the permitting process.
Potential actions include:
▪ Developing specific design guidelines and development review
procedures for new construction, replacement, relocation, and
substantial improvement in wildfire hazard areas.
▪ Addressing fire mitigation through access, signage, fire hydrants,
water availability, vegetation management, and special building
construction standards.
▪ Involving fire protection agencies in determining guidelines and
standards and in development and site plan review procedures.
▪ Establishing wildfire mitigation planning requirements for large
scale developments or planned unit developments.
WF-5 Require or Encourage
Fire-Resistant Construction
Techniques
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA P-737, P-754
A local government can encourage fire-resistant construction or may
choose to require it through local regulations.Examples include:
▪Encouraging the use of non-combustible materials (i.e., stone,
brick, and stucco) for new construction in wildfire hazard areas.
▪Using fire resistant roofing and building materials in remodels,
upgrades, and new construction.
▪Enclosing the foundations of homes and other buildings in
wildfire-prone areas, rather than leaving them open and
potentially exposing undersides to blown embers or
other materials.
▪Prohibiting wooden shingles/wood shake roofs on any new
development in areas prone to wildfires.
▪Encouraging the use of functional shutters on windows.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
WF-6 Retrofit At-Risk
Structures with
Ignition-Resistant Materials
Existing structures in wildfire hazard areas can be protected through
the use of non-combustible materials and technologies,including:
▪Installing roof coverings, sheathing, flashing, skylights, roof and
attic vents, eaves, and gutters that conform to ignition-resistant
construction standards.
▪Installing wall components that conform to ignition-resistant
construction standards.
▪Protecting propane tanks or other external fuel sources.
▪Purchasing and installing external, structure-specific water
hydration systems (sprinklers); dedicated power sources; and
dedicated cisterns if no water source (e.g., lake, river, or swimming
pool) is available.
72 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
WF-7 Create Defensible
Space Around Structures
and Infrastructure
Local governments can implement defensible space programs to
reduce risk to structures and infrastructure, including:
▪ Creating buffers around residential and non-residential structures
through the removal or reduction of flammable vegetation,
including vertical clearance of tree branches.
▪ Replacing flammable vegetation with less flammable species.
▪ Creating defensible zones around power lines, oil and gas lines,
and other infrastructure systems.
WF-8 Conduct Maintenance to
Reduce Risk
Local governments can implement maintenance procedures to
reduce wildfire risk,including:
▪Performing arson prevention cleanup activities in areas of
abandoned or collapsed structures, accumulated trash or debris,
and with a history of storing flammable materials where spills or
dumping may have occurred.
▪Preventing or alleviating wildfires by proper maintenance and
separation of power lines as well as efficient response to fallen
power lines.
▪Routinely inspecting the functionality of fire hydrants.
▪Requiring and maintaining safe access for fire apparatus to
wildland-urban interface neighborhoods and properties.
Natural Systems Protection
WF-9 Implement a Fuels
Management Program
A fuels management program may be implemented to reduce
hazardous vegetative fuels on public lands,near essential
infrastructure,or on private lands by working with landowners.The
program can include the following:
▪Performing maintenance including fuel management techniques
such as pruning and clearing dead vegetation, selective logging,
cutting high grass, planting fire-resistant vegetation, and creating
fuel/fire breaks (i.e., areas where the spread of wildfires will be
slowed or stopped by the removal of fuels).
▪Using prescribed burning to reduce fuel loads that threaten public
safety and property.
▪Identifying and clearing fuel loads created by downed trees.
▪Cutting firebreaks into public wooded areas in the
wildland-urban interface.
▪Sponsoring local “slash and clean-up days” to reduce fuel loads
along the wildland-urban interface.
▪Linking wildfire safety with environmental protection strategies (i.e.,
improving forest ecology, wildlife habitat, etc.).
▪Developing a vegetation management plan.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
73WildfireMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
WF-10 Participate in
Firewise Program
The Firewise program provides a series of steps that individual
residents and their neighbors can take to keep their homes and
neighborhoods safer from fire.Consider actions such as:
▪Joining the “Firewise Communities/USA” recognition program
sponsored by the National Wildlife Coordinating Group
(firewise.org).
▪Sponsoring Firewise workshops for local officials, developers, civic
groups, and neighborhood/homeowners’ associations.
▪Consulting Firewise guidance and encouraging or requiring best
practices in your community.
WF-11 Increase Wildfire
Risk Awareness
Education and outreach programs can target citizens,businesses,
developers,landscapers,and insurers among others to increase
awareness of wildfire risk and strategies for protecting homes and
infrastructure.Consider actions such as:
▪Offering GIS hazard mapping online for residents, developers, and
design professionals.
▪Organizing a local fire department tour to show local elected
officials and planners the most vulnerable areas of the
community’s wildland-urban interface and increase their
understanding of risks.
▪Working with insurance companies, utility providers, and others to
include wildfire safety information in materials provided to
area residents.
▪Developing partnerships with neighborhood groups, homeowners’
associations, and others to conduct outreach activities.
▪Using local fire departments to conduct education programs
in schools.
▪Informing the public about proper evacuation procedures.
▪Forming a citizen plan implementation steering committee to
monitor progress of local mitigation actions. Include a mix of
representatives from neighborhoods, local businesses, and
local government.
74 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Outreach Programs
WF-12 Educate Property
Owners about Wildfire
Mitigation Techniques
Educate property owners on actions that they can take to reduce risk
to property,such as the following:
▪Installing fire mitigation systems such as interior and exterior
sprinkler systems.
▪Performing safe disposal of yard and household waste rather than
open burning.
▪Removing dead or dry leaves, needles, twigs, and combustibles
from roofs, decks, eaves, porches, and yards.
▪Creating a defensible space or buffer zone cleared of combustible
materials around property.
▪Installing and maintaining smoke detectors and fire extinguishers
on each floor of their homes or other buildings.
▪Safely using and storing necessary flammable materials, including
machine fuels. Approved safety cans should be used for storing
gasoline, oily rags, and other flammable materials. Firewood
should be stacked at least 100 feet away and uphill from homes.
▪Keeping flammables, such as curtains, secured away from windows
or using heavy fire-resistant drapes.
Other wildfire-related mitigation actions may also apply to other hazards. See the section entitled “Multiple Hazards”
for other possible ideas.
Multiple Hazards
The actions presented here are general actions that
mitigate multiple hazards.
76 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
MU-1 Assess Community Risk
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 366, 543
Understanding community vulnerability and level of risk is
important to identify and prioritize mitigation alternatives.Improve
risk assessment through the following:
▪Obtaining local data including tax parcels, building footprints,
critical facility locations, and other information for use in
risk analysis.
▪Developing and maintaining a database to track community
vulnerability (i.e., exposure in known hazard areas).
▪Establishing a process to coordinate with state and Federal
agencies to maintain up-to-date hazard data, maps,
and assessments.
▪Keeping aerial photography current, especially in rapidly
developing areas.
▪Identifying the most at-risk critical facilities and evaluating
potential mitigation techniques.
MU-2 Map Community Risk Maps are an important tool for communicating risk.Consider the
following for developing GIS capabilities:
▪Developing a coordinated GIS Department. Find out who uses GIS,
determine how it is used, and identify other potential uses.
▪Incorporating a GIS system/management plan for tracking
permitting, land use patterns, etc.
▪Obtaining hazard data and using GIS to map risk for various hazards.
77Multiple HazardsLocal Planning and Regulations
MU-3 Prevent Development
in Hazard Areas
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 476
Limit or prohibit development in high-hazard areas through the
following types of actions:
▪Encouraging clustering of residential lots outside of hazard areas in
subdivision design/review.
▪Prohibiting or limiting public expenditures for capital
improvements in known hazard areas.
▪Organizing a managed retreat from very high-risk areas.
▪Purchasing the “right of first refusal” for hazard-prone parcels
targeted for public acquisition.
▪Purchasing land and title in the name of a local governing
body to remove structures and enforce permanent restrictions
on development.
▪Acquiring and using easements (e.g., conservation) to prevent
development in known hazard areas.
▪Using conservation easements to protect environmentally
significant portions of parcels from development.
▪Acquiring hazardous areas for conservation or restoring as
functional public parks.
▪Acquiring safe sites for public facilities (e.g., schools, police/fire
stations, etc.).
▪Prohibiting new facilities for persons with special needs/mobility
concerns in hazard areas.
▪Prohibiting animal shelters in known hazard areas.
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
MU-4 Adopt Development
Regulations in Hazard Areas
Regulate development in hazard areas.Examples include:
▪Using subdivision and development regulations to regulate
development in hazard-prone areas.
▪Evaluating the use of performance/impact zoning to set risk-based
standards for land development.
▪Requiring setbacks from delineated hazard areas (e.g., shorelines,
wetlands, steep slopes, etc.).
▪Requiring conditional/special use permits for the development of
known hazard areas.
▪Offering expanded development rights to developers/businesses
for performing mitigation retrofits.
▪Incorporating restrictive covenants on properties located in known
hazard areas.
▪Designating high-risk zones as special assessment districts (to fund
necessary hazard mitigation projects).
78 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
MU-5 Limit Density in
Hazard Areas
Limit the density of development in the hazard areas through the
following techniques:
▪Increasing minimum lot size for development in known
hazard areas.
▪Designating “agricultural use districts” in the zoning ordinance to
limit densities in known hazard areas.
▪Ensuring the zoning ordinance encourages higher densities only
outside of known hazards areas.
▪Requiring clustering for planned unit developments (PUD) in the
zoning ordinance to reduce densities in known hazard areas.
▪Establishing a local transfer of development rights (TDR) program
for risk in known hazard areas.
▪Establishing a process to use floating zones to reduce densities in
damaged areas following a disaster event.
MU-6 Integrate Mitigation
into Local Planning
Hazard mitigation can be integrated into local planning efforts
through the following:
▪Incorporating risk assessment and hazard mitigation principles into
comprehensive planning efforts.
▪Incorporating a stand-alone element for hazard mitigation into the
local comprehensive (land use) plan.
▪Incorporating hazard mitigation into broader growth management
(i.e., Smart Growth) initiatives.
▪Incorporating a hazard risk assessment into the local development
and subdivision review process.
▪Adding hazard mitigation measures to existing adequate public
facilities (APF) tests and programs.
▪Ensuring natural hazards are considered in all land suitability
analyses (LSA).
▪Determining and enforcing acceptable land uses to alleviate the
risk of damage by limiting exposure in such hazard areas.
▪Developing a post-disaster reconstruction plan to facilitate decision
making following a hazard event.
▪Involving citizens in comprehensive planning activities that identify
and mitigate hazards.
79Multiple HazardsMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Local Planning and Regulations
MU-7 Strengthen Land
Use Regulations
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 100, 268
Land use regulations can reduce hazard risk through the following:
▪Using bonus/incentive zoning to encourage mitigation measures
for private land development.
▪Using conditional use zoning to require or exact mitigation
measures for private land development.
▪Establishing a process to use overlay zones to require mitigation
techniques in high-hazard districts.
▪Adopting a post-disaster recovery ordinance based on a plan to
regulate repair activity, generally depending on property location.
▪Adopting environmental review standards.
▪Incorporating proper species selection, planting, and maintenance
practices into landscape ordinances.
MU-8 Adopt and Enforce
Building Codes
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 421,P-762
Building codes and inspections help ensure buildings can adequately
withstand damage during hazard events.Effective actions include:
▪Adopting the International Building Code (IBC) and International
Residential Code (IRC).
▪Increasing the local Building Code Effectiveness Grading Schedule
(BCEGS) classification through higher building code standards and
enforcement practices.
▪Incorporating higher standards for hazard resistance in local
application of the building code.
▪Providing advanced training to local building inspectors.
▪Considering orientation of new development during design (e.g.,
subdivisions, buildings, infrastructure, etc.)
▪Requiring standard tie-downs of propane tanks.
▪Requiring tie-downs for all manufactured housing.
▪Establishing moratorium procedures to guide the suspension of
post-disaster reconstruction permits.
▪Revising fire codes to limit hotel room occupancy to ensure timely
evacuation of high-use and multi-floor structures.
▪Establishing “value-added” incentives for hazard-resistant
construction practices beyond code requirements.
MU-9 Create Local Funding
Mechanisms for Hazard
Mitigation
Local funding resources can be developed through the
following measures:
▪Establishing a local reserve fund for public mitigation measures.
▪Using impact fees to help fund public hazard mitigation projects
related to land development (i.e., increased runoff).
▪Requiring a development impact tax on new construction to
mitigate the impacts of that development.
▪Recruiting local financial institutions to participate in “good
neighbor” lending for private mitigation practices.
▪Providing local match to Federal funds that can fund private
mitigation practices.
80 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
MU-10 Incentivize
Hazard Mitigation
Incentives and disincentives can be used to promote hazard
mitigation through the following measures:
▪ Using special tax assessments to discourage builders from
constructing in hazardous areas.
▪ Using insurance incentives and disincentives (i.e., incentives for
best practices).
▪ Providing tax incentives for development of low-risk hazard parcels.
▪ Waiving permitting fees for home construction projects related
to mitigation.
▪ Using tax abatements, public subsidies, and other incentives to
encourage private mitigation practices.
▪ Reducing or deferring the tax burden for undeveloped hazard areas
facing development pressure.
▪ Encouraging infill development through tax incentives, streamlined
approval processes, etc.
MU-11 Monitor Mitigation
Plan Implementation
Monitoring the implementation of the local mitigation plan can
ensure that mitigation actions are being completed through:
▪Forming a plan implementation steering committee to monitor
progress on local mitigation actions. Include a mix of
representatives from neighborhoods, local businesses, and local
government.
▪Preparing a plan implementation monitoring schedule and
outlining roles for those responsible for monitoring (i.e., local
departments, agencies, and committees).
▪Preparing and submitting an annual plan implementation progress
report to the local elected body.
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
MU-12 Protect Structures
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 577,P-798
Damage to structures can be prevented through the following actions:
▪Acquiring or relocating structures located in hazard areas.
▪Moving vulnerable structures to a less hazardous location.
▪Relocating or retrofitting public buildings located in
high-hazard areas.
▪Relocating or retrofitting endangered public housing units in high-
hazard areas.
▪Retrofitting fire and police stations to become hazard resistant.
▪Identifying and strengthening facilities to function as
public shelters.
Local Planning and Regulations
81Multiple HazardsMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
MU-13 Protect Infrastructure
and Critical Facilities
FEMA Resources/Publications
FEMA 345,476
Infrastructure and critical facilities can be protected from damage by
the following:
▪Incorporating hazard mitigation principles into all aspects of
public-funded building.
▪Incorporating mitigation retrofits for public facilities into the annual
capital improvements program.
▪Engineering or retrofitting roads and bridges to withstand hazards.
▪Relocating or undergrounding electrical infrastructure.
▪Designing and building water tanks or wells for use in times of
water outage.
▪Installing quick-connect emergency generator hook-ups for
critical facilities
Education and Awareness Programs
MU-14 Increase Hazard
Education and Risk Awareness
FEMA Resources/Publications
EMI IS-22
Hazard education and awareness activities that address multiple
hazards include:
▪Developing and implementing a multi-hazard public awareness
program.
▪Providing information on all types of hazards, preparedness and
mitigation measures, and responses during hazard events.
▪Establishing a “hazard awareness week” in coordination with the
media to promote hazard awareness (seasonal).
▪Establishing an interactive website for educating the public on
hazard mitigation and preparedness measures.
▪Annually hosting a public hazards workshop or exposition for all
residents.
▪Establishing hazard information centers.
▪Creating a speakers bureau for disaster-related topics that focus on
mitigation and preparedness measures.
▪Enhancing hazard awareness of the private sector, particularly
lenders, insurance agents, and realtors.
▪Scheduling an annual “what’s new in mitigation” briefing for the
local governing body (possibly with SHMO, etc.).
Structure and Infrastructure Projects
82 Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
Education and Awareness Programs
MU-15 Improve Household
Disaster Preparedness
FEMA Resources/Publications
EMI IS-22
Educate the public on how to prepare for hazards and disasters,
including the following:
▪Encouraging property owners to purchase hazard insurance not as
an alternative to mitigation, but rather to add financial protection if
damage does occur.
▪Encouraging residents to prepare by stocking up the necessary
items and planning for how family members should respond
during a disaster. Publicized information about household
preparedness can be found at www.ready.gov.
▪Providing hazard vulnerability checklists for homeowners to
conduct their own inspections.
▪Promoting the purchase and use of NOAA weather radios
by residents.
▪Encouraging citizens to secure loose items (i.e., patio furniture).
▪Participating in Nation Weather Service StormReady Program.
▪Purchasing and installing NOAA weather radios in schools,
government buildings, parks, etc.
▪Storing digital or hard copies of public records in low-risk,
offsite locations.
MU-16 Promote Private
Mitigation Efforts
FEMA Resources/Publications
EMI IS-22
Encourage private mitigation efforts that address multiple hazards
through the following:
▪Using outreach programs to: 1) advise homeowners of risks to life,
health, and safety; 2) facilitate technical assistance programs that
address measures that citizens can take; or 3) facilitate funding for
mitigation measures.
▪Establishing, maintaining, and publicizing a library section on
hazard mitigation techniques for local residents.
▪Identifying and recruiting civic groups and volunteer agencies for
community mitigation projects.
▪Establishing a network for a business-to-business mitigation
mentoring program.
▪Offering hazard susceptibility audits of local small businesses.
▪Completing a “demonstration model” showing use of hazard
mitigation techniques for public display.
▪Establishing a technical assistance program for residents to access
data or resources for mitigation purposes.
▪Educating the public on tradeoffs associated with
multi-hazard design.
FEMA Resources/Publications
84
FEMA Resources/Publications
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
1. FEMA 20 FEMA Publications Catalog
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2894
2. FEMA 54 Elevated Residential Structures
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1670
3. FEMA P-55 Coastal Construction Manual: Principles and Practices of Planning, Siting, Designing, Constructing, and
Maintaining Residential Buildings in Coastal Areas (4th ed.)
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1671
4. FEMA E-74 Reducing the Risks of Nonstructural Earthquake Damage: A Practical Guide. Fourth Edition
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=4626
5. FEMA 83 Seismic Considerations for Communities at Risk
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1575
6. FEMA P-85 Protecting Manufactured Homes from Floods and Other Hazards
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1577
7. FEMA 100 Unified National Program for Floodplain Management
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1626
8. FEMA 114 Design Manual for Retrofitting Flood-prone Residential Structures
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1414
9. FEMA 154 Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential Seismic Hazards: A Handbook. Second Edition
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3556
10. FEMA 155 Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential Seismic Hazards: Supporting Documentation. Second Edition
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3557
11. FEMA 182 Landslide Loss Reduction: A Guide for State and Local Government Planning
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1417
12. FEMA 202 Earthquake Resistant Construction of Electric Transmission and Telecommunication Facilities Serving the
Federal Government
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1635
13. FEMA 209 Flood: Are You Protected From the Next Disaster
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1726
14. FEMA 213 Answers to Questions About Substantially Damaged Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1636
15. FEMA 221 Collocation Impacts on the Vulnerability of Lifelines during Earthquakes with Applications to the Cajon Pass, California:
Study Overview
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1637
16. FEMA 224 Seismic Vulnerability and Impact of Disruption of Lifelines in the Conterminous United States
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1518
17. FEMA 225 Inventory of Lifelines in the Cajon Pass, California
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1746
18. FEMA 226 Collocation Impacts on the Vulnerability of Lifelines during Earthquakes with Applications to the Cajon Pass, California
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1748
19. FEMA 232 Homebuilders’ Guide to Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2103
20. FEMA 233 Earthquake Resistant Construction of Gas and Liquid Fuel Pipeline Systems Serving or Regulated by the
Federal Government
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1639
85FEMA Resources/PublicationsMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
FEMA Resources/Publications
21. FEMA 254 Seismic Retrofit Incentive Programs: A Handbook for Local Governments
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1523
22. FEMA P-259 Engineering Principles and Practices of Retrofitting Flood-prone Residential Structures, Third Edition
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1645
23. FEMA 266 Creating a Seismic Safety Advisory Board: A Guide to Earthquake Risk Management
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1646
24. FEMA 268 Protecting Floodplain Resources - A Guidebook for Communities
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1419
25. FEMA 306 Evaluation of Earthquake Damaged Concrete and Masonry Wall Buildings: Basic Procedures Manual
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1651
26. FEMA 307 Evaluation of Earthquake Damaged Concrete and Masonry Wall Buildings: Technical Resources
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1652
27. FEMA 313 Promoting the Adoption and Enforcement of Seismic Building Codes: A Guidebook for State Earthquake and
Mitigation Managers
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1421
28. FEMA 320 FEMA P-320 -Taking Shelter From the Storm: Construction Plans and Specifications
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=5788
29. FEMA 345 Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Brochure-Desk Reference
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1472
30. FEMA 347 Above the Flood: Elevating your Flood-prone House
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1424
31. FEMA P-348 Protecting Building Utilities from Flood Damage
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1750
32. FEMA 349 Action Plan for Performance Based Seismic Design
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1656
33. FEMA 356 Prestandard and Commentary for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1427
34. FEMA 361 Design and Construction Guidance for Community Safe Rooms
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1657
35. FEMA 366 HAZUS-MH Estimated Annualized Earthquake Losses for the United States
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3265
36. FEMA 389 Communicating with Owners and Managers of New Buildings on Earthquake Risk
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1431
37. FEMA 395 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of School Buildings (K-12) : Providing Protection to People and Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1980
38. FEMA 396 Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation of Hospital Buildings : Providing Protection to People and Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1981
39. FEMA 412 Installing Seismic Restraints for Mechanical Equipment
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1557
40. FEMA 413 Installing Seismic Restraints for Electrical Equipment
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1436
41. FEMA 414 Installing Seismic Restraints for Duct and Pipe
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1437
86
FEMA Resources/Publications
Mitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
42. FEMA 416 Using GIS to Demonstrate Successful Floodplain Management
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1850
43. FEMA P-420 Engineering Guideline for Incremental Seismic Rehabilitation
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3792
44. FEMA 421 Planning for Post-Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1558
45. FEMA P-431 Tornado Protection: Selecting Refuge Area in Buildings, Second Edition
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1563
46. FEMA 453 Safe Rooms and Shelters - Protecting People Against Terrorist Attacks
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1910
47. FEMA 454 Designing for Earthquakes: A Manual for Architects
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2418
48. FEMA 467-1 Floodplain Management Bulletin on the Elevation Certificate
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1727
49. FEMA 473 Technical Manual for Dam Owners: Impacts of Animals on Earthen Dams
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1441
50. FEMA 474 Promoting Seismic Safety: Guidance for Advocates
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1662
51. FEMA 476 Preparing for Disaster for People with Disabilities and other Special Needs
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1442
52. FEMA 480 National Flood Insurance Program, Floodplain Management Requirements, A Study Guide and Desk Reference for
Local Officials, Federal Emergency Management Agency
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1443
53. FEMA P-499 Home Builder’s Guide to Coastal Construction
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2138
54. FEMA 526 Earthquake Safety Checklist
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1664
55. FEMA 527 Earthquake Safety Activities for Children and Teachers
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1665
56. FEMA 528 Earthquake Home Hazard Hunt Poster
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1666
57. FEMA 529 Drop, Cover and Hold Poster
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1667
58. FEMA 530 Earthquake Safety Guide for Homeowners
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1449
59. FEMA 543 Design Guide for Improving Critical Facility Safety from Flooding and High Winds: Providing Protection to
People and Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2441
60. FEMA 547 Techniques for the Seismic Rehabilitation of Existing Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2393
61. FEMA 550 Recommended Residential Construction for Coastal Areas: Building on Strong and Safe Foundations
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1853
87FEMA Resources/PublicationsMitigation Ideas: A Resource for Reducing Risk to Natural Hazards
FEMA Resources/Publications
62. FEMA 577 Design Guide for Improving Hospital Safety in Earthquakes, Floods, and High Winds: Providing Protection to People
and Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2739
63. FEMA 646-A Vertical Evacuation from Tsunamis: A Guide for Community Officials
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3808
64. FEMA P-646 Guidelines for Design of Structures for Vertical Evacuation from Tsunamis
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3463
65. FEMA P-737 Home Builder’s Guide to Construction in Wildfire Zones
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3646
66. FEMA P-749 Earthquake-Resistant Design Concepts: An Introduction to the NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New
Buildings and Other Structures
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do;jsessionid=8BCBB8D4C6C901175A81648298D5380E.WorkerLibrary?fromSearch=fr
omsearch&id=4711
67. FEMA P-750 NEHRP Recommended Seismic Provisions for New Buildings and Other Structures. 2009 Edition
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do;jsessionid=8BCBB8D4C6C901175A81648298D5380E.WorkerLibrary?fromSearch=fr
omsearch&id=4103
68. FEMA P-754 Wildfire Hazard Mitigation Handbook for Public Facilities (P-754)
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3723
69. FEMA P-762 Local Officials Guide for Coastal Construction
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=3647
70. FEMA P-774 Unreinforced Masonry Buildings and Earthquakes: Developing Successful Risk Reduction Programs
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do;jsessionid=8BCBB8D4C6C901175A81648298D5380E.WorkerLibrary?fromSearch=fr
omsearch&id=4067
71. FEMA B-797 Hazard Mitigation Field Book - Roadways
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=4271
72. FEMA P-798 Natural Hazards and Sustainability for Residential Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=4347
73. FEMA P-804 Wind Retrofit Guide for Residential Buildings
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=4569
74. FEMA P-811 QuakeSmart Toolkit
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=4958
75. FEMA NFIP Technical Bulletins
http://www.fema.gov/national-flood-insurance-program-2/nfip-technical-bulletins
76. FEMA ROVER Rapid Observation of Vulnerability and Estimation Risk (ROVER) Tool
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=4616
77. FIA-15A National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System Coordinator’s Manual
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=1741
78. EMI IS-22 Are You Ready? An In-Depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=2314
79. HMA EHP at-a-Glance Guide:Project Planning with Considerations for EHP Compliance
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?fromSearch=fromsearch&id=5904
80. Building Code Tool Kit (FEMA CD, available in December 2012)
http://www.fema.gov/earthquake
FEMA Contacts
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
U.S.Department of Homeland Security
500 C Street SW
Washington,DC 20472
General Operator:(202)646-2500
Website:http://www.fema.gov/
FEMA Region I
99 High Street
6th Floor
Boston,MA 02110
Phone:(617)223-9540
FEMA Region II
26 Federal Plaza
Suite 1337
New York,NY 10278
Phone:(212)225-7209
FEMA Region III
615 Chestnut Street
Philadelphia,PA 19106
Phone:(215)931-5608
FEMA Region IV
3003 Chamblee-Tucker Road
Atlanta,GA 30341
Phone:(770)220-5200
FEMA Region V
536 South Clark Street
Chicago,IL 60605
Phone:(312)408-5500
FEMA Region VI
Federal Regional Center
800 North Loop 288
Denton,TX 76209
Phone:(940)898-5399
FEMA Region VII
2323 Grand Boulevard
Suite 900
Kansas City,MO 64108
Phone:(816)283-7061
FEMA Region VIII
Building 710
Box 25267
Denver,CO 80225
Phone:(303)235-4800
FEMA Region IX
1111 Broadway
Suite 1200
Oakland,CA 94607
Phone:(510)627-7100
FEMA Region X
130 228th Street SW
Bothell,WA 98021
Phone:(425)487-4600
APPENDIX F: PLAN MAINTENANCE TOOLS
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan F-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX F. PLAN MAINTENANCE TOOLS
This appendix includes tools and worksheets to facilitate plan maintenance and review by the Galveston County
Steering and Planning Committees.
In the first year of the performance period, an online performance progress reporting system, the BAToolSM will
provide municipal and county representatives direct access to their mitigation initiatives to easily update the
status of each project, document successes or obstacles to implementation, add or delete projects to maintain
mitigation project implementation. This online program will capture information and roll all input into a report
to summarize mitigation strategy progress.
The FEMA 386-4 guidance worksheets are also available to assist with progress reporting. These worksheets
are provided below for ease of access to the HMP Coordinator and Planning Partnership to maintain the 2022
HMP throughout its period of performance.
A-35
Task 3
Create an Outreach Strategy
Mitigation Action Progress Report Form
Progress Report Period From Date: To Date:
Action/Project Title
Responsible Agency
Contact Name
Contact Phone/Email
Project Status o Project completed
o Project canceled
o Project on schedule
o Anticipated completion date:_______________________________________________________
o Project delayed
Explain _________________________________________________________________________
Summary of Project Progress for this Report Period
1. What was accomplished for this project during this reporting period?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
2. What obstacles, problems, or delays did the project encounter?
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. If uncompleted, is the project still relevant? Should the project be changed or revised?
_______________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________________
4. Other comments
_______________________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________________________
Worksheet 7.1
Mitigation Action Progress Report Form
A-36 Local Mitigation Planning Handbook
Task 3
Create an Outreach Strategy
Worksheet 7.1
Mitigation Action Progress Report Form
This page intentionally left blank.
A-37
Task 3
Create an Outreach Strategy
Plan Update Evaluation Worksheet
Plan Section Considerations Explanation
Planning
Process
Should new jurisdictions and/or
districts be invited to participate in
future plan updates?
Have any internal or external agencies
been invaluable to the mitigation
strategy?
Can any procedures (e.g., meeting
announcements, plan updates) be
done differently or more efficiently?
Has the Planning Team undertaken any
public outreach activities?
How can public participation be
improved?
Have there been any changes in
public support and/or decision- maker
priorities related to hazard mitigation?
Capability
Assessment
Have jurisdictions adopted new
policies, plans, regulations, or reports
that could be incorporated into this
plan?
Are there different or additional
administrative, human, technical,
and financial resources available for
mitigation planning?
Are there different or new education
and outreach programs and resources
available for mitigation activities?
Has NFIP participation changed in the
participating jurisdictions?
Risk
Assessment
Has a natural and/or technical or
human-caused disaster occurred?
Should the list of hazards addressed
in the plan be modified?
Are there new data sources and/or
additional maps and studies available?
If so, what are they and what have they
revealed? Should the information be
incorporated into future plan updates?
Do any new critical facilities or
infrastructure need to be added to the
asset lists?
Have any changes in development
trends occurred that could create
additional risks?
Are there repetitive losses and/or
severe repetitive losses to document?
Worksheet 7.2
Plan Update Evaluation Worksheet
A-38 Local Mitigation Planning Handbook
Task 3
Create an Outreach Strategy
Plan Section Considerations Explanation
Mitigation
Strategy
Is the mitigation strategy being
implemented as anticipated? Were the
cost and timeline estimates accurate?
Should new mitigation actions be
added to the Action Plan? Should
existing mitigation actions be revised
or eliminated from the plan?
Are there new obstacles that were not
anticipated in the plan that will need to
be considered in the next plan update?
Are there new funding sources to
consider?
Have elements of the plan been
incorporated into other planning
mechanisms?
Plan
Maintenance
Procedures
Was the plan monitored and evaluated
as anticipated?
What are needed improvements to the
procedures?
Worksheet 7.2
Plan Update Evaluation Worksheet
August 2003
FEMA 386-4
STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING
how-to guide
implementing the
hazard mitigation plan
STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
foreword
introduction
STEP ONE adopt the mitigation plan
task A brief local leadership
task B demonstrate the support
of partner organizations
task C have the plan adopted by the proper
legislative or executive authorities
task D submit your plan for approval
task E publicize the adoption and approval of the plan
STEP TWO implement the plan recommendations
task A confirm and clarify responsibilities
task B begin to integrate mitigation actions
throughout government operations
task C monitor and document the implementation
of your projects and actions
task D establish indicators of effectiveness or success
worksheet #1
task E celebrate success
i
v
1-1
1-2
1-2
1-3
1-3
1-3
2-1
2-3
2-6
2-11
2-12
2-13
2-16
Contents
1
2
Version 1.0 August 2003
STEP THREE evaluate your planning results
task A evaluate the effectiveness of the planning process
worksheet #2
task B evaluate the effectiveness of your actions
worksheet #3
task C determine why the actions worked (or did not work)
task D keep the community updated and involved,
and celebrate your successes
STEP FOUR revise the plan
task A review those factors that affect your
community’s planning context
worksheet #4
task B analyze your findings and determine whether to
revise your planning process or mitigation strategy
task C incorporate your findings into the plan
worksheet #5
afterword
appendix a glossary
appendix b library
appendix c worksheets
3-1
3-2
3-3
3-5
3-6
3-10
3-16
4-1
4-2
4-4
4-5
4-6
4-7
a-1
b-1
c-1
3
4
STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
the
hazard
mitigation
planning
process
Hazard mitigation planning is the
process of determining how to re-
duce or eliminate the loss of life and
property damage resulting from
natural and manmade hazards. As
shown in this diagram, the hazard
mitigation planning process consists
of four basic phases.
For illustration purposes, this dia-
gram portrays a process that ap-
pears to proceed sequentially. How-
ever, the mitigation planning process
is rarely a linear process. It is not
unusual that ideas developed while
assessing risks should need revision
and additional information while de-
veloping the mitigation plan, or that
implementing the plan may result in
new goals or additional risk assess-
ment.
foreword
iVersion 1.0 August 2003
foreword
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has
developed this series of mitigation planning “how-to” guides to
assist states, tribes, and communities in enhancing their hazard
mitigation planning capabilities.
These guides are designed to provide the type of information
states, tribes, and communities need to initiate and maintain a
planning process that will result in safer and more disaster-resistant
communities. These guides are applicable to states, tribes, and
communities of various sizes and varying ranges of financial and
technical resources.
This how-to series is not intended to be the last word on any of the
subject matter covered; rather, it is meant to provide easy to under-
stand guidance for the field practitioner. In practice, these guides
may be supplemented with more extensive technical data and the
use of experts when necessary.
mit-i-gate\ 1: to cause to be-
come less harsh or hostile;
2: to make less severe or
painful.
As defined by DMA 2000—
hazard mitigation\ : any sustained ac-
tion taken to reduce or eliminate the
long-term risk to human life and prop-
erty from hazards.
plan-ning\ : the act or process of mak-
ing or carrying out plans; specif: the es-
tablishment of goals, policies and
procedures for a social or economic unit.
The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 State governments have certain responsibilities for implement-
ing Section 322, including:
Preparing and submitting a standard or enhanced state
mitigation plan;
Reviewing and updating the state mitigation plan ev-
ery three years;
Providing technical assistance and training to local gov-
ernments to assist them in developing local mitigation
plans and applying for HMGP grants; and
Reviewing and approving local plans if the state has
an approved enhanced plan and is designated a man-
aging state.
DMA 2000 is intended to facilitate cooperation between state
and local authorities. It encourages and rewards local, tribal,
and state pre-disaster planning and promotes sustainability
as a strategy for disaster resistance. This enhanced planning
network will better enable local, tribal, and state governments
to articulate their needs for mitigation, resulting in faster allo-
cation of funding and more effective risk reduction projects.
To implement the new DMA 2000 requirements, FEMA pre-
pared an Interim Final Rule, published in the Federal Regis-
ter on February 26, 2002, at 44 CFR Parts 201 and 206,
which establishes planning and funding criteria for states,
tribes, and local communities.
In the past, federal legislation has provided fund-
ing for disaster relief, recovery, and some hazard
mitigation planning. The Disaster Mitigation Act of
2000 (DMA 2000) is the latest legislation to improve the haz-
ard mitigation planning process. DMA 2000 (Public Law 106-
390) was signed by the President on October 30, 2000. The
new legislation reinforces the importance of mitigation plan-
ning and emphasizes planning for disasters before they oc-
cur. As such, DMA 2000 establishes a pre-disaster hazard
mitigation program and new requirements for the national
post-disaster Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).
Section 322 of DMA 2000 specifically addresses mitigation
planning at the state and local levels. This section identifies
new requirements that allow HMGP funds to be used for plan-
ning actions, and increases the amount of HMGP funds avail-
able to states that have developed a comprehensive,
enhanced mitigation plan prior to a disaster. States, tribes,
and communities must have an approved mitigation plan in
place before receiving HMGP funds. Local and tribal mitiga-
tion plans must demonstrate that their proposed mitigation
actions are based on a sound planning process that accounts
for the risk to and the capabilities of the individual communi-
ties.
ii STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
The how-to guides cover the following topics:
Getting started with the mitigation planning process, includ-
ing important considerations for how you can organize your
efforts to develop an effective mitigation plan (FEMA 386-1);
Identifying hazards and assessing losses to your community,
tribe, or state (FEMA 386-2);
Setting mitigation priorities and goals for your community,
tribe, or state and writing the plan (FEMA 386-3);
Implementing the mitigation plan, including project funding
and maintaining a dynamic plan that changes to meet new
developments (FEMA 386-4);
Evaluating and prioritizing potential mitigation actions
through the use of benefit-cost analysis and other techniques
(FEMA 386-5);
Incorporating special considerations into hazard mitigation
planning for historic structures and cultural resources (FEMA
386-6);
Incorporating mitigation considerations for manmade haz-
ards into hazard mitigation planning (FEMA 386-7);
Using multi-jurisdictional approaches to mitigation planning
(FEMA 386-8); and
Finding and securing technical and financial resources for
mitigation planning (FEMA 386-9).
Why should you spend the time to read
these guides?
It simply costs too much to address the effects of disasters only
after they happen;
State and federal aid is usually insufficient to cover the extent
of physical and economic damages resulting from disasters;
You can prevent a surprising amount of damage from hazards
if you take the time to anticipate where and how they occur,
and then take the appropriate action to minimize damages;
You can lessen the impact of disasters and speed the response
and recovery process for both natural and manmade hazards;
and
foreword
iiiVersion 1.0 August 2003
The most meaningful steps in avoiding the impacts of hazards
are taken at the state, tribal, and local levels by officials and
community members who have a personal stake in the out-
come and the ability to follow through on a sustained process
of planning and implementation.
The guides show how mitigation planning:
Can help your community become more sustainable and disas-
ter resistant through selecting the most appropriate mitigation
actions, based on the knowledge you gained in the hazard
identification and loss estimation process;
Can be incorporated as an integral component of daily govern-
ment business;
Allows you to focus your efforts on the hazard areas most important
to you by determining and setting priorities for mitigation
planning efforts; and
Can save you money by providing a forum for engaging in part-
nerships that provide the technical, financial, and staff re-
sources in your effort to reduce the effects, and hence the
costs, of natural and manmade hazards.
These guides present a range of approaches to preparing a hazard
mitigation plan. There is no one right planning process; however,
there are certain central themes to planning, such as engaging citi-
zens, developing goals and objectives, and monitoring progress.
Select the approach that works best for your state, tribe, or commu-
nity.
The process used
to develop a suc-
cessful hazard miti-
gation plan is just as
important as the plan itself.
This how-to guide focuses on the fourth
phase of the hazard mitigation planning
process and will help you develop a miti-
gation plan that meets DMA 2000 re-
quirements.
introduction
vVersion 1.0 August 2003
introduction
Your community now has a plan that is a result of the planning
team’s effort and work with stakeholders concerned about re-
ducing losses from hazards in your community. This plan resulted
from a process that included a risk assessment, capability assess-
ment, and the development of a mitigation strategy that features
prioritized mitigation actions based upon your goals and objec-
tives. The implementation process puts your planning team’s hard
work into motion and focuses on the actions necessary to establish
and maintain the effectiveness of the plan as a fundamental tool
for risk reduction.
An added benefit of having a plan is that its printed form is famil-
iar, even reassuring, to citizens who have been part of a compre-
hensive planning process or, even more importantly, have suffered
losses due to a hazard. In addition, those new to the community, as
well as non-residents, will have easy access to this information as
well. The text and accompanying graphics concisely and coher-
ently document the hazards faced by the community, their location
and extent, previous losses, actions to mitigate future hazards, and
goals for a sustainable future. The development of the plan by
community members increases the likelihood of hazard mitigation
becoming, like transportation and education, one of the standard
considerations in the evolution and growth of the community.
Once the plan has been adopted and the recommendations imple-
mented, your accomplishments, issues, programs, policies, and
project results should be accurately documented. This documenta-
tion will be very useful when it is time to evaluate, update, or revise
the plan. Plans are living documents that require adjustments to
maintain their relevance. You and the planning team prepared the
mitigation plan to articulate your community’s values and strate-
gies at a particular point in time, but like every other plan, it must
be reviewed periodically to remain a useful tool to guide growth
and change in your community.
Updates and revisions may be necessary to incorporate changes in
your community or tribe, new hazard information, new tribal, com-
munity, or state priorities, or lessons learned as mitigation projects
are completed. It is recommended, but not required, that you com-
This series of guides shows
how to identify, plan, and implement
cost-effective actions
through a compre-
hensive approach
known as Hazard
Mitigation Planning.
The process
consists of four
basic phases:
Organize resources involves
organizing resources, mobilizing the
community, and getting started with
the planning process;
Assess risks identifies hazards and
estimates the losses associated with
these hazards;
Develop a mitigation plan de-
scribes how to identify, plan, and ini-
tiate cost-effective actions; and
Implement the plan and monitor
progress, the topic of this guide—
Bringing the Plan to Life: Implement-
ing the Hazard Mitigation Plan
(FEMA 386-4)—leads communities
and states through the formal adop-
tion of the plan and discusses how
to implement, monitor, and evaluate
the results of mitigation actions to
keep the mitigation plan relevant over
time.
vi STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
plete an internal review of the plan annually and revisit your plan
after all hazard events. DMA 2000 regulations require updates ev-
ery three years for state plans, and every five years for local plans,
in order for states, tribes, and communities to remain eligible for
disaster-related grants and assistance. This guide will help you de-
termine when and how to review and revise your mitigation plan.
How do you use this how-to guide?
This guide will help you address the following questions:
1. How can we make sure the plan is officially recognized?
Proof of formal adoption is required under DMA 2000 regulations.
Getting the plan adopted ensures the support and approval of the
governing authority in your jurisdiction. Step 1, Adopt the Mitigation
Plan, discusses ways of securing the adoption of the plan by your
governing body.
2. What is the most effective mechanism to implement each recommenda-
tion? What resources are available? How can we keep the public in-
formed and actively involved now that initiatives are underway?
Your mitigation strategy probably contains various short- and long-
term recommendations. While you identified potential sources of
funding in the plan, the actual sources of funding, staff time, and
staffing needs may change before project implementation gets un-
derway. The planning team always must be on the lookout for alter-
native sources of funding, new opportunities, and new
partnerships through which to carry out the recommendations.
Determining who will bear responsibility for implementing
planned actions is key to getting the implementation phase off to a
successful start. Ensuring that there are appropriate authorities to
implement actions is covered in Step 2, Implement the Plan Recom-
mendations.
3. How will we know if our mitigation strategy is working?
Monitoring and evaluating the outcomes of the mitigation actions
are essential to knowing whether to stay the course or change it.
Step 3, Evaluate Your Planning Results, discusses how to determine
whether or not the planned course of action has had the desired
effect. The successes and limitations of your efforts should be
documented as part of the evaluation process.
Celebrating successes, and keeping citizens actively involved and
informed of the progress of the hazard mitigation initiatives, are
The implementa-
tion and evaluation
processes ensure that
you accomplish the mitiga-
tion actions in a timely way
and provide the foundation for an on-
going mitigation program. This allows
you to:
Ensure that the mitigation strategy
is implemented in an effective man-
ner;
Provide for the long-term institution-
alization and monitoring of hazard
mitigation practices so that the plan
remains relevant in the face of
change;
Establish new protocols. The plan-
ning process educates community
officials on their roles (and those of
their departments) in reducing risks.
Local officials will need to develop
protocols for integrating mitigation
principles into their daily job respon-
sibilities; and
Maintain momentum. The imple-
mentation phase is a good time to
renew the spirit of cooperation
among all partners in the planning
process, particularly now that ac-
tions to reduce risk are imminent.
States should con-
tinually work with
local jurisdictions to
ensure that local plans are
in conformance with state
guidelines and complement the goals
and strategies outlined in the state haz-
ard mitigation plan, particularly as state
priorities change.
introduction
viiVersion 1.0 August 2003
just as important in the adoption, implementation, and revision
phases as in any other phase. Keeping everyone up to date on
progress also will help sustain support for mitigation as a local,
tribal, or state priority. During the implementation phase, the me-
dia will become an especially important tool in communicating the
progress of the mitigation plan.
4. When should we reexamine the plan?
As has been noted throughout the how-to series, the community
and its assets are constantly changing, requiring the mitigation
plan to be updated periodically. While DMA 2000 regulations re-
quire a formal review and revision of the community plan once
every five years for local jurisdictions and every three years for
states, the planning team should reevaluate its implementation
strategy as new opportunities, unforeseen challenges, and disasters
arise. Additionally, as mitigation issues are resolved, the plan
should be reexamined to determine whether there is a need to re-
prioritize, add, or reconfigure actions in light of what has been
accomplished. Step 4, Revise the Plan, addresses how to incorporate
new knowledge about the community, tribe, or state and ongoing
mitigation efforts into your strategy.
Type of information found in the how-to
series
The how-to series contains a wide variety of information, some of
which is highlighted with icons. Additional information can be
found in Appendix B, Library. To illustrate how the guide can be
used, newspaper articles from the fictional Town of Hazardville are
provided.
Icons
Guidance focused solely on the role of states and tribes
that serve as grantees under HMGP is identified as a
sidebar with the “States” icon. Tribes that choose to
serve as grantees under HMGP should follow the state
icons. Although much of the information will be the same for lo-
cal, tribal, and state governments, there are different requirements
for state and local mitigation plans. Furthermore, states have addi-
tional responsibilities to assist local entities in their planning ef-
forts. For tribes that choose to serve as subgrantees under HMGP,
guidance focusing on local governments applies to these entities as
well.
Under DMA 2000
regulations, local gov-
ernments may be defined in
many different ways. A local
government may be defined
by a political boundary, such as an in-
corporated city, county, parish, or town-
ship, or it may not have a distinct political
boundary, for example, a watershed or
metropolitan region. “Local govern-
ment” is formally defined in 44 CFR
§201.2 of DMA regulations.
Be sure to allow
sufficient time to com-
plete Phase 4. If you decide
to revise the plan, or if you
are required to revise it as
described under DMA 2000, consider
the time it will take to do the following:
Include the public and identify any
new stakeholders in the evalua-
tion process;
Gather and evaluate data;
Brief the public and political lead-
ership;
Incorporate changes into plan-
ning documents; and
Adopt the new plan.
viii STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
The “Advanced” icon indicates an additional step you
can take or when specialists may be needed.
The “Caution” icon alerts you to important information
and ways to avoid sticky situations later in the planning
process.
The “DMA” icon provides information relating to the
mitigation planning requirements outlined in the Disas-
ter Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000).
The “Glossary” icon identifies terms and concepts for
which a detailed explanation is provided in the Glossary
included in Appendix A.
The “Tips” icon identifies helpful hints and useful in-
formation that can be used in the planning process.
Library
A mitigation planning “Library” has been included in Appendix B.
This library has a wealth of information, including Web addresses,
reference books, and other contact information to help get you
started. All of the Web sites and references listed in the how-to
guide are included in the library.
Town of Hazardville articles
Applications of the various steps in the mitigation planning process
are illustrated through a fictional community, the Town of
Hazardville, located in the State of Emergency. Hazardville, a small
community with limited resources and multiple hazards, is in the
process of developing a multi-hazard mitigation plan. Newspaper
accounts illustrate the various steps in the mitigation planning pro-
cess.
Worksheets
Finally, to help track your progress, worksheets have been devel-
oped that correspond with the structure of this guide. Worksheets
have been completed with Hazardville examples to illustrate the
introduction
ixVersion 1.0 August 2003
The Hazardville Post
Vol. CXIII No. 28 Tuesday, January 28, 2003
Public Responds to Hazardville Mitigation Plan
Howard, an advocate for the town's
less privileged citizens in the Rag-
ing River Views Park was perhaps
the most outspoken opponent of the
plan. At first, Howard worried that
the benefits of this plan might not
help the people he felt needed it the
most.
"I have tried for years to get the
community to help the poor resi-
dents in the low-income neighbor-
hood who get flooded out every
spring when the snow begins to
melt. The town never knew how
they could help the residents other
than to assist in clean-up and de-
bris removal. The residents could
not afford to relocate on their own.
All of the houses that are affected
year after year were identified in the
hazard identification and risk as-
sessment as being in a 10-year flood
zone, and are very vulnerable to any
sort of flash floods or even a heavy
rain." (A 10-year flood has a 10 per-
cent chance of occurring in any one
year.)
"While I was deeply saddened by
this information," Howard said, "I
was relieved to see that it turned
out to be a good thing after all. Once
the town and the Council learned
what a dangerous area that was, the
entire neighborhood was prioritized
for buyouts, which will allow these
residents to get fair market value
for their home and help them move
out of harm's way."
In an interview, THORR's outreach
coordinator, Charity Jones, who
works for the Hazardville Depart-
ment of Health and Human Services,
said, "The citizens of Hazardville
should feel good about what they did
to develop this plan. I know I am
proud of all the work that THORR
and Hazardville community mem-
bers have put into its creation. This
is truly a plan driven by the
community's concerns and needs."
[Hazardville, EM] The Town of
Hazardville Organization for Risk
Reduction (THORR) has received
over 50 comments regarding the
Hazardville Mitigation Plan. The
plan was created to help reduce the
community's risk to hazards such
as flooding, earthquakes, and other
natural hazards.
Joe Norris, lead planner for
THORR, said the team has been
working closely with citizens, busi-
nesses, and other community rep-
resentatives to develop a plan that
would create a safer, more resilient
Hazardville. THORR was commit-
ted to having community input
throughout the planning process.
"At first, we had a hard time get-
ting the community interested. The
citizens didn't know what to expect,"
Norris said.
Many in the community were
skeptical of exactly what the plan
was supposed to accomplish. Riley
type of information to include. Blank worksheets are included in
Appendix C. You can photocopy the worksheets to record your
progress as you undertake the processes of implementing and
evaluating the mitigation plan.
step
1-1Version 1.0 August 2003
1
adopt the
mitigation
plan
Overview
C ongratulations! You have reached Phase 4 of the planning
process. After organizing resources, assessing risks, and devel-
oping a mitigation plan, you are now ready to take the first step in
Phase 4—guiding the plan through a formal adoption process.
Completion of this step will establish the plan’s authority and legiti-
macy. In order to meet DMA 2000 regulations, your jurisdiction’s
governing body must formally adopt the plan in accordance with
state and local laws. Their involvement and support of the process
all along should help gain approval, as you will see below. Local
plans are adopted by the lead governing body (City Council, Board
of Supervisors, etc.) and state plans are usually submitted to the
state director of emergency management for approval and signa-
ture. Adopting the mitigation plan is the final challenge for the
planning team before plan implementation can begin. The rela-
tionships you have already established with stakeholders, elected
officials, and government agencies, as well as the thorough nature
of your work thus far, will be important assets during the adoption
process.
In addition to being required by DMA 2000, adoption of the plan
is necessary because:
It lends authority to the plan to serve as a guiding document
for all local and state government officials;
It gives legal status to the plan in the event it is challenged in
court;
It certifies to program and grant administrators that the plan’s
recommendations have been properly considered and ap-
proved by the governing authority and the jurisdiction’s citi-
zens; and
It helps ensure the continuity of mitigation programs and
policies over time because elected officials, staff, and other
community decision-makers can refer to the official document
when making decisions about the community’s future.
Linking the plan’s
policies to those in other
land development tools en-
sures that development de-
cisions are made in
consideration of the loss reduction goals
of the community. Formal adoption of
the plan lets public or private funding
sources know that the plan has the sup-
port of citizens, elected officials, and
business owners. For example, land
developers should use the adopted plan
to make informed decisions about their
ventures with respect to mitigation poli-
cies and potential hazards.
Before you seek
adoption of the plan,
check with your State Haz-
ard Mitigation Officer
(SHMO) on administrative
procedures for reviewing plans under
DMA 2000 requirements. The SHMO
may have established a procedure with
the FEMA Regional Office to review the
draft plan to make sure you included all
elements for meeting the DMA 2000 or
other program requirements. This may
include reviewing the planning process
and your documentation before you ask
the governing body to adopt the plan, a
step to ensure that you have to submit
the plan only once to the governing body
for formal adoption. A tribal jurisdiction
that submits a plan as a state-level en-
tity works directly with the appropriate
FEMA Regional Office.
1-2 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Procedures & Techniques
Task A. Brief local leadership.
An excellent way to facilitate adoption of the plan is to periodically
brief community decision makers and elected officials on the
progress of your planning efforts. This is a great opportunity to
demonstrate to the governing body that the plan is sound and has
broad support. Plan adoption should not be difficult if the plan-
ning team has conducted activities throughout the planning pro-
cess that have lent credibility to the team, the plan, and the
planning process. The briefings will also allow you to address any
concerns of elected officials, and to obtain their input. Having the
planning team recognized, garnering public input, and communi-
cating the progress and successes of the team will help get the plan
adopted.
Task B. Demonstrate the support of partner
organizations.
One way to ensure the credibility and eventual passage of the miti-
gation plan is to present the adopting body with letters of support
from organizations and agencies on the planning team, as well as
those not on the team. The community’s governing body may view
the plan more favorably if it has the support of neighborhood and
civic organizations. Some organizations may show their commit-
ment to implementing the plan by passing a resolution supporting
it and outlining specific responsibilities that they will assume. Fur-
thermore, supporting organizations should be encouraged to pro-
vide testimony if the plan will be adopted at a public hearing. This
testimony should provide specific information on the benefits that
the mitigation plan will bring to the organization’s constituencies.
Such testimony becomes part of the public record of the hearing.
For example, if a member of a community
watershed advocacy group was part of the
planning team, that group might review
the plan and give its full support to the
plan by outlining the group’s commit-
ment to sponsor an annual watershed
clean-up day or to plant native vegetation
in the open space that resulted from the
acquisition of flood-prone structures. See
Getting Started (FEMA 386-1) for more de-
tails on garnering community support.
Partners in Mitigation
Citizens, businesses, and technical experts in southwest
Tulsa are partnering with the City of Tulsa and the National
Park Service in the development of a greenway plan for a
local creek (Mooser Creek). Flood mitigation, preservation of natural
resources, recreation, and sustainable development are part of a com-
munity vision shared by both citizens and government. Community lead-
ers got involved by forming committees and identifying issues important
to them. The Mooser Creek Greenway Citizens and Technical Commit-
tees agreed upon a vision statement in an effort to preserve the natural
functions and beauty of Mooser Creek and to create recreational and
educational opportunities.
Ensuring Plan
Adoption
The planning team has al-
ready performed activities
that will help ease passage of the plan:
Recognizing the Committee. As de-
scribed in Getting Started (FEMA
386-1), the team is formally recognized
by the community’s governing body as
the local authority on mitigation, and has
been entrusted to make recommenda-
tions about mitigation on behalf of the
community. This formal recognition by
elected officials extends to the planning
team’s scope of work as well.
Garnering Public Input. As covered in
Getting Started (FEMA 386-1) and De-
veloping the Mitigation Plan (FEMA
386-3), the planning team identified
stakeholders to join the planning team,
briefed elected officials, informed the
public of the team’s progress and find-
ings, and involved the public in its work.
By including the citizens of the commu-
nity throughout the planning process,
you can expect that the adoption and
implementation of the plan will be
broadly supported by the public and
elected officials.
Communicating Information. By keep-
ing citizens involved in the planning pro-
cess and informed of progress, the
planning team can maintain the
community’s interest in mitigation. The
community now knows and understands
that there is a significant risk of losing
assets because of hazards, that several
alternatives are being considered, and
that projects and initiatives will soon be
underway.
adopt the mitigation plan 1
1-3Version 1.0 August 2003
Task C. Have the plan adopted by the proper legislative
or executive authorities.
The mitigation plan will be adopted through your government’s
normal legal process. Depending on the laws in your state and ju-
risdiction, adoption of the plan will give the jurisdiction legal au-
thority to enact ordinances, policies, or programs to reduce hazard
losses and to implement other mitigation actions. Generally, most
local governing bodies will adopt a hazard mitigation plan by reso-
lution.
Build time into your planning schedule to meet federal and state
deadlines for submitting the plan. Make sure you allow sufficient
time for formal adoption procedures. Your local governing body
may meet only once a month and may require agenda items to be
submitted well ahead of time.
Task D. Submit your plan for approval.
Once your local governing body has approved the plan, it must be
submitted to the State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO). The
SHMO should already be familiar with your plan because he or she
should have reviewed a draft to determine if the plan meets DMA
2000 and other state program requirements. Someone should be
designated as the point of contact with the state to answer any
questions about the plan. For multi-jurisdictional plans, each juris-
diction requesting approval of the plan must document that it has
been formally adopted by its respective governing body. The
SHMO is responsible for forwarding the plan to the FEMA Re-
gional Office for review.
Task E. Publicize the adoption and approval of the plan.
Once the plan has been approved, stakeholders should be in-
formed of your success. You may want to package the message dif-
ferently to reach various audiences. This can be accomplished by
sending a press release to your local newspaper, holding a press
conference with important civic leaders, sending a mailing, or post-
ing a notice on the community’s Web site. You may also want to
celebrate your success by beginning a project immediately. For ex-
ample, after the plan is approved, you may request that the govern-
ing body vote on a resolution or ordinance that is important to
accomplishing your mitigation goals, or to authorize funding to
undertake a highly visible project, such as flood-proofing City Hall
or some other important public facility.
44 CFR §201.4(c)(6)
and §201.6(c)(5) of
the Interim Final
Rule require plans to be
adopted before being sub-
mitted to FEMA for formal review and
final approval. A copy of the resolution
of adoption must be included with the
plan.
Resolutions are ex-
pressions of a governing
body’s opinion, will, or inten-
tion and can be legally bind-
ing or not. Most planning
documents must undergo a legally bind-
ing council resolution, which, in order
to be adopted, must be supported by
an official vote of the majority of mem-
bers.
Formal adoption of
the state plan will vary
according to state protocols.
Generally, states should ob-
tain the signature of the
state emergency management director
as approval of the plan. The plan also
can be distributed to members of the
state legislature to broaden support for
the plan and to potentially pave the way
for any new legislation or budget items
that may be necessary to carry out the
plan recommendations. States must
submit plans to their FEMA Regional
Office for review and approval. Depend-
ing upon regional procedures, states
also may opt to submit the results of the
risk assessment or draft plan to FEMA
for an informal review before officially
adopting it and sending it to FEMA for
official review and approval. Once any
necessary changes have been made,
the state can proceed with formal adop-
tion and final FEMA review. If a tribal
organization has developed a state-level
plan, it should be submitted directly to
the FEMA Regional Office.
1-4 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Summary
By the time you finish Step 1, you will have a plan that has the sup-
port of the community, state, tribe, and elected officials. Adoption
of the plan gives the plan greater authority, fulfills certain FEMA
program eligibility requirements, and will ease implementation of
your mitigation actions. Once the mitigation plan has been
adopted, your state, tribe, or community is ready to begin imple-
menting the mitigation strategy.
Consider develop-
ing an executive
summary of the plan for
use in publicizing it with
other government agencies
or partners. A brochure may be appro-
priate for citizens while you also make
the executive summary or entire plan
available to them.
adopt the mitigation plan 1
1-5Version 1.0 August 2003
The Hazardville Post
Vol. CXIII No. 45 Friday, February 14, 2003
Town of Hazardville Adopts THORR’s Plan
(Part 1 of a 4-Part Series on the Hazard Mitigation Implementation Process)
[Hazardville, EM] The Hazard-
ville Town Council adopted the
Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Plan
on Thursday by resolution (included
below) to serve as the town’s guide
in reducing risks to citizens and
property. Marion Jackson, Chair-
person of the Town Council, an-
nounced that “in light of the
community’s involvement and ob-
vious support for the plan, indicated
by citizen turnout at the hearing
and letters of support submitted for
the record by respected community
organizations, the Council unani-
mously voted to adopt the
Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Plan
as an official plan of the Town of
Hazardville.” The plan will take ef-
fect immediately.
The Town of Hazardville Organi-
zation for Risk Reduction (THORR)
was instrumental in developing the
plan and marshaled its forces to sup-
port adoption of the plan through
written support from the commu-
nity. “This plan is one of the few
community initiatives that is rela-
tively unopposed, no doubt due to
THORR’s diligent public outreach
efforts,” Jackson said.
Resolution #2003-53
WHEREAS the Town of
Hazardville has experienced se-
vere damage from hurricanes,
flooding, earthquakes, wildfires,
landslides, and tornadoes on many
occasions in the past century, re-
sulting in property loss, loss of life,
economic hardship, and threats to
public health and safety;
WHEREAS a Hazard Mitiga-
tion Plan (the Plan) has been de-
veloped after more than one year
of research and work by the Town
of Hazardville Organization for
Risk Reduction and the people of
the Hazardville community;
WHEREAS the Plan recom-
mends many hazard mitigation
actions that will protect the people
and property affected by the natu-
ral hazards that face Hazardville;
WHEREAS a public meeting
was held to review the Plan as re-
quired by law;
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RE-
SOLVED by the Mayor and Town
Council of the Town of Hazardville
that:
1.The Hazard Mitigation Plan is
hereby adopted as an official plan
of Hazardville.
2.The respective town officials iden-
tified in the strategy of the Plan
are hereby directed to implement
the recommended actions as-
signed to them. These officials will
report quarterly on their activi-
ties, accomplishments, and
progress to the Town of
Hazardville Organization for Risk
Reduction.
3.The Town of Hazardville Organi-
zation for Risk Reduction will pro-
vide annual progress reports on
the status of implementation of
the plan to the Mayor and Town
Council. This report shall be
submitted to the Town Council
by February 28th of each year.
PASSED by the Town Council of
Hazardville, this 13th day of Feb-
ruary 2003.
Council Chairperson
APPROVED by me this 13th day
of February 2003.
Mayor
ATTESTED and FILED in my of-
fice this 13th day of February 2003.
Clerk
step
2-1Version 1.0 August 2003
2
implement
the plan
recommendations
Overview
C itizens and officials who participated in creating the plan
will expect to see results from their hard work and effort.
This step describes how to place the recommendations of the plan
within the administrative framework of your state, tribe, or commu-
nity. The section presents ideas on how the planning team can get
the recommendations implemented on schedule and, over time,
integrate mitigation actions into the day-to-day operations of gov-
ernment agencies. It will also show how to bring action items
within the mitigation strategy to fruition through creative use of
available resources.
When implementing the plan, various stakeholders will have distinct roles and
responsibilities:
The Planning Team. During the implementation of the mitigation strategy, the planning team’s role may change to
one of overseer. As the developers of the mitigation plan, the planning team should also regularly monitor its progress.
The planning team can help ensure that the spirit of the plan is not sidetracked by political or personal concerns, and keep the
community energized so citizens can hold the government accountable for the legitimate performance of the plan. The team
can also alert officials to issues that may affect emergency management and hazard mitigation.
Elected Officials and Local Administrators. The executive or delegated administrator may be a likely candidate for keeping
all participating local agencies or departments on track. Elected officials play a unique role in the implementation of the plan.
They will be pressured by those opposed to the plan as well as those who expect to see it enacted as intended. Furthermore,
elected officials have the capacity and responsibility to distribute resources among competing interests. The planning team will
have identified supportive elected officials not only when organizing to prepare the plan (Phase 1, Getting Started, FEMA 386-
1), but also when evaluating the relevant political factors of potential mitigation actions (see Developing the Mitigation Plan,
FEMA 386-3, Step 2).
Elected officials and local administrators should provide:
Oversight. Officials not only can assign staff and provide incentives to implement planning initiatives, they also can
support the hard work of the professional staff and volunteers.
Visibility. Community leaders must keep the spotlight on the identified hazard-related problems and opportunities
and make sure that problems are not overlooked by any relevant department or office—community planning, emer-
gency services, zoning, public service, and economic development, for example.
Budgets. Elected officials and local administrators must ensure that the community’s annual budget includes fund-
ing to implement previously adopted long-term actions. This includes commitments that the community has made to
cost-share, maintain, operate, repair, or otherwise bear the burden for activities that may have been undertaken with
outside assistance.
(continued on page 2-2)
2-2 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
In the third phase of the planning process, the planning team
identified mitigation actions and implementation strategies that
included target dates for the completion of projects and assigned
responsibilities to agencies, departments, organizations, or specific
people (see Steps 2 and 3 of Developing the Mitigation Plan, FEMA
386-3). This information should help the planning team meet the
objectives of the plan on time and provide indicators by which the
implementation will be monitored and evaluated.
It is important to decide how success will be determined before
implementation and evaluation occur. From an administrative
standpoint, success may be simply a measure of whether the
project was finished on time, and within budget. On the other
hand, even projects that are well thought out and executed may
not be completed for a long period of time due to the nature of
the project, the lack of available funding, or other reasons beyond
the control of the community. In this case, it is important to iden-
tify successes in the short-term, even if completion is not in sight.
For example, if a community decides to pursue zoning changes in
flood hazard areas, the actual changes may not occur for years due
to administrative procedures that must be followed within the con-
text of local and state zoning and land use law. However, successes
(in the form of completion of milestones) can and should be iden-
tified along the timeline that is appropriate for that type of mitiga-
tion action. In this zoning example, short-term successes can
include key meetings or briefings held to present risk information
to support zoning changes.
(continued from page 2-1)
Partners–Nonprofit Organizations and Businesses. Throughout implementation of the plan, the planning team should
consider innovative ways for its partners to facilitate the implementation of projects. The nonprofit and private sectors can help
in a number of ways, including lending expertise, discounted materials, staff or volunteer time, or meeting space. The planning
team can, in turn, offer the private organizations an opportunity for greater public exposure, and thus greater name recognition.
The planning team can also offer tips and expertise in mitigation; businesses often do not realize the danger that their proper ty
or sources of income face from hazards. The planning team can inform partners about the hazards they potentially face, the
ways they can mitigate these hazards, and how their staff can mitigate hazards at home.
Citizens. Citizens have an ongoing role to play in project implementation. The planning team should actively seek volunteers
to help implement programs and activities. Knowledgeable citizens also can be recruited to provide expertise in specific
subject areas. The more you involve people in implementing the plan, the greater the support it will receive.
State Agencies. State agencies can lend their time, expertise, and funds to the implementation of hazard mitigation projects.
Make sure your list of state contacts is very broad, as the resources of one state agency may be unknown to another.
Academic Institutions. Colleges and universities can provide technical expertise to projects that may require Geographic
Information System (GIS), engineering, planning, or other technical assistance. They can also provide meeting space, labora-
tories, and other logistical support.
2-3Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
In Step 3, you will also measure the effectiveness of your mitigation
actions. It will be therefore important in Step 2 to establish indica-
tors of effectiveness.
The planning team should also determine the manner in which
plan implementation will be monitored. In any incorporated com-
munity, there are elected or appointed officials who have the ulti-
mate responsibility for carrying out specific community policies
and programs. The planning team should continue to serve as a
resource to the community by helping its leaders identify, measure,
and publicize successes, and mobilize community members to con-
tribute and participate where appropriate. The planning team can
also work to secure funding to implement the plan.
Your team may decide that frequent meetings are no longer practi-
cal. It may consider an alternative, such as periodically issuing a
memorandum to keep team members informed of progress in
implementing the plan. An annual internal review of progress by
the planning team is also a good monitoring method. Keep in
mind that the need for maintaining sustained communication is
more important than the form of communication selected.
Procedures & Techniques
Task A. Confirm and clarify responsibilities.
In Step 3 of Developing the Mitigation Plan (FEMA 386-3), the plan-
ning team identified who would be involved in implementation of
the mitigation actions. Now is the time to revisit those assignments
and confirm that the responsible parties understand their duties.
One way to communicate your expectations to public agencies and
other organizations with specific responsibilities is to draw up a
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) among the different agencies
and organizations. An MOA is a non-binding statement that de-
fines the duties, responsibilities, and commitment of the different
parties or individuals as established by the hazard mitigation strat-
egy developed in Phase 3. It provides a clear statement of values,
principles, and community hazard mitigation goals, and establishes
an organizational structure to assist in measuring and evaluating
the plan’s progress.
The MOA should include:
A vision or goal statement;
An organizational structure to maintain the effort over time;
2-4 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
A statement that specifies the duration of the MOA and how it
will be reviewed or revised;
A statement indicating how decisions will be made to con-
tinue the MOA;
A statement describing the circumstances under which part-
ners should consult each other;
A statement requiring the organization to submit periodic or
annual reports on the progress of its projects or programs;
A statement regarding responsibility for actions; and
A resource commitment statement on the staffing, technical
resources, and funding that the department, agency, or orga-
nization is expected to provide.
Example of a Memorandum of Agreement
Agreement is made this 4th day of March 2003 by these parties:
The Town of Hazardville (the Town) and its local corporate and nonprofit partners, and the State of Emer-
gency and its partners
WHEREAS the parties:
Strive to create sustainable communities that are resistant to the human and economic costs of disasters;
Recognize that actions taken in advance of disasters are effective in reducing losses; that partnerships among government
agencies, private companies, voluntary and professional associations, educational institutions, and community organizations
are essential for the success of these efforts;
Recognize that vulnerable conditions exist in public and private facilities, and the utility and transportation systems that serve
them; that increasing population growth and diversity, escalating disaster costs, and other factors increase the Town’s vulner-
ability to disaster;
Recognize that financial support is necessary to enable the expansion and integration of public and private mitigation efforts;
Agree to continue to receive and encourage the input of stakeholders with the State, Town, businesses and nonprofit organi-
zations in Hazardville, neighboring communities, citizens, and other appropriate partners;
NOW, THEREFORE, it is mutually agreed that the parties voluntarily enter into this non-binding Agreement to establish the
Town of Hazardville Partnership for Disaster Mitigation (the Partnership).
The principal objective of this Agreement is to further develop private, volunteer, and public-sector capabilities (people, poli-
cies, resources, working relationships, long-term plans, and a schedule for accomplishments) necessary to carry out projects
that will reduce vulnerability to risk and minimize losses.
1. MEMBERSHIP. Membership in the Partnership is open and can be expanded to include new (additional) partners in the
future. The Partnership will work together to advise the Town and participate in the implementation of the Town of
Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Plan to further mutual loss-reduction goals subject to the terms and conditions recited
below.
2. TERM. The respective duties, responsibilities, and commitments of the parties hereto shall commence on the date this
Agreement is signed by the parties and may be periodically renewed or revised at the option of the parties.
(continued on page 2-5)
2-5Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
(continued from page 2-4)
3. CONSULTATIONS. The Partners shall make their representatives available to consult with the Town of Hazardville on
ways in which the Hazard Mitigation Initiative (see Appendix A below) can be improved and applied successfully. The
Partners, in consultation and conjunction with other public-sector entities and related community-wide initiatives, shall
consult with each other on:
Identification and delineation of natural and manmade hazards within the Town;
Assessment of risk to and vulnerability of buildings, facilities, utilities, communications, and transportation systems in
the public and private sectors;
Techniques to plan for, reduce, and manage expected losses; and
Technical and financial assistance and incentives to facilitate loss reduction projects.
4. ANNUAL EVALUATION. The parties shall annually review the Partnership created by this Agreement to determine and
document successes achieved over the past year and discuss actions to be undertaken in the following year. The
Partnership will prepare an Annual Report describing accomplishments resulting from the Hazardville Hazard Mitigation
Initiative and implementation of the Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Plan. The Partnership shall also make recommenda-
tions for improving this Agreement and other disaster mitigation/recovery strategies.
5. RESOURCE COMMITMENT. The parties will consider committing human, technical, and financial resources, coordi-
nate with current and future partners, and carry out the fundamental actions of this voluntary, non-binding Agreement.
6. THE HAZARD MITIGATION INITIATIVE. This Agreement includes two Appendices. Appendix A offers an overview of
the Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative. Appendix B lists commitments made by the parties to be included as part of
the Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Plan that will be acted upon after execution of this Agreement. These actions will
constitute steps toward accomplishing the loss-reduction goal. The period of time for completing defined actions will be
set and reported by the Partnership.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each party has caused this Agreement to be executed by its duly authorized representatives on the
date first mentioned above.
Appendix A – Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative – Proposed Actions:
The Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative is an element of this Memorandum of Agreement. In summary, the Initiative ad-
dresses the following:
A. Reducing flood hazards to low-income, residential structures. The Town of Hazardville Emergency Management
Agency, the Hazardville Department of Planning, and the Hazardville Habitat for Humanity are working to acquire flood-
prone, low-income housing in the manufactured-housing park and other low-income areas in the floodplain, and to find
appropriate, affordable housing for displaced residents.
B. Establishing public education and outreach projects. The Partnership will cooperate to inform the public about the
accomplishments of the Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative, progress of projects, and upcoming public planning
efforts. Working with Hazardville Hardware, the Partnership will also educate the public on insurance, family disaster
preparedness planning, and other safety tips to protect houses from natural and technological hazards.
C. Strengthening the community’s resistance to seismic and landslide hazards by retrofitting vulnerable struc-
tures. This project component will strengthen the community’s housing stock to resist damage from earthquakes by (1)
developing a consistent, sustainable retrofit capability among local builders, contractors, and homeowners; (2) seismically
retrofitting vulnerable structures in the downtown business district; and (3) incorporating standardized retrofit practices
into home and downtown commercial rehabilitation programs.
Under this component, the Partnership will also strive to find additional funding to complete the retrofit of the Town’s
lighthouse, threatened by coastal erosion.
Appendix B – Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative – Resource Commitments:
The Town of Hazardville will:
1. Provide leadership for the Partnership and serve as the point of contact for the Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative.
(continued on page 2-6)
2-6 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
(continued from page 2-5)
2. Provide financial management of the grant funds provided to the Town for hazard mitigation projects, including Hazard
Mitigation Grant Program funds, Flood Mitigation Assistance funds, Pre-Disaster Mitigation funds, etc.
3. Procure the support and assistance of appropriate Town departments and agencies to further the objectives of the
Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Initiative.
4. Supply meeting space and other logistical support for Partnership meetings.
The State of Emergency will:
1. Supply peer review of plans, planning processes, and project implementation to identify potential problems, recommend
solutions, or procure appropriate State support.
2. Attend project review meetings to meet with partners implementing the projects.
3. Facilitate Federal grants applied for by the Town and the Partnership.
Hazardville Department of Planning will:
1. Supervise the acquisition and demolition of vulnerable structures in the floodplain.
2. Designate the resultant publicly owned open space as an area precluded from future development.
Hazardville Department of Housing will:
1. Support the acquisition and demolition of the flood-prone houses of low-income residents by providing additional fund-
ing for replacement housing in non-hazardous areas.
Hazardville Habitat for Humanity will:
1. Solicit its corporate and other partners to supply building materials for new, affordable housing.
2. Organize volunteers to build new, affordable housing in non-hazard areas for current residents of the manufactured
home park and other low income areas in the floodplain.
Hazardville Hardware will:
1. Design and fund public education brochures advising the public about hazard mitigation for homeowners, safety during
hazard events, and the importance of purchasing insurance.
2. Develop a marketing display for the Hazardville Hardware store advertising hazard mitigation for homeowners and
related products that can be purchased at the store.
Task B. Begin to integrate mitigation actions throughout
government operations.
The planning team should work with chief administrative officials
to begin to integrate the newly adopted hazard mitigation goals
and actions into the general operations of its government and part-
ner organizations. By initially working within existing administra-
tive mechanisms, communities and states can quickly and
efficiently implement and finance their hazard mitigation projects
and programs, and incorporate them into their governing systems.
The following sections discuss several options to consider.
1. Use processes that already exist.
A good initial strategy is to take advantage of tools and procedures
that were identified in your capability assessment in Step 2 of
Capability
Assessment
Results
In completing your capabil-
ity assessment in Phase 3 of the plan-
ning process, you identified policies,
programs, practices, and procedures
that could be modified to accommodate
hazard mitigation actions. Consider de-
veloping an implementation strategy
that addresses recommendations that
can be easily implemented first, fol-
lowed by those that need to be modi-
fied, and last, those that require the
adoption of new regulations or policies
or infusion of outside funding sources
for implementation.
2-7Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
Developing the Mitigation Plan, FEMA 386-3. Your research of So-
cial, Technical, Administrative, Legal, Economic, and Environ-
mental (STAPLEE) criteria for mitigation activity should have
uncovered information on the administrative, financial, or legal
mechanisms in your state, tribe, or community. These mecha-
nisms are already in use and familiar to the governmental de-
partments and organizations. This will give the planning
implementation phase a strong initial boost, especially if your
plan calls for expanding existing agency mandates or depart-
mental funds, or creating new programs later on.
Administrative
Departmental or organizational work plans, policy, and pro-
cedural changes. Updating the work plans, policies, or pro-
cedures to include hazard mitigation concepts and
activities can help integrate the plan into daily operations.
These changes can include how major development
projects and subdivision reviews are addressed in hazard-
prone areas or ensure that hazard mitigation concerns are
considered in the approval of major capital improvement
projects.
Job descriptions. Working with department or agency
heads to revise job descriptions of government staff to in-
clude mitigation-related duties could further institutional-
ize hazard mitigation. This change would not necessarily
result in great financial expenditures or programmatic
changes.
Budgetary
Capital and operational budgets. Instead of solely relying
on funding from hazard mitigation programs or other ex-
ternal sources of grant monies, states, tribes, and communi-
ties might consider a line item for mitigation project
funding in their capital or operational budgets. Having a
line item in these budgets may not guarantee funding every
year, but it is certainly easier to get the money allocated if it
is already there. Examples include a revolving fund to fi-
nance a buyout program or a low-interest program to fund
retrofits.
Examples of using existing
resources to accomplish
mitigation:
The Department of Public Works could
adopt more rigorous procedures for in-
specting and cleaning debris from
streams and ditches. Instead of clean-
ing only after storms or complaints from
citizens, the Department could require
inspections of streams and ditches at
least semi-annually.
The Planning Department could add
hazard vulnerability to subdivision and
site plan review criteria and incorporate
any necessary actions at the planning
stage.
A community conservation society or
other interested voluntary organization
could perform inventories of his-
toric sites in hazard areas that
might require special treatment
to protect them from specific
hazards.
You may want to add
some or all of the following lan-
guage into job descriptions for
a community planner, floodplain
manager, emergency manager,
building code official, or water resources en-
gineer in the Public Works Department:
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Knowledge. Knowledge of the principles
of emergency management, specifically
hazard mitigation. Knowledge of the prin-
ciples and practices of sustainable devel-
opment and how it is incorporated into
hazard mitigation planning. Knowledge of
FEMA’s pre- and post-disaster mitigation
programs, as well as other federal agency
programs (HUD, EPA, SBA) that provide
technical and/or financial assistance for
implementing pre- or post-disaster mitiga-
tion planning. Knowledge of private/non-
governmental programs that can support
reconstruction and mitigation strategies.
Skills. Consensus building and team build-
ing, communication (verbal and written)/in-
terpersonal skills.
Abilities. Ability to apply planning principles
and tools to the goals of hazard loss reduc-
tion.
2-8 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Regulatory
Executive Orders, ordinances, and other directives. The gov-
erning body or local executive often has the authority to issue
directives to require departments and agencies to carry out
certain hazard mitigation actions. Using one of these mecha-
nisms, the governing body or executive can direct department
heads to provide progress reports to the planning team on the
hazard mitigation initiatives that the departments are respon-
sible for carrying out.
Comprehensive planning. Adding a hazard
element to the comprehensive plan is one of
the most effective mechanisms to institution-
alize hazard mitigation for new construction.
For communities with a comprehensive plan,
Getting Started (FEMA 386-1) listed several
reasons why a community should integrate
mitigation planning and comprehensive
planning. A primary benefit of combining
these processes is that they both influence
the location, type, and characteristics of
physical growth, specifically buildings and
infrastructure. While planning in and of itself
may not be regulatory, it uses regulatory
mechanisms (zoning, development ordi-
nances, etc.) for implementing goals and ob-
jectives. Additionally, in many parts of the
country, the comprehensive planning process
is an established activity that is already famil-
iar to the public, and it usually generates a
great deal of interest and public participa-
tion.
2. Secure traditional sources of financing.
In Phase 3 of the planning process, potential
sources of funding to implement the priorities
in your mitigation strategy were identified. Now
that the plan has been adopted, you have a
strong basis for obtaining these resources. Com-
munities and states have a range of tools to fi-
nance projects. Use of fees, taxes, bonds, and
loans to finance projects are options if there is
proper state enabling legislation, local author-
See Developing
the Mitigation Plan
(FEMA 386-3) for more
information on using the fol-
lowing implementation tools
for hazard mitigation:
Building Codes
Zoning Ordinances
Subdivision Ordinances
Special Hazard Area Regulations
Integrating Hazard Elements into
Comprehensive Planning
For guidance on what to include in a local hazard
element, see the American Planning Association’s
Growing Smart Legislative Guidebook at
www.planning.org/growingsmart.
In July 2002, the Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS)
published a report entitled Summary of State Land Use and
Natural Hazards Planning Laws. This report focused on the
relationship between state planning laws and other statutes
that addressed natural hazards and their effect on local-level
comprehensive planning and land-use regulations. More in-
formation about the results of this report is available at http:/
/www.ibhs.org/research_library/view.asp?id=302.
Oregon has long been recognized as a pioneer in local plan-
ning for natural hazards. In 1969, Oregon adopted Senate
Bill 10, which required every city and county in the state to
have comprehensive land use plans that met state require-
ments. This mandate, however, did not grant any authority to
enforce the requirement or provide for any technical support
or training to the communities. Subsequently, Senate Bill 100
was passed to address these issues, creating the Land Con-
servation and Development Commission (LCDC). Among its
responsibilities, the LCDC was charged with establishing
statewide planning goals that were to be congruent with re-
gional, county, and city concerns; preparing statewide plan-
ning guidelines, model ordinances, and regulations; and
ensuring widespread citizen involvement and input through-
out all phases of the planning process.
One of the state planning goals requires Oregon communi-
ties to inventory known natural hazards and to implement
appropriate safeguards for development in hazard areas. On
behalf of the LCDC, the Department of Land Conservation
and Development (DLCD) developed Planning for Natural
Hazards: Oregon Technical Resource Guide to help com-
munities appraise and potentially improve the effectiveness
of the natural hazard planning element in their comprehen-
sive plans. The guide also provides useful information on
how to identify and plan for a variety of natural hazards, and
implement programs to address them. The publication is avail-
able online at http://www.lcd.state.or.us/hazhtml/
Guidehome.htm.
2-9Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
ity, and enough political will. Once the plan has been adopted,
there is a legitimate basis for initiating the process required to use
these financial tools.
All of your plan’s mitigation recommendations probably cannot be
implemented using local funding sources. Furthermore, it may
take some time to work through the legal and administrative pro-
cesses to use proceeds from bond issues and similar vehicles. To
supplement local funds, communities can apply for grants from
federal or state governments, nonprofit organizations, and founda-
tions, as well as seek funding from other private sources. The ad-
vantage of applying for grants is that they do not have to be paid
back or generate long-term debt; however, most federal grants re-
quire state and/or local governments to provide some matching
funds.
State and federal grants are a logical source of funding for some of
the larger, more costly mitigation initiatives. Many federal grant
mechanisms allow local “in-kind services” as a match for federal
dollars, as well as the possibility of using state grant funds to meet
the local match requirements. Review your capability assessment
from Phase 3 and consider looking to regional planning agencies,
universities, or economic development districts, if present and ac-
tive in your state, for research or grant-writing technical assistance.
The adjacent sidebar describes three major FEMA mitigation grant
programs. Don’t forget the potential of other federal grant pro-
grams for community development, even if they are not specifically
disaster or mitigation related—the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant
(CDBG), for example. For more on funding sources, see Planning
for a Sustainable Future: The Link Between Hazard Mitigation and
Sustainability (FEMA 364), and the Mitigation Resources for Success CD
(FEMA 372).
3. Develop creative partnerships, funding, and incentives.
Incentives that minimize financial or administrative burden can
stimulate momentum to undertake mitigation initiatives. For ex-
ample, states and communities can provide tax rebates for code
upgrades, offer reduced property taxes and insurance premiums
for citizens and businesses that take steps to lower their exposure
to hazards, or provide low interest loans for retrofit projects.
Some states, tribes, and communities have developed creative ways
to get things done without spending a lot of their money. These
Three FEMA pro-
grams that provide fund-
ing for hazard mitigation
actions are the Pre-Disas-
ter Mitigation Program
(PDM), Flood Mitigation Assistance
Program (FMA), and the Hazard Miti-
gation Grant Program (HMGP). Web
access to information on these pro-
grams is available at www.fema.gov/
fima/.
PDM, authorized under DMA 2000,
provides pre-disaster funding to
states, tribal, and local governments,
and tribal organizations for mitigation
planning and projects through a com-
petitive process. A FEMA- approved
mitigation plan is required to receive
project funding. Check with your
FEMA Regional Office or SHMO for
the latest information on availability
of funds.
FMA provides annual grants to com-
munities, tribes, and states to reduce
the risk of flood damage to structures
with flood insurance coverage. This
funding is available for mitigation
planning, implementation of mitiga-
tion actions, and technical assis-
tance. An approved flood mitigation
plan is required to receive project
grants, but is not required for plan-
ning or technical assistance grants.
Interim final regulations implement-
ing this program can be found at 44
CFR Part 78.
HMGP provides post-disaster grants
to states, tribes, and local govern-
ments to implement long-term haz-
ard mitigation actions after a major
disaster declaration. FEMA can fund
up to 75% of the eligible costs of each
project, and up to 7% of HMGP funds
available per state may be used for
planning. An approved mitigation
plan is required to receive project
funding. See Interim Final Rules at
44 CFR §201 and §206.
2-10 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Some examples of different types of partnerships that can provide funding or other resources
to implement hazard mitigation actions are provided below. See Mitigation Resources for Success (FEMA 372) for
additional examples and a more detailed discussion of funding mitigation actions.
Public-Private Partnerships. Partnership agreements between local governments and businesses or organiza-
tions can be advantageous for all parties involved. Private organizations and businesses routinely offer discounted or free
goods and services to local governments in exchange for publicity or other benefits. In the end, the governments, organiza-
tions, businesses, and the public can all benefit from working together. Examples of successful public/private partnerships
include the following:
In Houston, Texas, FEMA and two prominent home improvement stores teamed up to provide information and advice on
cleaning up and rebuilding after flooding caused by Tropical Storm Allison. FEMA Hazard Mitigation Teams staffed
booths at both stores for three days, providing information on mitigation methods and techniques and the importance of
flood insurance. By providing space, the stores played an important role in promoting community awareness of flooding
hazards and helped foster public involvement in recovery.
In Kinston, North Carolina, affordable housing was disproportionately affected by Hurricanes Fran and Floyd. The Per-
manent Housing Initiative, a partnership between the North Carolina Division of Emergency Management, the North
Carolina Department of Corrections, and private sector home improvement companies, was formed to help address the
housing shortage and subsequent housing acquisitions. Using a Habitat for Humanity housing model, energy efficient
and hazard-resistant affordable housing was constructed in already established neighborhoods. Homes were con-
structed by volunteers using prefabricated wall panels (made by prison labor experienced in construction) and other
donated tools and materials. The foundation, electrical system, and ductwork were done by certified professionals.
In an effort to promote awareness of hurricanes and flooding in the coastal community of Virginia Beach, Virginia, the
city held a Home Safety and Preparedness Exposition that included a section devoted to building disaster-resistant
communities. More than 20 local businesses and organizations and the Virginia Department of Emergency Manage-
ment sponsored the event. In return, sponsors were given display booths at the event to promote their goods and
services.
Community Volunteers. State and local governments rely upon their citizens to perform work that might otherwise have to be
paid for by money from government coffers. Some governments have institutionalized volunteerism by requiring students to
contribute volunteer hours to local and regional initiatives. Others have partnered with nonprofit agencies, organizations,
schools, and businesses to give their time and energy to help further community goals.
Citizen Corps is a program within the USA Freedom Corps that promotes several initiatives to engage volunteers in
Homeland Security efforts, including mitigation actions, across the country. These community-based efforts include
Community Emergency Response Teams (CERTs), Neighborhood Watch, Volunteers in Police Service, Operation TIPS,
and the Medical Reserve Corps.
Following flooding in 1993, the City of Petersburg, Illinois, bought out riverfront property that had been flooded and
engaged a group of high school students, the Community Problem Solvers (CmPS), to formulate a creative solution for
rehabilitating the area as perpetual open space. The CmPS developed a garden and a preschool playground, a solution
that was responsive to the needs of the neighborhood, city government requests, and federal government requirements.
To fund the project, the CmPS team applied the same initiative and creativity that they had used to design it. The team
organized a “Decorate an Abe” contest in honor of former Petersburg resident Abraham Lincoln. Area businesses
sponsored and decorated Abe silhouettes, and residents paid to vote for their favorites. The “Abes” were later auctioned
off to raise additional funds. In addition, the team designed and sold Historic Petersburg placemats. Volunteers from civic
organizations donated funds to sponsor specific pieces of playground equipment, and a local business donated Lincoln
Bears to be sold. Preschool children participated in a clean-up day at the site. Overall, many Petersburg residents
governments have engaged untapped resources by developing rela-
tionships with businesses, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers.
Time spent earlier in the planning process developing relation-
ships with citizens, businesses, and other communities can really
pay off at this point in the process (see Getting Started, FEMA
2-11Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
contributed their funds, talents, and energy to make the project successful. The CmPS members not only helped
minimize its community’s vulnerability to flooding, they did it in a way that promoted community pride and civic involve-
ment.
Oakland, California, developed a community partnership called Safety and Future Empowerment (SAFE). Two initia-
tives, the Week of Caring and Spring Break, brought together city firefighters, corporate employees, students, the
California Office of Emergency Services, and AmeriCorps members to make homes in the community safer and less
vulnerable to earthquakes and fire. Four volunteer teams spread out across the city for a week to make the homes of
elderly and low-income residents more disaster resistant. The teams installed smoke alarms and cupboard latches,
strapped water heaters and free-standing cabinets to house frames, and rigged safety releases on window security
bars. Local businesses donated or provided supplies at reduced costs in support of the effort.
State cooperation. Local governments often underestimate the wealth of resources that their states can provide. States are
excellent sources of funding, support, and technical assistance. State geological surveys, water resources agencies, and
departments of planning or natural resources often have useful data related to hazard identification and risk assessments.
Your state may also have a GIS department that can provide data and support.
Unfortunately, localities sometimes pay for studies that have already been conducted by the state. You can avoid these
duplications by inviting your state officials to participate in the planning process to help ensure that studies or reports can be
compiled from readily available sources.
State fairs and other state-sponsored events can be great places for displays on hazard reduction techniques and hazard
awareness campaigns. States can further help publicize awareness and generate interest by declaring a Hazard Awareness
Week and promoting related local events on their Web sites.
In-kind resources. Federal or state grants often require the awarded locality to provide matching funds to cover a percentage
of hazard mitigation project costs. In-kind resources, however, substitute monetary outlay with services that the community
can perform. For example, HMGP pays up to 75% of the eligible costs of a hazard mitigation project, but the remaining amount
must also be contributed to the project by non-federal sources. A municipality without sufficient resources can ask the state to
help fund the match through state or Community Development Block Grant funds, or it can use in-kind resources. In-kind
resources can be labor or salaries contributed toward the implementation of the project (such as technical or administrative
support from community officials and personnel). The dollar value of the resource must be calculated, and those costs must
be allowable under the grant. Communities can have quite a bit of leeway in developing sources of in-kind resources; however,
your state’s specific program requirements must be verified first. Federal regulations regarding in-kind matches for FEMA’s
grant programs can be found at 44 CFR §13.24.
386-1). For more details on funding and creatively using planning
resources, see FEMA 372, Mitigation Resources for Success.
Task C. Monitor and document the implementation of
your projects and actions.
As mentioned earlier, the planning team must continuously moni-
tor and document the progress of the plan’s recommended ac-
tions. This documentation is essential for determining the progress
made on the hazard mitigation initiatives.
The planning team may decide to ask the agencies, departments,
organizations, or people with duties identified in the mitigation
strategy to periodically submit a work progress report on those
projects being implemented. This report will come in handy at
evaluation time. If there is a problem with the project or program,
the planning team will be better able to pinpoint where the prob-
2-12 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
lem lies. An example of the report agencies could use should in-
clude the following information:
The hazard mitigation action’s objectives;
Who the lead and supporting agencies responsible for imple-
mentation are;
How long the project should take, including a delineation of
the various stages of work along with timelines (milestones
should be included);
Whether the resources needed for implementation, funding,
staff time, and technical assistance are available, or if other
arrangements must be made to obtain them;
The types of permits or approvals necessary to implement the
action;
Details on the ways the actions will be accomplished within
the organization, and whether the duties will be assigned to
agency staff or contracted out; and
Current status of the project, identifying any issues that may
hinder implementation.
Requiring the responsible parties to explain exactly how and when
the project or programs will be carried out helps determine the
extent of the project’s progress. It also helps break the implemen-
tation process into smaller, more manageable tasks. The respon-
sible agency, department, or organization can decide the
particulars of incorporating these additional considerations into
their daily operations, while the planning team will know what to
expect and when to expect it. See Worksheet #1: Progress Report
to help you monitor progress.
Task D. Establish indicators of effectiveness or success.
In Step 3, you will measure or evaluate the effectiveness of your
mitigation project and initiatives. It will be important to establish
measurable indicators of effectiveness now so that those involved in
the projects understand how their actions contribute to the success
of the projects. Indicators should be tied to the goals and objec-
tives of the plan and its projects. They are often expressed as nu-
merical representations of planning objectives.
For example, if an objective of the planning process is to increase
community participation in risk reduction, and a related initiative
includes an outreach program to introduce new partners to
2-13Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
Worksheet #1 Progress Report step
Progress Report Period:_________________ to ___________________________________________________
(date) (date)
Project Title:_________________________________________ Project ID#:____________________________
Responsible Agency:_________________________________________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________________________________________________
City/County:________________________________________________________________________________
Contact Person:_______________________________________Title:_________________________________
Phone #(s):____________________________email address:_______________________________________
List Supporting Agencies and Contacts:
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Total Project Cost:___________________________________________________________________________
Anticipated Cost Overrun/Underrun:_____________________________________________________________
Date of Project Approval:_________________________Start date of the project:_________________________
Anticipated completion date:___________________________________________________________________
Description of the Project (include a description of each phase, if applicable, and the time frame for completing each
phase):___________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
October 1, 2003 December 31, 2003
Raging River Views Park Flood Acquisition Project HVMP-2003-01
Hazardville Department of Planning
1909 Burnham Way
Hazardville, Emergency
Eunice Euclid Grants Administrator
(555) 555-8473 eeuclid@town.hazardville.em
Hazardville Department of Housing: Noah Hudson (555) 555-8465
Hazardville Habitat for Humanity: Carter Goodman (555) 555-9432
$360,000
$N/A
July 21, 2003 November 15, 2003
Summer 2005
Acquire and demolish 14 structures located at the Raging River Views Park. Work with Habitat for Humanity and the Department of Housing
to construct new housing or rehabilitate existing housing for displaced low-income residents. The Department of Housing will also provide
funds for temporary housing to displaced residents.
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Page 1 of 3
2-14 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Plan Goal(s)/Objective(s) Addressed:
Goal:_____________________________________________________________________________________
Objective:__________________________________________________________________________________
Indicator of Success (e.g., losses avoided as a result of the acquisition program):
In most cases, you will list losses avoided as the indicator. In cases where it is difficult to quantify the benefits in dollar
amounts, you will use other indicators, such as the number of people who now know about mitigation or who are tak-
ing mitigation actions to reduce their vulnerability to hazards.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Status (Please check pertinent information and provide explanations for items with an asterisk. For completed or
canceled projects, see Worksheet #2 — to complete a project evaluation):
Minimize losses to existing and future structures within hazard areas.
Reduce potential damages to the manufactured home park in the floodplain.
Losses Avoided. After a major flood (100-year), the Department of Economic Development will assist the Planning Department in
calculating the losses avoided.
Summary of progress on project for this report:
A. What was accomplished during this reporting period?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
B. What obstacles, problems, or delays did you encounter, if any?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
C. How was each problem resolved?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Project Cost Status
Cost unchanged
Cost overrun*
*explain:___________________________________
_________________________________________
Cost underrun*
*explain:___________________________________
_________________________________________
Project Status
Project on schedule
Project completed
Project delayed*
*explain:___________________________________
_________________________________________
Project canceled
The Department of Planning contacted the owners of the properties vulnerable to floods to determine their willingness to sell their properties.
Of the 14 property owners contacted, 10 agreed to have their homes acquired. An appraiser contracted by the Department of Planning estimated
the value of the 10 properties.
The owners of four properties refused to sell. There has been some limited neighborhood opposition to various suggestions for the community
open space created by the acquisitions.
The Department of Planning has proposed to the residents a design charrette to develop alternatives for the open space that would be created,
with the understanding that no permanent structures can be constructed on the open parcels after acquisition and demolition has been
completed. Recreational activities will be limited to passive uses such as trails and bike paths.
Page 2 of 3
2-15Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
Next Steps: What is/are the next step(s) to be accomplished over the next reporting period?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Other comments:
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Adapted from the North Carolina HMGP Progress Report Form at http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/mitigation/document_index.htm.
1. Send offer letters to homeowners.
2. Do title work.
3. Work with the Department of Housing and Habitat for Humanity to identify existing housing for rehabilitation and viable vacant parcels
to construct new housing for the displaced residents.
None
Page 3 of 3
2-16 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
mitigation, an indicator could be the number of organizations that
are on the planning team.
Task E. Celebrate success.
It is important to maintain community support throughout the
implementation process. One particularly effective technique is to
simply keep the community informed about the incremental
progress and success of the program. Sharing the findings of
progress reports with interested organizations, neighborhood
groups, elected officials, and citizens keeps stakeholders up-to-date
on your accomplishments and possible setbacks. Posting these find-
ings on your local Web site or including them in your newsletter
will help everyone stay informed of your progress. Consider hold-
ing events to recognize key milestones to keep the public inter-
ested. Step 3 contains more information about how to maintain
this important part of the overall effort.
Summary
Implementation is the culmination of the initial planning process.
Monitoring progress and maintaining momentum is key to ensur-
ing success of the planning process. Through the implementation
of your plan, you will draw upon the diverse resources of your
state, tribe, or community. While many of the tools you use already
exist in one form or another, your team should try to use as much
creativity and resourcefulness as possible to advance your plan’s
goals and objectives.
2-17Version 1.0 August 2003
implement the plan recommendations 2
The Hazardville Post
Vol. CXV No. 252 Friday, September 9, 2005
Hazardville Partnership Completes First Home
(Part 2 of a 4-Part Series on the Hazard Mitigation Implementation Process)
[Hazardville, EM] “Yep, that’s my
new house,” Susan Harris grinned.
“I can’t believe how great it looks!”
As Mrs. Harris showed off the inte-
rior of the nearly completed house,
she noted where her furniture
would go. “I would have put my
mother’s sideboard over here,”
frowning as she pointed to a spot in
the dining room, “but it was ruined
in the flood in 2002. It had been
passed down from her mother, and
I had wanted to pass it down to my
daughter.”
Mrs. Harris is just one of the resi-
dents of Hazardville affected by
flooding in 2002. She and nine of her
neighbors have had their homes
bought by the town and are work-
ing with town, state, and federal
officials to build new homes out of
the floodplain. “My house really
wasn’t worth very much, and I don’t
have enough income to handle a big
mortgage payment,” Mrs. Harris
said, “but the town has been work-
ing with the Hazardville Habitat for
Humanity to help me build a new
one.”
Habitat for Humanity requires
contributions of “sweat equity” in
order to be eligible for participation
in their program. Mrs. Harris claims
that thanks to her contribution she
is now quite capable of fixing just
about everything in her new home.
“Since my husband passed away
almost 10 years ago, I have had to
rely on my friends to help out with
even simple repairs. Now that I have
helped with the construction of sev-
eral of my neighbor’s houses I am
very comfortable using all kinds of
tools!” Mrs. Harris is so comfortable
with her new skills that she is think-
ing about building her own shed
after she gets settled.
“The process is working!” beamed
Joe Norris, lead planner for
Hazardville. Norris, referring to the
hazard mitigation plan adopted by
the town in 2003, pointed to the
emphasis the Town of Hazardville
Organization for Risk Reduction
(THORR) had placed on reducing
flooding and disaster-related dam-
ages to existing structures while
recognizing the needs of residents
with limited resources. Part of that
emphasis was on creating and fol-
lowing through with community
partnerships.
The Town of Hazardville Partner-
ship for Disaster Mitigation is a
partnership of nonprofits, busi-
nesses, and local, state, and federal
agencies. The Partnership is an ini-
tiative that Hazardville established
in 2003, following adoption of the
hazard mitigation plan. Each part-
ner contributed something to the
effort. Funding from the FMA pro-
gram was used to purchase ten re-
petitive loss structures. Local busi-
nesses contributed to the project by
donating building materials and
supplies. Community volunteers
worked throughout the summer to
make this a reality for Mrs. Harris
and the other homeowners.
step
3-1Version 1.0 August 2003
3
evaluate your
planning
results
Overview
The evaluation step of the planning process allows the planning
team to review the plan, the planning process, and the results
of implemented actions. The evaluation assesses whether the plan-
ning process and actions have been effective, if the community’s
goals are being reached, and whether changes are needed. The
planning team should periodically evaluate the community’s
progress in implementing the plan. Regular evaluation keeps the
community informed of the plan’s status and, ideally, keeps those
responsible for implementing the mitigation actions motivated.
These periodic evaluations may reveal the need for small changes
that may not be necessary to incorporate into the plan annually,
but that accumulate over time until large-scale revision to the plan
is needed (see Step 4, Revise the Plan).
Communities that commit to conducting periodic evaluations give
themselves the opportunity to determine the effectiveness of their
procedures and recommendations, identify new areas of concern,
and renew enthusiasm for the cause of hazard mitigation. This step
will show you how to keep the planning team, the planning pro-
cess, and the implementation actions effective. The result is a haz-
ard mitigation process that people have confidence in, and are
willing to support.
What you learn in this evaluation will be used to determine
whether or not to revise the plan document, to be described in
Step 4. By looking impartially at what took place the previous year,
the planning team will create a foundation on which to base its
revision of the plan and a trigger to re-invigorate the cause for haz-
ard mitigation in the community.
DMA 2000 requires
communities to evalu-
ate their hazard mitigation
plan at least every five years.
The way in which this is to
be done must also be documented in
the plan. By including a provision in the
adoption mechanism to evaluate the
plan and the implementation process,
you have a built-in mechanism to insti-
tutionalize and sustain the mitigation ini-
tiative beyond the creation of the original
document.
Communities that
want credit for their
hazard mitigation plan under
the Community Rating Sys-
tem (CRS) must evaluate
their plan annually.
The plan should
also be evaluated and re-
vised following disasters, to
determine if the recom-
mended actions are appro-
priate given the impact of the event. The
risk assessment should also be revis-
ited to see if any changes are neces-
sary based on the pattern of disaster
damages.
According to DMA
2000 requirements,
states that want to be eligible
for the 20% share of HMGP
funds must develop a pro-
cess to assess the effectiveness of a
mitigation activity after its completion.
3-2 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Procedures & Techniques
Task A. Evaluate the effectiveness of the planning
process.
To evaluate the results of your planning efforts, begin by stepping
back and looking at the big picture. Governments must be highly
accountable to their citizens and able to defend their decisions.
Evaluating the planning process is a good way to discover if the
plan is working for the good of your state, tribe, or community. A
review of the planning process will give you an idea of how success-
fully mitigation has been integrated into your normal administra-
tive processes so far, and what procedural areas may need to be
refined or changed.
The first year of the planning process is the most critical because
you are beginning to implement the plan. While the energy and
momentum generated during this phase of planning are still
present, your state, tribe, or community may have established an
annual review process at the time of adoption to address the unan-
ticipated problems that may affect the success of your planning
efforts. An annual review is also a good opportunity to reflect on
whether certain relationships developed during the process should
be enhanced, and to initiate new partnerships based on experi-
ences from developing and implementing the plan. The planning
team should take this opportunity to reflect on the processes used
so far to engage partners and the public, to develop loss reduction
priorities, and to finance projects.
1. Reconvene the planning team.
The first step in evaluating the plan is to reconvene the planning
team. Ideally, the planning team was established as a permanent
working group within your state, tribe, or community to oversee
the development and implementation of the mitigation strategy.
Even after the plan is adopted, the planning team should meet at
least semi-annually to review the progress of the mitigation plan-
ning efforts.
At this point, however, your team may want to think about inviting
new stakeholders to join during the evaluation. These meetings are
a good opportunity to bring new members up to speed on the
planning team’s history, mitigation strategy, and planning process.
Use Worksheet #2: Evaluate Your Planning Team to assist you in
this task.
DMA 2000 regula-
tions do not require an-
nual evaluations. The
recommendations pre-
sented here will help you to
meet the five-year local update require-
ments.
The evaluation
phase should not
be anticipated with anxiety.
If the planning team, citi-
zens, government, and
other stakeholders have diligently
implemented the recommendations,
the evaluation phase will give the
community reasons to celebrate the
success of its mitigation efforts.
3-3Version 1.0 August 2003
evaluate your planning results 3
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If the planning team determines the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” some changes may be necessary.
Worksheet #2 Evaluate Your Planning Team step
3-4 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
2. Review your planning process.
One of the first areas for the planning team to assess is the plan-
ning process itself. With a year of hindsight, you can now step back
and see what you would have done differently had you known what
you know today. Look at each of the key elements of your planning
process, such as building the planning team, engaging the public,
gathering data to conduct your risk and capability assessments, and
coordinating with other agencies, and determine how well they
worked. The following are some suggested questions to ask:
a. Building the Planning Team. In continually building your
planning team, have you left anyone out? Are there roles
that need to be clarified or better defined? Has the plan-
ning team met as agreed upon? Have meetings been pro-
ductive? Are procedures for implementing, monitoring,
and evaluating the plan being followed? Are the lead
agency and staff still able to play the lead? Again,
Worksheet #2 will help with this task.
b. Engaging the Public. When looking at public involve-
ment, you may need to conduct a survey to gauge how
the public perceived your planning effort. Determine
whether stakeholders and citizens felt that they had
enough opportunities to provide input; the extent to
which they are now aware of their hazards and are willing
to support your efforts; what they think of the progress
you are making; and whether outreach efforts—public
meetings, workshops, Web site, newspaper notices, etc.
were effective. Ask them what they would like to see done
differently to involve them or keep them informed. In
many cases, this may be a matter of simply asking resi-
dents if they now understand what hazards they are sus-
ceptible to, and what “hazard mitigation” means to them.
c. Data Gathering and Analysis. Are data gathering proce-
dures working? Did someone follow up with the local uni-
versity or other agencies to obtain research findings or
reports that were not available during the planning pro-
cess? Have team members provided copies of studies that
their agencies or organizations completed? Are there
more efficient methods of collecting data and maintain-
ing up-to-date information from established sources?
Evaluating Public
Involvement in
Hazard Mitigation
Surveys are a good tool to
assess how well your public education
and outreach projects are working, how
the community perceives your hazard
mitigation planning efforts, and to ob-
tain feedback on proposed mitigation ac-
tions. Following are a few sample
questions to ask:
Do you have a greater under-
standing of the hazards to which
you are susceptible? On a scale
of 1-5 (1=very little; 5=a great
deal), how much more do you
know than you knew before plan-
ning efforts began?
Do you now have a greater un-
derstanding of what you and your
community can do to lessen the
effects of natural hazards?
(1=very little; 5=a great deal)
3-5Version 1.0 August 2003
evaluate your planning results 3
d. Coordinating with other Agencies. How well did coordi-
nation work? Did agencies have sufficient notice for
meetings? Did they have enough time to review the draft
plan? Have agreements been followed? Do MOAs need to
be revised, due to changes in funding, priorities, staffing,
or other events?
Look at what worked and what didn’t as you prepared and imple-
mented the plan, and identify ways to improve the process.
Task B. Evaluate the effectiveness of your actions.
Measuring the effectiveness of your programs, policies, practices,
and projects is another important element of your evaluation. If
your plan called for strategies with a relatively short implementa-
tion time frame, their overall success can be evaluated if they have
been completed. Additionally, you can assess actual losses avoided
as a result of projects implemented following a disaster. Most miti-
gation projects, however, are done gradually, as resources and con-
ditions allow. The progress to date of these projects can therefore
be evaluated by reviewing whether the project is on time, in line
with the budget, and moving ahead as planned. Now is the time to
gather data to assess your progress toward meeting your objectives,
and ultimately meeting your plan goals. This is also a good time to
pull together the progress reports agencies submitted to you peri-
odically. These will enable you to answer the questions that follow
and help your planning team evaluate how effective the mitigation
projects and actions have been. Use Worksheet #3: Evaluate Your
Project Results to assist you in completing this task.
1. What were the results of the implemented actions? Did the results
achieve the goals/objectives outlined in the plan? Did the actions have
the intended results?
Review the goals and objectives of your plan. Be able to show how
(or whether) the project met the objective it was designed to
achieve. This is where you can measure the results of the project
against the identified indicator of success.
Sometimes projects have unintended results, which can be good if
they provide an extra benefit to the state or community, or not as
good if they did not achieve or protect everything to the extent
planned. Examples of unintended results can extend to environ-
mental, social, or economic impacts.
If you received fed-
eral funds for the
project, you have been sub-
mitting quarterly reports to
the responsible agency on
its progress. These quarterly reports will
be very helpful in showing the project’s
current status, such as percentage com-
plete, total project costs obligated ver-
sus amount spent, problems with
implementation, and anticipated
completion date.
3-6 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
IF YES
IF NO
Project Name and Number:
Raging River Views Park Flood Acquisition Project (HVMP-2003-01)
Project Budget:
$360,000
Project Description:
Acquisition and demolition of 14 flood-prone structures
Associated Goal and Objective(s):
Goal:Minimize losses to existing and future structures within
hazard areas
Objective:Reduce potential damages to the manufactured home park
in the floodplain
Indicator of Success (e.g., losses avoided):
Losses avoided by acquisition and demolition of flood-prone structures
Worksheet #3 Evaluate Your Project Results step
Was the action implemented?YES NO
What were the results of the implemented action?
Of the 14 proposed properties, 10 were acquired. The benefit-cost ratio is 2.19, based on project benefits of $789,000 and
costs of $360,274. Benefits are based on the net present value of the avoided damages over the project life. Furthermore,
about 40 people are no longer in the path of a potential flood, making emergency rescue operations in that area less likely
and evacuation easier.
Why not?
Was there political support for the action?
Were enough funds available?
Were workloads equitably or realistically distributed?
Was new information discovered about the risks or community that made
implementation difficult or no longer sensible?
Was the estimated time of implementation reasonable?
Were sufficient resources (for example staff and technical assistance) available?
YES NO
page 1 of 2
evaluate your planning results 3
3-7Version 1.0 August 2003
Date:
Prepared by:
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October 12, 2005
Hazardville Department of Economic Development
Hazardville Department of Planning
page 2 of 2
3-8 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Sample Indicators to Measure Progress in
Reducing Risk
There are a variety of ways to measure effectiveness of mitigation
actions. You can look at dollar amounts in losses avoided, both ex-
pected (prior to implementing a project) and actual (following a disaster). You can
also look at how the mitigation actions have changed the number of households,
businesses, critical facilities, and environmental assets that are at risk. Some
other indicators are listed below.
For more on indicators, see the publication Hazard Mitigation in North Carolina:
Measuring Success, Chapter 6 available online at http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/
Mitigation/Library/Success_Stories/Measuring_Success_Vol2/Chapter6.pdf.
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3-9Version 1.0 August 2003
evaluate your planning results 3
Cost-effectiveness
is a key evaluation crite-
rion for federal grant pro-
grams. Cost-effectiveness
has several possible defini-
tions, although for grant-making pur-
poses FEMA defines a cost-effective
project as one whose long-term ben-
efits exceed its costs. An easier way to
say this is that a project should prevent
more expected damages over the
course of its effective “life” than it costs
to fund the effort. This is done to ensure
that limited public funds are used in the
most efficient manner possible. Benefit-
cost analysis is one way to illustrate that
a project is meritorious and deserves
funding.
2. Were the actions cost-effective? Did (or would) the project result in the
reduction of potential losses?
It is not always enough to say whether an action was generally effec-
tive or not, especially when considering publicly funded projects.
This is particularly true for mitigation actions that may require a
subsequent hazard event to truly determine effectiveness. Absent
an event, the potential losses avoided can be estimated for most
“brick and mortar” mitigation projects. The term “brick and mor-
tar” mitigation actions in this context refers to projects such as ret-
rofit, acquisition, demolition, or relocation, and flood works such
as levees, dams, and floodwalls.
One of the most important indicators to evaluate the effectiveness
of mitigation actions undertaken by the state, tribe, or community
is Losses Avoided. This indicator provides a dollar value estimate
of the structural, content, and displacement costs that would have
occurred if the mitigation action were not taken. The losses
avoided are most easily estimated for structural mitigation actions.
Surveys and qualitative statements may have to suffice as indicators
for educational or regulatory actions and to address other objec-
tives that may be associated with specific mitigation actions.
If the cost-effectiveness of the hazard mitigation projects imple-
mented was originally determined by benefit-cost analyses (BCA),
the planning team may consider reviewing the old BCA to deter-
mine whether the costs and benefits were close to what was esti-
mated, or whether there were unforeseen costs or benefits. The
point of revisiting the BCA is to re-calculate what losses would actu-
ally be reduced if the event were to occur. If possible, repeat rel-
evant portions of the risk assessment to see if the project reduced
potential losses. If HAZUS was used to develop the initial loss esti-
mate, you may want to re-run it using the post-project results.
An initiative that did not have a BCA performed still can be objec-
tively evaluated for its cost-effectiveness. Projects that do not lend
themselves to benefit-cost analyses (e.g., education and outreach
campaigns) or those projects where public values and ethical con-
siderations ended up weighing more heavily on the final selection
of an action than the results of a BCA, may require other methods,
such as surveys, to gauge their effectiveness.
Whether you used BCA or other defensible methods to determine
the cost-effectiveness of your actions, remember to document your
results. Citizens, as well as state, local, and federal officials, will
want to know of the losses avoided or benefits gained from your
Be sure to stay in
touch with your state on
a regular basis to ensure
that you remain aware of
any changes to state mitiga-
tion goals or priorities. Similarly, states
must communicate such changes to all
localities.
Displacement
Costs
The dollar amount it would
cost for a function (busi-
ness or service) to be relocated to
another structure because of a haz-
ard event. In the case of residents, this
would be the cost to relocate individu-
als or families to temporary housing.
3-10 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
implemented actions. Let them know that their tax dollars are be-
ing well spent.
3. Document actions that were slow to get started or not implemented.
It is important to include a discussion of why certain actions were
slow in getting underway, never finished, or didn’t get started at all.
The project may have been delayed or removed from the list of
actions because of an unforeseen problem with the implementa-
tion. In the case of an elevation, acquisition, or relocation project,
for example, the voluntary nature of the program gives the home-
owner or business the right to change their minds at any time, all
the way up to just before the physical work on the project begins or
any financial compensation has been received.
Task C. Determine why the actions worked (or did not
work).
After verifying that an action was or was not implemented and its
overall results, the planning team should try to document why the
action worked or did not work. If a mitigation activity or project
was unsuccessful, it is important to ascertain why so that more ap-
propriate alternatives can be developed next time. If a mitigation
project ends up being only partially implemented, it is important
to get to the root cause, such as exceeding the budget. On the
other hand, be sure to evaluate and document what did work suc-
cessfully, and why. Understanding the factors that contributed to
the success of a project, program, or policy is particularly impor-
tant when you want to replicate or expand it. Use Worksheet #3 to
complete this task.
Several considerations to examine include:
Availability of resources;
The political or popular support for or against the action;
The availability of funds;
The workloads of the responsible parties; and
The actual time necessary to implement the actions.
Be sure to publicize
this information to other
communities within the
state. Don’t be shy about it,
either—let other states and
FEMA know about your successes! If
possible, also communicate caveats
and warnings as a result of less posi-
tive outcomes. Everyone will benefit
from lessons learned.
3-11Version 1.0 August 2003
evaluate your planning results 3
After a Disaster Strikes
If a disaster strikes after you have completed your hazard mitigation
plan, don’t let the document sit on the shelf—it is a valuable resource for
the long-term recovery and reconstruction of your community. The initial period
following a disaster can be very chaotic. So many issues require attention that any
thoughts of long-term recovery are crowded out by immediate recovery efforts.
Critical life and safety issues come first: search and rescue operations, treating the
injured, re-establishing vital public services, and providing emergency shelter. But
once the task of clearing debris is well underway, community decision-makers
need to shift their attention to long-term recovery. This is the opportunity to recon-
vene the mitigation planning team and evaluate the list of hazard mitigation priori-
ties in light of the recent disaster.
Critical policy issues that emerge following disasters require local governments to
make difficult decisions about how best to rebuild. Disaster victims have an inher-
ent desire to rebuild rapidly and return to normal—to the way things were before
the disaster. Communities, however, must balance this need against the objective
of building back better and stronger, and use the opportunity of the disaster to
improve the community’s disaster resilience. Pressure to restore normalcy can be
so strong that safety, hazard mitigation, and community improvement goals can be
compromised or abandoned. Communities have a very short period of time to
introduce, and gain acceptance of, new approaches to reconstruction. The mitiga-
tion plan will provide an excellent foundation for introducing these new approaches.
The diagram on the following page shows how a disaster triggers the need to re-
evaluate all aspects of the mitigation planning process to determine if changes are
now warranted.
1. What opportunities for hazard mitigation are presented in light of the
disaster damages?
If the hazard mitigation plan included a post-disaster recovery and reconstruction
component to the implementation strategy, this section of the plan should be the
initial focus for the recovery task force. Did the plan anticipate the type and inten-
sity of disaster damages that actually occurred? Are there “off-the-shelf” mitigation
actions that are relevant for this recovery effort? Are there other priority hazard
mitigation actions that have not been implemented due to a lack of available re-
sources?
Identifying potential miti-
gation projects in a post-disaster
scenario is the highest priority task
for the planning team or recovery task
force and the most time sensitive one.
In a major disaster that has a presi-
dential declaration, make sure that
the SHMO and FEMA mitigation staff
working out of the Disaster Field Of-
fice (DFO) have a copy of the hazard
mitigation plan and have a clear un-
derstanding of community priorities
for potential mitigation actions. State
and federal mitigation
planning staff can provide
technical assistance to
your community if neces-
sary.
(continued on page 3-13)
3-12 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
After a Disaster:
Re-evaluate Your
Mitigation Plan and
the Planning
Process
evaluate your planning results 3
3-13Version 1.0 August 2003
2. Following the initial recovery phase, re-evaluate the hazard profiles and
vulnerability assessment.
Did the hazard information presented in the plan reflect the location, intensity,
and duration of the recent event? There may be a need to collect additional data
regarding the event and incorporate that information into the vulnerability assess-
ment.
3. Following a disaster is a good time to evaluate the results of implemented
projects.
How well did your mitigation actions perform? The best time to measure losses
avoided is in the aftermath of a recent disaster, when you can actually see the
difference that mitigation actions made. For example, if a house was protected
from a flood because it was elevated above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
before a disaster occurred, it should be relatively easy to obtain the actual flood
height and determine what kind of damages would have occurred if the house
had not been raised. Louisa County, Iowa, and Long Beach, Mississippi, illustrate
the losses avoided due to flood mitigation actions implemented after floods in
1993 and 1998, respectively.
Federal and state
agencies may have
collected enough informa-
tion from various sources
to determine the reoccur-
rence interval for the recent event.
This indicates the severity or degree
of magnitude of the event. Technical
assistance may be available to sur-
vey high-water marks (in the case of
flooding) or to conduct a building per-
formance assessment. Knowing the
reoccurrence interval for the hazard
will help you reevaluate the accuracy
of the hazard information in the cur-
rent plan. To do this for a flood, for
example, you would compare the ex-
tent of the actual flooding to existing
flood maps to determine whether the
maps accurately portray the true haz-
ard scenario.
Applying for HMGP Funding
The purpose of the HMGP is to reduce the loss of life and property from natural disasters and enable mitigation
actions to be implemented during the recovery process following a presidential disaster declaration.
Eligibility. Individual homeowners and businesses are not eligible, but a community may apply on their behalf. State
governments, tribes and other tribal organizations, and certain nonprofit organizations are eligible, in addition to local
governments.
Project possibilities. All eligible projects must provide a long-term mitigation solution. Additionally, a project’s potential
savings must be more than the cost of implementation. Funds may be used to protect either public or private property.
Examples of possible projects include, but are not limited to: property acquisition and relocation/demolition, retrofitting of
structures to minimize damage from natural hazards, elevation of flood-prone structures, and development and initial
implementation of vegetative management programs. In addition, hazard mitigation planning initiatives are also eligible.
States prioritize and select project applications; however, all potential projects must meet certain minimum criteria ad-
dressing five issues:
1. Does the project conform to your State’s Hazard Mitigation Plan?
2. Will the project beneficially impact the disaster area?
3. Does the application meet federal environmental requirements?
4. Does the project solve a problem independently?
5. Is the project cost-effective?
After a disaster declaration, the state will advertise the availability of HMGP funding and provide guidance on eligibility
criteria. If you are interested in applying, you should contact the SHMO to find out about the application deadline and
about the state’s funding priorities.
Choosing a project and submitting your application. Consider your list of potential projects, and then choose the
project that conforms to the state’s priorities, meets all of the minimum criteria, and can be adequately funded (25% of the
total cost). For additional information, contact your SHMO or the FEMA Mitigation Division in your Region, or visit FEMA’s
Web site at http://www.fema.gov/fima/hmgp. FEMA 345 (Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Desk Reference) contains
more information as well.
(continued on page 3-15)
(continued from page 3-11)
3-14 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Louisa County, Iowa
In 1993, a severe flood occurred in Louisa County, located along the Mississippi River, resulting in damage to
more than 275 homes and the evacuation of nearly 200 families. Following this flood event, the County used
both acquisition and relocation of affected properties to mitigate future flooding problems. In May 2001, the
flood pattern of 1993 repeated itself, and the Mississippi River and its tributaries flooded Louisa County yet again. By
comparing calculated damages from the 1993 flood to the 2001 flood, the effectiveness of the acquisition and relocation
program could be measured. As shown in Tables 1 and 2 below, significant reductions in emergency shelter, family
assistance, and public assistance expenditures were realized in 2001 as a result of the acquisitions and housing reloca-
tions that occurred in the aftermath of the 1993 flooding.
Furthermore, Table 3 shows the losses avoided as a result of the housing acquisitions that occurred. If Louisa County had
chosen not to take any action following the 1993 flood, potential property damage to these structures in the 2001 flood
would have exceeded one million dollars. Calculation of reduction in public assistance expenditures and losses avoided
as a result of proactive mitigation can further highlight the value of hazard mitigation planning efforts to concerned
citizens, local and federal governments, and potential funding agencies.
ytnuoCasiuoLniecnatsissAylimaFdnaretlehSycnegremE.1elbaT
3991 1002
tnemecalpsidoteudderetlehsyliraropmetdnadetaucaveseilimafforebmuN 002 11
)ecnatsissaretsasid-tsopgnitseuqerslaudividni(sesacssorCdeRforebmuN 008 3
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)seulav1002(1002dna3991,serutidnepxEecnatsissAcilbuP.2elbaT
3991 1002
A ecnaraelCsirbeD 512,245$0$
B serusaeMevitcetorPycnegremE 763,44$0$
C sehctiD,strevluC,segdirBdnasdaoR 149,2$0$
D seeveL&seitilicaFlortnoCretaW 0$0$
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F smetsySnoitubirtsiDytilitU 0$0$
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otsessoLdediovA
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0 276,42$301,11$0$577,53$
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)dehsilbupnu(3002AMEF,sseccuSgnirusaeM:awoIninoitagitiMdrazaH:ecruoS
3-15Version 1.0 August 2003
evaluate your planning results 3
Long Beach, Mississippi
Located along the Gulf of Mexico, the coastal city of Long Beach, Mississippi, has been affected by seven
hurricanes and repetitive flooding, often as a result of spring storms. In addition to its vulnerability to flooding
because of its coastal location, the City also suffered from poor drainage, resulting from three poorly maintained
drainage channels. While these channels were better managed in the 1980s, the City, and particularly the areas around the
canals, is still plagued by poor drainage. Following Hurricane Georges in 1998, the City began to take a proactive approach
to flood damages, and identified 95 properties, many of them repetitive loss properties located adjacent to the canals, for
an acquisition and demolition program. This long-term acquisition project had an estimated cost of $7.7 million (see Table
1), with a portion of the funding coming from the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. In 2001, midway through the acquisition
and demolition project, Tropical Storm
Allison struck the Gulf Coast. The
storm caused an overflow from the
drainage system, which flooded the
neighborhoods located near the ca-
nals. Because 44 homes had already
been purchased and demolished prior
to the storm, the losses avoided from
this single flood event were estimated
to be $690,033 (see Table 2). This fig-
ure only represents the losses avoided
to houses, their contents, and dis-
placement costs. It does not include
the additional savings to the local gov-
ernment in emergency services and
disaster assistance costs that would
have been incurred had families re-
mained in the floodplain. By combin-
ing much-needed improvements to its
drainage system with the acquisition
of many repetitive loss properties, the
City of Long Beach shows that miti-
gation projects can lead to substan-
tial savings for the local government
and affected communities.
niseitreporP59fonoitisiuqcArofstsoCdetamitsE:1elbaT
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seitreporPfonoitisiuqcA 429,875,6$
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latoT 989,917,7$
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sgnidliuBotsessoLdediovAdetamitsE 719,205$
stnetnoCotsessoLdediovAdetamitsE 628,58$
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)dehsilbupnu(
4. Depending upon the severity of the recent disaster, it may be necessary
to re-evaluate the range and priority given to specific hazard mitigation ac-
tions.
Should the priority ranking of mitigation actions be re-evaluated given the type and
intensity of the recent event? If the hazard event was not anticipated or given a low
priority as a goal or objective, there may be a need to go through another round of
identifying and prioritizing hazard mitigation actions for your community.
5. Consider including a special section in your mitigation plan devoted to
post-disaster issues.
Many mitigation policies or projects are not politically or economically viable until
after a disaster. Thinking through post-disaster operational and policy issues in the
pre-disaster time frame enables your community to delve into these often emo-
tional subjects in the relative luxury of a non-disaster scenario. FEMA 321, Plan-
ning for Post-Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction, provides more details.
(continued from page 3-13)
3-16 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Task D. Keep the community updated and involved, and
celebrate your successes.
Project implementation brings the community’s hard work to frui-
tion. The planning team should be sure to keep all stakeholders in
the community informed of the progress of the projects. Ways to
engage the community may include staging events to showcase
your accomplishments or taking advantage of media opportunities
to publicize the completion or significant steps of specific projects.
Refer to Getting Started (FEMA 386-1) for additional ways to com-
municate your success to the community.
Summary
The evaluation phase of the planning process helps your planning
team determine whether its planning process and recommenda-
tions have been effective, and if your community’s goals are being
reached. Systematically evaluating the plan keeps your community
informed and hopefully motivates those responsible for imple-
menting the mitigation actions.
After you have evaluated your actions to determine what worked
and did not work, go to Step 4, Revise the Plan, in which you will use
the evaluation results to revise the hazard mitigation plan.
Local and state
agencies should keep
in contact with each other
about the progress of their
mitigation actions. Each
entity should update its risk assess-
ment data using this information. Agen-
cies responsible for maintaining the
state and local plans should update
their plans accordingly, as well.
Methods of communicating with con-
stituents during implementation of the
recommended projects and programs
include:
Write a newsletter to provide de-
tails on projects;
Create 15- or 30-second public
service announcements and
send them to local broadcasters;
Work with your local news or
public access cable station fea-
ture a news story about your ef-
forts;
Hold an annual event honoring
local people who have contrib-
uted to hazard mitigation
projects;
Develop a Web site to post news
articles, meeting notices, and
event notices; and
Establish a speaker’s bureau to
talk to schools, business groups,
and other organizations about
mitigation.
3-17Version 1.0 August 2003
evaluate your planning results 3
The Hazardville Post
Vol. CXVI No. 272 Friday, September 29, 2006
Town Hall Retrofit Called a “Money Pit”
(Part 3 of a 4-Part Series on the Hazard Mitigation Implementation Process)
[Hazardville, EM] In response to
a complaint about the progress of
the seismic retrofit project of the
historic Hazardville Town Hall, the
Hazardville Board of Supervisors
recently held an informal hearing
on the matter. The retrofit, begun
under Hazardville’s initiative to
become more disaster resistant and
overseen by the Town of Hazardville
Organization for Risk Reduction
(THORR), is now estimated to have
cost taxpayers about double the
original projected cost.
When asked about the escalating
costs, Joe Norris, lead planner of
THORR, commented that the over-
runs could be attributed to misjudg-
ments THORR had made about the
extent of repairs that the building
needed. “We didn’t realize the ex-
tent of work that would have to be
done to bring the building up to cur-
rent code, much less to be
seismically resistant.” Norris ex-
plained that much of the work had
nothing to do with seismic stan-
dards. “Not only did the contractor
discover asbestos-based insulation
and ceiling tiles on the first floor
where most of the work was to be
done, but he also found lead-based
paint on pipes that had not been
removed during renovation in the
late 1960s. These factors were not
considered in our original project
estimates, but they had to be ad-
dressed in the retrofit in order to
comply with local, state, and federal
laws,” Norris said.
Board of Supervisors Chairperson
Seymour Hale likened the building
retrofit to a “money pit,” saying that
THORR should have done its home-
work. Norris agreed, “As soon as we
found out about these unexpected
costs for the project, we began to re-
evaluate all of our other projects to
keep this from happening again. It
seems that we placed a huge amount
of work on our local building inspec-
tor. He had a tremendous work load,
and did not have enough time to do
in-depth investigation into some of
the buildings before work began.”
When asked how THORR planned
to remedy this problem, Norris re-
plied, “We are still in the process of
evaluating our other hazard mitiga-
tion projects and will submit our
findings to the Board by the end of
the month.”
step
4-1Version 1.0 August 2003
4
revise
the plan
Overview
The final step in the mitigation planning process is to determine
whether you need to make changes to the planning process or
the mitigation plan. You will start with an evaluation of the factual
underpinnings of the mitigation strategy: the risk assessment and
the capability assessment. Using the results of the evaluations of
the process and projects completed in Step 3, and taking into con-
sideration the factors to be discussed under Task A below, you will
determine whether you need to revise or update your mitigation
plan or planning process.
The frequency of conducting a plan evaluation depends upon the
speed and the intensity at which changes are occurring. For ex-
ample, if your community is experiencing significant growth, or if
you have experienced recent or frequent hazard or disaster events,
this evaluation may have to be conducted more frequently. Keep in
mind, however, that DMA 2000 regulations require that local plans be re-
viewed and updated at least every five years, and state plans at least every
three years, for a state or jurisdiction to remain eligible for assistance.
Procedures & Techniques
Planning is an ongoing process, and your plan should be treated as
a living document that must grow and adapt in order to keep pace
with the community's growth and change as these issues affect haz-
ard vulnerability, and with changes that may be external to the
community but that affect the planning process. An annual "scan
of the horizon" should be done, so that emerging trends in data
availability or collection, land use and development, technology,
and other factors can be documented. Just prior to the three- or
five-year point, these annual observations should be evaluated to
determine what types of changes should be made to your planning
process and to the plan document. The results of your evaluations
should be re-programmed back into each phase of the planning
process and should yield decisions on how (or whether) to update
each section of your plan.
4-2 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Task A. Review those factors that affect your
community's planning context.
Evaluating the following factors will help you determine what
changes to the plan document are warranted. Extensive or wide-
spread changes in any one of these categories may signal a need to
reconsider some or all of your plan's fundamental assumptions.
1. Revisit the risk assessment to incorporate updated estimates of cost of
living and replacement costs, new scientific data on hazard areas, the
effect of hazards on the community, changes in growth patterns, and, par-
ticularly, reductions in vulnerability due to completion of projects.
Use Worksheet #4: Revisit Your Risk Assessment to complete this
task. See Understanding Your Risks (FEMA 386-2) to review informa-
tion on hazards and estimating losses.
Shifts in development. The planning team should determine
whether there are changes in development patterns that
could influence the effects of hazards in your community or
create additional risks. One common example of this is when
upstream growth in a given watershed affects flood character-
istics downstream in your community. For example, in
Hazardville, coastal development caused the Planning Depart-
ment to undertake a coastal development plan. The effects of
erosion, wave action, and tidal surge hazards will be consid-
ered in this development plan, and corresponding policies
and/or mitigation projects should be considered.
Areas affected by recent disasters. Recent hazard events or
disasters can provide new information about the ways in which
your community can be affected. Compare the effects of the
event against what the loss estimation analysis led you to ex-
pect.
New studies or technologies. What have recent hydrologic,
watershed, traffic, or demographic studies revealed about
your community? Studies such as these may provide additional
information about your community. You already should be
continually researching mitigation techniques to discover
whether new technologies or methods are being used.
4-3Version 1.0 August 2003
revise the plan 4
Re-estimate losses. For projects that have not yet been imple-
mented, any new information the planning team has gathered
should be used to recalculate losses or revise the benefit-cost
analysis originally prepared. See Understanding Your Risks
(FEMA 386-2) for the methodologies and considerations used
to estimate losses.
2. Revisit your capability assessment to determine changes in laws, au-
thorities, community and state resources, and availability of financial
and technical tools that may affect what you can do.
Additionally, political will and priorities can change with the elec-
tion cycle. See Developing the Mitigation Plan (FEMA 386-3) for more
information on how to update your capability assessment.
Changes in community, state, or federal laws, policies, plans, or
funding. The strengthening, relaxing, or addition of land use,
environmental, or other government regulations may present
additional challenges or opportunities to the community.
Changes in the socioeconomic fabric of the community. Broad
social transformations often have repercussions on the
community's sequence of mitigation priorities and the imple-
mentation of projects. Recessions, booming economies, cost of
living increases, changes in the political climate, demographic
shifts, or environmental justice issues may have some influence
on the way mitigation is executed in your community. On a
smaller scale, changes within the community, such as the depar-
ture of a large employer, may alter the socioeconomic balance.
Other changing conditions. Have the successes achieved over
the past few years created a political environment that may al-
low the planning team to propose a new mitigation initiative
that would not have had the political support necessary earlier?
The review process
can be easier if you keep up
with annual reports.
4-4 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
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Worksheet #4 Revisit Your Risk Assessment step
If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, review your data and update your risk
assessment information accordingly.
4-5Version 1.0 August 2003
revise the plan 4
Task B. Analyze your findings and determine whether to
revise your planning process or mitigation strategy.
The planning team should use its new knowledge to identify the
areas of the plan or planning process that should be changed.
Some aspects of the planning process may warrant a briefer treat-
ment the second time around, while others, because of additional
knowledge or more readily available technical assistance, may war-
rant a more in-depth treatment.
Consider updating the goals, objectives, and actions in the plan.
One of the most important steps in plan revision is to update or
refine the community’s goals, objectives, and actions, particularly
in light of experiences gained from implementing mitigation ac-
tions in the current plan. The planning team has undoubtedly
learned something new about the state or community, the adminis-
tration of government, or the value that the community places on
certain objectives—all of which need to be included in a reevalua-
tion of the strategies. As with every step in the planning process,
updating goals and strategies should use consensus building and
community-driven prioritization methods, which are explained in
Getting Started (FEMA 386-1) and Developing the Mitigation Plan
(FEMA 386-3).
Using the information gleaned in Step 3, and your results from
Task B, the planning team should discuss what actions should be
undertaken, reconsidered, or even eliminated, to further the
plan’s goals. This discussion should result in a preliminary list of
alternative mitigation actions to incorporate into the update of the
plan. As in any other step of the planning process, the community
should be engaged in reviewing these alternatives. The planning
team may choose to present these alternatives in a public forum at
this stage or as part of the plan review process discussed in Task C.
For more details on researching alternatives, see Phase 3, Step 2 of
Developing the Mitigation Plan (FEMA 386-3).
Important questions to discuss with the team include the following:
1. Are the goals and objectives still applicable? Have any changes in the
state or community made the goals or objectives obsolete or irrelevant?
Review the findings of changes in the community, including
changes that your mitigation initiatives have brought, to determine
whether you have met your goals and if they remain consistent with
current conditions. If you determine that you need to add new
4-6 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
goals to the plan, see Phase 3, Step 1 of Developing the Mitigation
Plan (FEMA 386-3) for formulating goal statements.
2. Do the plan’s priorities correspond with state priorities?
Where applicable, make sure your actions are consistent with any
changes to state priorities. You will continue to be aligned with
state goals and priorities by doing this.
3. Do existing actions need to be reprioritized for implementation?
Now that you have implemented some of the actions, learned what
works and doesn’t, developed new actions, and discovered that
some aspects of your community may have changed, you may need
to reprioritize your actions. See Developing the Mitigation Plan
(FEMA 386-3) for prioritizing methods.
4. Are actions appropriate for available resources?
Make sure that the community or state has enough resources to
carry out the actions. You probably will have to research to find out
what is currently available. Are past sources of funds still available?
Are there new sources of funding that can be tapped? Are there
new partnerships with nonprofit organizations or businesses that
can be developed? What creative ways of implementing similar ac-
tions have other communities used? Securing Resources for Mitigation
Planning (FEMA 386-9) covers these topics in greater detail.
Task C. Incorporate your findings into the plan.
Include your most recent findings about the community, tribe, or
state, your hazards and vulnerabilities, as well as the applicable
original actions of the plan, into a revised plan. Update your de-
scription of the planning process to include the steps you took to
revise the plan document and how you involved the public. Update
the implementation strategy to identify who will be responsible for
the new or revised actions, the time frame, and funding sources.
The revised plan must be reviewed by all stakeholders in the com-
munity for its validity, and proceed through a formal adoption pro-
cess as required by local or state laws.
Use Worksheet #5: Revise the Plan to help you keep track of where
the plan document may require revisions.
In order to remain
eligible for disaster re-
lated funding, your updated
local plan must be re-sub-
mitted to your state and/or
FEMA Regional Office for review and
approval every five years. State plans
must be re-submitted to the FEMA Re-
gional Office for review and approval
every three years.
4-7Version 1.0 August 2003
revise the plan 4
Worksheet #5 Revise the Plan step
Prepare to update the plan.
When preparing to update the plan: Check the box when addressed:
Consider the results of the evaluation and new strategies for the future.
When examining the community consider: Check the box when addressed:
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page 1 of 4
4-8 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
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page 2 of 4
4-9Version 1.0 August 2003
revise the plan 4
Incorporate your findings into the plan.
When examining the plan consider: Check the box when addressed:
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page 3 of 4
4-10 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Use the following criteria to evaluate the plan:
Comments:
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page 4 of 4
4-11Version 1.0 August 2003
revise the plan 4
The Hazardville Post
Vol. CXVII No. 16 Thursday, January 16, 2007
The Hazard Mitigation Planning Cycle Set to Begin Again
(Part 4 of a 4-Part Series on the Hazard Mitigation Implementation Process)
[Hazardville, EM] A strategic
planning meeting to update the
Hazardville Hazard Mitigation Plan
was held Wednesday at the Town
Hall. The Town of Hazardville Or-
ganization for Risk Reduction
(THORR), continuing in its plan-
ning capacity, led the strategy ses-
sion by explaining to the community
the changes the town has under-
gone since the initial adoption of the
plan in 2003.
The first meeting was to review
the results of the community per-
ception survey and to discuss the
status of the mitigation actions that
were prioritized in the town’s miti-
gation plan. “Overall, our residents
now seem to be more aware of the
hazards to which the town is vul-
nerable, and a large majority of the
survey respondents knew what they
could do to reduce their own vul-
nerability,” said Joe Norris, lead
planner for THORR. “With the ex-
ception of the Town Hall seismic
retrofit project, we are proud to in-
form the community that our
Summary
In order for the plan to remain a viable tool for your state, tribe, or community, you must regularly
review your planning process and mitigation strategy. Communities are rarely static and new chal-
lenges will arise during every revision of the plan. Disasters also present a window of opportunity to
evaluate the relative success of the mitigation plan. States, tribes, and communities should take advan-
tage of funding that becomes available as a result of these events.
Revising the plan ensures it remains up-to-date and relevant, providing a good return on the time and
resources invested in developing it.
projects are all progressing as sched-
uled and under budget.”
“We promised to make this com-
munity a safer place to live and
work, and we will continue to strive
to achieve this for our community,”
Mayor McDonald said at a press
briefing yesterday. “That promise
means we must diligently prepare
for and mitigate against the many
hazards our community is vulner-
able to. Accountability and diligence
are key to making this a reality.”
afterword
afterwordVersion 1.0 August 2003
afterword
You have a mitigation plan. Now what?
The first plan your state, tribe, or community adopts establishes
a baseline from which to measure progress. As you implement
and evaluate actions, your knowledge of hazards and how to best
reduce your vulnerabilities increases tremendously. In order to ef-
fectively monitor your progress, it is important to take advantage of
the worksheets provided in the how-to series. Over time, new part-
ners will become involved in the planning process, providing addi-
tional reservoirs of experience and support. Since the political and
social arenas, as well as the natural environment, are continually
changing, you must periodically revisit and update your plan. As
your plan evolves over time, you should see a corresponding im-
provement in your state, tribe, or community’s resilience to the
damaging effects of disasters.
appendices
a-1Version 1.0 August 2003
appendix a
glossary
Acquisition of hazard-prone
structures
Base Flood Elevation (BFE)
Benefit
Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA)
Building
Capability assessment
Coastal zone
Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT)
Community Rating System (CRS)
Local governments can acquire lands in high hazard areas through conserva-
tion easements, purchase of development rights, or outright purchase of
property.
Elevation of the base flood in relation to a specified datum, such as the
National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929. The Base Flood Elevation is used
as a standard for the National Flood Insurance Program.
Net project outcomes, usually defined in monetary terms. Benefits may
include direct and indirect effects. For the purposes of conducting a benefit-
cost analysis of proposed mitigation measures, benefits are limited to specific,
measurable risk reduction factors, including a reduction in expected property
losses (building, contents, and function) and protection of human life.
A systematic, quantitative method of comparing the projected benefits to
projected costs of a project or policy. It is used as a measure of cost-effective-
ness.
A structure that is walled and roofed, principally above ground and perma-
nently affixed to a site. The term includes a manufactured home on a
permanent foundation on which the wheel and axles carry no weight.
An assessment that provides a description and analysis of a community or
state’s current capacity to address the threats associated with hazards. The
capability assessment attempts to identify and evaluate existing policies,
regulations, programs, and practices that positively or negatively affect the
community or state’s vulnerability to hazards or specific threats.
The area along the shore where the ocean meets the land as the surface of
the land rises above the ocean. This land/water interface includes barrier
islands, estuaries, beaches, coastal wetlands, and land areas with direct
drainage to the ocean.
CERT is the mechanism to establish, train and maintain a local cadre of
residents to act as first responders in the event of an emergency. A CERT
team is especially critical in the first three days following a disaster when
conditions may prevent access by emergency response personnel.
CRS is a program that provides incentives for National Flood Insurance
Program communities to complete activities that reduce flood hazard risk.
When the community completes specified activities, the insurance premiums
of these policyholders in communities are reduced.
a-2 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Comprehensive plan
Cost-effectiveness
Critical facilities
Debris
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000
(DMA 2000)
Earthquake
Elevation of structures
Emergency response services
Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA)
Flood Hazard Area
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM)
A document, also known as a “general plan,” covering the entire geographic
area of a community and expressing community goals and objectives. The
plan lays out the vision, policies, and strategies for the future of the commu-
nity, including all of the physical elements that will determine the
community’s future development. This plan can discuss the community’s
desired physical development, desired rate and quantity of growth, commu-
nity character, transportation services, location of growth, and siting of
public facilities and transportation. In most states, the comprehensive plan
has no authority in and of itself, but serves as a guide for community deci-
sion-making.
Cost-effectiveness is a key evaluation criterion for federal grant programs.
Cost- effectiveness has several possible definitions, although for grant-
making purposes FEMA defines a cost-effective project as one whose long-
term benefits exceed its costs. That is, a project should prevent more
expected damages than it costs initially to fund the effort. This is done to
ensure that limited public funds are used in the most efficient manner
possible. Benefit-cost analysis is one way to illustrate that a project is cost-
effective.
Facilities vital to the health, safety, and welfare of the population and that are
especially important following hazard events. Critical facilities include, but
are not limited to, shelters, police and fire stations, and hospitals.
The scattered remains of assets broken or destroyed in a hazard event.
Debris transported by a wind or water hazard event can cause additional
damage to other assets.
DMA 2000 (Public Law 106-390) is the latest legislation to improve the
planning process. Signed into law on October 30, 2000, this legislation
reinforces the importance of mitigation planning and emphasizes planning
for disasters before they occur.
A sudden motion or trembling caused by a release of strain accumulated
within or along the edge of the earth’s tectonic plates.
Raising structures above the base flood elevation to protect structures
located in areas prone to flooding.
The actions of first responders such as firefighters, police, and other emer-
gency services personnel at the scene of a hazard event. The first responders
take appropriate action to contain the hazard, protect property, conduct
search and rescue operations, provide mass care, and ensure public safety.
Agency created in 1979 to provide a single point of accountability for all
federal activities related to disaster mitigation and emergency preparedness,
response, and recovery. FEMA is now part of the Department of Homeland
Security.
The area on a map shown to be inundated by a flood of a given magnitude.
Map of a community, prepared by FEMA, which shows both the special flood
hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community
under the National Flood insurance Program.
appendix a – glossary
a-3Version 1.0 August 2003
A program created as part of the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of
1994. FMA provides funding to assist communities and states in implement-
ing actions that reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to
buildings, manufactured homes, and other NFIP insurable structures, with a
focus on repetitive loss properties.
Any land area, including watercourse, susceptible to partial or complete
inundation by water from any source.
Actions that prevent or minimize future flood damage. Making the areas
below the anticipated flood level watertight or intentionally allowing flood-
waters to enter the interior to equalize flood pressures are examples of
flood-proofing.
A geographical area shown on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) that
reflects the severity or type of flooding in the area.
General guidelines that explain what you want to achieve. They are usually
broad policy-type statements, long term in nature, and represent global
visions.
A source of potential danger or adverse condition.
A specific occurrence of a particular type of hazard.
The process of identifying hazards that threaten an area.
Information booth, publication kiosk, exhibit, etc. that displays information
to educate the public about hazards that affect the jurisdiction and hazard
mitigation activities people can undertake.
Sustained actions taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk from hazards
and their effects.
Authorized under Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and
Emergency Assistance Act, HMGP is administered by FEMA and provides
grants to states, tribes, and local governments to implement hazard mitiga-
tion actions after a major disaster declaration. The purpose of the program
is to reduce the loss of life and property due to disasters and to enable
mitigation activities to be implemented as a community recovers from a
disaster.
A description of the physical characteristics of hazards and a determination
of various descriptors, including magnitude, duration, frequency, probability,
and extent. In most cases, a community can most easily use these descriptors
when they are recorded and displayed as maps.
A GIS-based, nationally standardized, loss estimation tool developed by
FEMA. HAZUS-MH is the new multi-hazard version that includes earth-
quake, wind, hurricane, and flood loss estimate components.
Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)
Program
Floodplain
Flood-proofing
Flood Zone
Goals
Hazard
Hazard event
Hazard identification
Hazard information center
Hazard mitigation
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
(HMGP)
Hazard profile
HAZUS, HAZUS-MH
a-4 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Hurricane
Infrastructure
Landslide
Loss estimation
Memorandum of Agreement
(MOA)
Mitigate
Mitigation actions
Mitigation plan
National Flood Insurance Program
(NFIP)
Objectives
Open space preservation
Ordinance
An intense tropical cyclone, formed in the atmosphere over warm ocean
areas, in which wind speeds reach 74 miles per hour or more and blow in a
large spiral around a relatively calm center or “eye.” Hurricanes develop over
the north Atlantic Ocean, northeast Pacific Ocean, or the south Pacific
Ocean east of 160ºE longitude. Hurricane circulation is counter-clockwise in
the northern hemisphere and clockwise in the southern hemisphere.
Refers to the public facilities of a community that have a direct impact on
the quality of life. Infrastructure includes communication technology, such
as phone lines or Internet access; vital services, such as public water supplies
and sewer treatment facilities; and an area’s transportation system: airports,
heliports, highways, bridges, tunnels, roadbeds, overpasses, railways, bridges,
rail yards, depots; and waterways, canals, locks, seaports, ferries, harbors,
drydocks, piers, and regional dams.
Downward movement of a slope and materials under the force of gravity.
Forecasts of human and economic impacts and property damage from
future hazard events, based on current scientific and engineering knowl-
edge.
A non-binding statement that defines the duties, responsibilities, and
commitment of the different parties or individuals; provides a clear state-
ment of values, principles, and goals; and establishes an organizational
structure to assist in measuring and evaluating progress.
To cause something to become less harsh or hostile; to make less severe or
painful.
Activities or projects that help achieve the goals and objectives of a mitiga-
tion plan.
The document that articulates results from the systematic process of identify-
ing hazards and evaluating vulnerability, identifying goals, objectives, and
actions to reduce or eliminate the effects of identified hazards, and an
implementation plan for carrying out the actions.
Federal program created by Congress in 1968 that makes flood insurance
available in communities that enact minimum floodplain management
regulations found in 44 CFR §60.3.
Objectives define strategies or implementation steps to attain the identified
goals. Unlike goals, objectives are specific and measurable.
Preserving undeveloped areas from development through any number of
methods, including low-density zoning, open space zoning, easements, or
public or private acquisition. Open space preservation is a technique that
can be used to prevent flood damage in flood-prone areas, land failures on
steep slopes or liquefaction-prone soils, and can enhance the natural and
beneficial functions of floodplains.
A term for a law or regulation adopted by a local government.
appendix a – glossary
a-5Version 1.0 August 2003
Planning
Policy
Post-disaster mitigation
Post-disaster recovery ordinance
Post-disaster recovery planning
Preparedness
Probability
Public education and outreach
programs
Recovery
Regulation
Regulatory power
Relocation out of hazard areas
Resources
Response
The act or process of making or carrying out plans; the establishment of
goals, policies, and procedures for a social or economic unit.
A course of action or specific rule of conduct to be followed in achieving
goals and objectives.
Mitigation actions taken after a disaster has occurred, usually during recov-
ery and reconstruction.
An ordinance authorizing certain governmental actions to be taken during
the immediate aftermath of a hazard event to expedite implementation of
recovery and reconstruction actions identified in a pre-event plan.
The process of planning those steps the jurisdiction will take to implement
long-term reconstruction with a primary goal of mitigating its exposure to
future hazards. The post-disaster recovery planning process can also involve
coordination with other types of plans and agencies, but it is distinct from
planning for emergency operations.
Actions that strengthen the capability of government, citizens, and commu-
nities to respond to disasters.
A statistical measure of the likelihood that a hazard event will occur.
Any campaign to make the public more aware of hazard mitigation and
mitigation programs, including hazard information centers, mailings, public
meetings, etc.
The actions taken by an individual or community after a catastrophic event
to restore order and lifelines in a community.
Most states have granted local jurisdictions broad regulatory powers to
enable the enactment and enforcement of ordinances that deal with public
health, safety, and welfare. These include building codes, building inspec-
tions, zoning, floodplain and subdivision ordinances, and growth manage-
ment initiatives.
Local jurisdictions have the authority to regulate certain activities in their
jurisdiction. With respect to mitigation planning, the focus is on such things
as regulating land use development and construction through zoning,
building codes, subdivision regulations, design standards, and floodplain
regulations.
A mitigation technique that features the process of demolishing or moving a
building to a new location outside the hazard area.
Resources include the people, materials, technologies, money, etc., required
to implement strategies or processes. The costs of these resources are often
included in a budget.
The actions taken during and immediately after an event to address immedi-
ate life and safety needs and to minimize further damage to properties.
a-6 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Resolutions
Risk
Stafford Act
Stakeholder
State Hazard Mitigation Officer
(SHMO)
Structural retrofitting
Subdivision
Subdivision and
development regulations
Tornado
Vulnerability
Expressions of a governing body’s opinion, will, or intention that can be
executive or administrative in nature. Most planning documents must
undergo a council resolution, which must be supported in an official vote by
a majority of representatives to be adopted. Other methods of making a
statement or announcement about a particular issue or topic include
proclamations and declarations.
The estimated impact that a hazard would have on people, services, facilities,
and structures in a community; the likelihood of a hazard event resulting in
an adverse condition that causes injury or damage. Risk is often expressed in
relative terms such as a high, moderate, or low likelihood of sustaining
damage above a particular threshold due to a specific type of hazard event. It
also can be expressed in terms of potential monetary losses associated with
the intensity of the hazard.
The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, PL
100-107 was signed into law November 23, 1988 and amended the Disaster
Relief Act of 1974, PL 93-288. The Stafford Act is the statutory authority for
most federal disaster response activities, especially as they pertain to FEMA
and its programs.
Stakeholders are individuals or groups, including businesses, private organi-
zations, and citizens, that will be affected in any way by an action or policy.
The state government representative who is the primary point of contact
with FEMA, other state and federal agencies, and local units of government
in the planning and implementation of pre- and post-disaster mitigation
activities.
Modifying existing buildings and infrastructure to protect them from
hazards.
The division of a tract of land into two or more lots for sale or development.
Regulations and standards governing the division of land for development
or sale. Subdivision regulations can control the configuration of parcels, set
standards for developer-built infrastructure, and set standards for minimiz-
ing runoff, impervious surfaces, and sediment during development. They
can be used to minimize exposure of buildings and infrastructure to haz-
ards.
A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the
ground.
Describes how exposed or susceptible an asset is to damage. Vulnerability
depends on an asset’s construction, contents, and the economic value of its
functions. Like indirect damages, the vulnerability of one element of the
community is often related to the vulnerability of another. For example,
many businesses depend on uninterrupted electrical power—if an electric
substation is flooded, it not only affects the substation but a number of
businesses as well. Often, indirect effects can be much more widespread and
damaging than direct ones.
appendix a – glossary
a-7Version 1.0 August 2003
The extent of injury and damage that may result from a hazard event of a
given intensity in a given area. The vulnerability assessment should address
the effects of hazard events on the existing and future built environment.
An uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels, exposing and
possibly consuming structures.
The division of land within a local jurisdiction by local legislative regulation
into zones of allowable types and intensities of land uses.
Designation of allowable land use and intensities for a local jurisdiction.
Zoning ordinances consist of two components: a zoning text and a zoning
map.
Vulnerability assessment
Wildfire
Zoning
Zoning ordinance
b-1Version 1.0 August 2003
appendix b
library
Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA)
FEMA Publications Warehouse
FEMA Mitigation Publications Library
General Contact Information
http://www.fema.gov
FEMA Headquarters:
500 C Street, SW, Washington, D.C. 20472
202-646-4600
800-480-2520
http://www.fema.gov/library/prepandprev.shtm
http://www.planning.org
http://www.planning.org/growingsmart
http://www.cfda.gov
http://www.fema.gov/nfip/crs.shtm
http://www.pro.gov.uk/recordsmanagement/eros/
framework.pdf
http://www.allhandsconsulting.com/ERI_books.htm
http://www.esri.com/news/arcuser/0100/firetools.html
http://www.atlantahighered.org/memberservices/shelter/
literature.asp
http://www.pmel.noaa.gov/~bernard/hazard3.pdf
http://training.fema.gov/EMIWeb
http://www.fema.gov/rrr/inassist.shtm
http://www.fema.gov/fima/planning.shtm
http://www.fema.gov/rrr/pa
American Planning Association (APA)
APA, Growing Smart
Legislative Guidebook, 2002
Catalog of Federal Domestic
Assistance Programs
Community Rating System
Developing the Implementation Strategy
Emergency Management Institute
Federal Emergency Management
Agency Individual Assistance Program
FEMA Mitigation Planning
FEMA Public Assistance Program
Web sites
b-2 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Flood Mitigation Assistance Program
Habitat for Humanity
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
Hazard Mitigation in North Carolina:
Measuring Success
HAZUS and HAZUS-MH
HMGP Progress Report Form
Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS),
Summary of State Land Use and Natural
Hazards Planning Laws
Institute for Local Self Government
Mitigation Success Stories
Multi-hazard Mapping Initiative
National Association of Regional Councils
National Flood Insurance Program
National League of Cities
North Carolina Division of Emergency
Management, Tools and Techniques for
Mitigating the Effects of Natural Hazards
Oregon Department of Land Conservation
and Development (DLCD), Planning for
Natural Hazards—Oregon Technical
Resource Guide
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program
Small Business Administration
State Guidebook for
Developing Partnerships
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
U.S. Department of Agriculture
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural
Resources Conservation Service
http://www.fema.gov/fima/planfma.shtm
http://www.habitat.org/
http://www.fema.gov/fima/hmgp
http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/Mitigation/Library/
Success_Stories/Measuring_Success_Vol2/Chapter6.pdf
http://www.fema.gov/hazus/index.shtm
http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/mitigation/
document_index.htm
http://www.ibhs.org/research_library/view.asp?id=302
http://www.ilsg.org/
http://www.fema.gov/fima/success.shtm
http://www.hazardmaps.gov/atlas.php
http://www.narc.org
http://www.fema.gov/nfip
http://www.nlc.org
http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/mitigation/Library/
Full_Tools_and_Tech.pdf
http://www.lcd.state.or.us/hazhtml/Guidehome.htm
http://www.fema.gov/fima/pdm
http://www.sba.gov/disaster_recov/index.html
http://www.ibhs.org/research_library/downloads/280.pdf
http://www.usace.army.mil
http://disaster.fsa.usda.gov
http://www.nrcs.usda.gov
appendix b – library
b-3Version 1.0 August 2003
U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development
U.S. Department of Transportation
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. State and Local Government Gateway
http://www.hud.gov/offices/cpd/communitydevelopment/
programs/dri/driquickfacts.cfm
http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/programadmin/erelief.html
http://www.epa.gov
http://www.firstgov.gov/Government/State_Local.shtml
NOTE: The World Wide Web is an ever-changing source of information. Web addresses and the information they contain can
change over time.
Publications
American Planning Association
Federal Register
FEMA
Capital Improvement Programming, PAS Report No. 151, 1961.
Capital Improvements Programs: Linking Budgeting and Planning,
PAS Report No. 442, 1993.
Selecting and Retaining a Planning Consultant: RFPs, RFQs,
Contracts, and Project Management, PAS Report No. 443, 1993.
44 CFR Parts 201 and 206 (The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000),
February 26, 2002.
Developing the Mitigation Plan: Identifying mitigation actions and
implementation strategies (FEMA 386-3), 2003.
Getting Started: Building support for mitigation planning
(FEMA 386-1), 2002.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Desk Reference (FEMA 345), 1999.
Hazard Mitigation in Iowa: Measuring Success, 2003, unpublished to
date.
Hazard Mitigation in Mississippi: Measuring Success, 2003,
unpublished to date.
Integrating Historic Property and Cultural Resource Considerations into
Mitigation Planning (FEMA 386-6), unpublished to date.
Integrating Human-Caused Hazards into Mitigation Planning (FEMA
386-7), 2002.
Mitigation Resources for Success (FEMA 372), 2000.
Multi-jurisdictional Approaches to Mitigation Planning
(FEMA 386-8), unpublished to date.
Planning for a Sustainable Future: The Link Between Hazard
Mitigation and Livability (FEMA 364), 2003.
b-4 STATE AND LOCAL MITIGATION PLANNING how-to guide: Bringing the Plan to Life
Gianakis, Gerasimos A. and
McCue, Clifford P., 1999
Schwab, Jim et al., 1998
Tyler Norris Associates, 1997
Rebuilding for a More Sustainable Future: An Operational Framework
(FEMA 365), 2000.
Securing Resources for Mitigation Planning (FEMA 386-9),
unpublished to date.
Understanding Your Risks: Identifying hazards and estimating losses
(FEMA 386-2), 2001.
Using Benefit-Cost Analysis in Mitigation Planning (FEMA 386-5),
unpublished to date.
Local Government Budgeting: A Managerial Approach.
Planning for Post-Disaster Recovery and Reconstruction, PAS Report
Nos. 483/484.
Community Indicators Handbook: Measuring Progress Toward Healthy
and Sustainable Communities.
c-1Version 1.0 August 2003
appendix c
worksheets
Worksheet #1 Progress Report
Worksheet #2 Evaluate Your Planning Team
Worksheet #3 Evaluate Your Project Results
Worksheet #4 Revisit Your Risk Assessment
Worksheet #5 Revise the Plan
Worksheet #1 Progress Report step
Progress Report Period:_________________ to ___________________________________________________
(date) (date)
Project Title:_________________________________________ Project ID#:____________________________
Responsible Agency:_________________________________________________________________________
Address:__________________________________________________________________________________
City/County:________________________________________________________________________________
Contact Person:_______________________________________Title:_________________________________
Phone #(s):____________________________email address:_______________________________________
List Supporting Agencies and Contacts:
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Total Project Cost:___________________________________________________________________________
Anticipated Cost Overrun/Underrun:_____________________________________________________________
Date of Project Approval:_________________________Start date of the project:_________________________
Anticipated completion date:___________________________________________________________________
Description of the Project (include a description of each phase, if applicable, and the time frame for completing each
phase):___________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
senotseliM etelpmoC
detcejorP
foetaD
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Page 1 of 3
Plan Goal(s)/Objective(s) Addressed:
Goal:_____________________________________________________________________________________
Objective:__________________________________________________________________________________
Indicator of Success (e.g., losses avoided as a result of the acquisition program):
In most cases, you will list losses avoided as the indicator. In cases where it is difficult to quantify the benefits in dollar
amounts, you will use other indicators, such as the number of people who now know about mitigation or who are tak-
ing mitigation actions to reduce their vulnerability to hazards.
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Status (Please check pertinent information and provide explanations for items with an asterisk. For completed or
canceled projects, see Worksheet #2 — to complete a project evaluation):
Summary of progress on project for this report:
A. What was accomplished during this reporting period?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
B. What obstacles, problems, or delays did you encounter, if any?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
C. How was each problem resolved?
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
Project Cost Status
Cost unchanged
Cost overrun*
*explain:___________________________________
_________________________________________
Cost underrun*
*explain:___________________________________
_________________________________________
Project Status
Project on schedule
Project completed
Project delayed*
*explain:___________________________________
_________________________________________
Project canceled
Page 2 of 3
Next Steps: What is/are the next step(s) to be accomplished over the next reporting period?
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_________________________________________________________________________________________
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Other comments:
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Adapted from the North Carolina HMGP Progress Report Form at http://www.dem.dcc.state.nc.us/mitigation/document_index.htm.
Page 3 of 3
If the planning team determines the answer to any of these questions is “yes,” some changes may be necessary.
Worksheet #2 Evaluate Your Planning Team step
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IF YES
IF NO
Project Name and Number:_______________________________
____________________________________________________
Project Budget:________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Project Description:_____________________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Associated Goal and Objective(s):__________________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Indicator of Success (e.g., losses avoided):___________________
____________________________________________________
____________________________________________________
Worksheet #3 Evaluate Your Project Results step
Was the action implemented?YES NO
What were the results of the implemented action?_____________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________________
Why not?
Was there political support for the action?
Were enough funds available?
Were workloads equitably or realistically distributed?
Was new information discovered about the risks or community that made
implementation difficult or no longer sensible?
Was the estimated time of implementation reasonable?
Were sufficient resources (for example staff and technical assistance) available?
YES NO
Insert location map.
Include before and after
photos if appropriate.
page 1 of 2
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page 2 of 2
Date:
Prepared by:
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Worksheet #4 Revisit Your Risk Assessment step
If you answered “Yes” to any of the above questions, review your data and update your risk
assessment information accordingly.
Worksheet #5 Revise the Plan step
Prepare to update the plan.
When preparing to update the plan: Check the box when addressed:
Consider the results of the evaluation and new strategies for the future.
When examining the community consider: Check the box when addressed:
page 1 of 4
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page 2 of 4
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page 3 of 4
Incorporate your findings into the plan.
When examining the plan consider: Check the box when addressed:
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Use the following criteria to evaluate the plan:
Comments:
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_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________________________
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_________________________________________________________________________________________
page 4 of 4
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August 2003
FEMA 386-4
Appendix H. Critical Facilities
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan H-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX H. CRITICAL FACILITIES
Due to the sensitive nature of this information, details of each have been redacted for the public document. A
full list of critical facilities identified for the vulnerability analysis is available at the Galveston County Office
of Emergency Management. Contact the Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator, Laura Norman, to view
the list.
APPENDIX H: LINKAGE PROCEDURES
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan H-1
2022 Update
APPENDIX H. LINKAGE PROCEDURES
This Appendix contains the linkage procedures for the Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2022 Update.
H.1 Administrative Process for “Linkage” to the Galveston County
Hazard Mitigation Plan
The 2022 Galveston County HMP update (the Plan) included 12 planning partners and not all eligible local
governments within the defined planning area are included in this plan. Completed jurisdictional annexes are
presented in Section 9. Any non-participating local governments and other local jurisdictions such as Fire
Districts, Utility Districts, School Districts and any other eligible local government as defined in 44 CFR 201.2
within the Galveston County planning area can join this plan as a participating jurisdiction and to ultimately
achieve approved status by following the linkage procedures defined in this appendix
It is assumed that some or all these non-participating local governments may choose to "link" to the Plan at some
point in time to gain eligibility for programs under the DMA. In addition, some of the current partnership may
not continue to meet eligibility requirements due to the lack of active participation as prescribed by the plan.
These "linkage" procedures will define the requirements established by the Galveston County HMP Planning
Committee and all planning partners for dealing with the increase or decrease in planning partners linked to this
plan. It should be noted that currently non-participating jurisdictions within the defined planning area are not
obligated to link to this plan. These jurisdictions can choose to do their own “complete" plan that addresses all
required elements of section 201.6 of 44CFR.
H.1.1 Increasing the Partnership Through Linkage
Eligibility
Eligible jurisdictions located in the planning area may link to this plan at any point during the plan’s performance
period. Eligible jurisdictions located in the planning area may link to this plan at any point during the plan’s
performance period (5 years after final approval). Eligibility will be determined by the following factors:
• The linking jurisdiction is a local government as defined by the Disaster Mitigation Act.
• The boundaries or service area of the linking jurisdiction is completely contained within the boundaries
of the planning area established during the 2022 Hazard Mitigation Plan development process.
• The linking jurisdiction’s critical facilities were included in the critical facility and infrastructure risk
assessment completed during the 2022 Plan development process.
Requirements
It is expected that linking jurisdictions will complete the requirements outlined below and submit their completed
template to the lead agency Galveston County Office of Emergency Management for review within six months
of beginning the linkage process:
1. The Galveston County Hazard HMP Planning Committee has established an annual window for which
linkage to the plan can occur. Linking jurisdictions are instructed to complete the following procedures
during this time frame.
APPENDIX H: LINKAGE PROCEDURES
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan H-2
2022 Update
2. The current non-participating jurisdiction contacts the Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Planning
Coordinator for the Plan and requests a "Linkage Package". The Galveston County Hazard Mitigation
Project Contact is:
Laura M. Norman, Deputy Emergency Management Coordinator
Galveston County Office of Emergency Management
281-309-5013 | Laura.Norman@co.galveston.tx.us
3. The Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Planning Coordinator will provide a linkage packages that
includes:
• Copy of Volume 1 and 2 of the Plan (CD-ROM or flash drive).
• Planning Partner's Expectations Sheet.
• A Sample "Letter of Intent" to Link to the Plan.
• A Jurisdictional Template and Instructions.
• Catalog of Hazard Mitigation Alternatives or the Mitigation Catalog.
• A copy of Section 201.6 of Chapter 44, the Code of Federal Regulations (44CFR), which defines the
federal requirements for a local hazard mitigation plan.
4. The new jurisdiction will be required to review both volumes of the Plan which includes the following key
components for the planning area:
• The Galveston County risk assessment;
• The plan’s goals and objectives;
• Plan implementation and maintenance procedures;
• Catalog of potential mitigation actions; and
• County-wide initiatives.
Once this review is complete, the jurisdiction will complete its specific jurisdictional annex by following the
template and its instructions for completion provided by the Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Planning
Coordinator. Technical assistance can be provided upon request by completing the request for technical
assistance (TA) form provided in the linkage package. This TA may be provided by the Galveston County
Hazard Mitigation Planning Coordinator or any other resource within the Planning Partnership such as a member
of the HMP Planning Committee or a currently participating jurisdiction. The Galveston County Hazard
Mitigation Planning Coordinator will determine who will provide the TA and the possible level of TA based on
resources available at the time of the request.
5. The new jurisdiction will also be required to develop a public involvement strategy that ensures their public's
ability to participate in the plan development process. At a minimum, the new jurisdiction must try to solicit
public opinion on hazard mitigation at the onset of this linkage process and a minimum of one public meeting
to present their draft jurisdiction specific annex for comment, prior to adoption by the governing body. The
Planning Partnership will have available resources to aid in the public involvement strategy such as the Plan
website. However, it will be the new jurisdiction’s responsibility to implement and document this strategy
for incorporation into their annex.
It should be noted that the Jurisdictional Annex templates do not include a section for the description of the
public process. This is because the original partnership was covered under a uniform public involvement strategy
that covered the operational area that is described in volume 1 of the plan. Since the new partner was not
addressed by that strategy, they will have to initiate a new strategy, and add a description of that strategy to their
APPENDIX H: LINKAGE PROCEDURES
Galveston County, TX | Hazard Mitigation Plan H-3
2022 Update
annex. For consistency, new partners are encouraged to follow the public involvement format utilized by the
initial planning effort as described in Volume I of the Plan.
6. Once their public involvement strategy is completed and they have completed their template, the new
jurisdiction will submit the completed package to the Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Planning
Coordinator for a pre-adoption review to ensure conformance with the regional plan format.
7. The Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Planning Coordinator will review for the following:
• Documentation of public involvement and mitigation action development strategies;
• Conformance of template entries with guidelines outlined in instructions;
• Chosen actions are consistent with goals, objectives, and mitigation catalog of Galveston County Hazard
Mitigation Plan; and
• Designated point of contact.
The Galveston County Hazard Mitigation Planning Coordinator may utilize members of the HMP Planning
Committee or other resources to complete this review. All proposed linked annexes will be submitted to the
HMP Planning Committee for their review and comment prior to submittal to the TDEM.
8. Plans approved and accepted by the HMP Planning Committee will then be forwarded to TDEM for review
with cover letter stating the forwarded plan meets local approved plan standards and whether the plan is
submitted with local adoption or for criteria met/plan not adopted review.
9. The TDEM will review plans for state and federal compliance. Non-compliant plans are returned to the
jurisdiction for correction. Compliant plans are forwarded to FEMA Region VI office for review with
annotation as to the adoption status.
10. FEMA Region VI reviews the new jurisdiction's plan in association with the approved plan to ensure DMA
compliance. Region VI notifies new jurisdiction of results of review with copies to the TDEM and approved
planning authority.
11. New jurisdiction corrects plan’s shortfalls (if necessary) and resubmits to the TDEM through the approved
plan lead agency.
12. For plans with no shortfalls that have not been adopted from the Region VI review or outstanding corrected
shortfalls, the new jurisdiction governing authority adopts the plan (if not already accomplished) and
forwards adoption resolution to Region VI with copies to lead agency and the TDEM.
13. Region VI Director notifies new jurisdiction governing authority of plan approval.
The new jurisdiction plan is then included with the Galveston County HMP 2022 update, and the linking
jurisdiction is committed to participate in the ongoing plan implementation and maintenance identified in
Volume 1 of the HMP.