Just this week, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released its Hazard Mitigation Assistance 2017 Wrap-up. And, the numbers were astounding! Half a billion dollars in pre- and post-disaster hazard mitigation assistance grants was delivered to states, tribes and communities in 2017, resulting in mitigation actions that will reduce risk.

FEMA provided these funds through its Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), which comprises three hazard mitigation grant programs: 1) Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program, 2) Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program, and 3) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Here’s the official word on how these precious dollars were allocated:

  • Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant Program, 10%, or $63.5M
  • Flood Mitigation Assistance Grant Program, 31%, or $192.2M
  • Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, 59%, or $370M

Imagine all that your state, tribe or community could do to mitigate against certain risks by tapping into funds like these in the year(s) ahead! These much-needed dollars could help you to shore up levees, build saferooms, elevate (or demolish) certain properties, and purchase additional generators. The list of possibilities goes on and on.

That is, as long as the project fits within mitigation strategies to address specific, localized areas of risk and complies with Federal HMGP guidelines. Topping the list of requirements by FEMA is that you must have a comprehensive and up-to-date Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP). This, of course, involves the Agency’s review and approval of your HMP every five years.

So, where do you begin if you don’t have an HMP already? Or, it’s not been updated in years? Expanding your knowledge of FEMA’s HMGP, and what it can ultimately do for your state, tribe or community, is a good place to start. Be sure to share this information with local leaders and constituents, and include them in the plan’s development or improvement every step of the way.

Downloading the White Paper entitled, “Seven Key Reasons You Need a Current & Rock-Solid Hazard Mitigation Plan,” from BOLDplanning may also prove beneficial.

The certified emergency planners at BOLDplanning understand the need for—and complexities of—writing and maintaining a FEMA-approved HMP. The company has provided such services to clients across the country for many, many years. And, it can do the same for you.

There’s money to be had. Don’t miss out on FEMA funding to bolster your state, tribe or community’s hazard mitigation efforts in 2018. Call 615.469.5558 or email info@boldplanning.com today.