Cooper County, MO
Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
2012
Prepared by:
Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission
206 East Broadway
P.O. Box 140
Ashland, MO 65010
Phone: (573) 657-9779
Fax: (573) 657-2829
Plan updates available online at www.mmrpc.org
Cover Photos: the original Katy railroad bridge, Boonville, Missouri, during the 1903 Missouri
River flood, (Photo source: Friends of Historic Boonville archives)
Table of Contents
Executive Summary .................................................................... 1
Prerequisites ............................................................................... 3
Section 1: Introduction and Planning Process ........................ 4
1.1 Purpose ............................................................................................................4
1.2 Background ......................................................................................................5
1.3 History of the Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan...................................5
1.4 Participating Jurisdictions ...............................................................................7
1.5 The Update Process .........................................................................................9
Section 2: Planning Area Profile and Capabilities ................. 19
2.1 Geography and Ecology ................................................................................19
2.2 Climate...........................................................................................................23
2.3 History ...........................................................................................................26
2.4 Natural Hazard History..................................................................................27
2.5 Demographics ................................................................................................29
2.6 Economy, Industry, and Employment ...........................................................34
2.7 Transportation and Commuting Patterns .......................................................37
2.8 Participating Jurisdictions - Inventory of Assets and Capabilities................43
Planning Area/Cooper County .......................................................................................... 44
Boonville ........................................................................................................................... 55
Bunceton ........................................................................................................................... 57
Otterville ........................................................................................................................... 59
Pilot Grove ........................................................................................................................ 61
Wooldridge ....................................................................................................................... 63
2.9 Special Districts – Inventory of Assets and Capabilities ..............................64
Levee Districts .................................................................................................................. 64
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District Assets .................................................................. 64
Linneman-Weekly Levee District Assets ..................................................................... 64
School Districts Pre K-12 ................................................................................................. 65
Prairie Home R-V ........................................................................................................ 66
Fire Protection Districts .................................................................................................... 68
Water Districts .................................................................................................................. 69
2.10 Policy, Planning, and Program Capabilities ................................................70
Legal Authority and Political Willpower .............................................................................. 73
Community and Regional Partnerships ................................................................................ 74
Non-Governmental and Volunteer Organizations ................................................................ 74
Media .................................................................................................................................... 75
2.11 Development Trends ...................................................................................77
Section 3: Risk Assessment .................................................... 78
Methodology .........................................................................................................78
Identification of Hazards................................................................................................... 78
Profiling of Hazards .......................................................................................................... 79
Vulnerability Assessment ................................................................................................. 80
3.1 Dam Failure ...................................................................................................84
3.2 Drought ..........................................................................................................96
3.3 Earthquake ...................................................................................................103
3.4 Extreme Heat ...............................................................................................109
Existing Mitigation Activities ...................................................................................... 111
3.5 Flood ............................................................................................................114
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) ..................................................................... 132
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Repetitive Loss Properties .......................... 136
3.6 Land Subsidence/Sinkhole ..........................................................................137
3.7 Levee Failure ...............................................................................................141
3.8 Severe Winter Weather................................................................................150
3.9 Wildfire ........................................................................................................156
3.10 Windstorm, Tornado, and Hailstorm .........................................................161
Windstorm....................................................................................................................... 162
Tornado ........................................................................................................................... 168
Hailstorm......................................................................................................................... 173
Section 4: Mitigation Strategy ................................................ 179
4.1 Hazard Mitigation Goals .............................................................................179
4.2 Update of Mitigation Actions ......................................................................180
4.3 Mitigation Goals, Objectives, and Actions .................................................186
Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Jurisdiction .................................................................. 189
Mitigation Actions by Jurisdiction – Cooper County ...................................................... 192
Boonville ......................................................................................................................... 193
Bunceton ......................................................................................................................... 194
Otterville ......................................................................................................................... 195
Pilot Grove ...................................................................................................................... 196
Wooldridge ..................................................................................................................... 197
Linneman-Weekley Levee District ................................................................................. 198
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District ............................................................................... 198
Prairie Home R-V School District .................................................................................. 199
Mitigation Actions Addressing Compliance with NFIP Requirements .............................. 200
4.4 Prioritization, Implementation, and Administration ...................................202
Prioritization of Actions using STAPLEE and Benefit/Cost Reviews ............................... 202
Implementation and Administration by Action .................................................................. 209
4.5 Funding Sources ..........................................................................................224
Section 5: Plan Maintenance Process .................................. 230
5.1 Plan Monitoring and Evaluation ..................................................................230
5.2 Plan Updating ..............................................................................................232
5.3 Integration of Hazard Mitigation into Other Planning Mechanisms ...........234
5.4 Public Participation in Plan Maintenance ...................................................236
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Appendix D
Appendix E
Appendix F
Adoption Resolutions ............................................. 237
Meeting Agenda Sample......................................... 244
Sign-in Sheets from Meetings ................................. 246
Meeting Announcement Sample ............................. 255
City of Boonville Insurance Statement.................... 257
Boonville R-I School District .................................. 272
Executive Summary
The Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan is a multi-jurisdictional plan prepared and
written with the participation of Cooper County government and the following Cooper County
communities: Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove, and Wooldridge.
The communities of Blackwater, Prairie Home, and Windsor Place were notified of the planning
process and invited to meetings but have chosen not to participate. The following special
districts participated in all aspects of the planning process but have not formally adopted the plan
at this time: Linneman-Weekly Levee District, Overton-Wooldridge Levee District, and Prairie
Home R-V School District. All other school districts in Cooper County were also notified and
invited to meetings, but have chosen not to participate.
The plan profiles twelve natural hazards (dam failure, drought, earthquake, extreme heat, flood,
levee failure, land subsidence/sinkhole, severe winter weather, wildfire, windstorm, tornado, and
hailstorm) which threaten lives and/or property in some, or all, of the participating jurisdictions.
All hazards were evaluated with regard to previous occurrence, probability and severity of future
occurrence, existing mitigation strategies, and the potential impact on each jurisdiction.
An overall mitigation strategy was developed through the consideration of potential threats,
resources, and willpower available to mitigate their effects. The goals of this mitigation strategy
are:

Goal 1: Mitigation Planning - Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public
and private cooperation.

Goal 2: Mitigation Policy - Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on
lives and property.

Goal 3: Mitigation Programs - Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs
to protect lives and property.

Goal 4: Public Awareness - Increase public awareness of natural hazards.

Goal 5: Future Development - Promote hazard-proof development.
Specific mitigation actions have been developed and prioritized to further the goals of the overall
mitigation strategy in each participating jurisdiction.
The Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan will be formally adopted by each of the
participating jurisdictions after a final draft is approved by FEMA. Participation in, and formal
adoption of, the plan qualifies a jurisdiction to apply for Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) pre-disaster mitigation grants and the mitigation portion of post-disaster
mitigation grants.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
1
The plan will be updated in five years, as required by FEMA. It will be evaluated and
maintained on an annual basis prior to this update. More information on the maintenance
process can be found in Section 5.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
2
Prerequisites
Multi-Jurisdictional Plan Adoption
Requirement
§201.6(c)(5):
For multi-jurisdictional plans, each jurisdiction requesting approval
of the plan must document that it has been formally adopted.
Adoption resolutions for the participating jurisdictions are included in Appendix A.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
3
Section 1: Introduction and Planning Process
1.1 Purpose
The Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan is designed as a resource for county and municipal
governments, residents, developers, organizations, and others interested in controlling the
potentially disastrous effects of natural hazards in Cooper County. Each year natural hazards
take a great toll in the United States. Cooper County is not immune; it is subject to numerous
natural hazards which can threaten life and property. A well-conceived mitigation strategy,
developed through an inclusive and thoughtful planning process, is an important step in
protecting citizens and reducing loss.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) defines mitigation as “sustained action
taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and their property from hazards and their
effects.” A 2006 study by the Institute for Building Science found that $4 was saved in postdisaster response and recovery for every $1 spent on pre-disaster mitigation.
The Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan was developed by the communities and citizens of
Cooper County, their elected officials and public servants. The process was carried out by
identifying the natural hazards that impact Cooper County and its residents, assessing the
probability of occurrence and severity posed by each hazard, identifying the most vulnerable
areas, and evaluating all possible mitigation actions which might be effective. Potential
mitigation actions were assessed and prioritized based on the perceived need, probable outcome,
potential for being executed, and benefit related to cost.
The plan was developed in accordance with FEMA’s Mitigation Planning regulations under
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Title 44, Part 201.6, Local Mitigation Plans. Relevant
requirements from CFR §201.6 are highlighted throughout the plan.
Multiple jurisdictions within Cooper County participated in the development of this plan.
Having a current and approved hazard mitigation plan makes each of the participating
jurisdictions eligible to apply for FEMA pre-disaster mitigation grants and the mitigation portion
of post-disaster mitigation grants.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
4
1.2 Background
Responding to and mitigating for natural disasters has been a subject of increasing focus for the
federal government in the past decades.
The process for declaring Presidential Disasters was established with the passage of the Disaster
Relief Act of 1974. In 1988, the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance
Act created the organizational framework through which funds and assistance would be provided
after a Presidential Disaster Declaration; FEMA was designated to coordinate the relief efforts.
In 1993, FEMA created the Mitigation Directorate to oversee hazard mitigation. This
established mitigation as the cornerstone of emergency management.
The Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 further defined activities related to disaster relief and
mitigation; one of its provisions encourages development of hazard mitigation measures,
including land use and construction regulations.
1.3 History of the Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan
In November 2003, a “current and approved” hazard mitigation plan became a FEMA eligibility
requirement for local jurisdictions applying for pre-disaster mitigation grants and the mitigation
portion of post-disaster grant funds.
Due to this change in FEMA grant requirements, the Missouri State Emergency Management
Agency (SEMA) contracted with the Missouri Council of Governments for the Regional
Planning Commissions to direct hazard mitigation planning for interested counties within their
respective regions. Cooper County, a member of the Mid-Missouri Regional Planning
Commission (Mid-MO RPC), contracted with the Mid-MO RPC to facilitate the development of
a hazard mitigation plan for the county.
A Project Steering Committee was formed to oversee the planning and writing of the original
Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan in (2005). The plan was approved by FEMA and
adopted by the participating jurisdictions on April 26, 2006.
Maintenance of Hazard Mitigation Plan 2006- 2011
The Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2006 was written to be a working document to guide
participating jurisdictions in the county in the work of mitigating potential hazards. To this
effect, the plan has been publicly available on the website of the Mid-MO RPC
(www.mmrpc.org) since it was approved and adopted in 2006.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
5
During the ensuing years, the Mid-MO RPC has kept the jurisdictions informed of mitigation
grant opportunities through letters, the RPC’s monthly newsletter (The Current), the Mid-Mo
RPC website, and announcements at meetings of the RPC.
Ten of the mitigation actions decided upon in the original plan have been completed at this time
(see Figure 1.3.1). Several other actions are currently being implemented and were retained for
the 2011 plan. A full review of the 2005 mitigation actions is included in Section 4.1 of this
plan.
The maintenance plan in the original document called for an annual review of the plan by the
Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Steering Committee, facilitated by the Mid-MO RPC. These
annual reviews did not take place; lack of a defined time table for the reviews, shortage of time
and personnel, and personnel changes all played a role in this omission.
This plan update lays out a clearly defined maintenance process with a timetable for review and
concrete tools to be employed in the review. This process is found in Section 5 of the plan.
Figure 1.3.1
Mitigation Actions Completed from Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2005
Actions
Create, Revise, and update Flood
1.10 Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM)
Priority Rank/ Target
Date
Outcome
Medium/2008
New DFIRM 2011
Medium/2007
County staff attended
classes and training
High/Continuing
Agreements in place
High/2007
Agreements in place
1.30 awareness program
High/2006
Program is in in place
Establish educational materials for
1.31 public regarding earthquakes in
Missouri
Medium/2007
Materials available
through EMA
1.33 concerning the dangers of icy roads
High/Continuing
Materials available
through EMA
Provide educational materials for
outdoor workers and school athletic
1.34 organizations on the dangers of
excessive heat exposure
Medium/2007
Materials available
through EMA
Update staff knowledge of earthquake
1.16 safety
Encourage Utility Companies to
1.22 maintain right of ways
Develop short-term agreements with
1.28 local shelters
Develop public education hazard
Provide public education materials
Review emergency access /evacuation
2.11 routes and mitigate any problem areas. Medium/ 2004 (annually)
Develop long-term agreements with
3.22 local shelters
Section 1
High/2006
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Program overseen by
EMA
Agreements in place
6
1.4 Participating Jurisdictions
Requirement
§201.6(a)(3):
Multi-jurisdictional plans…may be accepted, as appropriate, as long
as each jurisdiction has participated in the process….Statewide plans
will not be accepted as multi-jurisdictional plans.
The Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan is a multi-jurisdictional plan. Planners from the
Mid-MO RPC (Plan Author) developed the following criteria for a jurisdiction to qualify as a
participating jurisdiction:
1. Submission of information regarding capabilities, vulnerable assets, and future
development within the jurisdiction
2. Review of a draft of the plan and provision of feedback, if warranted
3. Review of mitigation actions suggested by the Technical Steering Committee for the
jurisdiction; prioritization of actions deemed feasible for the jurisdiction based on
benefit/cost and time/resources available for implementation and administration
4. Formal adoption of the plan by resolution
The participating jurisdictions in the original plan (2005) and those participating to any degree in
the updated plan (2011) are shown in Figure 1.1.1. The chart also tracks the completion of the
criteria for inclusion as a participating jurisdiction in the plan. The column on the far right of the
chart in Figure 1.1.1 (“2011 Participating Jurisdictions”) indicates those jurisdictions which have
completed the above requirements and are requesting approval of the plan prior to formal
adoption.
The communities of Blackwater, Prairie Home, and Windsor Place were notified of the planning
process and invited to meetings, but have chosen not to participate. All school districts in
Cooper County were also notified and invited to meetings, but Prairie Home R-V was the only
district that participated in the planning process.
The term “planning area” is used in the plan to indicate, as a whole, all of the jurisdictions which
participated in the planning process to any degree.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
7
Figure 1.4.1
Multi-jurisdictional Plan Participants
2012 Participating Jurisdiction Criteria
2005
Participating
Jurisdiction
2011 Planning
Participation
Survey
Completed
Review of
Draft
Mitigation
Actions
Formal
Adoption
2012
Participating
Jurisdiction
Cooper County
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
Blackwater
X
Boonville
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
Bunceton
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
Otterville
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
Pilot Grove
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
Prairie Home
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
x
X
Jurisdiction
Windsor Place
Wooldridge
Prairie Home R-V
Schools
Linneman-Weekly
Levee District
Overton-Wooldridge
Levee District
Section 1
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
8
1.5 The Update Process
Requirement
§201.6(c)(1):
[The plan shall document] the planning process used to develop the
plan, including how it was prepared, who was involved in the process,
and how the public was involved.
A Hazard Mitigation Plan must be updated and adopted by the participating jurisdictions every
five years to be considered current. The update process for the current plan commenced in
March 2011; the update was coordinated by planners from Mid-MO RPC (Plan Author) as
specified by contract with Cooper County.
Mid-MO RPC planners met and decided on the following general planning process for the
update:
1. Initial update of technical data in charts and graphs (e.g. storm history events, population
statistics, etc.) by Mid-MO RPC staff
2. Formation of a Technical Steering Committee to prepare preliminary draft of the update
and provide input throughout the update process
3. Meetings with Technical Steering Committee to prepare update including decision
on/prioritization of mitigation actions for the participating jurisdictions
4. Initial SEMA review of preliminary draft
5. Continuing work by Technical Steering Committee on update of the plan
6. Information gathering from potential participating jurisdictions regarding
risks/vulnerabilities in the jurisdictions
7. Incorporation of jurisdictional information into update draft
8. Presentation of update draft to officials of participating jurisdictions, neighboring
jurisdictions, the public, interested agencies, businesses, and non-profits
9. Feedback from participating jurisdictions on mitigation actions which they intend to
pursue in their jurisdictions
10. Ongoing incorporation of feedback into update draft with continuing review by the
Technical Steering Committee
11. Presentation of final draft for public comment before SEMA/FEMA final approval
12. Presentation of the approved plan for participating jurisdictions’ approvals
Technical Steering Committee
The Technical Steering Committee was formed with the intention of having a diversity of
members who would represent the interests of all participating jurisdictions. Planners from the
Mid-MO RPC, which works with communities throughout Cooper County, initiated the
formation of the committee and participated in the committee meetings.
The Technical Steering Committee was formed with representatives of Cooper County, city
governments, and two levee districts. Four of the five incorporated communities had direct
representation on the committee. Additionally, the community of Wooldridge participated in the
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
9
planning process by submitting a survey, reviewing their mitigation goals and actions, and
reviewing a draft of the plan.
The Technical Steering Committee consisted of the following individuals:
Cooper County
Tom White (EMD), Candy Sorrell (Asst. EMD), Commissioner
Paul Davis, Commissioner Ernie Walther, Commissioner Eddie
Brickner
Boonville
Tim Carmichael (Boonville Fire)
Bunceton
Wendell Cunningham (Bunceton Fire)
Otterville
Traci Schoen (Clerk), Brenda Turpin (Mayor)
Pilot Grove
Pete Busalacki (Pilot Grove Police Department)
Wooldridge
Kelly Murphy (Chairman of the Board of Trustees)
Overton-Wooldridge
Levee District
Art Schnuck (Vice-President)
Linneman-Weekley
Levee District
Jason Linneman (President)
Prairie Home R-V
School District
Jason Stanoch (Principal)
Other key participants in the area contributed to the planning process. The information received
from these participants was invaluable to the update of the Cooper County Natural Hazard
Mitigation Plan. These participants include:



Tom Watring, Cooper County Road and Bridge
David Gehm, Cooper County Fire Protection District
Melanie Hein, Cooper County Health Department
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
10
Requirement
§201.6(b):
In order to develop a more comprehensive approach to reducing the
effects of natural disasters, the planning process shall include:
(1) An opportunity for the public to comment on the plan during the
drafting stage and prior to plan approval;
Requirement
§201.6(b):
In order to develop a more comprehensive approach to reducing the
effects of natural disasters, the planning process shall include:
(2) An opportunity for neighboring communities, local and regional
agencies involved in hazard mitigation activities, and agencies that
have the authority to regulate development, as well as businesses,
academia and other private and non-profit interests to be involved in
the planning process;
Public Meetings for Comment and Input
Two meetings were held for public comment and input on the update of this plan. The first
meeting was held during the drafting stage and the second prior to the plan being submitted for
approval by FEMA. Public notice was given for the meetings in accordance with Missouri’s
“Sunshine Law” (Revised Statutes of Missouri 610.010, 610.020, 610.023, and 610.024.) The
meetings were also announced through various media outlets.
First Public Meeting
The first public meeting was held on August 18th, 2011 at the Emergency Operations Center in
Boonville, MO. The public was invited to attend and provide input and discussion in the update
process. A presentation was given on the process of the update and the importance of Hazard
Mitigation planning. Another presentation was given on the plan itself, with information on
where to read a copy of the draft and how to contact the Mid-MO RPC planners. An agenda
sample, sign-in sheets, and meeting announcement sample are located in Appendices C, D, and E
respectively.
Media releases and announcements were posted through the following outlets:

KWRT 1370 AM – Announcement of public meeting was posted August 11th, 2010.

Boonville Daily News Community Events Calendar - Announcement of public meeting
was submitted to be included in the weekend edition prior to the meeting date.

Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission office - Announcement of public meeting
was posted for public viewing on August 11th. The announcement was visible to all
public traffic in accordance with Missouri’s “Sunshine Law”.
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
11

Announcements were sent to all participating jurisdictions to distribute and post in their
respective communities and departments including:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o

Cooper Emergency Management
Cooper County Commission
Cooper County Public Health Department
Cooper County Road and Bridge Department
Prairie Home R-V School District
Boonville R-I School District
Blackwater R-II School District
Cooper County R-IV School District
Otterville R-VI School District
City of Pilot Grove
Village of Wooldridge
City of Boonville
City of Blackwater
City of Bunceton
City of Otterville
City of Pilot Grove
City of Prairie Home
Village of Windsor Place
Village of Wooldridge
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Announcements were also sent to all Region F RHSOC (Regional Homeland Security
Oversight Committee) Emergency Management Directors (EMD) and Coordinators
(EMC). This announcement included a news release for posting and a letter stating the
upcoming planning process that would be coming to those counties in the future. The
following county’s EMDs received the announcement:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Section 1
Audrain County
Boone County
Callaway County
Camden County
Cole County
Cooper County
Gasconade County
Howard County
Miller County
Moniteau County
Montgomery County
Morgan County
Osage County
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
12
Second Meeting/Open House for Public Comment and Input
The second public meeting was held on November 10th, 2011 at the Emergency Operations
Center in Boonville, MO. The public was invited to attend and provide input and discussion in
the update process. A presentation was given on the process of the update and the importance of
Hazard Mitigation planning. Another presentation was given on the plan itself, with information
on where to read a copy of the draft and how to contact the Mid-MO RPC planners. An agenda
sample, sign-in sheets, and meeting announcement sample are located in Appendices C, D, and E
respectively.
Media releases and announcements were posted through the following outlets:

KWRT 1370 AM – Announcement of public meeting was posted November 2, 2011.

Boonville Daily News Community Events Calendar - Announcement of public meeting
was submitted to be included in the weekend edition prior to the meeting date.

Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission office - Announcement of public meeting
was posted for public viewing on November 2, 2011. The announcement was visible to
all public traffic in accordance with Missouri’s “Sunshine Law”.

Announcements were sent to all participating jurisdictions to distribute and post in their
respective communities and departments including:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Section 1
Cooper Emergency Management
Cooper County Commission
Cooper County Public Health Department
Cooper County Road and Bridge Department
Prairie Home R-V School District
Boonville R-I School District
Blackwater R-II School District
Cooper County R-IV School District
Otterville R-VI School District
City of Pilot Grove
Village of Wooldridge
City of Boonville
City of Blackwater
City of Bunceton
City of Otterville
City of Pilot Grove
City of Prairie Home
Village of Windsor Place
Village of Wooldridge
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
13

Announcements were also sent to all Region F RHSOC (Regional Homeland Security
Oversight Committee) Emergency Management Directors (EMD) and Coordinators
(EMC). This announcement included a news release for posting and a letter stating the
upcoming planning process that would be coming to those counties in the future. The
following county’s EMDs received the announcement:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Section 1
Audrain County
Boone County
Callaway County
Camden County
Cole County
Cooper County
Gasconade County
Howard County
Miller County
Moniteau County
Montgomery County
Morgan County
Osage County
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
14
Technical Steering Committee Meetings
Regular meetings of the Technical Steering Committee were held from March 2011 thru
November 2011. A brief summary of each meeting is shown in Figure 1.1.2. Sign-in sheets for
each meeting are included in Appendix D.
Figure 1.1.2
Technical Steering Committee Meetings
Meeting
Agenda
Meeting No. 1
This meeting was the initial meeting for the plan update. The group
was given a presentation by Mid-MO RPC Staff about the update
process. The group discussed possible changes to goals, objectives, and
actions. Actions related to specific hazards will be discussed at
subsequent meeting.
Meeting
Date
3/24/2011
Review and editing of mitigation actions pertaining to Flood and Levee
Failure. Overview of NFIP. Committee was introduced to the
STAPLEE prioritization method and Benefit/Cost. Probability and
Severity was assessed by guidance from the State Hazard Mitigation
Plan.
Review and editing of mitigation actions pertaining to Dam Failure,
Earthquake, and Land subsidence/Sinkholes. Committee rated actions
using the STAPLEE prioritization method and Benefit/Cost.
Probability and Severity was assessed by guidance from the State
Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Review and editing of mitigation actions pertaining to Severe Winter
Weather, Tornado, Hailstorm, and Windstorm. Committee rated
actions using the STAPLEE prioritization method and Benefit/Cost.
Probability and Severity for each hazard was assessed by guidance from
the State Hazard Mitigation Plan.
4/21/2011
Meeting No. 5
Review and editing of mitigation actions pertaining to Drought,
Extreme Heat, and Wildfire. Committee rated actions using the
STAPLEE prioritization method and Benefit/Cost. Probability and
Severity was assessed by guidance from the State Hazard Mitigation.
6/2/2011
Educators
Meeting
All School districts in Cooper County were invited to a special meeting
to review their options in regard to participation in the planning
process. Representatives will communicate via email and phone on the
creation of any new actions.
7/16/2011
Meeting No. 2
Meeting No. 3
Meeting No. 4
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
4/7/2011
5/19/2011
15
Summary of Update of the Plan
The Technical Steering Committee decided that each section of the original plan needed to be
updated. The original plan was written early in FEMA’s interpretation of the requirements for
Hazard Mitigation Plans. The current guidance, Local Multi-Hazard Mitigation Planning
Guidance, was published in July 2008. A restructuring of the plan seemed appropriate to fulfill
the current interpretation of FEMA requirements in a clear and cohesive manner.
The Technical Steering committee also changed the name of the plan to be in accordance with
other county documents and plans.
Given the structural changes, the updated plan’s organization is:
Table of Contents
Executive Summary
Prerequisites
Section 1: Introduction and Planning Process
Section 2: Planning Area Profile and Capabilities
Section 3: Risk Assessment
Section 4: Mitigation Strategy
Section 5: Plan Maintenance Process
Appendices
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
16
The plan was also restructured from its original organization to promote readability and flow. A
general description of changes and updates made to the plan are shown in Figure 1.1.3.
Figure 1.1.3
General Review and Update of Plan by Section
Revised
Pages
(Original
Plan)
Section 1: Introduction
Moved some material from Section 1 to more appropriate sections in the
plan. Added some material and reorganized according to the following
subsections: Purpose, Background, History of the Cooper Natural Hazard
Mitigation Plan, Participating Jurisdictions, and The Update Process.
Material on Plan Monitoring was moved to a new Section in updated plan
(Section 5: Plan Maintenance Process).
Yes
5-15
Section 2: Community Profile Removed and updated community
profiles. Updated all charts and graphs to reflect more recent data.
Historic properties and the NFIP information were moved to Section 3.
Subsection titles were changed and some were merged and/or eliminated.
Yes
16-34
Section 3: Risk Assessment
Reviewed all charts and graphs and updated with current information, as
necessary; edited text to reflect new information; changed rating system
of each natural hazard to "Measure of Probability and Severity" using the
same rating system as in the Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan 2010.
Reorganized hazard profiles and made specific changes to each hazard
profile to make the plan a more relevant and useful document. Removed
all vulnerability assessment charts to update data and reformat per FEMA
guidelines.
Yes
35-99
Section 4: Capability Assessment
Section removed entirely: Capability Assessment moved to Section 2.
Yes
122-134
Section 5: Mitigation Goals and Strategies
Updated the Mitigation Goals, Objectives, and Actions to reflect decisions
made by the Technical Steering Committee and participating jurisdictions;
added documentation of changes to Mitigation Actions; added mitigation
action matrix for each participating jurisdiction. This section is Section 4
in the update.
Yes
135-149
Section 6: Plan Maps
Removed all maps; numerous new maps created and placed in the new
Section 2.
Yes
150-158
Appendices
Replaced appendices with appropriate ones for update.
Yes
157-181
Description
Section 1
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
17
Requirement
§201.6(b):
In order to develop a more comprehensive approach to reducing the
effects of natural disasters, the planning process shall include:
(3) Review and incorporation, if appropriate, of existing plans, studies,
reports, and technical information.
Many existing plans, studies, and reports were consulted in the development of this plan. These
include:







Section 1
Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010), State Emergency Management Agency
(SEMA)
SEMA Situation Reports (http://sema.dps.mo.gov/SitReps/Situation%20Reports.htm)
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the Mid-MO Region (2009)
Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), Missouri Department of Transportation
Regional Transportation Plan (2009), Mid-MO Regional Planning Commission
Atlas of Missouri Ecoregions, Missouri Department of Conservation
Missouri Drought Plan (2002), Missouri Department of Natural Resources
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
18
Section 2: Planning Area Profile and Capabilities
2.1 Geography and Ecology
Cooper County is located in central Missouri with an area covering 570 square miles. It is
approximately midway between Kansas City to the west and St. Louis to the east.
The county is bordered on the north by the Missouri River, which separates it from Boone and
Howard counties, on the west by Saline and Pettis counties, on the southwest by Morgan County,
and on the south and southeast by Moniteau County
The county is located in the northern part of the Ozark Highlands. The Atlas of Missouri
Ecoregions, published by the Missouri Department of Conservation, describes the Ozark
Highlands as
a distinctive biogeographic region that includes most of southern Missouri and much of
northern Arkansas and small parts of Illinois, Oklahoma, and Kansas. Geologically, the
Ozark Highlands is a low structural dome of essentially horizontally bedded strata that
has been undergoing erosion and weathering for a quarter billion years into a thoroughly
dissected plateau.
The Ozark Highlands is very diverse biologically and geographically with rugged hills, prairies,
savannas, and open woodlands. The predominant underlying bedrock is carbonate (limestone
and dolomite), giving rise to karst topographic features such as caves, underground streams, and
sinkholes. Natural springs provide an abundance of fresh water in many areas.
The land area of Cooper County falls mainly into four different subsections of the Ozark
Highlands. These subsections are distinguished by differing landforms, soils, and vegetation
(see Figure 2.1.1). In turn, these subsections give rise to differences in land use patterns,
conservation needs, and vulnerability to certain natural hazards. In addition to the dominant
Ozark Highlands Ecoregion, a small amount of land area in the southeastern and northeastern
portion of the county falls into subsections of the Central Dissected Till Plains Ecoregion and the
Osage Plains Ecoregion.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
19
Figure 2.1.1
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
20
The following information summarized from the Atlas of Missouri Ecoregions gives brief
descriptions of the land types found within the Ozark Highlands subsections in Cooper County.
Inner Ozark Border
This subsection constitutes a small portion of the southwestern corner of the county around the
Moniteau River. It consists of dissected plains and hills with local reliefs averaging 100-150
feet. Historically, the area was largely oak savanna, woodland, and forest with frequent glades
and small prairie openings. Currently, the area consists of row crops, pasture, second growth
forests, and overgrown glades.
Missouri River Alluvial Plain
This subsection, consisting of the Missouri River channel and its adjoining alluvial plain, is
found along the northern border of the county. Soils are deep and loamy and the area is subject
to riverine flooding. Historically, the vegetation was typical bottomland species such as
cottonwood, willow, sycamore, silver maple, elm, and hackberry.
Prairie Ozark Border
This subsection extends from the south and into the central part of Cooper County. This
subsection is a high, smooth plain with less than 100 feet of local relief. The underlying strata
are limestone and dolomite and the area is blanketed with loess. This area is transitional between
the wooded hills of the Ozarks and the open plains to the west; historically, it was mostly prairie
with trees alongside streams. Currently, the land is mostly pasture with some significant tracts of
cropland.
Outer Ozark Border
This subsection includes most of the northern and western parts of the county. This area is steep
loess-covered hills and bluffs along the Missouri River. The underlying strata are limestone and
dolomite. This area is the most rugged bluffland on the southern side of the Missouri River west
of the Osage River. Prior to European settlement, oak savanna and woodlands dominated the
higher areas and dense oak and mixed-hardwoods were found in the steep-sided limestone
ravines. Currently, the uplands are primarily fescue pasture and the ravines are second-growth
forests and cedar thickets.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
21
The Missouri River
Figure 2.1.2 Missouri River basin
Source: US Geological Survey
The Missouri River and its relationship to Cooper County deserve special attention. The
Missouri River is the longest river in the nation; it measures 2,341 miles long, according to the
U.S. Geological Survey. The Missouri River Basin is the second largest watershed in the U.S.
and touches nine states and a small portion of Canada. It is the defining physical feature in MidMissouri and forms the northern border of Cooper County. The river drains approximately one
sixth of the United States and is only a few hundred miles from its confluence with the
Mississippi River at St. Louis when it flows through mid-Missouri. The location of population
centers close to the river in Cooper County has meant significant flooding damage in the county
in the recent past (see Section 2.4).
In both 1994 and 1995 the Missouri River was listed as one of the “10 Most Endangered Rivers
in the Country” by American Rivers, a river conservation group
(http://www.americanrivers.org/). This “Most Endangered” list does not reflect the rivers in the
worst condition; rather, it seeks to highlight rivers “confronted by decisions in the coming year
that could determine their future.” The Missouri River was chosen for the list in the mid-1990s
because of dam, channelization, navigation, and agricultural runoff issues.
Flood control structures, power plants, and other engineering projects have profoundly changed
the course of the river since Lewis and Clark first traversed it in the early 1800s. In recent years
debates over the future of the Missouri River have taken place among the seven states through
which it runs. Commercial river traffic, recreational use, environmental concerns, managing
river levels to comply with the needs of endangered species, and the preservation of sacred and
historical sites along the river and floodplain are all issues which make the management of the
river a sensitive balancing act.
The State of Missouri, located at the mouth of the river, feels the impact of river management
decisions further upstream. Likewise, Cooper County feels the impact of whatever decisions are
made by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the overseer of the river, concerning the river.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
22
Public Land
There is more than 13,736 acres of public land in the planning area. These areas are owned and
managed by state and federal agencies (see Figure 2.1.3).
State or Federal Public Land
Name
Responsible Agency
Missouri Department of Conservation
Blackwater Bridge Access
Missouri Department of Conservation
De Bourgmont Access
Missouri Department of Conservation
Harriman Hill Access
Missouri Department of Conservation
Lamine River CA
Missouri Department of Conservation
Prairie Home CA
Missouri Department of Conservation
Roberts Bluff Access
Missouri Department of Conservation
Swinging Bridge Access
Missouri Department of Conservation
Taylors Landing Access
US Fish and Wildlife Service
Overton Bottoms North Unit
Overton Bottoms South Unit
US Fish and Wildlife Service
(Cooper and Moniteau counties)
Katy Trail State Park
Missouri Department of Natural Resources
(Cooper County Section)
Figure 2.1.3
Acres
5
3
37
5977
1461
7
25
10
2549
3662
~ 25 Miles
Source: Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), Missouri Spatial Data Server(MSDIS)
2.2 Climate
Cooper County, like the rest of the state of Missouri, has variable weather patterns and extremes
of temperature. With its central continental location, Missouri receives air masses bringing
weather from all directions.
Warm humid air from the Gulf of Mexico can bring moisture year round and is the principal
source of precipitation in the spring, summer, and fall; in contrast, air from other directions may
be hot and dry (southwest), warm and dry (west), cold (northwest and north), cool and moist
(northeast). The flow from the different source regions typically changes in a matter of days,
giving rise to the commonly heard expression in Missouri, “If you don’t like the weather, wait a
day.”
At times, the flow of air from one of the source regions will settle in and persist for weeks or
months. These periods are associated with particular upper air flow patterns and associated
surface conditions.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
23
The Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan quotes Dr. Grant Darkow of the University of
Missouri - Department of Atmospheric Science on the importance of understanding these
weather patterns:
“The persistence of these weather patterns and the possible resulting condition is the subject of
several of the natural disasters discussed in this study. Specifically, floods, droughts, fires, heat
waves, severe cold, and winter storms can be the result of the persistence of one of these weather
patterns, whereas tornadoes can represent the outgrowth of rapid shifts in weather patterns.
Knowing these patterns may assist in alerting disaster planners and the general public to the
possibility of a developing emergency situation.”
While Cooper County does have extreme variations in weather at times, there is a relative pattern
of temperature and rainfall consistent with a humid continental climate (see Figures 2.2.1 and
2.2.2). The data shown in the charts was collected at the Boonville weather station in the years
1961-1990. The rainfall data showed an average of 43.5” of rainfall per year; average rainfall in
this data set is defined as including precipitation of any form.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
24
Fig. 2.2.1
24-hr. Average Temperature in Cooper County F
1961-1990
90
80
70
60
50
40
°F
30
20
10
0
Jan
Feb Mar Apr May Jun
Jul
Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
Source: http://www.worldclimate.com/cgi-bin/data.pl?ref =N38W092+1302+230817C
Fig. 2.2.2
Average Rainfall in Cooper County, 1961-1990
6
5
4
3
inches
2
1
0
Jan
Feb Mar Apr May Jun
Jul
Aug Sep
Oct Nov Dec
Source: http://www.worldclimate.com/cgi-bin/data.pl?ref =N38W092+2200+230817C
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
25
2.3 History
According to the official Cooper County website, the County was organized in 1818 and is
named after brothers Sarshall and Benjamin Cooper, local frontiersmen. Cooper County had
previously been part of Howard County, which now lies north of the Missouri River. The
county, when first formed, encompassed a large area which has subsequently been divided into
15 counties. Boonville became the County Seat and is now the largest community in Cooper
County. There are eight incorporated communities in the county including: Blackwater,
Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove, Prairie Home, Windsor Place, and Wooldridge. In
addition to these communities there are several unincorporated communities including, but not
limited to: Bellair, Clifton City, Lamine, Overton, and Pleasant Green.
Originally home to the Osage and other groups of indigenous people, white settlers from
Kentucky and Tennessee began settling the area around 1816. With these white settlers came
their southern culture and lifestyles including large plantations and slavery. By the mid 1800’s
Cooper County along with several other counties along the Missouri River became a thriving
agricultural area known as “Little Dixie”. Cooper County and the surrounding area produced
such crops as hemp, tobacco, and cotton. The area was also home to several Civil War battles.
Cooper County still maintains its agricultural roots and promotes tourism of its rich historical
heritage.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
26
2.4 Natural Hazard History
Cooper County has been subject to many natural hazards in the past. Floods, droughts,
windstorms, hail, tornadoes, severe winter weather, and extreme heat have all taken their tolls;
dam failure has threatened. A brief overview of the more recent natural hazard events in the
county will be discussed here; more extensive history will be given with each Hazard Profile in
Section 3 of the plan.
Probably the most prominent natural hazard within memory is the Flood of 1993 (see Figure
2.4.1). This flood was devastating to much of Missouri and the Midwest; it took a great toll in
Cooper County. According to data from the U.S. Corps of Engineers
(http://el.erdc.usace.army.mil/flood/fl93home.html), there was extensive damage in varying
amounts in the following sectors:







Agricultural property
Transportation
Public Facilities
Residential properties
Commercial Properties
Utilities
Emergency Expenses
$10Million to $50Million
$1Million to $5Million
$500,000 to $1Million
$500,000 to $1Million
$500,000 to $1Million
$25,000 to $100,000
less than $10,000
In addition to the 1993 flood, there have been several other flooding events that have touched the
region. Figure 2.4.1 depicts the flood of 1903 and how close the river came to overtaking the
original Katy Railroad Bridge.
Figure 2.4.1 Boonville, 1903 – Photo Courtesy of Friends of Historic Boonville
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
27
Estimates of the per capita costs of the 1993 flood for three sectors in the Mid-Missouri Region
are shown in Figure 2.4.2. It is important to note that this chart reflects per capita cost and that
Cooper County has the fourth largest population in the region.
Per Capita Costs of 1993 Flood in
Central Missouri
Figure 2.4.2
Moniteau
Howard
Cooper
Cole
Callaway
Boone
$0
$100
$200
$300
Public Facilties
$400
Commercial
$500
$600
$700
Residential
Source: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
The devastating flood of 1993 was followed by floods in 1994, 1995, and 2011. Cooper County
was included in Presidential Disaster Declarations for flooding in 1993, 1995, and 2011. Costs
pertaining to 2011 flooding was not yet available at the time this plan was being written.
Although the county does not experience severe flooding every year, thunderstorms can be
expected annually. In most years there are reports of associated high winds (Windstorms) and
Hail someplace in the county. In a seven year period between 1993 and 2000, thunderstorm
winds caused $184,000 in property damage. Severe hail was a problem in the springs of 1993
and 2009.
Less frequently, thunderstorms will spawn Tornadoes in the area. Cooper County experienced
16 tornadoes between 1950 and 2010 resulting in $1.6 million in property damage and $50,000
in crop damage. There were no injuries or deaths from these tornadoes, but this is an ever
present concern due to the frequency of thunderstorm activity and the potential for formation of
tornadoes.
Severe Winter Weather can be expected in Cooper County nearly every year. The county has
been included in five Presidential Disaster Declarations for severe winter weather since 2002. A
winter storm that brought up to ¾ of an inch of ice in December 2007 caused widespread power
outages leaving an estimated 165,000 residents without power in Cooper County and the
surrounding counties of Bates, Chariton, Howard, Johnson, Pettis, and Saline. Most recently, in
2011, a series of storms blanketed the region in near record amounts of snow and created
blizzard conditions across a large portion of the state. Snow fall on February 1st, 2011 caused the
closure of Interstate 70 from Kansas City to St. Louis. Expenses from these storms are in excess
of $14 million, according to SEMA.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
28
On the other end of the temperature spectrum, periods of Extreme Heat also commonly occur in
the county almost every year. Drought is an ever present possibility; 2000 brought the driest
year ever recorded for the county and the State of Missouri.
2.5 Demographics
The county’s population centers on Boonville with nearly half of the county’s citizens residing
there.
Cooper County saw an 18% growth rate between the 1990 census and the 2009 American
Community Survey estimates. While most workers in Cooper County also live in the county,
more than half of residents commute to neighboring counties where they are employed. The City
of Columbia in neighboring Boone County is a draw for many residents due to the presence of
the University of Missouri, hospitals, manufacturers, and service related employers. The county
falls in line with the state percentage for people below the poverty line and has a slightly lower
median household income compared to the state. Compared to statistics for the State of Missouri,
Cooper County has a much lower population density, similar percentage of high school
graduates, and a lower percentage of persons with a college degree.
These statistics reflect the agricultural and rural landscape of the county. Some key demographic
statistics for Cooper County and the State of Missouri are shown in Figure 2.5.1. A general map
of population characteristics is shown in Figure 2.5.2.
Figure 2.5.1
Demographic Statistics
Total population (2008 estimate)
Population change (2000-2008 estimate)
Persons per square mile
High school graduates (age 25+)
Bachelors degree or higher (age 25+)
Persons with a disability (age 5+)
Mean travel time to work (min.)
Median household income (2008 estimate)
Persons below poverty level (2008 estimate)
Cooper County
Missouri
17,535
5.2%
29.5
80.3%
13.7%
2,392
22.4
$42,929
13.5%
5,911,605
5.6%
81.2
81.3%
21.6%
973,637
23.8
$46,847
13.5%
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, http://quickfacts.census.gov/qfd/states/29000.html
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
29
Figure 2.5.2
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
30
Racial/Ethnic Demographics
Cooper County has been and is currently a predominantly white non-Hispanic community.
White non-Hispanics comprise 92.6% of the population as estimated by the 2005-2009 American
Community Survey of the U.S. Census Bureau. This compares to a statewide percentage of
82.1% and a nationwide percentage of 65.9%.
The next largest group in Cooper County is black/African American non-Hispanics at 6.6% of
the population. This compares to a statewide percentage of 11.1% and a nationwide percentage
of 12.1%.
The estimated racial/ethnic profile of the county is shown in Figure 2.5.3.
Figure 2.5.3
Hawaian
0.02%
American Indian
0.33%
Other
0.22%
Multi-Racial Hispanic
1.32%
1.72%
Race
Cooper County
Asian
0.44%
Source: 2010 US Census
Black
6.86%
White
90.42%
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
31
Income
The median household income in Cooper County ($41,576) is lower than the median household
income for the state of Missouri ($48,914), according to the 2008 estimate from the American
Community Survey (ACS) of the U.S. Census Bureau.
The distribution of household income and benefits in the county is shown in Figure 2.5.4.
Figure 2.5.4
Income
Less than $10,000
$10,000 - $14,999
$15,000 - $24,999
$25,000 - $34,999
$35,000 - $49,999
$50,000 - $74,999
$75,000 - $99,999
$100,000 - $149,999
$150,000 - $199,999
$200,000 or more
Household Income and Benefits
# of Households
% of Households
387
540
889
851
1069
1302
696
412
48
48
6.2
8.7
14.2
13.6
17.1
20.9
11.2
6.6
0.8
0.8
Median household income
Mean household income
$41,576
$48,914
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2005-2009 American Community Survey 5-year estimates http://www.factfinder.census.gov
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
32
Vulnerable Populations
The elderly, children, and the poor are all particularly vulnerable to natural hazards. Over 22%
of the county’s population is under the age of 18; over 14% is 65 years and older, according to
2009 estimates from the American Community Survey of the U.S. Census Bureau (see Figure
2.5.5).
Figure 2.5.5
Age
Cooper County, MO
Source: US Census 2010
65 &
over
9%
Under 18
13%
50 - 64
11%
35 - 49
11%
25 - 34
8%
18 & over
44%
20 - 24
4%
There is also significant poverty in the county (13.5%), which is even with the state rate (see
Figure 2.5.1). The population in the lower income brackets is particularly vulnerable to natural
hazards. Poor housing conditions, lack of reliable transportation, and inadequate insurance can
all contribute to making the impacts of a natural hazard worse for people living in poverty.
Hazard mitigation planning must take into account the needs of these, and other, vulnerable
populations.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
33
2.6 Economy, Industry, and Employment
Cooper County is a rural county that borders two Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA). MSAs
are geographic entities defined by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for use by
Federal statistical agencies in collecting, tabulating, and publishing Federal statistics. An MSA
consists of a core urban area of 50,000 or more population, the county or counties containing the
core urban area, and adjacent counties which have a high degree of social and economic
integration with the urban core (as measured by commuting to work).
The City of Columbia in Boone County and Jefferson City in Cole County are the urban cores
for the MSAs which, for Columbia, include the counties of Howard to the north and Boone to the
east, and for Jefferson City, includes the counties of Callaway, Cole, Moniteau, and Osage.
Figure 2.6.1 depicts the principle types of employment found in the county; the major employers
are shown in Figure 2.6.2. It should be noted that over half of county residents commute outside
the county for work and those statistics are not reflected here.
Figure 2.6.1
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
34
Figure 2.6.2
Major Employers in Cooper County
Employer
Isle of Capri
Boonville Correctional Center
Caterpillar
Cooper County Memorial hospital
Boonville R-1 School District
Fuqua Homes
Nordyne
Wal-mart
Unlimited Opportunities
Employees
Employer
Employees
540
380
300
230
220
160
150
150
150
City of Boonville
Cooper County
Interstate Brands Corporation
Pilot Truck Stop
C&R Market
Dave’s Country mart
Indeeco
McDonalds
140
105
100
70
70
70
61
60
Source: Data Provided by City of Boonville, 2010 data
Agriculture
Agriculture remains an important component of the economy in Cooper County even though less
than 3% of the population is currently employed in the sector. There are 302,429 acres in
farmland in the county according to the 2007 Census of Agriculture from the U.S. Department of
Agriculture (USDA). Of the total farmland, 62% is cropland and 20% is pasture.
Soybeans, corn, and hay are the major crops in the county; poultry, cattle and pigs are the main
livestock. Other crops include grain sorghum, grapes, garden vegetables, nuts, fruit, native
plants, trees, and shrubs. The total market value for all agricultural products (crops and
livestock) sold in 2007 was $82,946,000.
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
35
Unemployment Rates
The entire Mid-Missouri Region has lower unemployment rates than the state and nation (see
Figure 2.6.3). Cooper County’s unemployment rate usually falls below that of the nation and
state, but is higher than that of the region.
Figure 2.6.3
Unemployment
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (http://www.bls.gov/lau/)
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
36
2.7 Transportation and Commuting Patterns
Roadways
Cooper County, like most of the United States, is heavily dependent upon the personal vehicle
and roads. Roads are the dominant transportation arteries in Cooper County, moving most goods
and services that flow in and out of the county. The Missouri Department of Transportation
(MoDOT) takes care of all state and federal roads in the county; Cooper County Public Works
maintains roads in unincorporated areas and the various jurisdictions maintain their own roads.
There is one interstate and five state highways in Cooper County (I-70, MO 431, MO 135,
MO 5, MO 87, MO 98, and MO 179). Interstate 70 runs east to west across to northern portion
of the county through the City of Boonville and is the direct route between Kansas City and St.
Louis. MO 5 provides access to the Lake of the Ozarks, a major recreational and tourism area
approximately directly to the south of the county.
While many Cooper County residents work within the county, over half commute to neighboring
counties (see Figure 2.7.2)
Public Transportation
OATS, Inc., a private not-for-profit corporation, was founded by a group of seniors in 1971 as
transportation for older citizen. Its current mission is to “provide reliable transportation for
transportation disadvantaged Missourians so they can live independently in their own
communities.” OATS, Inc. serves a wide diversity of citizens in 87 Missouri counties. In
Cooper County, the organization provides transportation between Boonville and the communities
of Blackwater, Bunceton, Pilot Grove, and Prairie Home as well as to the City of Columbia in
neighboring Boone County. OATS predominantly serves the elderly and disabled, but will serve
anyone needing transportation.
Public transportation is not available in any of the communities in Cooper County at this time.
Railroads
Passenger Rail
While Cooper County does not have a rail station, there is an Amtrak station approximately 48
miles away in Jefferson City that provides passenger service to both Kansas City (and points
westward) and St. Louis (and points eastward) via the Missouri River Runner. Two trains
traveling in each direction stop daily at the Jefferson City Amtrak Station. The completion of a
9,000-foot rail siding extension just west of California, Missouri in November 2009 increased
the on-time arrival percentage of the Missouri River Runner trains from 55-79% in recent years
to over 90%, according to the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT). With a better
record of on-time arrivals, ridership has subsequently increased about 20%.
Rail Freight
A large amount of freight travels by rail through Cooper County. Union Pacific operates tracks
through the northern part of the county. According to the Missouri Department of
Transportation’s Long-Range Transportation Plan (LRTP), 33 percent of all product movement
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
37
in Missouri is conducted by rail. Kansas City and St. Louis are ranked as the 2nd and 3rd busiest
rail hubs in the nation, according to the Missouri Economic Research and Information Center
(MERIC).
Air
The Jesse
P. Viertel Memorial Airport is owned and operated by the City
of Boonville and is available for corporate and private planes but does not support
commercial services. The Columbia Regional Airport is located 45 minutes away in Boone
County south of Columbia. The Columbia Regional Airport is serviced by Mesaba Airlines, a
subsidiary of Northwest Airlines. Additionally, Kansas City International Airport and St. Louis
Lambert International Airport are approximately 120 miles east and west of Boonville, along I70.
Water
The Missouri River and Lamine River both have Missouri Department of Conservation public
access boat ramps and several private access boat ramps. Most of these ramps and access points
are designed for recreational use and allow access to the Missouri River and all points upstream
and downstream. In addition to recreational use boat ramps, there is also a commercial port
operated by the Howard/Cooper County Regional Port Authority. The port is located in Howard
County on the north side of the Missouri River, directly across from the City of Boonville.
According to the Missouri Port Authority, the facility has storage capacity for 250,000 bushels of
grain and 4 million gallons of liquid chemicals. The facility is also equipped with two cranes, a
dock, two dry storage buildings, several support vehicles, and a 15,000 ton outside storage pad.
The port is the only Missouri River public shipping access point between Kansas City and St.
Louis. While the facility lies in Howard County, it is an important resource for Cooper County
and other counties in the Mid-Missouri Region.
Figure 2.7.1 Howard/Cooper County Regional Port Authority
Source: http://www.missouriports.org/howard.html
Figure 2.7.2 shows the transportation makeup of Cooper County.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
38
Figure 2.7.2
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
39
Commuting Patterns
At the time of the 2000 U.S. Census, less than 50% of Cooper County residents worked within
the county (see Figure 2.7.3). The metropolitan area of Columbia in neighboring Boone County
provides several employment possibilities through the University of Missouri, hospitals, and
service industries.
Figure 2.7.3
Commuting Destinations of Cooper County Workers
Location of Work
Missouri Counties
Cooper
Boone
Pettis
Moniteau
Howard
Cole
Saline
Jackson
Johnson
Callaway
Morgan
Audrain
Randolph
Wyandotte
Benton
St. Louis
# of Trips
4,539
1,482
413
266
145
140
73
36
30
28
22
18
15
13
11
10
Other counties or states
Total
2,759
10,000
% of Total Trips
45.39
14.82
4.13
2.66
1.45
1.4
0.73
0.36
0.3
0.28
0.22
0.18
0.15
0.13
0.11
0.1
27.59
100
Source: U.S. Census (2000), http://mcdc2.missouri.edu/websas/workflow.html
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
40
County-to-county workflow data from the 2000 Census indicates a significant percentage of
workers come from within Cooper County and the neighboring counties of Howard and Boone
(see Figure 2.7.4).
Figure 2.7.4
Residence of Cooper County Workers
Residence
Missouri Counties
# of Trips
% of Total Trips
Cooper
Howard
Boone
Saline
Moniteau
Morgan
Pettis
Johnson
Randolph
Cole
Callaway
Greene
4,539
595
244
179
123
91
74
60
50
34
30
21
74.3
9.7
4
2.9
2
1.5
1.2
1
0.8
0.6
0.5
0.3
Other counties or states
Total
123
6,163
1.2
100
Source: U.S. Census (2000), http://mcdc2.missouri.edu/websas/workflow.html
Commute time for workers residing in Cooper County are the third lowest in the six-county
region served by the Mid-Missouri RPC and somewhat lower than the state average (see Figure
2.7.5).
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
41
Figure 2.7.5
Commute Times in Counties of Mid-MO RPC
Howard
Boone
Callaway
Cole
Minutes
Cooper
Moniteau
Missouri
0
10
20
30
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2005-2009 American Community Survey 5-year estimates:
http://www.factfinder.census.gov
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
42
2.8 Participating Jurisdictions - Inventory of Assets and Capabilities
The Planning Area has many human and material assets at risk from natural hazards. There are
also many capabilities in the Planning Area which can be and are used to mitigate the effects of
natural hazards. This section profiles both.
In the first part of this section, each participating jurisdiction is profiled according to general
organizational structure, assets, and capabilities. Each profile also includes an inventory of
structures (including critical structures, building counts, and assessed values), equipment, and
population. These inventories provide one of the bases for the Risk Assessment for each hazard
in Section 3. As stated in Section 1, the following list includes all participating jurisdictions:









Cooper County
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Prairie Home R-V School District
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District (also known as Cooper Co. No.1)
Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Section 2.9 gives a more general overview of special districts within the planning area,
including; school districts, water districts, and fire protection districts.
Section 2.10 gives an overview of policy, planning, and program capabilities within the Planning
Area along with a brief discussion of legal authority and political willpower. Finally, the
important roles of community/regional partnerships, non-governmental/volunteer organizations,
and media organizations are discussed.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
43
Planning Area/Cooper County
Figure 2.8.1
Cooper County Profile
3rd class county
Classification
17,601
Total population
$41,576
Median household income (2008 dollars)*
$109,400
Median owner-occupied housing value*
7,463
Total housing units
Water service
Consolidated PWSD #1 and PWSD #1
Electric service
Co-Mo Electric Cooperative, Ameren UE
Ambulance service
Cooper County
Fire service
Rural and City Departments
Master plan
No
Emergency Operations Plan
Currently being rewritten
Building regulations
No
Zoning regulations
No
Subdivision regulations
Yes – overseen through MO DNR
Storm water regulations
No
NFIP participation
Yes
Floodplain regulations
Yes
Sources: US Census Bureau; Community Survey
* Estimates from surveys conducted in 2006-2008 by the American Community Survey (ACS) of the U.S. Census Bureau;
includes entire incorporated and non-incorporated area of county
Website: http://www.coopercountymo.org/
Assessed and Appraised Values
Figure 2.8.2
Real
Estate
Property
Personal
Property
Cooper County 2010 Assessed Values
Agricultural
Residential
Commercial
Total
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Real Estate Property Total
County Assessed Personal Property
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Personal Property Total
Grand Total
$13,008,870
$87,324,790
$36,837,260
$137,170,920
$3,744,585
$24,927,551
$165,843,056
$53,662,439
$1,239,074
$7,841,471
$53,662,439
$219,505,495
Source: Cooper County Assessor's Office
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
44
Figure 2.8.3 shows Cooper County owned property and replacement costs as stated in the
January 2011 insurance statement.
Figure 2.8.3
Cooper County Owned Assets
Source: Naught-Naught Insurance Agency
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
45
Agriculture
Figure 2.8.4 shows value estimates for agricultural land in Cooper County and estimates of crop
and livestock production. Since 83% of the land area of Cooper County is farmland, the impact
of agricultural losses due to a natural hazard could be a potential threat to the economic stability
of the region.
Figure 2.8.4
2007 Cooper County Agricultural Overview
Number of Farms
Land In Farms
Market Value of Products Sold
Crop Sales
Livestock Sales
942
302,429 acres
(83% of Cooper County)
$82,946,000
$42,447,000
$40,499,000
2007 Census of Agriculture, County Profiles; http://www.agcensus.usda.gov/Publications/2007/Online_Highlights/County_Profiles/
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
46
Critical Facilities
FEMA defines “critical facilities” as all manmade structures or other improvements that,
because of their function, size, service area, or uniqueness, have the potential to cause serious
bodily harm, extensive property damage, or disruption of vital socioeconomic activities if they
are destroyed, damaged, or if their functionality is impaired.
Critical facilities (Figures 2.8.5 - 2.8.7) commonly include all public and private facilities that a
community considers essential for the delivery of vital services and for the protection of the
community. The adverse effects of damaged critical facilities can extend far beyond direct
physical damage. Disruption of health care, fire, and police services can impair search and
rescue, emergency medical care, and even access to damaged areas.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
47
Figure 2.8.5
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
48
Critical Medical Facilities
Figure 2.8.6
Federally Qualified Health Centers
Cooper County Memorial Hospital
City
Boonville
Nursing Home Facilities
Pilot Grove
Katy Manor
Bristol Manor of Boonville
Boonville
Lakeview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center
Boonville
Ashley Manor Care Center
Boonville
Riverdell Care Center
Boonville
Source: Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services Information Technology Services Division
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
49
Figure 2.8.7
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
50
Figure 2.8.8
Cooper County - National Register of Historic Places
National Register-listed Property
Location
Andrews-Wing House , 733 Main St.
Boonville
Beckett, William S. and Mary, House, 821 3rd St.
Boonville
Blackwater Commercial Historic District
Blackwater
Blackwater Residential Historic District
Blackwater
Blakey, Albert Gallatin, House, 226 W Spring St.
Boonville
Cobblestone Street , 100 Main St.
Boonville
Dauwalter, John S. House, 817 7th St.
Boonville
Dick-Kobel Homestead, Jamestown vicinity
Cooper Co.
Diggs, Duke and Mary, House, 1217 Rural St.
Boonville
Fessler-Secongost House, 119 W Morgan St.
Boonville
Gantner, Andrew, House, 1308 6th St.
Boonville
Hamilton-Brown Shoe Co. Building, 1st St.
Boonville
Harley Park Archaeological Site
NA Restricted
Historic District A, Vine and 2nd Sts.
Boonville
Historic District B, 4th and E Spring Sts.
Boonville
Historic District C, E High and 4th Sts.
Boonville
Historic District D, High and Main Sts.
Boonville
Historic District E, High, Spring and Morgan Sts.
Boonville
Historic District F, extends N and S along 6th and 7th Sts.
Boonville
Historic District H, SE corner E Morgan St. and Reformatory Dr.
Boonville
Imhoff Archaeological Site
NA Restricted
Johnson, Juliet Trigg, House, 1304 Main St.
Boonville
Johnson, Wilbur T. and Rhoda Stephens, House, 821 Main,
Boonville
Lyric Theater, Main and Vine Sts.
Boonville
Meierhoffer House, 120 E High St.
Boonville
Meierhoffer Sand Co. Office Building, 201 2nd St.
Boonville
Mellor Village and Mounds Archaeological Site
NA Restricted
Mellor Village and Mounds Archaeological District
NA Restricted
Missouri, Kansas and Texas Railroad Depot, 320 1st St.
Boonville
Morton-Myer House, 1000 11th St.
Boonville
Mount Nebo Baptist Church, SR E, Pilot Grove vicinity
Pilot Grove
Nelson, Thomas, House, 700 10th St.
Boonville
New Lebanon Cumberland Presbyterian Church and School
New Lebanon
New Lebanon Historic District
New Lebanon
Pigott, Josephine Trigg, House, 1307 6th St.
Boonville
Pleasant Green, 8 mi. SW of Pilot Grove on US 135
Pilot Grove
Prairie View, E of Pleasant Green off MO 135
Pleasant Green
Ravenswood, NW of Bunceton on MO 5
Bunceton
Roeschel-Toennes-Oswald Property, 515 W Spring,
Boonville
St. Matthew's Chapel A.M.E. Church, 309 Spruce St.
Boonville
Sumner Public School, 321 Spruce St.
Boonville
Source: http://www.dnr.mo.gov/shpo/Cooper.htm
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
51
Figure 2.8.9
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
52
Cooper County Governmental Structure
Cooper County is governed by an elected three member Board of Commissioners composed of
an Eastern Commissioner, a Western Commissioner, and a Presiding Commissioner. The
Commission carries out the following responsibilities:
 establishes Cooper County policy
 approves and adopts the annual budget for all County operations
 approves actual expenditures for each department
 supervises the operations of County departments
 ensures County-wide compliance with numerous statutory requirements
 acts as liaison with County boards, commissions, and other local and regional
governmental entities
Cooper County has the following departments and offices:
Assessor
Circuit Court
Collector
County Clerk
Emergency Management
Juvenile Justice
Public Health
Prosecuting Attorney
Public Administrator
Recorder of Deeds
Sheriff
Treasurer
Public Works
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
53
Technical Capabilities
The following office and departments play especially important roles in hazard mitigation:
Emergency Management Agency -The staff is responsible for emergency contingency planning,
public education, and emergency response coordination. Emergency Management staff write
and update the Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), conduct ongoing public education related to
emergency information, and identify and fix gaps in emergency response, preparedness, and
mitigation. The County’s Emergency Management staff has had extensive training from SEMA,
FEMA, and other bodies in emergency response, preparedness, mitigation, and overall
emergency management.
Road and Bridge Department - This department is an integral part of mitigation planning.
Decisions about new roads and maintenance of current infrastructure are intertwined with the
overall mission of hazard mitigation planning.
Website: http://www.coopercountymo.org/
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
54
Boonville
Figure 2.8.10
Boonville Profile
Classification
3rd Class
Population
8,703
Median household income
$37,159
Median owner-occupied housing value
$105,200
Total housing units
3,398
Water service
City
Electric service
Ameren UE
Ambulance service
City
Sewer service
City
Fire service
City
Master plan
Yes, 2003 Comprehensive Plan
Emergency Operations Plan
Yes, Cooper County EOP
Building regulations
Yes
Zoning regulations
Yes
Subdivision regulations
Yes
Storm water regulations
Yes
NFIP participation
Yes
Floodplain regulations
Yes
Sources: US Census Bureau 2005-2009 American Community Survey and individual community surveys
City Owned Assets
Property
Replacement Cost (Buildings and Contents)
See Appendix E for detailed listing
36,138,761
Source: City of Boonville Insurance Statement (2011)
Website: http://www.boonvillemo.org/
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
55
Assessed Values
Figure 2.8.11
Real
Estate
Property
Personal
Property
Boonville 2010 Assessed Values
Agricultural
Residential
Commercial
Total
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Real Estate Property Total
County Assessed Personal Property
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Personal Property Total
Grand Total
$107,610
$39,449,430
$28,808,540
$68,365,580
$3,414,115
$2,948,193
$74,727,888
$20,067,411
$792,621
$615,227
$21,475,259
$96,203,147
Source: Cooper County Assessor's Office
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
56
Bunceton
Figure 2.8.12
Classification
Population
Median household income
Median owner-occupied housing value
Total housing units
Water service
Electric service
Ambulance service
Sewer service
Fire service
Master plan
Emergency Operations Plan
Building regulations
Zoning regulations
Subdivision regulations
Storm water regulations
NFIP participation
Floodplain regulations
Bunceton Profile
4th Class
464
$35,938
$57,500
150
City of Bunceton
Ameren UE
Cooper County
City of Bunceton
City of Bunceton and Bunceton Rural
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
No
No
Sources: US Census Bureau 2005-2009 American Community Survey and individual community surveys
City Owned Assets
Property
Replacement Cost (Buildings and Contents)
City Hall
City Park
Water Tower and Pump House
Pump house/Shed
Storage building
Fire Department/Maintenance Building
$105,253
$1,986
$81,238
$10,612
$13,238
$78,000
Source: City of Bunceton Insurance Statement (2011)
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
57
Assessed Values
Figure 2.8.13
Real
Estate
Property
Personal
Property
Bunceton 2010 Assessed Values
Agricultural
Residential
Commercial
Total
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Real Estate Property Total
$11,470
$1,004,770
$101,850
$1,118,090
$0
$361,910
$1,480,000
County Assessed Personal Property
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Personal Property Total
$420,644
$0
$55,292
Grand Total
$1,955,936
$475,936
Source: Cooper County Assessor's Office
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
58
Otterville
Figure 2.8.14
Classification
Population
Median household income
Median owner-occupied housing value
Total housing units
Water service
Electric service
Ambulance service
Sewer service
Fire service
Master plan
Emergency Operations Plan
Building regulations
Zoning regulations
Subdivision regulations
Storm water regulations
NFIP participation
Floodplain regulations
Otterville Profile
4th class city
421
$34,500
$65,300
224
City of Otterville
Ameren UE
Cooper County
City of Otterville
City of Otterville Fire Department
No
Yes
No
No
No
Yes
No
No
Sources: US Census Bureau 2005-2009 American Community Survey and individual community surveys
City Owned Assets
Property
Replacement Cost (Buildings and Contents)
Vehicles (4)
Heavy Equipment and Machinery
Community Building
Well
Water Tower
Senior Citizens Center
City Hall
Equipment Building
Shelter House
Gazebo
$32,500
$61,775
$104,900
$21,700
$225,600
$122,300
$107,600
$148,600
$9,000
$4,600
Source: City of Otterville Insurance Statement (2011)
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
59
Assessed Values
Figure 2.8.15
Real
Estate
Property
Personal
Property
Otterville 2010 Assessed Values
Agricultural
Residential
Commercial
Total
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Real Estate Property Total
County Assessed Personal Property
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Personal Property Total
Grand Total
$1,440
$1,378,560
$190,710
$1,570,710
$0
$411,392
$1,982,102
$742,978
$550
$130,256
$873,784
$2,855,886
Source: Cooper County Assessor's Office
Website: http://www.cityofotterville.com
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
60
Pilot Grove
Figure 2.8.16
Pilot Grove Profile
Classification
4th class
Population
727
Median household income
$43,750
Median owner-occupied housing value
$68,300
Total housing units
307
Water service
City
Electric service
Ameren UE
Ambulance service
Cooper County
Sewer service
City
Fire service
City
Master plan
No
Emergency Operations Plan
Yes, Cooper County EOP
Building regulations
No
Zoning regulations
No
Subdivision regulations
Unknown
Storm water regulations
Unknown
NFIP participation
Yes
Floodplain regulations
Yes
Sources: US Census Bureau 2005-2009 American Community Survey and individual community surveys
City Owned Assets
Property
Replacement Cost (Buildings and Contents)
This data has been requested but not provided at the time of final submission. If not submitted before
final adoption; this information may be added during the maintenance process.
Source:N/A
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
61
Assessed Values
Figure 2.8.17
Real
Estate
Property
Personal
Property
Pilot Grove 2010 Assessed Values
Agricultural
Residential
Commercial
Total
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Real Estate Property Total
County Assessed Personal Property
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Personal Property Total
Grand Total
$8,850
$2,636,950
$545,450
$3,191,250
$181,060
$279,069
$3,651,379
$1,113,864
$158,762
$45,284
$1,317,910
$4,969,289
Source: Cooper County Assessor's Office
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
62
Wooldridge
Figure 2.8.18
Wooldridge Profile
Classification
Village
Population
17
Median household income
$60,625
Median owner-occupied housing value
$72,500
Total housing units
19
Water service
PWSD#1
Electric service
Ameren UE
Ambulance service
Cooper County
Sewer service
No
Fire service
Cooper County Rural Fire
Master plan
No
Emergency Operations Plan
Yes, Cooper County EOP
Building regulations
No
Zoning regulations
No
Subdivision regulations
No
Storm water regulations
No
NFIP participation
No – currently in the process of enrolling
Floodplain regulations
No – Pending with NFIP participation
Sources: US Census Bureau 2005-2009 American Community Survey and individual community surveys
The Village of Wooldridge does not own any buildings or equipment. The village does own the
levee which protects the town. There is no value statement available for the levee at this time.
Assessed Values
Figure 2.8.19
Real
Estate
Property
Personal
Property
Wooldridge 2010 Assessed Values
Agricultural
Residential
Commercial
Total
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Real Estate Property Total
County Assessed Personal Property
Local Assessed: Railroad & Utility
State Assessed: Railroad & Utility
Personal Property Total
Grand Total
$820
$100,620
$0
$101,440
$0
$51,724
$153,164
$67,634
$0
$22,119
$89,753
$242,917
Source: Cooper County Assessor's Office
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
63
2.9 Special Districts – Inventory of Assets and Capabilities
This section profiles the special districts in the planning area, including; Levee Districts, School
Districts, Water Districts, and Fire Protection Districts.
Levee Districts
There are two Levee Districts located in the Planning Area. Each levee district is composed of
an elected board. The districts are responsible for maintaining the levees and setting an annual
budget. Both levee districts are organized through the Cooper County Commission.
It should be noted that the Overton-Wooldridge levee district is also referred to in some federal
and state documentation as “Cooper County Levee District No. 1”. The name OvertonWooldridge appears on all county documentation and taxing information.
Figures 2.9.1 and 2.9.2 give a list of assets for each levee district. A more detailed profile of the
levee districts can be found in Section 3.7 under Levee Failure.
Figure 2.9.1
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District Assets
Equipment
2 Pumps ($8000 each)
50' of hose for each pump
2 Gear Heads (4,500 each)
2 diesel power units $16,000 each)
1 - 16" portable pump and hose
1 - 12" portable pump and hose
Concrete Structure for each pump
Total
Replacement Cost
$16,000
$8,000
$9,000
$32,000
$15,000
$15,000
$45,000
$140,000
Source: Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Figure 2.9.2
Linneman-Weekly Levee District Assets
Equipment
1 - 20"pump
1 - 24"pump
Irrigation System
2 Wells
Replacement Cost
$30,000
$36,000
$250,000
$50,000
Total
$366,000
Source: Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
64
School Districts Pre K-12
Of the 6 public school districts, there are approximately 2,542 students and 307 teachers in 14
public schools (see Figure 2.9.3) there are also 257 students and 29 teachers in three private
schools private schools (see Figure 2.9.4). Each district has an elected Superintendent and
School Board along with several administrative staff.
Students are a vulnerable population as they are dependent on others for natural hazard
information during the school day. A mitigation plan must take this into account. Often, this has
been done by building schools out of floodplains and having safe areas within the school where
the students can assemble in the event of a disaster. School buildings can also act as safe rooms
and shelters during a natural disaster.
Cooper County Public School District Populations
2.9.3
Grades
Certificated
Staff
Students
Totals:
K-8
1 School
18
18
134
134
Totals:
3-5
Pre K-2
7-12
9-12
5 Schools
40
24
32
49
145
433
227
322
583
1565
Totals:
K-6
7-12
2 Schools
16
16
32
71
82
153
Totals:
K-6
7-12
2 Schools
12
17
29
119
124
243
Totals:
Pre K-5
7-8
9-12
3 Schools
18
14
18
50
129
55
117
301
Totals:
K-6
7-12
2 Schools
17
16
33
82
64
146
School District
Blackwater R-II
Blackwater Elementary School
Boonville R-I
David Barton Elementary School
Hannah Cole Primary School
Laura Speed Elliott Middle School
Boonville High School
Cooper Co. R-IV
Bunceton Elementary School
Bunceton High School
Otterville R-VI
Otterville Elementary School
Otterville High School
Pilot Grove C-4
Pilot Grove Elementary School
Pilot Grove Middle School
Pilot Grove High School
Prairie Home R-V
Prairie Home Elementary School
Prairie Home High School
Source: MO Department of Elementary and Secondary Education - Revised: 1/7/ 2009
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
65
Cooper County Private Schools
Figure 2.9.4
Private
St. Joseph School
St. Peter and Paul School
Zion Lutheran School
Schools
Teachers/staff
1
1
1
2
25
2
Students
38
199
20
Source: http://www.privateschoolreview.com/county_private_schools/stateid/MO/county/29051, school administration
Figure 2.9.5 gives an overview of value estimates and population statistics for each district.
Figure 2.9.5
School District
Blackwater R-II
Boonville R-I
Cooper Co. R-IV
Otterville R-VI
Pilot Grove C-4
Prairie Home R-V
Cooper County School Districts Assessed Values
Buildings
Replacement Cost (building
and contents)
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
NA
1
$4,445,018
Assessed Valuation
$7,660,252
$128,962,922
$8,163,460
$12,815,921
$16,343,946
$11,705,063
Source: MO Department of Elementary and Secondary Education - Revised: 1/7/ 2009 and Prairie Home R-V School District
Figure 2.9.6 depicts school locations and district boundaries for each district. The districts that
cover the far southwestern portion of the county do not have structures in Cooper County. These
districts, if participating, are profiled in the Moniteau County Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
66
Figure 2.9.6
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
67
Fire Protection Districts
There are 10 fire protection districts which respond to fires, accidents, and other emergencies
within the Planning Area (see Figure 2.9.7). Mutual aid agreements exist between all the
departments and also with surrounding county departments. The fire districts have been
proactive in public education campaigns, updating training, and general outreach efforts to
ensure the community at large is safe. The fire districts are key players in hazard mitigation and
preparedness activities.
Figure 2.9.7
Cooper County Fire Protection Districts
Fire Protection District
Blackwater Rural Fire
Department
Boonville Fire Department
Bunceton Rural & City Fire
Department
Cooper County Fire
Protection District
Otterville Fire Protection
District
Pilot Grove Fire
Department
Pilot Grove Rural Fire
Department, Inc.
Prairie Home Rural Fire
Protection District
Firefighters
Type
# Fire
Stations
Career
Volunteer
PaidperCall
Other
Employees
Other
Volunteers
Volunteer
1
0
12
0
0
0
Mostly
Volunteer
2
7
0
26
0
0
Volunteer
1
0
13
0
0
7
Mostly
Volunteer
4
1
48
0
1
0
Volunteer
1
0
12
0
0
0
Volunteer
1
0
15
0
0
0
Volunteer
1
0
15
0
0
0
Volunteer
1
0
10
0
0
0
Source: http://missouri.firedepartments.net/county/MO/CoooperCounty.html
The following fire districts are based outside of Cooper County, but respond to some areas of the
county.





Jamestown Rural Fire District
Fortuna Fire District
Tipton Rural Fire District
California Fire Department
Clifton City Volunteer Fire Department
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
68
Water Districts
There are three Public Water Supply Districts located in the Planning Area.
Each water district is composed of an elected board. The districts are responsible for
maintaining existing water supply infrastructure and developing new infrastructure.
Water Districts are primarily related to mitigation activities focused on drought, wildfire, and
flood. Connecting water supplies so that areas have multiple water supplies is an important
mitigation strategy. The areas served and interconnections of all water providers in the Planning
Area are shown in Figure 2.9.8.
Figure 2.9.8
Water Providers Serving Planning Area
Provider
Area Served
PWSD #1
Consolidated PWSD #2
PWSD #3
Cooper County (unincorp.), Wooldridge
Cooper County (unincorp.), Boonville, Windsor Place
Cooper County (unincorp.)
Sources: PWSDs, MSDIS
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
69
2.10 Policy, Planning, and Program Capabilities
This part of the capability assessment is designed to summarize and evaluate existing plans,
polices, programs, and ordinances in the Planning Area which are involved in some way with
hazard mitigation. A summary of the plans and regulations in the Planning Area is shown in
Figure 2.10.1.
Wooldridge
Pilot Grove
Otterville
Bunceton
= Plan or regulations in place
Boonville
Plans and Regulations
Cooper County and Incorporated Communities
Cooper County
Figure 2.10.1
Master plan
Emergency Operations Plan
Building regulations
Zoning regulations
Subdivision regulations
Stormwater regulations
NFIP participation
Floodplain regulations
Cooper County Emergency Operations Plan (2010)
The Cooper County Emergency Operations Plan is a comprehensive document which covers
emergency response and recovery. The Mission Statement of the EOP and the Emergency
Operations Center exists "...to protect the lives and property of all residents when major disasters
threaten public safety in any city, county or region of Cooper County."
Areas covered in the plan which relate to mitigation are: communications and warning systems,
media points of contact, acquisition of resources and supplies in preparation for emergency
events, evacuation plans for flood, dam failure, levee failure; and sheltering procedures. Also
included is information on response to Severe Thunderstorm/Tornado, Summer Heat, Lightening
Safety, Flash Flood/Flooding, Earthquake Preparedness, and Winter Weather Preparedness.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
70
Building Regulations
Building regulations and codes can have a large impact on mitigating the effects of natural
hazards. Periodic evaluation is important to ensure that the codes are appropriate to the area;
enforcement is essential for the codes to be effective.
Cooper County does not currently have a planning and zoning commission or building codes.
The County does have a floodplain ordinance in place to maintain compliance with NFIP. The
County has also adopted in the International Building Codes (IBC) 2006, although enforcement
is extremely limited due to lack of funding for staffing.
Planning and Zoning
Appropriate zoning regulations can be an effective mitigation strategy; zoning guides
development in such a way as to keep the general population and property safe.
Zoning ordinances can be a tool to discourage development in areas where desired services
cannot be provided in a cost-effective manner and/or the safety of citizens could be jeopardized
due to the fact that the area is not readily accessible to fire protection, law enforcement, and
ambulance services.
Cooper County does not currently have a Planning or Zoning department. With the growth and
development of populations in the county it may be prudent to form such a department.
Zoning ordinances in the Planning Area exist in the City of Boonville and are enforced by the
fire department.
Subdivision Regulations
Subdivision regulations serve to protect the public health and general welfare of the community
by keeping development out of hazard prone areas. Subdivision regulations do this by providing
specific guidelines that new developments must meet in order to be in compliance with safety
and management decisions. Policy additions such as subdivision regulations are one of the more
effective mitigation tools because they allow the community to design hazard-resistant places
and avoid late costly retrofits or property buyouts.
Cooper County does not have any subdivision regulations, although they do exist in the City of
Boonville.
Storm Water Regulations
Storm water regulations, similar to other policy related mitigation strategies, can help the
community design disaster resistant communities.
Cooper County does not Storm Water Regulations, although the City of Boonville and the City
of Otterville do.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
71
Boonville Comprehensive Plan
In 2003, Boonville developed a comprehensive plan, which is adopted by the Planning and
Zoning Commission and the City Council. This plan is a policy guide for decisions about the
physical community and provides a vision for how the citizens what Boonville to develop in the
next 10-20 years. The purpose of the comprehensive plan is to provide a rational and
comprehensive guide for development that fosters economic growth, and encourages compatible
and high quality land development.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
The following description from FEMA describes the history of the NFIP:
“The U.S. Congress established the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) with the passage
of the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. The NFIP is a Federal program enabling property
owners in participating communities to purchase insurance as a protection against flood losses in
exchange for State and community floodplain management regulations that reduce future flood
damages. Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between communities and the
Federal Government. If a community adopts and enforces a floodplain management ordinance to
reduce future flood risk to new construction in floodplains, the Federal Government will make
flood insurance available within the community as a financial protection against flood losses.
This insurance is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to reduce
the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods.”
The jurisdictions in the Planning Area which participate in the NFIP are shown in Figure 2.10.2.
Figure 2.10.2
Cooper County Participation in NFIP
Jurisdiction
Cooper County
Boonville
Cooper County
Pilot Grove
Date of Entry
Effective Map
11/16/1983
1/23/1974
11/16/1983
7/25/1975
5/2/2011
5/3/2011
5/3/2011
5/3/11(M)
* (M) no elevation determined
Source: http://www.fema.gov/fema/csb.shtm
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
72
Legal Authority and Political Willpower
Cooper County has at its disposal a variety of powers given to it by the State of Missouri relevant
to mitigation activities. A brief review of these powers is listed below.
Police Powers - The police are responsible for protecting the overall public; local governments
can add requirements pertinent to hazard mitigation.
Land Use and Building Codes - The State of Missouri has given local governments the right to
create and enforce planning and zoning regulations around construction and development
including areas within designated floodplains and subdivisions.
Acquisition - Local governments may find the most effective method for completely “hazardproofing” a particular piece of property or area is to acquire the property (either in fee or a lesser
interest, such as an easement); this removes the property from the private market and eliminates
or reduces the possibility of inappropriate development. Missouri legislation empowers cities,
towns, and counties to acquire property for public purpose by gift, grant, devise, bequest,
exchange, purchase, lease or eminent domain.
Taxation - The power to levy taxes and special assessments is an important tool delegated to
local governments by Missouri law. The power of taxation extends beyond the collection of
revenue, and impacts the pattern of development in the community.
Local units of government also have the authority to levy special assessments on property
owners for all or part of the costs of acquiring, constructing, reconstructing, or improving
protective structures within a designated area. This can serve to increase the cost of building in
such areas, thereby discouraging development. Special assessments seem to offer little in terms
of control over land use in developing areas. They can, however, be used to finance the provision
of necessary services within municipal or county boundaries. In addition, they are useful in
distributing to the new property owners the costs of the infrastructure required by new
development. The major constraint in using special assessments is political.
Spending - Local governments have the power to make expenditures in the public interest. A
community can control its growth to some extent by tentatively committing itself to a timetable
for the provision of capital to extend services, especially when the provision of on-site sewage
disposal and water supply to the surrounding area is unusually expensive. A local community
can also regulate the extension of and access to services. This tactic can help guide development
away from hazard prone areas.
Political Willpower
Cooper County has seen firsthand the effects of natural hazards, most notably during the flood of
1993. Citizens are well aware of the potential impacts to life and property of such events. Due to
this high degree of awareness, it is expected that the current and future political climates are
favorable for supporting and advancing the suggested mitigation strategies in the Planning Area.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
73
Community and Regional Partnerships
The Cooper County government has working relationships with the towns and cities located
within the county as well as with neighboring counties. This is particularly evident in mutual aid
agreements that exist between fire and law enforcement jurisdictions.
Cooper County jurisdictions have partnered successfully through and with the Mid-MO RPC on
regional transportation planning and multiple local grant applications; local governments have
representation on Mid-MO RPC transportation and economic development advisory committees.
Regional Homeland Security Oversight Committee
Cooper County participates in the Region F Homeland Security Oversight Committee (RHSOC).
This committee addresses homeland security initiatives in a thirteen county region. A Mass
Care Coordinator funded through the RHSOC has worked to increase the number of shelters
throughout the region. In addition, there are three Homeland Security Response Teams available
for emergency response incidents, both manmade and natural.
Non-Governmental and Volunteer Organizations
After the floods in 1993 the non-profit agencies in Missouri organized the Missouri Volunteers
Against Disaster (MOVOAD). The main goal of MOVOAD is to increase cooperation,
coordination, communication, education, and to pass local, county and state disaster legislation.
Their mission is to bring together National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster to foster
more effective service through mitigation and response for the benefit of people affected
(imperiled and impacted) by disaster through:
1. Cooperation: To create a climate of cooperation at all levels (including grass roots) to
provide information.
2. Coordination: To coordinate policy among member organizations and to serve as a
liaison, advocate and national voice.
3. Communication: To disseminate information through the newsletter, the director,
research and demonstration, case study and critique.
4. Education: To increase mutual awareness and understanding of each organization.
5. Convention Mechanisms: To arrange for such meetings and conferences as necessary to
accomplish the purpose of MOVOAD.
6. Legislation: To encourage effective disaster relief legislation and policy.
Organizations in Cooper County such as the American Red Cross, church agencies, and other
non-profits are active in supporting the work of MOVOAD. This collaborative effort ensures
that Cooper County non-profits are well prepared to respond to a natural disaster. Through their
legislative efforts, they also work to help make Missouri and Cooper County as disaster resistant
as possible.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
74
Media
The ability to distribute timely and reliable information to the public in the event of an
emergency is vital. The nationwide Emergency Alert System (EAS), jointly coordinated by the
Federal Communications Commission (FCC), FEMA, and the NWS, provides a link between the
government agencies monitoring potential hazards/emergencies and local broadcasters who can
inform the public in a timely manner. The Planning Area is located in the Central Missouri EAS
Operational Area.
Local media outlets can also provide avenues for educating the public about emergency
preparedness and the need for certain mitigation actions. The media points of contact as
indicated in the Cooper County Emergency Operations Plan are shown in Figure 2.10.3.
Figure 2.10.3
Media Points of Contact
Radio Stations
Frequency
KWRT
KWIX
KOPN
KOPN
KBIA
KCMQ
KPLA
KBXR
K280EJ
KOQL
KWJK
KSSZ
Location
1370 AM
1230 AM
89.5 FM
89.5 FM
91.3 FM
96.7 FM
101.5 FM
102.3 FM
103.9 FM
106.1 FM
93.1 FM
93.9 FM
Boonville
Moberly
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Columbia
Boonville
Fayette
Channel
Base City
TV Station
KRCG (CBS)
KOMU (NBC)
KMIZ (ABC)
KNLJ
KMOS
KQFX (Fox 22)
13
8
17
25
6
22
Jefferson City (Cole County)
Columbia (Boone County)
Columbia (Boone County)
New Bloomfield (Callaway County)
Warrensburg (Johnson County)
Columbia (Boone County)
Newspaper
Boonville Daily News
Columbia Daily Tribune
Fayette Advertiser
Kansas City Star
Marshall Democrat
Sedalia Democrat
Boonville
Columbia
Fayette (Howard County)
Jefferson City (local bureau)
Marshall
Sedalia
Source: Cooper County EOP and Cooper County Staff
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
75
In addition to the media, Cooper County can also initiate the use of outdoor warning sirens. The
sirens are not owned by the county, but owned by each individual community. The following
communities have warning sirens:
 Blackwater (1)
 Boonville(5)
 Bunceton (1)
 Otterville (1)
 Pilot Grove (1)
 Prairie Home (1)
According to the Cooper County EOC the sirens are activated through the emergency operations
center. These warning sirens can be activated as one group, individually, or customized to a specific
area. Testing of the sirens is set on the first Saturday of every month, weather permitting.
Weather Radio
The Planning Area is within range of broadcasts of the NOAA Weather Radio network, operated
by the National Weather Service (NWS). Transmitters and towers are located in Carollton
(Carroll County) and Jamestown (Moniteau County). Special radio units which receive this
transmission can be purchased from many local retail stores. Severe weather updates, flash flood
warnings, and other 24-hour weather advisories from the NWS are broadcast over the network.
Missouri Uniform Law Enforcement System (MULES)
MULES is a law enforcement computer data network operated by the Missouri State Highway
Patrol (MSHP) primarily for law enforcement operations. It is also used to disseminate
emergency information such as weather conditions, flood stages, and road conditions. A
MULES terminal is located in the Cooper County EOC.
Section 2
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
76
2.11 Development Trends
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(ii)
(C):
[The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of] providing a
general description of land uses and development trends within the
community so that mitigation options can be considered in future land
use decisions.
Participating jurisdictions in this planning process may undergo development in the coming
years in the form of annexations, zoning, landuse, and changes in infrastructure. Because of the
lack of planning and zoning in the Planning Area, there is not a very accurate way of anticipating
changes in landuse.
The City of Boonville is experiencing stable growth in population and construction of new
homes and businesses. With growing populations it would be expected that there will be a need
to increase critical facilities such as fire stations, police stations, and medical facilities.
This section may be updated more fully in the 2016 update.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
77
Section 3: Risk Assessment
Methodology
Risk assessment is a process of estimating the potential for injury, death, property damage, or
economic loss which may result from a hazard. A risk assessment is only as valuable as the
thoroughness and accuracy of the information on which it is based. The Risk Assessment for the
Planning Area is comprised of the following:




Identification of Hazards
Profiling of Hazards
Inventory of Assets
Assessment of Vulnerability
Identification of Hazards
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(i):
[The risk assessment shall include a] description of the type…of all
natural hazards that can affect the jurisdiction.
The following natural hazards have been identified as posing potential risk in the Planning Area:












Dam Failure
Drought
Earthquake
Extreme Heat
Flood (includes riverine flooding, flash flooding, and storm water flooding)
Levee Failure
Land Subsidence/Sinkhole
Severe Winter Weather (Snow, Ice, and Extreme Cold)
Wildfire
Windstorm
Tornado
Hailstorm
The Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010) indicates that expansive soils, landslides, and
rockfalls are recognized as hazards in Missouri but occur infrequently and with minimal impact.
For this reason, those hazards were not profiled in the state plan nor will they be profiled in the
Cooper County Plan.
There are certain other natural hazards which FEMA requires to be addressed in Hazard
Mitigation Plans if they are applicable to the Planning Area. Avalanches and volcanoes have not
been included in this plan as they do not pose a threat due to the Planning Area’s topography and
geology. Coastal erosion, coastal storms, hurricanes, and tsunamis do not pose a threat due to its
inland location.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
78
Profiling of Hazards
[The risk assessment shall include a] description of the…location and
extent of all natural hazards that can affect the jurisdiction. The plan
shall include information on previous occurrences of hazard events
and on the probability of future hazard events.
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(i):
Each of the natural hazards identified as posing a risk to the Planning Area has been studied and
analyzed; this information has been organized in the following way for each hazard profile
(Sections 3.1-3.10):





Description of Hazard
Geographic location
Previous occurrences
Measures of Probability and Severity
Existing mitigation strategies
The assessments of probability and severity included in each profile were based on the following
definitions from the Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010):
Measure of Probability – The likelihood that the hazard will occur.

Low – The hazard has little or no chance of happening (less than 1 percent chance of
occurrence in any given year)

Moderate – The hazard has a reasonable probability of occurring (between 1 and 10
percent chance of occurrence in any given year).

High – The probability is considered sufficiently high to assume that the event will
occur (between 10 and 100 percent chance of occurrence in any given year).
Measure of Severity – The deaths, injuries, or damage (property or environmental) that could
result from the hazard.

Low – Few or minor damage or injuries are likely; death is possible, but not likely.

Moderate – Injuries to personnel and damage to property and the environment is
expected; death is possible.

High – Major injuries/death and/or major damage will likely occur
Inventory of Assets
An inventory of the assets in the Planning Area is included in Sections 2.8 and 2.9.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
79
Vulnerability Assessment
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(ii)
(A):
The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of the types and
numbers of existing and future buildings, infrastructure, and critical
facilities located in the identified hazard area….
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(ii)
(B):
[The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of an] estimate of the
potential dollar losses to vulnerable structures identified in paragraph
(c) (2) (11) (A) of this section and a description of the methodology
used to prepare the estimate…
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(ii)
(C):
[The plan should describe vulnerability in terms of] providing a
general description of land uses and development trends within the
community so that mitigation options can be considered in future land
use decisions.
An assessment of structures, equipment, and populations in the Planning Area which are
vulnerable to a specific hazard is included after each hazard profile in Sections 3.1-3.10. As
prescribed by FEMA guidelines, critical structures, building counts, and assessed values are
included. All people, structures, and equipment are vulnerable to one or more hazards in the
Planning Area. This assessment can be used to identify potential areas where mitigation activities
are needed.
Impact on future development is not addressed with every hazard because of the unpredictable
nature of some hazards.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
80
Overview of Vulnerability
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(ii):
[The risk assessment shall include a] description of the jurisdiction's
vulnerability to the hazards described in paragraph (c)(2)(i) of this
section. This description shall include an overall summary of each
hazard and its impact on the community.
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(iii):
For multi-jurisdictional plans, the risk assessment must assess each
jurisdiction's risks where they vary from the risks facing the entire
planning area.
Vulnerability is defined by FEMA as the extent to which people will experience harm and/or
property will be damaged from a hazard. Vulnerability is closely linked to the probability that
the hazard event will occur (Measure of Probability) and to the severity which is expected
(Measure of Severity) which was previously discussed.
The following Vulnerability Rating Scale was developed to be compatible with the Measures of
Probability and Severity.
Rating
Property Damage
H
10-100%
NA
L
M
not applicable
0-5%
5-10%
Injury or Death
not applicable
little or none
injuries possible
major injuries and death
likely
For each identified hazard, a Vulnerability Rating was determined for the Planning Area as a
whole and for each participating jurisdiction. These Vulnerability Ratings were based upon the
previously determined Measures of Probability and Severity in the following manner:



Numeric values were assigned to the Measures of Probability and Severity and the
Vulnerability Rating Scale in the following manner: Low = 1, Moderate = 2, High = 3
For each hazard in each jurisdiction, the corresponding Measure of Probability and
Measure of Severity were averaged. If necessary, the average was rounded up to a whole
number.
The appropriate Vulnerability Rating was assigned based on the calculated numeric
average of the Measures of Probability and Severity.
The vulnerability ratings are shown in Figure 3.0.1 for each of the identified hazards. The
Planning Area as a whole received a rating for each hazard and individual ratings were assigned
for each participating jurisdiction. Where the rating for a participating jurisdiction varies from
the overall vulnerability of the Planning Area, the rating is highlighted in green. Figure 3.0.2
shows Measures of Probability and Severity and Vulnerability Ratings for each jurisdiction.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
81
Figure 3.0.1
Participating Jurisdictions' Vulnerability
H
10-100%
major injuries and/or death
likely
Jurisdiction
Planning Area
Cooper County
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Prairie Home R-V Schools
Section 3
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
M
H
H
H
L
L
L
H
H
H
L
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
L
L
H
H
M
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
H
H
H
Windstorm
injuries and/or death possible
Wildfire
5-10%
Tornado
M
Severe Winter Weather
little or none
Levee Failure
0-5%
Land Subsidence/ Sinkhole
L
Hailstorm
not applicable
Flood
not applicable
Extreme Heat
NA
Earthquake
Injury or Death
Drought
Property Damage
Dam Failure
Rating
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
L
H
L
H
82
Figure 3.0.2
Participating Jurisdictions' Probability, Severity, and Vulnerability Overview
Probability = P
Severity = S
Vulnerability = V
High = H
Medium/Moderate = M
Low = L
Cooper County
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Windstorm
Wildfire
S
V
P
S
V
P
S
V
P
S
V
S
V
P
S
V
P S V P S V P S V
L
L
L
M
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
H
H
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
L
L
M
M
M
L
L
H
H
H
L
L
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M
M M L
M M L
M
M
M
L
L
M H H H M
M H H H M
H M
H M
H M
M
M
M
M
M
H
H
H
H
H
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
H
H
H
H
H
L
L
L
L
L
L
H M H M M M L L
H M H M M M H H
Linneman-Weekly
Levee District
Overton-Wooldridge
Levee District
Prairie Home R-V
Schools
S V P
Tornado
Severe Winter
Weather
P S V P S V P
L
L
L
P
Levee Failure
Land Subsidence/
Sinkhole
Hailstorm
Flood
Extreme Heat
Earthquake
Drought
Participating
Jurisdiction
Planning Area
Dam Failure
Hazard
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
L
H
H
H
H
H
L M M M
H M M M
H M M H H H L
M H H H M M H H H L
L
L
L
L
H H H
H H H
H H
H
M H H
H H
H
M H H
L
L
H H H
H M H M M M L
L
L
M M M
H L
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
M H H H L
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
H
NOTE: Grayed out box means not applicable
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3.1 Dam Failure
Description of Hazard
A dam is defined by the National Dam Safety Act as an artificial barrier which impounds or
diverts water and: (1) is more than 6 feet high and stores 50 acre feet or more, or (2) is 25 feet or
more high and stores more than 15 acre feet (an acre foot is defined as the amount of water
covering one acres to a depth of one foot). Based on this definition, there are over 80,000 dams
in the United States. Over 95% are non-federal, with most being owned by state governments,
municipalities, watershed districts, industries, lake associations, land developers, and private
citizens. Dam owners have primary responsibility for the safe design, operation and maintenance
of their dams. They also have responsibility for providing early warning of problems at the dam,
for developing an effective emergency action plan, and for coordinating that plan with local
officials. The State has ultimate responsibility for public safety, and many states regulate
construction, modification, maintenance, and operation of dams, and also ensure a dam safety
program. The State of Missouri has a Dam and Reservoir Safety Program under the direction of
the Missouri Department of Natural Resources.
Dams can fail for many reasons. The most common are:



Piping: internal erosion caused by embankment leakage, foundation leakage and
deterioration of pertinent structures appended to the dam.
Erosion: inadequate spillway capacity causing overtopping of the dam, flow erosion,
and inadequate slope protection.
Structural Failure: caused by an earthquake, slope instability or faulty construction.
These three types of failures are often interrelated. For example, erosion, either on the surface or
internal, may weaken the dam or lead to structural failure. Similarly a structural failure may
shorten the seepage path and lead to a piping failure.
Dam construction varies widely throughout the state. A majority of dams are of earthen
construction. Missouri's mining industry has produced numerous tailing dams for the surface
disposal of mine waste. These dams are made from mining material deposited in slurry form in
an impoundment. Other types of earthen dams are reinforced with a core of concrete and/or
asphalt. The largest dams in the state are built of reinforced concrete, and are used for
hydroelectric power.
Dam Hazard Classification
Dams pose a hazard to human life and property through faulty operation and outright failure.
Dams in Missouri have been classified according to both a federal and state system with regards
to potential hazard posed.
The federal classification system is based upon the probable loss of human life and the impact
on economic, environmental and lifeline interests from dam failure. It should be noted that there
is always the possibility of loss of human life when a dam fails; this classification system does
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
84
not account for the possibility of people occasionally passing through an inundation area which
is usually unoccupied (e.g. occasional recreational users, daytime user of downstream lands, etc.)
The state classification system is based upon the type and number of structures downstream
from a dam. An inventory of all the dams of the state was done in the late 1970s and early
1980s, according to Glenn Lloyd, Civil Engineer and Dam Safety Inspector with the Dam Safety
Program of the MO Department of Natural Resources (DNR). All of the known dams were
classified by the state at that time.
Dam Regulation in Missouri
According to the Association of State Dam Safety Officials, there are over 5200 classified dams
in Missouri and only 679 are regulated by the state. Pursuant to Chapter 236 of the Revised
Statutes of Missouri, a dam must be 35 feet or higher to be state regulated; regulation makes a
dam subject to permit and inspection requirements. For regulated dams, the state classification
system dictates the required inspection cycle. There are also 64 federally-regulated dams in
Missouri. All federally-regulated dams fall outside the regulatory authority of the Missouri Dam
and Reservoir Safety Program.
The inspection cycle for regulated dams allows for a regulated dam’s classification to be updated
when appropriate. Classification is a dynamic system; development can easily change the
situation downstream. A regulated dam in Missouri would have its classification appraised at
least once every 5 years.
One must use caution in assuming the classifications of unregulated dams is currently accurate;
however. It is very probable that, for most of the unregulated dams, the classification does not
take into account almost 30 years of development and change in Cooper County.
In addition, the DNR database of dams in Missouri reflects only the known dams; a dam less
than 35 feet in height which was built since the inventory was taken some 30 years ago may not
appear in the database.
A summary of the federal and state classification systems, how the two systems relate to each
other, and inspection requirements for regulated dams is shown in Figure 3.1.
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
85
Dam Hazard Classification Systems
Fig. 3.1.1
Federal
Classification
State
Classification
Federal Criterion
Class 1
High hazard
Probable loss of human life
Class 2
Significant
hazard
Low hazard
No probable loss of human
life but potential economic
loss, environmental
damage, disruption of
lifeline facilities or other
impact of concern
No probable loss of human
life; low economic and/or
environmental loss; loss
principally limited to
owner's property
Class 3
Downstream
Environment
10 or more permanent
dwellings; or any
public building
1-9 permanent
dwellings; or 1 or more
campgrounds with
permanent water, sewer
and electrical services;
or one or more
industrial buildings
Everything else
Inspection
Requirement
(Regulated
Dams)
Every 2 years
Every 3 years
Every 5 years
Sources: Federal Guidelines for Dam Safety, Hazard Potential Classification System for Dams, April 2004,
http://www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=1830; http://www.sos.mo.gov/adrules/csr/current/10csr/10c22-2.pdf; Glenn Lloyd,
Civil Engineer/Dam Safety Inspector, MO DNR, Water Resources Center, Dam Safety Program
There are currently 22 dams in Cooper County according to the Department of Natural
Resources database. Of these, only two are regulated by the state (see Figure 3.1.2).
Hazard Categories of Cooper County Dams
Figure 3.1.2
Hazard Category
High
Significant
Low
Total
Regulated
Dams
Unregulated
Dams
All County
Dams
0
0
2
2
2
0
18
20
2
0
20
22
Percentage
of Total
Dams
9%
0%
91%
100%
Note that one of the unregulated high hazard dams is dry and thus not a threat at the present time
(see Figure 3.1.3).
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
86
Specific information for each of the 2 regulated dams and 20 unregulated dams can be found in
Figures 3.1.3 – 3.1.4. Again it is important to note that, according to information from Missouri
DNR, much of this data, perhaps most of it, for the unregulated dams has not been updated since
the dam survey was first conducted in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The heights of the
unregulated dams may be, in some cases, the only currently reliable information.
Geographic Location
The dams in the Planning Area are located in unincorporated Cooper County and Boonville (see
Figure 3.1.4 and Figure 3.1.5).
Dam failure is not an issue for Blackwater, Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove Prairie Home, Windsor
Place, Wooldridge, Blackwater R-II Schools, Boonville R-I Schools, Cooper County R-IV Schools,
Otterville R-VI Schools, Pilot Grove C-4 Schools, and Prairie Home R-V Schools. Even though the
Boonville R-I School District is in Boonville where there are dams, the structures of these
educational institutions are not within the estimated inundation areas of the dams.
The locations and descriptions of the dams in Cooper County are shown in Figures 3.1.3-3.1.5.
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
87
Figure 3.1.3
Map
ID #
REGULATED Cooper County Dams
Year Ht
Built (feet)
Name
Reservoir Drainage
Area
Area
(Acres)
(Acres)
Latitude
Longitude
Federal State
Class Class
LAKE OF THE WOODS
DAM
1968
39
28
328
38.9433516
-92.7600314
L
3
15 HAMMOND LAKE DAM
1985
48
9
34
38.745342
-92.724942
L
3
6
NON REGULATED Cooper County Dams
BECKER-MILLER-MARCUM
12
1974
LAKE DAM
25
5
60
38.6856804
-92.7434567
L
3
14 FENICAL LAKE DAM
1977
25
3
34
38.9391982
-92.9820874
L
3
19 FRIEDRICH LAKE DAM
1970
22
9
48
38.9123885
-92.7950688
H
2
1961
34
9
30
38.938777
-92.8484423
L
3
20 LANGKOP LAKE DAM
1969
17
14
325
38.7121609
-92.8725471
L
3
11 LENZ LAKE DAM
1975
20
9
23
38.795856
-92.6663235
L
3
1970
25
3
60
38.956585
-92.7438654
L
3
13 PHILLIPS LAKE DAM
1976
30
5
15
38.7963794
-92.9895115
L
3
16 ROBINSON'S DAM
1959
20
5
33
38.9028635
-92.5988421
L
3
29
13
91
38.9628937
-92.7131784
L
3
38.9783333
-92.7213889
5
2
4
3
HOLTZCLAW LAKE DAM
NORTHEAST DAM # 2
ROLFLING LAKE DAM SEC
1957
6
ROLFLING LAKE DAM-SEC
1957
36 (DRY)
22 SCHNUCK
This lake is dry
1997
31
2
0
38.92
-92.58
L
1977
32
7
30
38.9439716
-92.6977937
L
3
21 SCHRADER LAKE DAM
1965
25
10
64
38.9397345
-92.8429927
L
3
10 SMITH LAKE DAM
1977
30
4
25
38.9539433
-92.7102226
L
3
9
SCHNUCK LAKE DAM
1
SOUTHWEST DAM
NUMBER 1
1969
21
2
30
38.9551489
-92.7471637
L
3
8
STOELTING DAM
1965
21
4
19
38.9537619
-92.7391235
L
3
7
TROUT DAM
1960
20
4
20
38.9595031
-92.7758811
L
3
1971
20
2
90
38.933468
-92.7394135
L
3
1951
22
6
62
38.8848699
-92.714099
L
3
1945
23
4
37
38.8912599
-92.7215193
L
3
WINDMILL CAMPGROUND
DAM
WINDSOR PLACE
18
NUMBER 1
WINDSOR PLACE
17
NUMBER 2
0
Source: http://w w w .dnr.mo.gov/env/w rc/damsft/Crystal_Reports/cooper_dams.pdf
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88
Figure 3.1.4
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89
Figure 3.1.5
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
90
Previous Occurrences
While there have been no dam failures in Cooper County in recent history, the issue was
highlighted in the mid-Missouri region by a dam failure in nearby Boone County in 2008 and a
near failure in Cole County in 2009.
The Moon Valley Lake Dam in Columbia (Boone County) failed in March 2008. This 18-foot
high unregulated dam had been built in 1964; it drained 2,100 acres and had a 13-acre reservoir,
according to the DNR database. Moon Valley Lake Dam was classified as high hazard, but
there was no loss of life with the dam failure. This may be partially attributable to the fact that
Moon Valley Lake was silted in and the main release from the dam failure was silt which went
down the Hominy Branch into the Hinkson Creek. The added silt has caused greater flooding
problems on the Hinkson Creek since the time of the dam failure. The City of Columbia
estimated the cost of removing the sediment and stabilizing about 2,000 feet of the stream bank
to be in the vicinity of $400,000.
Failure of the Renn’s Lake Dam in Jefferson City (Cole County) was averted in late
October/early November 2009 through the work of emergency crews and volunteers who
relieved pressure on the earthen dam by pumping thousands of gallons of water from 7-acre
Renn’s Lake. The 30-foot high unregulated dam, built in 1950, had been weakened by the
growth of trees; heavy rainfall caused a 15-foot section to erode. Renn’s Lake is located
immediately to the west of U.S. Highway 54 and the failure of the dam would have threatened
the highway. The deed to Renn Lake was subsequently transferred to Cole County with plans to
breach the dam and drain the lake.
Boone and Cole Counties are not the only counties in Missouri to experience dam failures.
According to the Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2007), Missouri has the largest number
of manmade dams in any state. The Stanford University’s National Performance of Dams
Program documented 16 dam failures in Missouri between 1975 and 2001.
More recently, there was a huge dam failure which destroyed Johnson Shut-Ins State Park in
Reynolds County. On December 14, 2005, AmerenUE’s Taum Sauk Reservoir Dam at their
hydroelectric complex failed; 1.5 billion gallons of water were released into the park in 10
minutes. There was no loss of life, even though the superintendent’s family was swept out of
their home. However, if this failure had occurred during the summer when the popular park has
many visitors, it could have resulted in a catastrophic loss of life.
All of these dam failures indicated that this is a serious problem which needs attention. Many of
Missouri’s smaller dams are becoming a greater hazard as they continue to age and deteriorate.
While hundreds of them need to be rehabilitated, lack of available funding and often questions of
ownership loom as obstacles difficult to overcome.
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: Low
Severity: Low
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There is one dam in Cooper County that is considered to pose high hazard should there be a dam
break, Friedrich Lake Dam. This dam is privately owned and not regulated by the state and thus
not subject to inspection requirements. Friedrich Lake dam is located south of Boonville on
State Highway 5 as seen in Figure 3.1.4
Existing Mitigation Strategies
State regulated dams are inspected, according to classification, through the Dam Safety Program
of the DNR. According to the Missouri DNR, dam owners with dams over 35 feet in height are
required to complete an Emergency Action Plan (EAP). The Dam and Reservoir Safety Program
coordinates with dam owners, county Emergency Management Directors and other state and
federal agencies to develop plans for all regulated dams. An EAP must include the following
criteria:
•Guidance for evaluating emergency situations occurring at a dam.
•Notification charts and emergency contact information.
•A list of residents, businesses and entities within the downstream inundation zone.
•A list of resources available for responding to a dam emergency.
•An inundation zone map (estimated boundary of the maximum water elevation resulting from a
dam breach.)
•Basic physical and geographical data for the regulated dam.
The Cooper County emergency management director can provide critical emergency contact
information and assistance in identifying structures located within the downstream inundation
area.
As of August 2011, Emergency Management Agencies in each county will keep a copy of an
owner’s EAP for high hazard dams. A template for creating an EAP is available through the
Missouri DNR Dam Safety website.
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Dam Failure Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: Cooper County, Boonville
There are no dams lying upstream from any school district structures
Overview
Most of the dams in the Planning Area are located in unincorporated Cooper County. The results
of a dam failure could range from very minimal environmental damage to a significant loss of
life and infrastructure. All impacts are dependent upon several variables: water, debris, people,
and structures. A dam failure would include the breach of a dam wall or embankment allowing
the water and/or debris to flow downstream from the dam.
The Dam inventory for the state of Missouri was compiled in the late 1970’s to early 1980’s. The
state has classified 2 of Cooper County’s dams as “High Hazard”. One of those High Hazard
dams no longer holds water is does not pose a threat. Both High Hazard dams are unregulated.
According to data provided by the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, none of the 20
unregulated dams have ever been documented as having been inspected. Because these are
unregulated dams, the state has no jurisdiction over maintenance and leads into the overall
problem of dam location and development downstream.
State regulated dams are classified by what lies downstream of the dam and what will be
impacted by the failure of that dam. Unregulated dams received their classifications nearly 30
years ago or more and development that occurs downstream is not monitored by any agency; this
potentially puts the public at risk. Also, development upstream that might increase the contents
held by the dam can cause failure. Because there is no entity in charge of unregulated dams, the
original classifications for these dams may not be correct. Some dams may not exist anymore
while others may pose a greater downstream threat than their classifications indicate.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Boonville is the only jurisdiction, aside from unincorporated areas of Cooper County to have
dams inside, or within a mile upstream of, it’s corporate boundary. Structures downstream of
these dam locations could potentially be at risk if a failure were to occur depending on the size of
the reservoir behind the dam. Throughout the county several other dams lie upstream of
structures that have the potential of being impacted. The Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan
2010 states vulnerability statistics for State Regulated dam failure in Cooper County. According
to the state plan there are no structures or populations vulnerable to the failure of a State
Regulated dam.
The potential impact on structures and human life downstream from a dam failure directly
correlates to the amount of water and/or debris that is behind the dam. As stated in the hazard
profile, it is important to take into account the age of the data that has been compiled on state
regulated and unregulated dams in the county and in the state. Because data on unregulated
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93
dams was collected in the late 1970’s and early 1980’s it is not necessarily reliable to use when
looking at possible areas of impact.
Figures 3.1.6 depicts the downstream areas, and parcels that are within a half mile of the dam.
Because inundation information is not available at this time it is not possible to know exactly the
severity or distance of a dam failure.
Figure 3.1.6
Potential Impact on Future Development
Dam Failure has the potential to impact future development in the county and its jurisdictions.
Because many dams in Cooper County are privately owned and not regulated by the state the
potential for development below aging or unsafe dams is an issue that needs to be addressed. If
development occurs without knowledge of problem dam that may lie upstream, that development
is put in jeopardy.
Future impacts may be addressed by inundation studies being done by the Natural Resources
Conservation Service’s Water Resources Center. The following is an excerpt from their website:
“The Water Resources Center has developed a methodology to complete dam breach inundation
studies and produce inundation maps downstream of regulated dams.
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The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has indicated that future funding of state
dam safety programs will be linked to the completion of Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) for
regulated dams. The WRC’s Dam and Reservoir Safety program has prioritized Missouri
counties for completion of mapping.”
The mapping was begun in Missouri in September 2009; the timeframe for mapping all the
regulated high hazards dams in the state is a little over three years. It is expected that the
mapping of the regulated high hazard dams in Cooper County will be carried out between 2011
and 2012 according to inspectors from Dam Safety Program. After an inundation study on a
dam is finished, it will be the responsibility of the dam owner to work with the County
Emergency Management Director in developing an Emergency Action Plan for the dam.
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3.2 Drought
Description of Hazard
The National Weather Service defines a drought as “a period of abnormally dry weather which
persists long enough to produce a serious hydrologic imbalance (for example crop damage, water
supply shortage, etc.) The severity of the drought depends upon the degree of moisture
deficiency, and the duration and the size of the affected area.”
Droughts occur either through a lack of precipitation (supply droughts) or overuse of water
(water use droughts). Supply droughts are natural phenomenon associated with lower than
normal precipitation. Water use droughts are when the uses of water by humans outpace what
the surrounding environment can naturally support. Water use droughts can theoretically happen
anywhere but are generally seen in arid climates, not humid places such as Missouri. At the
present time, Missouri is most vulnerable to supply droughts brought on by a lack of
precipitation.
The period of lack of precipitation needed to produce a supply drought will vary between regions
and the particular manifestations of a drought are influenced by many factors. As an aid to
analysis and discussion, the research literature has defined different categories of drought (see
Figure 3.2.1).
Figure 3.2.1
Drought Categories
Agricultural drought
Hydrological drought
Meteorological drought
Hydrological drought and land use
Socioeconomic drought
Defined by soil moisture deficiencies
Defined by declining surface and
groundwater supplies
Defined by precipitation deficiencies
Defined as meteorological drought in one
area that has hydrological impacts in
another area
Defined as drought impacting supply and
demand of some economic commodity
Source: “Missouri Drought Plan,” Missouri Department of Natural Resources – Geological Survey
and Resource Assessment, Water Resources Report No. 69, 2002
The most common type of drought in Mid-Missouri is the agricultural drought which happens on
average every five years. Widespread crop damage, particularly to corn, is associated with
agricultural drought in Missouri. The socioeconomic consequences of a drought can reach far
beyond those immediately damaged.
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Measuring Drought
Droughts vary in severity. Numerous indices have been developed to measure drought severity;
each tool has its strengths and weaknesses.
One of the oldest and most widely used indices is the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI, see
Figure 3.2.2), which is published jointly by NOAA and the U.S. Department of Agriculture
(USDA). The PDSI measures the difference between water supply (precipitation and soil
moisture) and water demand (amount needed to replenish soil moisture and keep larger bodies of
water at normal levels.)
Figure 3.2.2
Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI)
Score
Characteristics
Greater than 4 Extreme moist spell
3.0 to 3.9
Very moist spell
2.0 to 2.9
Unusual moist spell
1.0 to 1.9
Moist spell
.5 to .9
Incipient moist spell
.4 to -.4
Near normal conditions
-.5 to -.9
Incipient drought
-1 to –1.9
Mild drought
-2 to –2.9
Moderate drought
-3 to –3.9
Severe drought
Below -4
Extreme drought
Missouri is divided into six regions of similar climactic conditions for PDSI reporting; Cooper
County is located in the West Central Region.
The Missouri Department of Natural Resource’s drought response system is based on the PDSI
and has four phases of increasing severity:




Phase 1: Advisory Phase - Water monitoring analysis indicates anticipated drought.
Phase 2: Drought Alert - PDSI reads -10 to -20; and stream flow, reservoir levels and
groundwater levels are below normal over a period of several months.
Phase 3: Conservation Phase - PDSI reads between -2 to -4; stream flow, reservoir levels
and groundwater levels continue to decline; and forecasts indicate an extended period of
below-normal precipitation.
Phase 4: Drought Emergency - PSDI reads lower than -4.
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A newer index which is currently being used by The National Drought Mitigation Center
(NDMC) is the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). This index is based on the probability of
precipitation; the time scale used in the probability estimates can be varied and makes the tool
very flexible. The SPI is able to identify emerging droughts months sooner than is possible with
the PDSI.
Geographic Location
The entire Planning area is potentially at risk for drought. However, since the most common
drought in central Missouri is agricultural drought, the jurisdiction most at risk is the
unincorporated agricultural area of Cooper County. This is the area where farmers are at risk for
crop failure from drought and would suffer the most immediate and severe economic loss.
Previous Occurrences
Even though Cooper County averages between 38”- 42”of precipitation per year, it has been
subject to droughts in the past. Between 1999 and 2008 Cooper County had $12,028,047 in
Total Crop Insurance Payments for drought damage.
Historical information concerning droughts prior to the 20th Century is difficult to find.
However, tree-ring research at the University of Missouri, chronicling the years 1912 to 2004,
indicates a regular 18.6 year cycle of drought in the Midwest.
More information is available for droughts in the 20th and current centuries. Missouri suffered
drought in the 1930s and the early 1940s, along with most of the central United States. These
were the Dust Bowl years in the southern plains.
The years 1953-1957 were actually drier years in Missouri than the Dust Bowl years.
Missouri was specifically hit in 1954 and 1956 by an extreme decrease in precipitation. Crop
yields were down by as much as 50%, leading to negative impacts on the agricultural and
regional economies of the region.
The last major nationwide drought was in the late 1980’s. The 1980’s drought hit the Northern
Great Plains and Northern Midwest particularly hard. Missouri suffered economic losses due to
decreased barge traffic and low water in the Missouri and Mississippi Rivers. Furthermore,
some municipalities suffered from very low water resources and in some instances exhausted all
of their normal water sources, according to the Missouri Hazard Analysis (SEMA, August 1997).
Most of Missouri was in a drought condition during the last half of 1999, according to the
Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010). In September, the governor declared an
agricultural emergency for the entire state. In October, all counties were declared agricultural
disaster areas by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture. By May of 2000, the entire state was under a
Phase 2 Drought Alert. The drought continued through the summer of 2000 in various parts of
the state.
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Another drought hit western and northwestern Missouri in the years 2002 to 2004; Cooper
County was on the eastern edge of the serious drought but was put in a Phase 1 Drought
Advisory in the summer of 2003.
The county did not fare as well in the drought years of 2005-2006, however. The droughts of
2005 and 2006 caused great hardship for many crop and livestock producers in the state. Cooper
County was one of 30 Missouri counties in Phase 3 Conservation in July 2005. In August, all
114 Missouri counties and the City of St. Louis were designated as natural disasters for physical
and/or production loss loan assistance from the Farm Service Agency (FSA); conditions began to
improve in late August/September 2005. By September of 2006, however, the county was again
in Phase 3 Conservation which persisted through most of November. In October, Cooper County
was one of 85 Missouri counties designated by the USDA as primary natural disaster areas due
to losses from the drought conditions of 2006. Conditions began to improve with a large
snowstorm in late November/early December.
Cooper County was in a Phase 1 Drought Advisory in both February and October of 2007.
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99
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: Low
Severity: Low
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources has defined different regions of drought
susceptibility in the Missouri Drought Plan (2002). A map of the different regions is shown in
Figure 3.2.3.
Figure 3.2.3
Most of Cooper County lies in Region B which is defined as “…moderate drought susceptibility.
Groundwater resources are adequate to meet domestic and municipal water needs, but due to
required well depths, irrigation wells are very expensive. The topography generally is unsuitable
for row-crop irrigation.”
A wedge of land in the north/northwest part of the county lies in Region C which is defined as
“…severe drought vulnerability. Surface water resources usually become inadequate during
extended drought. Groundwater resources are normally poor, and typically supply enough water
only for domestic needs. Irrigation is generally not feasible. When irrigation is practical,
groundwater withdrawal may affect other uses. Surface water sources are used to supplement
irrigation supplied by groundwater sources.”
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
100
The northernmost strip of the county, bordering the Missouri River, lies in Region A which is
defined as having “…minor surface and groundwater supply drought susceptibility. It is a region
underlain by saturated sands and gravels (alluvial deposits). Surface and groundwater resources
are generally adequate for domestic, municipal, and agricultural needs.”
Existing Mitigation Strategies
The Missouri Department of Natural Resources publishes a weekly map from The Drought
Monitor on their website at: http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wrc/drought/nationalcondition.htm.
The Drought Monitor is a comprehensive drought monitoring effort involving numerous federal
agencies, state climatologists, and the National Drought Mitigation Center. It is located at the
National Drought Mitigation Center in Lincoln, Nebraska. The new Drought Monitor Map,
based on analysis of data collected, is released weekly on Thursday at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time.
The map focuses on broad-scale conditions and is linked to the data sets analyzed.
The University of Missouri Extension has a number of publications for both farmers and
homeowners to help mitigate the effects of drought. They are available at:
http://extension.missouri.edu/main/DisplayCategory.aspx?C=257
The National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC) is located at the University of NebraskaLincoln. The following is a description of their activities from their website
(http://drought.unl.edu/):
“The National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC) helps people and institutions develop and
implement measures to reduce societal vulnerability to drought, stressing preparedness and risk
management rather than crisis management. Most of the NDMC’s services are directed to state,
federal, regional, and tribal governments that are involved in drought and water supply planning.
The NDMC, established in 1995, is based in the School of Natural Resources at the University of
Nebraska-Lincoln. The NDMC’s activities include maintaining an information clearinghouse and
drought portal; drought monitoring, including participation in the preparation of the U.S.
Drought Monitor and maintenance of the web site (drought.unl.edu/dm); drought planning and
mitigation; drought policy; advising policy makers; collaborative research; K-12 outreach;
workshops for federal, state, and foreign governments and international organizations;
organizing and conducting seminars, workshops, and conferences; and providing data to and
answering questions for the media and the general public. The NDMC is also participating in
numerous international projects, including the establishment of regional drought preparedness
networks in collaboration with the United Nations’ Secretariat for the International Strategy for
Disaster Reduction.”
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
101
Drought Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: Cooper County, Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove, and Wooldridge
Overview
All jurisdictions in the planning area are vulnerable to the effects of drought; the unincorporated
agricultural areas of Cooper County are most vulnerable to the effects of drought because of crop
loss. In addition to damage to crops, produce, livestock, and soil, and the resulting economic
consequences, the arid conditions created by drought pose an increased risk of fire.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Structural impact in regard to this hazard is minimal to non-existent. Drought does, however,
have far reaching economic consequences in regard to crop failure and high economic loss. The
economic loss incurred would heavily impact the agricultural industry and those businesses
dependent upon that industry for products. The following damage information is from the
Missouri State hazard Mitigation Plan 2010:
Figure 3.2.4
Drought Damage - Cooper County, Missouri
Total Crop Insurance Paid For Drought Damage 1998-2008
Crop Claims Ratio Rating
Annualized Crop Insurance Claims/Drought Damage
Crop Exposure (2007 Census of Agriculture)
Annual Crop Claims Ratio
Crop Loss Ratio Rating
$12,028,047
4
$1,093,459
$42,447,000
2.58%
5
Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010)
Potential Impact on Future Development
Future development in the county can be at risk from the effects of drought. Good land
management techniques are crucial in mitigating future impacts.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
102
3.3 Earthquake
Hazard Description
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) describes an earthquake as “a sudden movement of
the earth's crust caused by the release of stress accumulated along geologic faults or by volcanic
activity.” Earthquakes can be one of the most destructive forces of nature causing death,
destruction of property, and billions of dollars of damage.
The New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), which runs through southeastern Missouri, is the most
active seismic zone east of the Rocky Mountains. Any hazard mitigation planning in Missouri
must, of necessity, take possible earthquakes into account.
Missouri and much of the Midwest can feel earthquakes from very far away because the geology
of the area is more amenable to ground shaking than the California geology. New Madrid
earthquakes can cover up to twenty times the area of typical California earthquakes because of
this differing geology.
Measuring Earthquake Magnitude and Intensity
In any discussion of earthquakes, it is important to distinguish between two measurements:
magnitude and intensity.
The magnitude of an earthquake is a measurement of the actual energy released by the quake at
its epicenter. In the U.S., it is commonly measured by the Richter Scale denoted with an Arabic
numeral (e.g. 6.0).
The intensity of an earthquake refers to the potentially damaging effects of a quake at any
particular site. Intensity is measured by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (MMI) and
expressed by a Roman numeral (e.g. VI).
A single earthquake will thus have one magnitude but different intensities depending on a
location’s distance from the epicenter of the quake, intervening soil type, and other factors.
Geographic Location
The entire Planning area is at risk for the effects of an earthquake along the New Madrid Seismic
Zone. Areas close to the Missouri River may be particularly vulnerable. The soil, or alluvium,
along river channels is especially vulnerable to liquefaction from earthquake waves; river
alluvium also tends to amplify the waves.
Previous Occurrences
Historical quakes along the New Madrid Seismic Zone in southeastern Missouri have been some of the largest in U.S. history since European settlement.
The Great New Madrid Earthquake of 1811-1812 was a series of over 2000 quakes which caused destruction over a very large area. According to
information from Missouri SEMA’s Earthquake Program, some of the quakes measured at least 7.6 in magnitude and five of them measured 8.0 or more.
The 1811-1812 quakes changed the course of the Mississippi River. Some of the shocks were felt as far away as Washington D.C. and Boston.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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The first federal disaster relief act was a result of the Great New Madrid Earthquake of 1811-1812. President
James Madison signed an act into law which issued “New Madrid Certificates” for government
lands in other territories to residents of New Madrid County who wanted to leave the area.
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: High
Severity: High
How likely are earthquakes along the New Madrid Seismic Zone? In 2002, the U.S. Geological
Survey (USGS) released the following expectations for earthquakes in the zone in following 50
years:


25-40% percent chance of a magnitude 6.0 and greater earthquake.
7 -10% chance of a magnitude 7.5 - 8.0 quake (magnitudes similar to those in 18111812)
The State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) has made projections of the highest
earthquake intensities which would be experienced throughout the state of Missouri should
various magnitude quakes occur along the New Madrid Seismic Zone (see Figure 3.3.1), as
measured by the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale (see Figure 3.3.2 and 3.3.3). The pertinent
information for Cooper County is summarized in Figure 3.3.1.
Figure 3.3.1
Projected Earthquake Hazard for Cooper County
Magnitude at
NMSZ
Probability
of
Occurrence
(2002 -2052)
Intensity in
Cooper County
(MMI)
Expected Damage
6.7
25-40%
V
Minimal to none
7.6
7-10%
VI
Slight
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
104
Figure 3.3.2
Section 3
Highest Projected Modified Mercalli Intensities by County
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
105
Figure 3.3.3
Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale
I. Instrumental
Not felt by many people unless in favorable conditions.
II. Feeble
Felt only by a few people at best, especially on the upper floors of buildings.
Delicately suspended objects may swing.
III. Slight
Felt quite noticeably by people indoors, especially on the upper floors of
buildings. Many do not recognize it as an earthquake. Standing motor cars
may rock slightly. Vibration similar to the passing of a truck. Duration
estimated.
IV. Moderate
Felt indoors by many people, outdoors by few people during the day. At
night, some awakened. Dishes, windows, doors disturbed; walls make
cracking sound. Sensation like heavy truck striking building. Standing motor
cars rock noticeably. Dishes and windows rattle alarmingly.
V. Rather Strong
Felt outside by most, may not be felt by some outside in non-favorable
conditions. Dishes and windows may break and large bells will ring.
Vibrations like large train passing close to house.
VI. Strong
Felt by all; many frightened and run outdoors, walk unsteadily. Windows,
dishes, glassware broken; books fall off shelves; some heavy furniture moved
or overturned; a few instances of fallen plaster. Damage slight.
VII. Very Strong
Difficult to stand; furniture broken; damage negligible in building of good
design and construction; slight to moderate in well-built ordinary structures;
considerable damage in poorly built or badly designed structures; some
chimneys broken. Noticed by people driving motor cars.
VIII. Destructive
Damage slight in specially designed structures; considerable in ordinary
substantial buildings with partial collapse. Damage great in poorly built
structures. Fall of chimneys, factory stacks, columns, monuments, walls.
Heavy furniture moved.
IX. Ruinous
General panic; damage considerable in specially designed structures, well
designed frame structures thrown out of plumb. Damage great in substantial
buildings, with partial collapse. Buildings shifted off foundations.
X. Disastrous
Some well built wooden structures destroyed; most masonry and frame
structures destroyed with foundation. Rails bent.
XI. Very Disastrous
Few, if any masonry structures remain standing. Bridges destroyed. Rails
bent greatly.
XII. Catastrophic
Total damage - Almost everything is destroyed. Lines of sight and level
distorted. Objects thrown into the air. The ground moves in waves or ripples.
Large amounts of rock may move position.
Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercalli_intensity_scale
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
106
Existing Mitigation Strategies
An ongoing mitigation activity in the Planning Area is the training of staff in earthquake
safety/response. Personnel of the Cooper County Emergency Management Agency are welltrained and well-equipped to respond to disasters of all types.
School Districts
Unlike neighboring Howard and Boone Counties, Cooper County is not mandated by law to
provide training and exercises to students in preparation for a large earthquake because they are
located in lower intensity area. That being said, the Cooper County Emergency Management
Agency and Cooper County Public Health Center participated with local partners during the
week of May 16 to 20 in a state wide earthquake preparedness drill. According to a May 24th
article in the Boonville Daily News, the goals of this exercise were to test:
 Communications
 Critical resource logistics and distribution
 Mass care
 Medical surge
 Citizen evacuation and shelter-in-place
 Emergency public information and warning
 Emergency operations center management
Earthquake Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee districts.
Overview
As discussed previously, the USGS in 2002 projected a fairly high chance of an earthquake in
the New Madrid Seismic Zone in the following 50 years which, according to SEMA, would
cause “Strong” effects in the Planning Area. “Strong” earthquake effects would result in
minimal property damage.
As with any traumatic event, the potential for “emotional aftershocks” exists with any earthquake
event. Major earthquake events require mental health services for people dealing with loss,
stress, anxiety, fear, and other difficult emotions. Even a smaller quake, however, has the
potential for emotional repercussions; the sudden movement of something experienced as stable
for one’s entire life (the earth itself) can be very traumatic.
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107
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Impact Assessment --- Earthquake
Jurisdiction
Planning Area
Cooper County
(unincorporated
areas)
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
High Vulnerability = 10 - 100% of buildings impacted
Maximum Calculated Impact (100%)
Building Type
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Agricultural
Religious
7436
410
111
142
43
Governmental
23
Educational
17
3113
163
63
127
11
4
2
3122
269
254
335
21
192
14
9
18
1
36
3
2
3
0
12
0
0
1
0
22
1
3
5
0
12
1
1
1
0
9
1
1
2
0
HAZUS MH
Potential Impact on Future Development
Impacts on future development may be mitigated by following more stringent earthquake
resistant building codes. However, this type of mitigation activity may not be cost effective for
most communities. Cooper County does not Planning and Zoning.
The potential impact of earthquakes on future development would be the same as for existing
structures.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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3.4 Extreme Heat
Description of Hazard
Extreme heat is the number one weather-related killer in the United States, according to National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In contrast to the visible, destructive, and
violent nature of floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes, extreme heat is a silent killer. Heat kills by
overloading the human body’s capacity to cool itself. According to information from NOAA,
more than 1500 people die on average from excessive heat each year in the United States.
Air temperature is not the only factor to consider when assessing the likely effects of extreme
heat. High humidity often accompanies heat in Missouri and increases the danger. The human
body cools itself by perspiring; the evaporation of perspiration carries excess heat from the body.
High humidity makes it difficult for perspiration to evaporate and thus interferes with this natural
cooling mechanism.
The Heat Index devised by the NWS takes into account both air temperature and relative
humidity (See Figure 3.4.1). The Heat Index, also known as the apparent temperature, is a
measure of how hot it really feels.
Figure 3.4.1
Heat Index
RELATIVE HUMIDITY
A
I
R
T
E
M
P
E
R
A
T
U
R
E
F°
110°
108°
106°
104°
102°
100°
98°
96°
94°
92°
90°
88°
86°
84°
82°
80°
40%
136
130
124
119
114
109
105
101
97
94
91
88
85
83
81
80
45%
50%
55%
60%
65%
70%
75%
80%
85%
90%
95%
100%
137
130
124
119
114
109
104
100
96
93
89
87
84
82
80
137
131
124
118
113
108
102
99
95
91
88
85
83
81
137
130
124
117
112
106
101
97
93
89
86
84
81
137
129
123
116
110
105
100
95
91
88
84
82
136
128
121
114
108
103
98
93
89
85
82
134
126
119
112
106
100
95
90
86
83
132
124
116
109
103
97
92
88
84
129
121
113
106
100
94
89
84
135
126
117
110
102
96
90
85
131
122
113
105
98
91
86
127
117
108
100
93
86
132
121
112
103
95
87
Source: http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/heat/index.shtml
Section 3
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Residents of both urban and rural areas are vulnerable to excessive heat. There are many factors
such as age, general level of health, outdoor activity level, and availability of air conditioning
that will affect the actual risk level.
Geographic Location
The entire Planning area is at risk from extreme heat events.
Previous Occurrences
Cooper County has had many periods of extreme heat in the last two decades (see Figure 3.4.2).
The data indicates that extreme heat usually occurs in July and August.
When examining the data in Figure 3.xx, it is important to take into consideration that the deaths,
injuries, and economic losses represent all counties in Missouri affected by the period of extreme
heat. None of the deaths recorded in the data occurred in Cooper County, however.
Figure 3.4.2
Periods of Extreme Heat in Cooper County, 1994-2009
Date
Heat
Index
06/12/94
07/18/99
08/28/00
09/01/00
07/06/01
07/17/01
08/01/01
08/09/01
07/04/03
07/21/05
07/16/06
07/29/06
08/01/06
08/06/07
100+
100-115
105-110
100+
115
NA
105-113
105-110
105
105-110
105-115
105-115
105-115
105-115
TOTALS
Deaths
Injuries
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
Duration
(days)
4
22
0
3
2
2
4
1
1
0
4
0
2
0
45
55
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
55
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
50K
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
50K
12
14
4
3
3
8
5
1
2
5
5
3
2
12
Source: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms
Section 3
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Measures of Probability and Severity
Probability: Moderate
Severity: Moderate
Existing Mitigation Activities
The following departments, agencies, and organizations all are involved in educating the public
about the dangers of extremely hot weather and/or issuing alerts when the threat of extreme heat
is imminent.
Cooper County Emergency Management and the Cooper County Health Department issue alerts
to notify the public of extreme heat conditions. The alerts urge the public to check on their
neighbors and to seek cooling in local shopping centers or library, if needed.
Local Media such as Television and Radio stations issue heat advisories during extreme heat
events.
The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services announces statewide hot weather health
alerts according to the following criteria:

Hot Weather Health Alert – Heat indices of 105°F in a large portion of the state are
first reached (or predicted)

Hot Weather Health Warning – Heat indices have been 105°F or more for two days in
a large portion of the state, or weather forecasts call for continued heat stress conditions
for at least 24 to 48 hours over a large portion of the state.

Hot Weather Health Emergency – When extensive areas of the state meet all of the
following criteria:
 High sustained level of heat stress (Heat Index of 105°F for 3 days)
 Increased numbers of heat-related illnesses and deaths statewide
 The NWS predicts hot, humid temperatures for the next several days for a large
portion of the state.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has devised a method to warn of advancing heat waves up
to seven days in advance. The new Mean Heat Index is a measure of how hot the temperatures
actually feel to a person over the course of a full 24 hours. It differs from the traditional Heat
Index in that it is an average of the Heat Index from the hottest and coldest times of each day.
The National Weather Service initiates alert procedures when the Heat Index is expected to
exceed 105°- 110°F for at least two consecutive days. (The exact Heat Index temperature used
depends on specifics of the local climate.) The following are released to the media and over
NOAA All-Hazard Weather Radio:
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
111



Heat Index values are included in zone and city forecasts.
Special Weather Statements and/or Public Information Statements are issued which
present a detailed discussion of the Heat Index Values, who is most at risk, and safety
rules for reducing risk.
In severe heat waves, State and local health officials are assisted in preparing Civil
Emergency Messages which include Special Weather Statements and more detailed
medical information, advice, and names and telephone numbers of health officials.
The Missouri Department of Health and Human Services also maintains a searchable online
map/database of cooling centers throughout the state
(http://gis.dhss.mo.gov/Website/coolingCenter/coolingCenter.html#).
As of 2010, the following cooling center is listed for Cooper County:
 Boonslick Senior Center, 415 Main St., Boonville
The Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA) provides coaches with
educational pamphlets on the dangers of excessive heat.
Weather Forecast Offices of the National Weather Service (NWS) can issue the following
warnings about excessive heat:

Excessive Heat Outlook: Potential exists for an excessive heat event in the next 3 to 7
days. An outlook is used to indicate that a heat event may develop. It is intended to
provide information to those who need considerable lead time to prepare for the event,
such as public utilities, emergency management and public health officials.

Excessive Heat Watch: Conditions are favorable for an excessive heat event in the next
12 to 48 hours. A watch is used when the risk of a heat wave has increased, but its
occurrence and timing is still uncertain. It is intended to provide enough lead time so
those who need to set their plans in motion can do so, such as established individual city
excessive heat event mitigation plans.
 Excessive Heat Warning/Advisory: An excessive heat event is expected in the next 36
hours. The warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property. An advisory
is for less serious conditions that cause significant discomfort or inconvenience and, if
caution is not taken, could lead to a threat to life and/or property.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
112
Extreme Heat Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee districts.
Overview
All jurisdictions are vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat. While heat-related illness and
death can occur due to exposure to intense heat in just one afternoon, heat stress on the body has
a cumulative effect. The persistence of a heat wave increases the danger. Loss of life is the most
significant consequence of extreme heat. The elderly and those active or employed in outdoor
settings are most vulnerable. According to the World Health Organization, “elderly” is defined
as those over the age of 65. Elderly are the most susceptible to complications from excessive
and/or prolonged cold or heat. According to the US Census Bureau website the estimated Cooper
County 2010 elderly population stands at 2,702. Residents without access to air conditioning,
water, and shade are most vulnerable.
In addition to the human toll, the Midwestern Climate Center, in a paper on the 1999 heat wave,
points out other possible impacts such as electrical infrastructure damage and failure, highway
damage, crop damage, water shortages, livestock deaths, fish kills, and lost productivity among
outdoor-oriented businesses. These damages are also connected to Drought when there are
prolonged and/or recurrent periods of excessive heat.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
While loss of life is of the most concern with this hazard, structural impacts also exist. While
impacts exist they are limited and dependent on how prolonged the heat wave is. Failure of road
surfaces, electrical infrastructure, and crop damage may all occur. There is no way to quantify
the extent of structural damage for this hazard at this time.
Potential Impact on Future Development
Potential impacts of this hazard on future development are not quantifiable with the resources
available.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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3.5 Flood
Description of Hazard
Cooper County and its jurisdictions are at great risk for flooding because the northern border of
the County is situated on the bank of the Missouri River, the longest river in the United States.
The Missouri River drains approximately one-sixth of the area of the continental United States,
according to the USGS. It drains over half the state of Missouri as it flows eastward to join the
Mississippi River at St. Louis. Since Cooper County is located less than 200 miles upstream
from the mouth of this 2,540 mile river, it is obvious that flooding is a major concern for the
county. There are also numerous creeks throughout the county with year-round water flows
draining into the Missouri River.
Flooding is defined as partial or complete inundation of usually dry areas. Riverine flooding
refers to when a river or creek overflows its normal boundaries. A rapid accumulation or runoff
of surface waters may impact smaller rivers and creeks and cause flash flooding. Flash flooding
can also occur as a result of dams being breached or overtopped. Flash floods can develop in
just a matter of hours and are responsible for more flood related deaths than any other type of
flooding.
The areas adjacent to rivers and stream banks that serve to carry excess floodwater during rapid
runoff are called floodplains. A floodplain is defined as the lowland and relatively flat areas
adjoining rivers and streams. The term base flood, or 100-year flood, is the area in the floodplain
that is subject to a one percent or greater chance of flooding in any given year, based upon
historical records.
In some cases, however, flooding may not be directly attributable to a river, stream or lake
overflowing its banks. It may simply be the combination of excessive rainfall and/or snowmelt,
saturated ground, and inadequate drainage. With no place else to go, water will find the lowest
elevations, areas that are often not in a floodplain. This type of flooding, often referred to as
sheet flooding, is becoming increasingly prevalent as development outstrips the ability of the
drainage infrastructure to properly carry and disburse the water flow.
Local storm water flooding can result when a tremendous flow of water occurs due to large rain
events. Local flooding can create public safety issues due to flooded roadways and drainage
structures.
Most flooding in Cooper County occurs in spring and summer but floods can occur in any
season.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
114
Geographic Location
The entire planning area is at risk from some type of flooding. Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville,
Pilot Grove, Wooldridge, and the unincorporated areas of Cooper County near the Missouri
River, Lamine River, and Petite Saline Rive are at higher risk of riverine flooding than the rest of
the county.
The current Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) for Cooper County is dated 5/3/2011; it shows
the flood zones for these jurisdictions at greater risk. Flood zones are geographic areas defined
according to varying levels of flood risk; each zone reflects the severity or type of flooding in the
area.
The FIRMS for the participating jurisdictions at greater risk are included (see figures 3.5.13.5.6).
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
115
Figure 3.5.1
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
116
Figure 3.5.2
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
117
Figure 3.5.3
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
118
Figure 3.5.4
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
119
Figure 3.5.5
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
120
Figure 3.5.6
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
121
Flash flooding areas are a concern for all jurisdictions in the planning area. Flash flooding
occurs throughout the planning area and as a result low water crossings can be potentially high
risk areas for accidents due to high water. Road closures in these areas are rare due to the quick
rise a fall of water levels. Figure 3.5.7 depicts low water crossing locations.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
122
Figure 3.5.7
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
123
Previous Occurrences
The floods of 1993 and 1995 were the worst repetitive flood events in Missouri history,
according to the Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2007). There was also severe flooding
in the state in 1994. There were five presidential disaster declarations for flooding during this
period; Cooper County was included in Disaster Declaration # 995 (July 9, 1993) and Disaster
Declaration #1054 (June 2, 1995). Figure 3.5.8 depicts the extent of the 1993 flood waters.
Figure 3.5.9 gives a list of documented flooding events in the county.
After a Presidential Disaster Declaration, Public Assistance (PA) and/or Individual Assistance
(IA) is made available through FEMA. Cooper County was eligible for both PA and IA from
each of these disaster declarations.
Figure 3.5.8
In the summer of 2011 the Missouri River flooded again, this time stemming not from significant
precipitation in Mid-Missouri Region, but from high precipitation and snow melt in Montana and
North Dakota. Higher than normal rain and snow in the winter and spring of 2011 caused wide
scale flooding several states including; North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Iowa, Kansas,
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
124
and Missouri. According to the National Weather Service the Upper Missouri River Valley
received more rainfall in the month of May than it does in an entire year.
While Cooper County was spared from incurring damage to residences or businesses, unlike
upriver neighbors, it was not spared from seepage through levee walls. All levee districts in
Cooper County had to pump water from inside levee walls during the months of June and July.
Cooper County was part of both the Emergency Declaration #3325 and the Presidential Disaster
Declaration #1980 and eligible for PA and IA. Significant pumping was needed in all levee
districts as well as sandbagging and maintenance of the levee in the Village of Wooldridge. The
levee that protects a portion of Wooldridge had been in serious disrepair. As flood waters were
rising, volunteers, county workers, and the National Guard work to clear debris on the levee and
then placed sand bags to add extra protection. Thankfully, the river crested without reaching the
levee.
In addition to the river floods of 1993, 1995, and 2011, data from NOAA indicates numerous
other flooding events in Cooper County since 1993. The Missouri River flood in April 1994
caused $5 million in property damage and $5 million in crop damage across 79 Missouri
counties; the portion of this reported loss which occurred in Cooper County is not indicated in
the NOAA data.
Flash flooding can be particularly hazardous in that there may be very little warning for travelers.
The NOAA data contains specific information about two flash flooding events where travelers
were endangered in Cooper County. Two cars were swept off Highway 5 near Bunceton in the
flash flood on June 10, 2007. In the other incident, a car was stalled on Highway W near Prairie
Home with floodwaters reaching the door of the vehicle (Sept. 12, 2008). No indication of
injury was given in the data for these incidents.
The death reported from the flooding in June 1999 did not occur in Cooper County.
Figure 3.5.9
Cooper County Historic Flood Data
Location
Date
Type
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Deaths
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
1K
0
0
0
5.0M
5.0M
County Roads
8/11/1993 8/12/1993
County Roads
9/22/1993
79 counties and City of St. Louis
4/11/1994 4/19/1994
Flash
Flood
Flash
Flood
River
Flood
Lamine River (Highway 41 between
Lamine and I-70), Blackwater River
(Co. Rd. K west of Lamine)
4/11/1994 4/12/1994
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
32 counties
5/7/1995 5/31/1995
River
Flood
0
0
2.8M
2.0M
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
125
Location
Petite Saline Creek (Rte. U SE of
Boonville)
16 counties
16 counties
16 counties
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Missouri River
Missouri River
Missouri River
Missouri River
Missouri River
Lamine River
Missouri River
13 counties
5 counties (Lamine River)
6 counties
13 counties
6 counties
3 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine
River)
7 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine
River)
5 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
Section 3
Date
5/24/1995
6/6/1995 6/30/1995
7/4/1995 7/22/1995
8/2/1995 8/10/1995
5/5/1996 5/9/1996
5/6/1996 5/8/1996
5/8/1996 5/16/1996
5/25/1996 5/31/2996
6/1/1996 6/11/1996
6/18/1996 6/20/1996
6/25/1996 6/30/1996
7/21/1996 7/23/1996
7/21/1996 7/24/1996
2/21/1997 2/28/1997
2/26/1997 2/28/1997
4/5/1997 4/30/1997
4/11/1997 4/20/1997
5/1/1997 5/31/1997
2/11/1998 2/13/1998
3/8/1998 3/13/1998
3/15/1998 3/23/1998
Type
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Deaths
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
700K
2.0M
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
River
Flood
River
Flood
River
Flood
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
126
Location
14 counties (Missouri River, Petite
Saline Creek, Lamine River)
12 counties (Missouri River, Petite
Saline Creek)
Date
3/28/1998 3/31/1998
4/1/1998 4/6/1998
4/8/1998 10 counties (Missouri River)
4/18/1998
4/27/1998 7 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
4/30/1998
6/4/1998 Lamine River
6/5/1998
6/8/1998 3 counties (Lamine River)
6/10/1998
6/10/1998 6 counties (Missouri River)
6/25/1998
10 counties (Petite Saline Creek,
6/20/1998 Lamine River)
6/26/1998
2 counties (Missouri River)
7/1/1998
7/4/1998 4 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
7/11/1998
7/26/1998 2 counties (Lamine River)
7/27/1998
6 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine 7/27/1998 River)
7/31/1998
Lamine River at Otterville
7/29/1998
4 counties (Missouri River, Petite Saline 8/1/1998 Creek)
8/5/1998
9/13/1998 9 counties (Missouri River)
9/21/1998
15 counties (Missouri River, Petite
10/1/1998 Saline Creek, Lamine River)
10/11/1998
9 counties (Missouri River, Petite Saline 10/17/1998 Creek)
10/23/1998
11/1/1998 14 counties (Missouri River)
11/15/1998
1/22/1999 3 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
1/23/1999
6 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine
1/31/1999
River)
5 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine 2/1/1999 River)
2/5/1999
5 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine 2/7/1999 River)
2/8/1999
Section 3
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Type
Deaths
Injuries
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
127
Location
Date
6 counties (Lamine River)
16 counties (Missouri River, Petite
Saline Creek, Lamine River)
12 counties (Missouri River)
6 counties (Missouri River)
12 counties (Missouri River, Petite
Saline Creek, Lamine River)
6 counties (Missouri River)
2 counties (Missouri River)
12 counties (Missouri River, Lamine
River)
8 counties (Missouri River)
3 counties (Lamine River)
2 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine
River)
Southern part of County
4 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
Petite Saline Creek
3 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine
River)
11 counties
16 counties (Petite Saline Creek,
Lamine River)
11 counties
4 counties (Lamine River)
Main Street in Bunceton
4/10/2001
6 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
5 counties (Missouri River)
Section 3
3/8/1999 3/12/1999
4/14/1999 4/22/1999
4/22/1999 4/30/1999
5/1/1999 5/2/1999
5/4/1999 5/10/1999
5/12/1999 5/31/1999
6/1/1999 6/3/1999
6/27/1999 6/30/1999
7/1/1999 7/14/1999
2/18/2000 2/19/2000
5/26/2000 5/29/2000
5/26/2000 5/27/2000
6/20/2000 6/22/2000
8/8/2000
1/29/2001 1/30/2001
2/9/2001 2/11/2001
2/24/2001 2/28/2001
3/13/2001 3/20/2001
4/3/2001 4/8/2001
4/10/2001 4/17/2001
5/4/2001 5/10/2001
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Type
Deaths
Injuries
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
2.5M
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
1
0
0
750K
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
128
Location
Date
6/3/2001 6/12/2001
6/14/2001 6/18/2001
6/20/2001 6/26/2001
1/31/2002
2/1/2002
5/6/2002 5/17/2002
14 counties
11 counties
16 counties
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
13 counties
Doyle Road and U Highway near
Boonville
4 counties
U Highway near Boonville
13 counties
4 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
6 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
3 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
Petite Saline Creek and Lamine River
3 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
2 counties (Petite Saline Creek, Lamine
River)
2 counties (countywide)
Petite Saline Creek
5/7/2002
5/8/2002 5/17/2002
5/8/2002 5/9/2002
5/11/2002 5/17/2002
6/12/2002 6/14/2002
5/10/2003 5/12/2003
9/1/2003 9/2/2003
12/23/2003
1/18/2004
3/4/2004 3/5/2004
3/26/2004
3/26/2004 3/27/2004
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Type
Deaths
Injuries
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
40K
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Pilot Grove area (M Highway, Highway
B, bridge washed out on HH Highway)
5/19/2004
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
11 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
5/19/2004 5/23/2004
Flood
0
0
0
0
Wooldridge area (Gooches Mill Road
between V Highway and Conner Bridge
Road, V Highway at Big Lick Road)
5/25/2004
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
7 counties (Petite Saline Creek)
5/25/2004 5/27/2004
Flood
0
0
0
0
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
129
Location
Date
Type
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Boonville area (County roads)
5/30/2004
Flash
Flood
Lamine River
7/24/2004 7/25/2004
Flood
Roads S/SW of Boonville
8/4/2004
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek, Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek, Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek, Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Pilot Grove area (Harriman Road by
Highway 135)
Petite Saline Creek, Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek, Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Prairie Home area (Highway W 2 miles
south of Highway J)
8/4/2004
8/25/2004
11/1/2004 11/3/2004
11/24/2004
11/27/2004 11/28/2004
1/3/2005 1/6/2005
1/5/2005 1/6/2005
1/12/2005 1/1/3/2005
1/13/2005 1/14/2005
2/13/2005 2/14/2005
4/22/2005 4/23/2005
6/8/2005
6/13/2005 6/14/2005
6/13/2005 6/15/2005
Petite Saline Creek
Missouri River
E/ESE of Boonville
8/18/2005
Petite Saline Creek
8/19/2005
8/26/2005 8/28/2005
8/26/2005 8/27/2005
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
S/SW of Boonville
8/26/2005
Petite Saline Creek S/SE of Boonville
Petite Saline Creek
4/30/2006
2/20/2007
Section 3
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Deaths
Flash
Flood
Flood
Flood
Flash
Flood
Flood
Flash
Flood
Flood
Flood
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
130
Location
Date
Missouri River
2/24/2007 2/25/2007
4/14/2007 4/15/2007
5/6/2007 5/7/2007
5/7/2007
Bunceton area (Highway 5)
6/10/2007
Otterville area (Highway A)
6/10/2007
Petite Saline Creek
6/11/2007
6/28/2007 6/30/2007
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Petite Saline Creek
W of Blackwater
6/29/2007
Lamine River
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Petite Saline Creek
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
6/30/2007
7/1/2007
1/8/2008
2/6/2008
2/17/2008
2/17/2008 2/18/2008
3/3/2008 3/4/2008
3/17/2008 3/19/2008
3/18/2008 3/19/2008
4/10/2008 4/11/2008
4/10/2008 4/11/2008
4/24/2008 4/25/2008
4/24/2008 4/25/2008
5/8/2008
Bunceton/Cotton area (Highway B)
9/12/2008
S/SW of Prairie Home (Highway W)
9/12/2008
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Petite Saline Creek
Lamine River
Section 3
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Type
Deaths
Injuries
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
Flash
Flood
Flash
Flood
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
2K
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
0
0
0
0
Flood
Flash
Flood
Flash
Flood
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Flash
Flood
Flood
Flood
Flood
Flood
Flood
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
131
Location
Boonville/Clarks Fork area (Highway
87)
S/SW of Bellair (Highway E, 2 miles W
of Highway 5)
Date
9/12/2008
9/12/2008
6/15/2009 6/16/2009
Blackwater area
TOTALS:
Type
Flash
Flood
Flash
Flood
Flash
Flood
Property
Crop
Damage Damage
Deaths
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
8.543M 12.250M
Source: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms
Repetitive Losses in Cooper County
According to the Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan, there are no repetitive loss properties in
Cooper County. Although there are no repetitive loss properties, there has been $111,622 in
flood insurance loss payments in the county between1978-2009.
One property in Cooper County was acquired with Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
funds through the Missouri Flood Buyout Program after the 1993 flood. This property was
located in the unincorporated community of Overton, close to the Missouri River.
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability:
High Low –
Severity:
High Moderate –
Low -
Cooper County, Boonville, Wooldridge, Linneman-Weekly Levee District, and
the Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove
Wooldridge, Linneman-Weekly Levee District, and the Overton-Wooldridge
Levee District
Cooper County
Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove
Existing Mitigation Activities
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
The U.S. Congress established the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) with the passage of
the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968. The NFIP is a Federal program enabling property
owners in participating communities to purchase insurance as a protection against flood losses in
exchange for State and community floodplain management regulations that reduce future flood
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
132
damages. Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between communities and the
Federal Government. If a community adopts and enforces a floodplain management ordinance to
reduce future flood risk to new construction in floodplains, the Federal Government will make
flood insurance available within the community as a financial protection against flood losses.
This insurance is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to reduce the
escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods.
Participation in the National Flood Insurance Program is a critical aspect of hazard mitigation
planning for it provides communities with direct resources that can be used for controlling the
potentially devastating impacts of floods. Furthermore, participation in the program helps
communities more easily recover from flood impacts.
The following participating jurisdictions participate in the NFIP: Cooper County, Boonville, and
Pilot Grove. Detailed information on NFIP participation is shown in Figure 3.5.10.
Figure 3.5.10
Cooper County Jurisdictions Participating in NFIP
Jurisdiction
Entry into Program
Date of Current FIRM
09/01/1989
10/16/1984
11/24/2008
04/25/1975
05/03/2011
05/03/2011
05/03/2011 (M)
05/03/2011 (S)
Cooper County
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
* (M) indicates that no elevation was determined
** (S) Suspended Community
Source: http://www.fema.gov/cis/MO.html
Bunceton and Otterville are not currently participating in the NFIP. Wooldridge is the process of
filing the application material to participate in NFIP.
A summary of the NFIP insurance policies in the county is shown in Figure 3.5.11.
Figure 3.5.11
NFIP Policies in Cooper County as of 11/7/2011
Community
Cooper County
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Number
of
Policies
Amount Insured ($)
Total Premium ($)
388,000
1,244
1,000,000
0
0
1,457
0
0
3
1
0
0
Source: http://bsa.nfipstat.com/reports/1011.htm
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
133
County
Cooper County posts signs at some of their low-water crossing to warn of flooding. Also, many
state routes in the county have flood warning signs.
Boonville
Enforces floodplain ordinances, building codes and zoning contribute to this enforcement
Pilot Grove
Enforces floodplain ordinances
Wooldridge
Wooldridge is in the process of applying for acceptance into NFIP. The village is working
closely with the Cooper County Commission, SEMA, and FEMA to achieve this goal. The
village has also performed extensive maintenance to their levee and flood gate to prepare for
future events that may occur.
Other
The National Weather Service issues flooding hazard alerts according to three response levels
(See Figure 3.5.12). These alerts are broadcast through local media.
Figure 3.5.12
Response level
Flood Response Levels
Description
Flood Watch
Flood Warning
Flash flooding or flooding is possible within a designated area
Flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent
Flood
Advisory
Flooding of small streams, streets, and low lying areas, such as
railroad underpasses and some urban drains is occurring
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
134
Flood Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: Cooper County unincorporated area, Blackwater, Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville,
Pilot Grove, and Wooldridge.
Overview
Large-scale floods such as the 1993 flood are devastating events for entire regions of the country.
Not only was Mid-Missouri impacted but, the entire Midwest suffered large losses in life,
property, and crop damage which carried over to the rest of the United States. Transit routes
were disrupted, people lost jobs, and crops never made it to market. Small-scale floods or flash
flooding can impact a neighborhood or a city but are limited in their spatial extent.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Cooper County residents, structures, and infrastructure lying in or near the Missouri River
Floodplain or Lamine River Floodplain are all vulnerable to the effects of a major flood. Other
structures not within designated floodplains are also vulnerable to the effects of flash flooding
brought on by storm water or sheet flooding. Figures 3.5.2-3.5.7 depict the 100 year flood plain
for Cooper County. Through the use of high resolution 2007 aerial imagery from the Missouri
Spatial Data Service at the University of Missouri, a GIS Specialist for the Mid-Missouri
Regional Planning Commission was able to see and count structures in the floodplain. It was
found that only Cooper County (unincorporated area), Boonville, Bunceton, and Wooldridge had
structures in the floodplain. There were 359 structures in all of Cooper County, with 24 of those
in Boonville, one in Bunceton, and 36 in Wooldridge. These “structures” may consist of
businesses, residences, towers, outbuildings, or other manmade structures. Further analysis of
the data may give a more precise categorization of the structures.
It can be said with certainty that there are not fire stations, schools, nursing homes, hospitals,
prisons, government centers, or police stations in the 100 year floodplain.
Both the City of Bunceton and the City of Otterville have their wastewater lagoons located
partially within the 100yr floodplain. This has not posed a significant problem for either
community.
Potential Impact on Future Development
Impact on future development is directly related to floodplain management and regulations set
forth by the county and individual communities.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
135
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Repetitive Loss Properties
Requirement
§201.6(c)(2)(ii):
[The risk assessment] must also address National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP) insured structures that have been repetitively
damaged by floods.
The NFIP defines a Repetitive Loss Property as “any insurable building for which two or more
claims of more than $1,000 were paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) within
any rolling ten-year period, since 1978. At least two of the claims must be more than 10-days
apart.” A repetitive loss property may or may not currently be insured by the NFIP.
There are no Repetitive Loss Properties in Cooper County, according to the Missouri State
Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010).
A Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) property is defined as a single family property that is covered
under an NFIP flood insurance policy and:
(a) has had at least four NFIP claim payments (including building and contents) over $5,000
each, with the cumulative amount of the claims payments exceeding $20,000; or
(b) for which at least two separate claims payments (building payments only) have been made
with the cumulative amount of the building portion of such claims exceeding the market value of
the building.
For both (a) and (b) above, at least two of the referenced claims must have occurred within any
ten-year period, and must be greater than 10 days apart.
There are no Severe Repetitive Loss Properties in Cooper County, according to the Missouri
State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010).
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
136
3.6 Land Subsidence/Sinkhole
Description of Hazard
The Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2007) gives the following definition for land
subsidence and sinkholes: “Land subsidence is sinking of the earth’s surface due to the
movement of earth materials below the surface. In the case of sinkholes, the rock below the
surface is limestone, carbonate rock, salt beds, or some other rock that can be naturally dissolved
by circulating groundwater.” Figure 3.6.1 shows how a sinkhole can develop. According to the
Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR), sinkholes can occur due to human activities
such as construction excavation, well drilling, or mining operations. These activities can cause
shifts in buoyancy and/or disturb subsurface voids. Sinkholes vary in size and can potentially
cause damage to roads, water/sewer lines, buildings, and lagoons.
Figure 3.6.1
Formation of collapse—Soil bridges gap where sediment has been washing into a
solution enlarged fracture, A. Over time, the void migrates upward through the soil, B.
After the bridge thins, a sudden collapse, C, often plugs the drain and erosion will,
after many years, transform the collapse into a more bowl-shaped sinkhole, D.
-By James E. Kaufmann
Source: US Geological Survey
Geographic Location
The only known sinkhole areas in the Planning Area are in unincorporated Cooper County (see
Figure 3.6.2). It is important to note that future sinkhole development has the potential to occur
near these areas and also in other areas that have no developed sinkholes. Gradual or sudden
land subsidence is a key sign of sinkhole formation.
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Figure 3.6.2
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
138
Previous Occurrences
There have been no recorded recent occurrences of sinkhole collapse in Cooper County. Just
because no occurrences have been recorded does not mean that they have not happened.
Previous occurrences of sinkhole development in other parts of Missouri with similar geologic
features are a source of concern.
According to the Missouri DNR, sewage lagoons in West Plains and Republic in Southern
Missouri were drained of their contents due to the development of sinkholes. Sinkholes drain
directly into underground water sources and can impact or pollute area water sources.
In West Plains, sinkholes had drained the lagoon twice before the final collapse; local officials
had tried to patch the collapses with cement and other materials. The final collapse in 1978
resulted in sewage draining directly into underground water sources. Mammoth Spring in
Arkansas was contaminated and more than 800 local residents reported illness, according to the
Missouri DNR. While this occurred in Southern Missouri, the potential exists for a similar
situation occurring in the Planning Area.
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: Low
Severity: Low
Existing Mitigation Strategies
Although Cooper County does not have planning and zoning, county staff is aware of problem
areas and encourage residents to use caution when developing in these areas.
Land Subsidence /Sinkhole Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: Cooper County
There are no known sinkholes in any other jurisdictions or in areas that would impact a school
district structure.
Overview
As stated before, the only known sinkhole areas in the Planning Area are in unincorporated
Cooper County. It is important to note the potential for future sinkhole development near these
areas and in other areas which presently do not have developed sinkholes. Gradual or sudden
land subsidence is a key sign of sinkhole formation.
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139
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Due to the unpredictable nature of sinkhole collapse, there is no direct way to assess a cost
impact for this hazard. Vulnerable structures, roads, or property could potentially be impacted
by a sudden and usually localized drop in elevation. The resulting damage incurred from the
sinkhole could result in broken roads, building collapse, compromises to water sources,
environmental impacts, and/or loss of life. While loss of life could occur, it would most likely be
minimal.
Potential Impact on Future Development
It is difficult to assess the effects of sinkholes on future development because sinkhole
development is unpredictable and few sinkhole areas have been identified in the Planning Area.
However, it should be noted that future development can affect the impact of this hazard.
Construction of septic tanks, lagoons, and structures can cause shifts in soil and may plug or
disturb karst areas allowing for the formation of a sinkhole. Also, soil disturbance can cause the
drainage pattern to change, which may lead to blockage of a sinkhole and potentially cause
flooding.
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3.7 Levee Failure
Description of Hazard
A levee is defined by the National Flood Insurance Program “a man-made structure, usually an
earthen embankment, designed and constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices
to contain, control, or divert the flow of water so as to provide protection from temporary
flooding.”
Levee failure, according to FEMA, can occur by the following means:

Overtopping-When a large flood occurs, water can flow over a levee. Called
overtopping, the stress exerted by flowing water can cause rapid erosion.

Piping-Levees are often built over old stream beds. Flood waters will follow these sub
grade channels causing a levee to erode internally thereby allowing flood waters to
rupture the levee structure.

Seepage and Saturation-If flood waters sit up against a levee for a long period, the levee
may become saturated and eventually collapse.

Erosion-Most levees are constructed of sand or soil which erodes easily under highvelocity flood waters.

Structural Failures-Lack of regular maintenance is a key reason levees fail at gates,
walls or closure sites.
Federally authorized levees are typically designed and built by the US Army Corps of
Engineers in cooperation with a local sponsor then turned over to the local sponsor to operate
and maintain.
Non-federal levees are designed, built, and managed by a non-federal entity.
There is no single agency with responsibility for levee oversight. The Corps of Engineers has
specific and limited responsibilities for approximately 2,000 levees nationwide.
The responsibilities of local levee owners or sponsors are broad and may include levee safety;
land use planning and development; building codes; and operations, maintenance, repair,
rehabilitation and/or replacement of the levee. The certification of levees for FEMA’s National
Flood Insurance Program is the responsibility of the local levee owner or sponsor.
Federally authorized and some non-federal levees may be eligible for Corps of Engineers
rehabilitation assistance funding. It is important to note that current levees in the Planning Area
are agricultural levees and as such are built to withstand only 50 year floods.
Section 3
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141
Geographic Location
The levee districts in Cooper County are found along the Missouri River on the northern and
northeastern boundaries of Cooper County (see Figures 3.7.1 – 3.7.2). The levee that protects a
portion of the Village of Wooldridge is located in northeastern Cooper County and protects the
community from riverine flooding stemming from the Petite Saline Creek (see Figure 3.7.3).
The Petite Saline Creek floods a large area of Cooper County when the Missouri River rises and
backs up into this tributary.
Previous Occurrences
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, all levees in Cooper County and most of the
surrounding counties failed during the 1993 Flood, resulting in the inundation of land and
structures being protected.
Structures and communities that were affected by the levee breaches include the City of
Boonville, Blackwater, the Blackwater Wastewater Facility, Wooldridge, and several residences
and businesses. While the levees do not directly protect these areas, the breaches increased
flooding in these locations.
In the summer of 2011 high levels of flooding occurred along the Missouri River stemming from
releases from the Gavin’s Point Reservoir near Yankton, South Dakota. The water that was
releases from the reservoir and other reservoirs upstream resulted in large scale flooding in the
upper Missouri River Valley. These flooded areas included North and South Dakota, Nebraska,
Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri. While flood waters from this event caused severe damage to levees
in northwestern Missouri, the central portion of the state fared much better. There were no
failures of levees in Cooper County.
While levee failures did not occur, there were instances of seepage coming under levees and
causing damage to both agricultural fields and roadways. Both the Linneman-Weekly and
Overton-Wooldridge levee districts incurred damage to agricultural fields and had to maintain
pumps to keep water out of protected areas.
Wooldridge also took measures to mitigate the effects of the 2011 flooding. On July1, 2011 the
Missouri National Guard arrived in Wooldridge to prepare sandbags for the levee. At this time
the Petite Saline Creek, which is a tributary to the Missouri River, was backing up into town.
Soldiers, volunteers, and prisoners worked to clear vegetation, fill sandbags, and place the bags
on the levee. Water levels did not overtop the levee.
In addition to major flooding events, smaller flooding events have caused damage for levee
districts. The Overton-Wooldridge Levee District (Figure 3.7.1) experiences periodic flooding
stemming from seepage under their levee. According to the Vice-President of the district, Art
Schnuck, water from the adjoining wetland area seeps under the levee through sandy soil and
causes pooling of water farther inland that should be protected by the levee. Levee district board
members stated that this seepage did not occur until the creation of a side channel or chute in the
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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wetland by the US Fish and Wildlife Service in 2001. According to the US Fish and Wildlife
Service, the 1.5 mile chute at Overton Bottoms only receives water from the Missouri River at
high river stages and is used for fish sampling.
Measures of Probability and Severity
Probability: Moderate
Severity: High
Existing Mitigation Strategies
The US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the inspection of the Linneman-Weekly Levee
District and the Overton-Wooldridge Levee District; it is up to the owner or sponsor to inspect
and fix their levees. Both levee districts and the Village of Wooldridge have a maintenance plan
in place.
Most areas behind the three levees in the Planning Area are in designated floodplains and new
construction must meet floodplain regulations and/or NFIP guidelines.
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143
Figure 3.7.1
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
144
Figure 3.7.2
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
145
Figure 3.7.3
Levee Failure Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: Cooper County, Wooldridge, Overton-Wooldridge Levee District, and
Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Overview
The two main levees in the Planning Area (Overton-Wooldridge Levee District and LinnemanWeekly Levee District) will be addressed in this assessment. Vulnerability assessments are not
being completed for the private levees in the Planning Area due to the lack of official data on
their locations.
The Overton-Wooldridge Levee District and Linneman-Weekly Levee District levees in the
Planning Area are agricultural levees. Agricultural levees are usually built to withstand a 50 year
flood but these three levees fall well below that protection level at 10 to 25 year flood event
levels. Specific protection information is shown in Figures 3.7.3 and 3.7.4. The Village of
Wooldridge Levee is not part of the USACE Levee Rehabilitation Program and does not have an
Section 3
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146
inspection report. It is has been estimated by the Wooldridge Board of Trustees that there are
approximately 12-15 residences that are protected by the levee.
Figure 3.7.3
Linneman-Weekly Levee District Inc.
Levee Embankment Data
LEVEE DESIGNED GAGE FUNCTION READING/STATION: 34.0 – Boonville Gage
LEVEL OF PROTECTION PROVIDED: Exceeds a 10-year flood event.
AVERAGE HEIGHT OF LEVEE: 6’ to 12’
AVERAGE CROWN WIDTH: 8’ to 16’
AVERAGE SIDE SLOPE: Landside slope 1o n3 to 1 on 4
Riverside ranges from 1 on 3 to 1 on 6
Protected Features
TOTAL ACRES PROTECTED: 1,000
TOTAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION ACRES PROTECTED: 1,000
TOWNS: 0
BUSINESSES: 0
RESIDENCES: 0
ROADS: Approximately 2 miles of unimproved farm to market roads.
UTILIITES: 0
BARNS: 0
MACHINE SHEDS: 0
OUTBUILDINGS: 0
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS: 0
GRAIN BINS: 0
OTHER FACILITIES: 0
A Levee system was established under the guidelines of a Not-For-Profit Corporation and was
last inspected on January 24th, 2005. Information about this Levee District can be obtained by
contacting: Mr. Jason Linneman, 660-846-2600.
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147
Figure 3.7.4
Overton-Wooldridge Levee
Levee Embankment Data
LEVEE DESIGNED GAGE FUNCTION READING/STATION: 32.0 Boonville Gage
LEVEL OF PROTECTION PROVIDED: Exceeds a 10-year-flood event
AVERAGE HEIGHT OF LEVEE: Varies from a low of 8’ to a high of 14’ above the landside
natural ground surface.
AVERAGE CROWN WIDTH: Varies from 10’ to 12’
AVERAGE SIDE SLOPE: L/S: 1 on 3 R/S: 1 on 3
ANNUAL MAINTENANCE COSTS: Approximately $2,500.00
Protected Features
TOTAL ACRES PROTECTED: Approximately 3,500 (Approx. 1,435 acres of MO River
Mitigation Project lands – known as Overton Bottoms Conservation Area South.)
TOTAL AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION ACRES PROTECTED: Approximately 3,400
(Note: MO River Mitigation Project lands are agriculturally leased on a year-to-year basis.)
TOWNS: 0
BUSINESSES: 0
RESIDENCES: 0
ROADS: Approximately 5.20 miles of gravel surfaced County roads and approximately 5.00
miles of non-surface farm service roads.
UTILIITES: Approximately 4.50 miles of overhead power lines.
BARNS: 5
MACHINE SHEDS: 0
OUTBUILDINGS: 3
IRRIGATION SYSTEMS: 0
GRAIN BINS: 1
OTHER FACILITIES: Limited protection afforded to approximately 6.00 miles of railroad
embankment.
This levee is sponsored by the Cooper County Commission and was last inspected on January
19th, 2006. Information about this Levee District can be obtained by contacting Mr. Art
Schnuck, 660-882-2021.
(The data in Figures 3.7.3-3.7.5 is from information provided by Engineer Cliff Sanders of the
US Army Corps of Engineers in Glasgow, MO. The data includes protected area information
from a “Supplemental Levee Inspection Information” form collected during the last inspections
in 2005 and 2006.)
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Structures in Cooper County that would be vulnerable to the effects of levee failure would
include those that lie in areas in or near the Missouri River floodplain and its tributaries. Since
the 1993 Flood many structures have been relocated, bought out, abandoned, elevated, or
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
148
remodeled; this has reduced the amount of vulnerable structures and people in areas where levees
could potentially fail.
Potential Impact on Future Development
Impact on future development is directly related to floodplain management and regulations set
forth by the county and individual communities through levee management and regulations
which are not clearly defined. It is important to note that levees in Cooper County are located in
designated floodplains. This means that all new construction in these areas fall under Cooper
County’s floodplain regulations and must adhere to that coding.
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3.8 Severe Winter Weather
Description of Hazard
Cooper County generally experiences severe winter weather at least every other year; certain
years are particularly notable for their storm frequency and/or intensity. Winter storms in central
Missouri contain ice, snow, severe cold, sleet, and wind; each of these has the potential to disrupt
life in the region by making normal activity difficult and/or dangerous.
Winter storms pose a threat to central Missouri by creating disruptions in electricity, telephone,
and other critical infrastructures. Employees may be unable to get to work due to icy conditions,
unplowed roadways, and disruptions in transportation services, or facility damage. A shortage of
supplies may ensue with a longer stretch of severe winter weather.
Snowstorms do not generally impact the region for long periods of time but ice storms have shut
down schools and businesses for extended periods. Ice is also the biggest threat to reliable
power and phone service.
Geographic Location
The entire Planning Area is at risk from Severe Winter Weather.
Previous Occurrences
Cooper County experienced 29 officially recorded winter storms or periods of extreme cold in
the period Jan. 14, 1994 – Feb. 6, 2011, according to data from NOAA and FEMA. Figure 3.8.1
summarizes available data for these storms including additional information from SEMA
Situation Reports.
Winter storms typically move through a large area. The number of counties affected by a storm
is indicated in Figure 3.8.1 for those storms where deaths, injuries, and/or costs are reported.
The deaths, injuries, and estimated costs reflect all counties in Missouri affected by the storm.
The death associated with one of the periods of extreme cold did not occur in Cooper County;
information on the locations of the injuries was not available. While it can be seen from the data
that severe winter weather can result in great financial cost, the exact cost of these storms to
Cooper County was not available in the data.
In some cases, more cost information is available for storms for which Presidential Disaster
Declarations were made. After a Presidential Disaster Declaration, Public Assistance (PA)
and/or Individual Assistance (IA) is made available through FEMA. The PA can be further
specified as a specific category; the categories relevant to this data are Category A for debris
removal and Category B for emergency protective measures.
Section 3
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150
Since 2006, there have been five Presidential Disaster Declarations for severe winter weather in
Missouri, three of these included Cooper County (#1673, #1676, #1736, and #1961). In all of
these disasters, Public Assistance (PA) was made available to Cooper County through FEMA.
There have also been two Presidential Emergency Declarations due to severe winter weather for
the entire state of Missouri since 2006 (#3281 and #3303). Public Assistance (PA), limited to
direct Federal Assistance, was made available during these Emergencies.
The Governor of Missouri declared a State of Emergency in the State for the winter storm of
Nov. 30 – Dec. 1, 2006; this declaration allowed state funds to be used in disaster response.
SEMA Situation Reports indicate a dairy farmer lost 23 head of cattle and other facilities valued
at more than $1 million in damage from this storm; other individuals in Cooper County reported
roofs collapsing on barns and greenhouses.
The severe winter weather in the first two weeks of December 2007 resulted in a Presidential
Emergency Declaration (#3281) for the ice storm beginning on Dec. 8, 2007. Neighboring
counties received a Presidential Disaster Declaration (#1736) for the entire 10-day period of
severe winter weather. SEMA activated the State Emergency Operations Center and the
Governor of Missouri declared a State Emergency which made state resources available to assist
local governments.
According to the National Climate Data Center, the February 2011 blizzard was the first to strike
central Missouri in several years. Over 20 inches of snow fell over a 24 hour period coupled
with 40 mph winds which resulted in both a Presidential Emergency Declaration (#3317) and a
Presidential Disaster Declaration (#1961). Interstate 70 was shut down from Warren County to
just east of Kansas City. The National Guard was called to clear County roads and assist with
emergency transportation. The region was brought to a standstill for several days. A Federal
disaster declaration was obtained for many counties in order to assist with the cost of snow
removal. Light freezing rain and sleet started on Monday 1/31 with an inch of sleet accumulating
by the early morning hours of Tuesday (2/1). By midday Tuesday (2/1) the precipitation had
changed to snow and the wind began increasing. By late Tuesday (2/1) afternoon travel became
extremely dangerous. SEMA activated the State Emergency Operations Center and the Governor
of Missouri declared a State Emergency which made state resources available to assist local
governments.
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151
Figure 3.8.1
Severe Winter Storms in Cooper County, Missouri 1993-2011
Presidential
Disaster or
Emergency
Declaration
#
Date
Storm
Type
Deaths
Injuries
Estimated
Cost
(Million $)
1/14/1994
Extreme
Cold
0
15
5
51 plus
city of St.
Louis
4/5/1994
Winter
Storm
0
0
0.5
31 plus
City of
St. Louis
1/18/1995
Heavy
Snow
0
0
0.2
13
11/11/1995
Snow/ice
0
0
0
12/6/1995
Snow
0
0
0
12/8/1995
Snow
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1/9/1997
1/10/1997
1/11/1998
3/11/2000
10/6/2000
12/10/2000
Heavy
Snow
Extreme
Cold
Ice Storm
Heavy
Snow
Extreme
Cold
Extreme
Cold
12/11/2000
Ice Storm
0
0
0
12/13/2000
Heavy
Snow
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
82.5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1/28/2001
2/9/2001
1/29/2002
3/1/2002
1/2/2003
12/10/2003
Section 3
Winter
Storm
Winter
Storm
Ice Storm
Heavy
Snow
Winter
Storm
Winter
Storm
# of
Counties
Assistance
in Cooper
County
(IA or PA)
37
1403
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
43
IA
152
Date
1/25/2004
11/30/2006
12/1/2006
12/9/2007
1/26/2009
2/28/2009
1/10/2011
1/19/2011
01/31/11
thru
02/05/11
TOTAL
Storm
Type
Winter
Storm
Heavy
Snow
Heavy
Snow
Ice Storm
Winter
Storm
Heavy
Snow
Winter
Weather
Winter
Storm
Winter
Storm
Presidential
Disaster or
Emergency
Declaration
#
Deaths
Injuries
Estimated
Cost
(Million
$)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
NA
3281
NA
NA
NA
3303
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
NA
NA
12.8
1
15
88.2
1961
# of
Counties
entire
state
entire
state
64
Assistance
in Cooper
County
(IA or PA)
PA (A,B)
PA (B)
PA
Sources: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms; http://www.fema.gov/news/disasters.fema;
http://sema.dps.mo.gov/SitReps/Situation%20Reports.htm
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: High
Severity: Moderate - Cooper County, Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove, Wooldridge
Low – Prairie Home R-V School District
Existing Mitigation Activities
The Cooper County Office of Emergency Management has been proactive in educating the
public and using the media to educate the public about the dangers of severe winter weather.
Utility Companies
Utility companies in Cooper County have policies regarding tree trimming and brush removal
around power lines. Consistent maintenance of trees and brush around utility lines limits the
possibility of power outages during a severe winter storm. Maintenance also makes financial
sense because repairing fallen utility lines and poles is costly and dangerous.
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National Weather Service and Local Media
The Kansas City Office of the National Weather Service coordinates with local jurisdictions and
media outlets to disperse information regarding severe winter storm watches and warnings.
Early warning allows the public to prepare for a severe storm. Should a storm reach catastrophic
proportions and officials need to communicate directly with the public, the Emergency Alert
System exists to spread that information.
The National Weather Service sets up winter weather warnings in stages of severity. These
stages are shown in Figure 3.36.
Figure 3.36
National Weather Service Winter Warnings
Winter Weather
Advisory
Winter weather conditions are expected to cause significant
inconveniences and may be hazardous. If caution is
exercised, these situations should not become lifethreatening. The greatest hazard is often to motorists.
Winter Storm Watch
Severe winter conditions, such as heavy snow and/or ice, are
possible within the next day or two.
Winter Storm Warning
Severe winter conditions have begun or are about to begin
in your area.
Blizzard Warning
Snow and strong winds will combine to produce a blinding
snow (near zero visibility), deep drifts, and life-threatening
wind chill. Seek refuge immediately.
Frost/Freeze Warning
Below freezing temperatures are expected and may cause
significant damage to plants, crops, or fruit trees. In areas
unaccustomed to freezing temperatures, people who have
homes without heat need to take added precautions.
Severe Winter Weather Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee districts
Overview
Cooper County rarely suffers from heavy damage due to severe winter storms and therefore most
winter storms impact the community only temporarily. It is not uncommon for a severe winter
storm to leave a long lasting mark on the community by inflicting heavy financial damage on the
area but storms of this magnitude are rare.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
A series of small winter storms can impact several jurisdictions. This increases the financial
burden on communities and can have a more far reaching economic impact. Below are listed the
many impacts severe winter storms can have on Cooper County.
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154
Life and Property- Many deaths from winter storms are a result of traffic accidents caused by a
combination of poor driving surfaces and driving too fast for the conditions. Accidents during
winter storms can be particularly devastating for often multiple cars are involved. There are also
specific sections of the community that are more vulnerable than others to the complications
caused by Severe Winter Weather such as the elderly. According to the World Health
Organization, “elderly” is defined as those over the age of 65. Elderly are the most susceptible
to complications from excessive and/or prolonged cold or heat. According to the 2010 US the
elderly population for Cooper County stands at 2,702.

Roads and Bridges- Roads and bridges serve as vital arteries for all residents. Winter
storms often limit the effectiveness of the arteries by making driving conditions difficult
and unsafe. Emergency vehicles also have trouble operating in these conditions that slow
down response times thus limiting their effectiveness in an emergency.

Power Lines- Ice storms often adversely impact consistent power supplies. The ice can
build up on the wires causing them to fall or the ice can lead to falling tree limbs which
then knock down power lines. When this happens power outages occur that can be
dangerous. For instance, if the population relies on electricity for heat and the electricity
does not work for a long time, people run the risk of hypothermia. This is a particular
concern for more vulnerable populations such as the elderly.

Water Lines- Winter storms and their associated cold weather lead to the ground
freezing and thawing. As the ground freezes and thaws, pipes in the ground shift and
sometimes break causing a lack of potable water. Also, when a pipe breaks, damage to
property can be extensive and expensive.
Currently, there is not a reliable or accurate way to estimate costs associated with winter storms.
Too many variables exist to accurately portray how much damage would be incurred by a winter
storm. For instance, the cost of a snowstorm that dropped 20 inches would be different than an
ice storm that causes different types of damage and challenges to infrastructure. Locations of
heavier snow accumulation, time of day, and other characteristics would all play a role in
determining the cost of a winter storm.
Potential Impact on Future Development
Potential impacts of this hazard on future development are not quantifiable with the resources
available.
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3.9 Wildfire
Description of Hazard
Forest, grassland, and natural cover fires can and have occurred at any time throughout the year
in Missouri. In Cooper County, the majority of the fires and the greatest acreage loss occur
during the spring fire season (February 15 - May 10).
Spring is the time of the year when rural residents burn garden spots, agricultural fields, and
brush piles. Many landowners also believe it is necessary to burn forested areas in the spring to
grow more grass, kill ticks, and get rid of brush. These factors, combined with low humidity and
high winds, result in higher fire danger at this time of year. The spring fire season abates with
the growth of the new season’s grasses and other green vegetation.
Numerous fires also occur in October and November due to the dryness associated with fall in
Missouri. Many rural residents use this time of year to burn leaves and debris thus raising the
possibility of a fire which burns out of control.
The major causes of wildfires in Missouri are various human activities, according to statistics
from the Missouri Department of Conservation (see Figure 3.9.1).
Figure 3.9.1
Children
<1% Railroads
<1%
Lightning
<1%
Causes of Wildfire in Missouri 2010
Equipment
Campfire
4%
2%
Arson
7%
Smoking
2%
Debris burning
41%
Misc.
43%
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156
Geographic Location
The rural areas of Cooper County and the rural/urban interfaces are most at risk from wildfires.
Debris burning is consistently the number one cause of wildfires in Missouri. Fires caused by
lightning are rare despite 50 to 70 thunderstorm days per year.
It was reported by representatives from the Cooper County Fire Department that annual burning
of agricultural fields is also a major contributor to wildfires.
The Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) was defined as “the area where structures and other human
development meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland” in a 2001 Federal Register report.
There is a higher risk scenario for wildfire in these areas where high fuel loads and structures
meet or overlap.
A Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) map does not depict any high risk areas due to the lack of
heavy forested areas and intense farming practices. In place of the WUI map, a map of
agricultural land throughout the county will be used to highlight those areas that the planning
committee see as being the highest risk areas (see Figure 3.9.2).
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
157
Figure 3.9.2
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
158
Previous Occurrences
Large and widespread wildfires, such as occur in the western United States, have not been a
problem in Cooper County in recent history. Most fires have stemmed from open debris burning
and agricultural burning. Several small fires occur in the early spring and fall in mostly
agricultural areas in the county.
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: Low
Severity: Low
The Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan (2010) points out that the probability of wildfires
may increase to high during conditions of excessive heat, dryness, and drought. The probability
is also higher in spring and late fall
Existing Mitigation Activities
Emergency response systems, well trained fire departments, and numerous county roads improve
response times to fire events, thus decreasing the chances of fire spread.
The Missouri Department of Conservation and the State Fire Marshal have published an
informational booklet entitled “Living with Wildfire” which educates homeowners on assessing
a property’s vulnerability to wildfire and making changes to decrease the risk. The publication is
available online at: http://mdc4.mdc.mo.gov/Documents/322.pdf
A Firewise Communities program has been implemented in Missouri to teach people how to
minimize the threat of wildfire.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
159
Wildfire Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee districts
Overview
Wildfires in Cooper County tend to be limited in their spatial extent thus minimizing their
impact. According to the Missouri Department of Conservation, 49% of all wildfires in Missouri
result from debris burning that gets out of hand and starts a wildfire. People and structures in the
path of a wildfire are all at risk of minimum to extensive damage. Wildfire is defined as an
uncontrolled fire that destroys forests and many other types of vegetation, as well as animal
species.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Currently, there is not a reliable or accurate way to estimate costs associated with a wildfire
event. Too many variables exist to accurately portray how much damage would be incurred by a
wildfire. For instance, the cost of a wildfire that strikes structures versus cropland versus
forestland would all be different. Locations of the fire, time of day, and other characteristics
would all play a role in determining the cost of a wildfire. Fire suppression methods also vary
depending on existence of structures. Some wildfires are allowed to burn themselves out which
means minimal cost for suppression.
The Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Plan 2010 estimates that Cooper County has a low
potential for wildfire occurrence (4 year average of 23.4 occurrences a year) and a medium
potential for the amount of acres that could burn (4 year average of 213 acres burned a year).
Potential Impact on Future Development
Potential impacts of this hazard on future development are not quantifiable with the resources
available.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
160
3.10 Windstorm, Tornado, and Hailstorm
Windstorm, tornado, and hailstorm are hazards with potential to cause great damage. They will
each be profiled separately but grouped together in this section of the plan as these three hazards
are closely associated with severe thunderstorms in Missouri. There will be a general discussion
of thunderstorms followed by the profiles of the three hazards (windstorm, tornado, and
hailstorm.) Lightning is a hazard which FEMA does not require to be profiled for mitigation
purposes; therefore, it is not profiled in this plan.
Some Background on Thunderstorm
A thunderstorm is a rainstorm with thunder and lightning present. Warm, humid climates, such
as that in mid-Missouri, are favorable for the formation of thunderstorms. The average
Missourian is well aware of the potential hazards of the thunderstorm season; these include
heavy rains and, potentially, strong winds, tornadoes, hail, and lightning strikes. The effects of
heavy rains have been considered in the section on flood (see Section 3.5).
Thunderstorms can range in complexity from single cell storms through multicell cluster storms,
multicell line storms (squall lines), and on to supercell storms. A single cell thunderstorm
typically lasts 20-30 minutes but when numerous cells are generated, as in a multicell storm, the
thunderstorm can last for hours. Supercell storms include rotation and are responsible for the
generation of severe tornadoes. The National Weather Service considers a thunderstorm
“severe” when it includes one or more of the following: winds gusting in excess of 57.5 mph, a
tornado, or hail at least 0.75 inch in diameter.
Cooper County is located in a part of the country with a relatively high number of thunderstorms.
National Weather Service data indicates that there are on average 50-60 thunderstorm days per
year in Missouri (see Figure 3.10.2). Thunderstorms can occur during any season in Missouri
but they are more frequent in the spring and summer. Many of these thunderstorms are severe.
Figure 3.10.1
Average Number of Thunderstorm Days Annually in U.S.
Source: http://www.srh.noaa.gov/jetstream/tstorms/tstorms_intro.htm
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
161
Windstorm
Description of Hazard
Severe and damaging winds in the planning area are usually, but not always, associated with
thunderstorms. Thunderstorm winds can reach speeds up to 100 mph and produce damage paths
for hundreds of miles. According to NOAA, property and crop damage from thunderstorm
winds is more common, and can be more severe, than damage from tornadoes. Thunderstorm
wind damage accounts for half of all the NOAA reports of severe weather events in the lower 48
states.
Thunderstorm winds are often called "straight-line" winds to distinguish them from tornadoes,
which have a rotational element. The following are the distinctions made between different
thunderstorm winds:



Gust front - Gusty winds out ahead of a thunderstorm; characterized by a wind shift and
temperature drop.
Downbursts – A strong downdraft with a width of greater than 2.5 miles which results in
an outward burst of damaging winds near the ground; may possibly produce damage
similar to that of a strong tornado.
Microbursts – A small concentrated downburst with a width less than 2.5 miles;
generally short-lived, lasting only 5-10 minutes, with maximum wind speeds up to 168
mph.
A derecho is a widespread, massive, and violent thunderstorm wind event producing straightline winds in excess of 70 mph and moving quickly over large areas. These are not common
events but a massive derecho, almost the size of the area of the state of Missouri, caused
extensive damage in southern Missouri and Illinois in the spring of 2009.
Much of the damage caused by high winds occurs because of falling trees; people, buildings, and
vehicles may be damaged by falling trunks and branches. Power lines may be blown or knocked
down and people left without electricity. In some cases, roofs are directly blown off buildings
and windows are shattered.
Geographic location
The entire planning area is at risk from windstorms. Both urban and rural areas can sustain
heavy losses from severe winds; the potential damage to houses and urban trees is obvious but
crops and forests can also sustain massive and costly damage from windstorms.
Previous occurrences
According to NOAA, there have been 81 windstorm events in Cooper County since 1950 (see
Figure 3.10.2).
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
162
These windstorms resulted in at least 2 injuries and $201,000 in property damage in the Planning
Area; no crop damage was reported.
Figure 3.10.2
Windstorm Events in Cooper County 7/2/1956 - 5/22/2011
General Location
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
Section 3
Date
Time
Magnitude
(mph)
Injuries
Property
Damage
07/02/56
04/02/59
04/17/59
03/22/66
09/06/69
12/15/71
07/27/73
09/08/73
05/06/75
05/06/75
05/20/75
09/16/80
04/03/81
06/21/81
07/20/81
04/02/82
05/30/82
06/08/82
06/20/82
09/13/82
12/24/82
12/27/82
06/18/83
06/18/83
07/03/84
07/03/84
10/18/84
06/16/85
06/21/85
09/22/85
09/22/85
07/05/87
09/14/87
09/14/87
03/24/88
11/15/88
05/26/91
05/26/91
17:00
22:00
18:45
18:15
21:45
2:19
18:15
16:00
8:30
18:15
13:50
17:00
18:34
9:35
13:00
16:00
11:30
6:05
15:50
14:16
19:30
19:35
19:30
20:10
20:15
20:25
17:25
23:45
20:58
13:55
14:15
10:20
14:45
15:00
18:15
17:45
14:45
15:45
0
0
0
0
0
81
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
60
0
0
87
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
64
64
0
0
60
70
70
0
70
64
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Injury/Damage
Details
163
General Location
Date
Time
County
County
County
County
County
07/03/91
07/09/91
08/07/91
06/17/92
07/02/92
12:30
17:15
13:55
13:15
17:10
SE of Boonville
03/30/93
Boonville
Magnitude
(mph)
Injuries
Property
Damage
0
0
0
0
60
0
0
0
0
2
17:25
0
0
5K
08/28/93
16:12
0
0
50K
Boonville
06/25/94
21:00
0
0
50K
Boonville
07/08/95
16:00
0
0
3K
Lamine
Boonville
Boonville
Otterville
Prairie Home
Boonville
S and SW of
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Pilot Grove
08/16/95
04/18/97
03/31/98
06/18/98
06/18/98
06/20/98
18:15
20:15
12:43
16:20
10:00
21:15
0
81
74
69
69
68
0
0
0
0
0
0
1K
0
0
0
0
0
04/08/99
16:55
70
0
50K
08/07/99
05/26/00
21:50
21:00
58
75
0
0
0
0
Boonville
06/25/00
20:51
75
0
30K
Otterville
Boonville
Bunceton
Boonville
Boonville
08/07/00
08/07/00
04/10/01
06/14/01
08/29/01
17:45
21:20
17:30
14:20
18:00
60
60
69
70
66
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1K
0
0
Boonville
05/08/02
20:00
60
0
1K
Boonville
07/10/02
11:39
66
0
2K
Boonville
Boonville
05/08/03
08/21/03
21:55
21:15
60
60
0
0
0
0
Date
Time
Magnitude
Injuries
Property
General Location
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
0
0
0
0
0
Injury/Damage
Details
Not available.
Three billboards
destroyed
(Junction of I-70
and Hwy 87).
Large tree limbs
broken; power
lines down.
One-fourth of a
roof torn off a
school building.
Trees and power
lines down.
Trees down.
Roof blown off
church.
Power lines and
trees down;
vehicle damaged
when a large tree
fell on it; damage
to several
residential roofs.
Not available.
Power lines
down.
Minor roof
damage.
Injury/Damage
164
(mph)
Damage
Boonville
Boonville
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Boonville
Otterville
Boonville
05/30/04
06/12/04
07/05/04
07/05/04
06/08/05
09/19/05
07/13/06
14:50
23:13
6:13
6:20
15:50
17:10
21:00
60
70
60
60
60
60
60
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Boonville
10/17/07
22:02
60
0
2K
Boonville
10/17/07
22:08
60
0
1K
Blackwater
03/31/08
10:00
60
0
3K
Otterville
Pisgah
Boonville
Boonville Airport
08/28/08
08/28/08
06/27/09
06/27/09
19:05
19:15
20:00
20:25
60
60
60
60
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Boonville area
10/01/09
15:25
70
0
2K
Boonville area
7/30/10
15:30
70
0
5K
Boonville area
5/22/11
17:20
60
0
0
TOTAL
2
206K
Details
Electric lines
down.
Window blown
out of a
downtown
building.
Shingles blown
off house; two
power lines
down.
Shed blown onto
a truck; windows
blown out of a
house on Prairie
Lick Road.
Partial removal
of roof
commercial
building. Several
downed trees.
Snapped tree
limbs
Source: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgiwin/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms
Measures of Probability and Severity
Probability: High
Severity: High
Existing mitigation strategies
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
165
Warning Systems
The following warning systems are used in the Planning Area:
Local television weather reports
Local radio weather reports
9-1-1 call center and Public Emergency Broadcast Center
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
166
Windstorm Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee districts
Overview
All jurisdictions in Cooper County are vulnerable to the effects of Windstorms. All above
ground structures are vulnerable to the effects of a Windstorm and all other hazards associated
with them (hail, rain, flooding, flying debris, etc.) Much of the damage caused by high winds
occurs because of falling trees; people, buildings, and vehicles may be damaged by falling trunks
and branches. Critical infrastructure such as communication lines, power lines, and cell towers
may be blown down. Flying debris causes damage to people, homes, and businesses.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
While past impacts have been minimal, future disasters can cause extensive damage. There is a
wide range of impact possible. Non-permanent and wood framed structures are very vulnerable
to destruction from high winds. While high winds are the force behind damage, it is the
windblown debris that causes the most damage.
Figure 3.10.3 Estimated exposed structures
Impact Assessment --- Windstorm
Jurisdiction
Planning Area
Cooper County
(uninc. areas)
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot grove
Wooldridge
High Vulnerability = 10 - 100% of buildings impacted
Minimum Calculated Impact (10%)
Building Type
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Agricultural
Religious
Governmental
Educational
743
41
11
14
4
2
2
311
312
27
25
34
2
16
19
1
1
2
0
6
4
0
0
0
0
13
1
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
HAZUS MH
Potential Impact on Future Development
Because of the random nature of this hazard, potential impacts of this hazard on future
development are not quantifiable with the resources available.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
167
Tornado
Description of Hazard
A tornado is a violently rotating column of air which is usually generated by a supercell
thunderstorm. The potential destruction posed by a tornado touching ground is well known.
Tornadoes occur most frequently in late afternoon and early evening, but can occur at any time.
Tornadoes can move in any direction, but often move from southwest to northeast. The seasonal,
temporal, and spatial uncertainties surrounding thunderstorms and tornadoes make widespread
and year round preparedness essential.
The destructive effects of a tornado depend on the strength of the winds, proximity to people and
structures, the strength of structures, and/or how well a person is sheltered. The average forward
speed of a tornado is about 30 mph, but may vary from nearly stationary to 70 mph. Tornadoes
are classified by the Fujita scale, which ranks tornadoes according to wind speed and damage
caused (see Figure 3.10.4).
Figure 3.10.4
The Fujita Scale
F-Scale
Number
Intensity
Phrase
Wind
Speed
(mph)
Type of Damage Done
F0
Gale tornado
40-72
Some damage to chimneys; breaks branches off trees; pushes over shallowrooted trees; damages sign boards.
F1
Moderate
tornado
73-112
The lower limit is the beginning of hurricane wind speed; peels surface off
roofs; mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned; moving autos
pushed off the roads; attached garages may be destroyed.
F2
Significant
tornado
113-157
Considerable damage. Roofs torn off frame houses; mobile homes
demolished; boxcars pushed over; large trees snapped or uprooted; light
object missiles generated.
F3
Severe
tornado
158-206
Roof and some walls torn off well constructed houses; trains overturned;
most trees in forest uprooted
F4
Devastating
tornado
207-260
Well-constructed houses leveled; structures with weak foundations blown off
some distance; cars thrown and large missiles generated.
F5
Incredible
tornado
261-318
Strong frame houses lifted off foundations and carried considerable distances
to disintegrate; automobile sized missiles fly through the air in excess of 100
meters; trees debarked; steel reinforced concrete structures badly damaged.
319-379
These winds are very unlikely. The small area of damage they might produce
would probably not be recognizable along with the mess produced by F4 and
F5 wind that would surround the F6 winds. Missiles, such as cars and
refrigerators would do serious secondary damage that could not be directly
identified as F6 damage. If this level is ever achieved, evidence for it might
only be found in some manner of ground swirl pattern, for it may never be
identifiable through engineering studies
F6
Section 3
Inconceivable
tornado
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
168
Tornadoes tend to dissipate as fast as they form. Unlike a hurricane, which can last for multiple
hours, tornadoes are often in one place for no more than a few minutes.
Technological advances such as Doppler radar, computer modeling, and Emergency Warning
Systems, have increased the amount of time the general public has to respond to a tornado.
Despite these advances, tornadoes can still strike an area with little warning. Often people have
no more than a few minutes to get to safety. Being able to quickly get to a safe place is
absolutely imperative in order to prevent loss of life.
Geographic Location
The entire planning area is at risk from tornadoes.
While tornadoes can strike anywhere, there is a greater chance of loss of life and destruction of
property in population centers. This is especially true of a tornado with a large path.
Previous Occurrences
NOAA data indicates that Cooper County has experienced seventeen (17) tornadoes, associated
with 13 different storm systems, since 1950 (see Figure 3.10.5). There have not been any injuries
or deaths recorded in association with these tornadoes but they did result in $1.164 million in
property damage and $50,000 in crop damage. Three F2 (“significant”) tornadoes are included
in these statistics.
It should be noted that the May 25, 2011 tornado that caused no damage in Cooper County was
only one of several that touched down in the area and did cause extensive damage just 6 miles
west of the county line in neighboring Pettis County. The F-2 tornado that hit the City of Sedalia
had 135 mph winds and damaged or destroyed numerous homes and businesses. 20 people were
injured and several school busses were also damaged. Many people in both Pettis and Cooper
Counties sought shelter in basements and safe rooms in the area.
Figure 3.10.5
Tornado Events in Cooper County 1/01/1950 - 1/31/2010
General
Location
County
County
County
County
County
County
Section 3
Date
Time
Magnitude
(Fujita
rating)
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
06/11/68
04/20/73
04/20/73
05/21/73
07/19/75
04/20/76
17:00
13:50
18:35
16:50
20:00
19:30
F0
F1
F2
F1
F0
F0
0
3K
25K
3K
3K
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Injury/Damage Details
Not available
Not available
Not available
Not available
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
169
General
Location
County
County
County
County
County
S and SE
of
Boonville
Date
Time
05/14/82
05/14/82
04/29/84
07/11/92
09/07/92
20:20
20:30
16:40
16:15
18:40
04/08/99
Magnitude
(Fujita
rating)
F2
F1
F0
F0
F2
16:30
F1
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
25K
25K
0
0
250K
0
0
0
0
0
750K
50K
Injury/Damage Details
Not available
Not available
Not available
Church damaged; several trees and
power poles downed S of Boonville;
three eighteen-wheelers overturned.
04/10/01
17:11
F1
25K
0
08/13/05
14:53
F0
50K
0
Blackwater
area
03/12/06
16:04
F0
5K
0
Tornado on ground for 5 minutes; minor
roof damage to two homes; trees and
power lines downed; accompanied by
baseball sized hail.
Several homes damaged; roofs torn off
trailers; numerous trees downed.
Tractor trailer blown over near I-70 mile
marker 88; west bound lanes of I-70
closed for a time.
Pilot
Grove area
Boonville
area
Otterville
03/12/06
16:30
F0
0
0
Brief tornado touchdown noted on aerial
survey; only some tree damage
observed.
Pleasant
Green
05/25/11
12:04
F0
0
0
Brief tornado touchdown, no damage
noted
1.164M
50K
TOTALS
Source: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms
Measure of Probability and Severity
Probability: High
Severity: High
Existing Mitigation Strategies
Warning Systems
The following warning systems are used in the county:
Local television weather reports
Local radio weather reports
9-1-1 call center and Public Emergency Broadcast Center
Tornado sirens in all incorporated communities
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
170
Tornado Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee districts
Overview
All jurisdictions in Cooper County are vulnerable to the effects of a Tornado. All above ground
structures are vulnerable to the effects of a Tornado and all other hazards associated with them
(hail, rain, flooding, flying debris, etc.)
Approximately 800 tornadoes are reported in the United States each year, causing an average of
80 fatalities and 1,500 injuries, according to data from NOAA,
Cooper County has been hit by 16 tornadoes since 1968 with no reported deaths or injuries. That
is not to say that the prevention of just one loss of life shouldn’t be a high priority. When
compared to other major tornado disasters experienced by other parts of the country the financial
impact has been minimal at $1.1 Million since 1968. The F1 tornado that struck Boonville in
1999 had an estimated impact of $800,000 in damages.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
While past impacts have been minimal, future disasters can cause extensive damage. There is a
wide range of impact possible from a tornado and wind speeds affect all structure types
differently. Non-permanent and wood framed structures are very vulnerable to high winds in
terms of destruction. While high winds are the force behind damage, it is the windblown debris
from a tornado that causes the most damage and deaths.
Figure 3.10.6 Estimated exposed structures
Impact Assessment --- Tornado
Jurisdiction
Planning Area
Cooper County
(uninc. areas)
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot grove
Wooldridge
High Vulnerability = 10 - 100% of buildings impacted
Minimum Calculated Impact (10%)
Building Type
Residential
Commercial
Industrial
Agricultural
Religious
Governmental
Educational
743
41
11
14
4
2
2
311
312
27
25
34
2
16
19
1
1
2
0
6
4
0
0
0
0
13
1
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
HAZUS MH
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
171
Potential Impact on Future Development
Because of the random nature of this hazard, potential impacts of this hazard on future
development are not quantifiable with the resources available.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
172
Hailstorm
Description of Hazard
Hail is formed when updrafts in thunderstorms carry raindrops up to very high and cold areas
where they freeze into ice. Hail, especially large sized hail, can cause severe damage and
presents a threat to automobiles, airplanes, roofs, crops, livestock, and even humans.
Geographic Location
The entire planning area is at risk from hailstorm.
While hail can strike anywhere, population centers are more at risk for injury and/or property
damage from hail.
Previous Occurrences
NOAA lists 133 separate reports of hail (of at least 0.75 inch in diameter) in Cooper County
since 1950 (see Figure 3.10.7). These reports were associated with 71 separate storm systems.
The largest hail reported measured 4.25 inches in diameter and was associated with a storm
system in June 2009. There were numerous storms which spawned hail of 1.5 inches diameter or
larger.
While the NOAA data only indicates $20,000 in reported property damage from these hailstorm
events, common knowledge would suggest that the actual damages were much greater. There
was a large storm in the spring of 2006 which caused massive hail damage across the midMissouri region. Information for nearby Boone County indicates over $1million in hail damage
incurred just by county-owned buildings for the year 2006; many private homes throughout the
region received new roofs because of hailstorm damage. Cooper County data indicates
numerous hail reports in both March and April 2006 but no damages were reported; this is
probably not representative of the true impact of those events.
Figure 3.10.7
Hailstorm Events in Cooper County 1/01/1950 - 1/31/2010
General Location
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
Section 3
Date
Time
Magnitude
(diameter)
Deaths
Injuries
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
5/9/70
5/10/70
5/6/75
5/6/75
6/12/77
5/30/80
4/17/81
18:45
17:20
8:30
16:30
1:05
3:45
20:30
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.00 in.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
173
General Location
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
County
Boonville
Blackwater
Lamine
Boonville
Boonville
Lone Elm
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Boonville
Boonville
Section 3
Date
Time
5/14/82
5/14/82
5/16/82
6/20/82
11/1/82
11/1/82
5/12/83
5/12/83
5/18/83
4/3/84
4/3/84
4/3/84
4/3/84
7/3/84
5/30/85
5/30/85
5/30/85
5/30/85
6/2/85
9/22/85
10/17/88
5/25/89
6/6/90
3/22/91
8/7/91
10/3/91
4/9/92
4/9/92
9/9/92
9/9/92
3/30/93
4/13/93
4/19/93
4/10/95
4/10/95
4/16/95
4/16/95
5/7/96
5/25/96
7/17/97
4/13/98
6/10/98
6/19/98
19:45
20:39
16:45
15:50
17:10
17:25
17:15
17:20
13:55
14:36
16:55
17:10
17:25
19:57
7:17
7:45
8:05
8:30
13:20
14:05
16:35
7:15
6:45
17:38
13:25
16:55
15:00
16:07
15:55
16:35
17:10
14:00
17:34
14:35
14:40
11:51
20:31
20:10
15:14
19:01
13:45
4:06
6:20
Magnitude
(diameter)
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
1.75 in.
1.50 in.
0.75 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.88 in.
0.75 in.
1.25 in.
0.75 in.
0.88 in.
0.75 in.
Deaths
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Property
Damage
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
5K
5K
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Crop
Damage
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
174
General Location
Otterville
Wooldridge
Boonville
Pilot Grove
New Lebanon
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Blackwater
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Boonville
Wooldridge
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Otterville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Bellair
Bellair
Bunceton
Prairie Home
Prairie Home
Otterville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Prairie Home
Boonville
Prairie Home
Boonville
Boonville
Otterville
Bellair
Bellair
Prairie Home
Prairie Home
Section 3
Date
Time
6/19/98
4/22/99
3/26/00
5/26/00
5/26/00
8/7/00
8/7/00
8/7/00
8/7/00
8/8/00
4/10/01
4/10/01
4/10/01
8/29/01
8/29/01
9/20/01
5/6/02
5/6/02
5/6/02
5/8/02
5/12/02
5/6/03
5/10/03
8/21/03
8/21/03
4/21/05
4/21/05
4/21/05
4/21/05
4/21/05
4/21/05
4/21/05
4/21/05
6/8/05
6/8/05
6/10/05
9/19/05
9/19/05
9/19/05
9/19/05
9/19/05
9/19/05
9/19/05
21:25
17:10
17:30
21:11
21:45
5:15
17:45
17:50
22:02
0:25
17:16
17:36
0:00
18:00
18:00
18:15
22:17
22:22
22:56
20:00
12:00
14:30
2:31
20:55
21:05
14:06
14:17
14:34
14:52
14:52
16:18
16:50
17:00
15:45
16:31
13:15
16:36
16:42
17:10
18:35
18:35
19:05
19:10
Magnitude
(diameter)
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
Deaths
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Property
Damage
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Crop
Damage
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
175
General Location
Date
Time
Boonville
Boonville
Bunceton
Prairie Home
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Otterville
Boonville
Blackwater
Blackwater
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Bunceton
Boonville
Clifton City
Pilot Grove
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville Arpt
Boonville
SSE of Boonville
Overton
County
County
Pilot Grove
Boonville
Clarks Fork
Boonville
Boonville
Lick
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
Boonville
9/23/05
9/23/05
11/5/05
11/5/05
1/2/06
3/12/06
3/30/06
3/30/06
3/30/06
4/5/06
4/5/06
4/5/06
4/5/06
4/18/06
6/10/06
6/10/06
6/10/06
1/7/08
1/7/08
4/3/08
4/23/08
5/7/09
6/10/09
6/17/09
6/17/09
6/17/09
6/17/09
6/17/09
4/4/10
5/11/10
5/22/11
5/22/11
5/22/11
5/22/11
5/22/11
5/22/11
6/10/11
6/13/11
6/13/11
6/13/11
4:52
4:54
17:42
17:55
2:35
16:41
21:21
21:35
21:36
18:20
18:32
18:40
18:58
19:10
16:21
16:25
17:10
14:48
14:56
11:11
17:37
21:54
19:14
19:25
19:35
19:45
19:47
19:50
19:44
23:56
16:04
16:11
16:14
16:15
16:16
17:00
18:43
07:53
07:54
07:56
Magnitude
(diameter)
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
0.88 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
0.88 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.88 in.
0.75 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
0.75 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
2.50 in.
4.25 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
.88 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
2.75 in.
1.50 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
1.00 in.
1.00 in.
1.75 in.
1.50 in.
TOTALS:
Deaths
Injuries
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Property
Damage
Crop
Damage
20K
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
10K
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Source: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwevent~storms
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
176
Measures of Probability and Severity
Probability: High
Severity: High
Existing mitigation strategies
Warning Systems
The following warning systems are used in the Planning Area:
Local television weather reports
Local radio weather reports
9-1-1 call center and Public Emergency Broadcast Center
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
177
Hailstorm Vulnerability
Jurisdictions: All Jurisdictions, excluding levee district
Overview
All jurisdictions in Cooper County are vulnerable to the effects of Hailstorms. All above ground
structures, infrastructure, and vegetation are vulnerable to the effects of a Hailstorm and all other
hazards associated with them (high winds, rain, flooding, flying debris, etc.) Damage from hail is
dictated by the size and velocity of the stones and the location where they fall.
Potential Impact on Existing Structures
Previous occurrences of Hail damage, most recently in 2006, dictates that future damage will
occur with the same results. Damages to windows, roofs, vehicles, siding, and vegetation are all
possible, but would vary greatly in location, amount, and extent.
Potential Impact on Future Development
Because of the random nature of this hazard, potential impacts of this hazard on future
development are not quantifiable with the resources available.
Section 3
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
178
Section 4: Mitigation Strategy
4.1 Hazard Mitigation Goals
Requirement
§201.6(c)(3)(i):
[The hazard mitigation strategy shall include a] description of
mitigation goals to reduce or avoid long-term vulnerabilities to the
identified hazards.
Hazard mitigation goals were developed during the planning process for the original Cooper
County Hazard Mitigation Plan in 2005. For the current update, the Hazard Mitigation
Technical Steering Committee reviewed these goals; language changes were made for
clarification while retaining the essential focus of the original goals.
The (5) county hazard mitigation goals for the 2011 Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan are:

Goal 1: Mitigation Planning - Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public
and private cooperation.

Goal 2: Mitigation Policy - Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on
lives and property.

Goal 3: Mitigation Programs - Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs
to protect lives and property.

Goal 4: Public Awareness - Increase public awareness of natural hazards.

Goal 5: Future Development - Promote hazard-proof development.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
179
4.2 Update of Mitigation Actions
Requirement
§201.6(c)(3)(ii):
[The mitigation strategy shall include a] section that identifies and
analyzes a comprehensive range of specific mitigation actions and
projects being considered to reduce the effects of each hazard, with
particular emphasis on new and existing buildings and infrastructure.
The original Project Steering Committee (2005) was charged with developing a comprehensive
range of mitigation actions to promote the agreed upon mitigation goals. Objectives were
defined under each goal and the mitigation actions were then developed to promote each
objective. The following six categories of mitigation were considered in developing the
mitigation actions:






Prevention tools - regulatory methods such as planning and zoning, building regulations,
open space planning, land development regulations, and storm water management.
Property protection measures - acquisition of land, relocation of buildings, modifying
at-risk structures, and flood proofing at-risk structures.
Natural resource protection - erosion and sediment control or wetlands protection.
Emergency services measures – warning systems, response capacity, critical facilities
protection, and health and safety maintenance.
Structural mitigation - reservoirs, levees, diversions, channel modifications and storm
sewers.
Public information - providing hazard maps and information, outreach programs, real
estate disclosure, technical assistance and education.
No mitigation actions were eliminated from consideration when the original plan was written in
2005. The 2005 plan therefore contained a comprehensive list of mitigation actions which
served as a starting point for update discussions.
The Technical Steering Committee for the 2011 update reviewed and discussed all the mitigation
actions from the original plan. This was accomplished by analyzing and discussing each hazard
and the actions focused on its mitigation. An individual focus on each hazard allowed for a
comprehensive view of the hazard and possibilities for its mitigation. This approach was useful
in developing appropriate new actions, when deemed important.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
180
The existing mitigation actions were divided into three categories; the fourth category of new
mitigation actions was added.
Descriptions of the four categories are as follows:




Completed (C) – Actions have been completed; these actions have been included in the
appropriate “Existing Mitigation Strategies” in Section 3.2 Profiling Hazards.
Deleted (D) – Actions were deemed unrealistic or inappropriate for the jurisdictions
involved. In some cases the jurisdiction did not have the legal capability, budget, or
staffing to complete these actions.
Modified/Retained (M/R) – Actions have not been completed but were deemed
important and appropriate; in some cases, these actions have been edited or combined
with other actions for the updated plan. Some actions were viewed as ongoing and thus
retained in the update.
New - Actions not included in the original plan but deemed important and appropriate for
the updated plan; these were added to the plan.
The actions in each of these categories can be seen in Figures 4.2.1 – 4.2.2. The charts for
completed, deleted, and modified/retained actions (Figure 4.2.1); the new actions (Figure 4.2.2)
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
181
Figure 4.2.1
Mitigation Actions Evaluations from Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2005
Goals, Objectives, and Actions
Goal #1: Mitigate effects of future natural hazards in the county.
Objective 1.1 Incorporate mitigation planning and procedures into the community
1.10 Create, Revise, and update Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM)
1.11 Create capital Improvement Plan
1.12 Complete Community Rating System Application
1.13 Set up centralized permitting process
1.14
C
X
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
Encourage participation in Community Rating System of NFIP. Have all of Cooper County
Participate
1.15 Encourage development of Storm Water Master Plan
1.16 Update staff knowledge of earthquake safety
1.17 Encourage cooperative agreements between water districts
1.18 Identify multiple sources of water in areas currently receiving water from minimal supplies
1.19 Develop Storm Water Task Force
Objective 1.2 Encourage private involvement in mitigation activities.
1.20 Encourage local lodging facilities to provide customers with hazard information
1.21 Encourage property owners to purchase earthquake insurance
1.22 Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
1.23 Have alternate power sources for emergency vehicles
1.24 Encourage purchase of drought insurance in agricultural community
1.25 Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility districts
1.26 Develop evacuation procedures for dam
1.27 Re-roof homes with fire resistant shingles
1.28 Develop short-term agreements with local shelters
1.29 Provide education materials for homeowners near large fuel sources
D
Updated
M/R Action #
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
1.1
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
4.1
n/a
5.4
n/a
n/a
4.1
1.3
2.4
4.6
1.4
n/a
n/a
1.2
4.1
182
Goals, Objectives, and Actions
Objective 1.3 Increase the public awareness of natural hazards in the County
1.30 Develop public education hazard awareness program
1.31 Establish educational materials for public regarding earthquakes in Missouri
1.32 Encourage safe driving through public education campaigns, websites, community events
1.33 Provide public education materials concerning the dangers of icy roads
Provide educational materials for outdoor workers and school athletic organizations on the dangers
1.34
of excessive heat exposure
Goal #2: Ensure continued operation of government and emergency functions in a disaster.
C
Updated
M/R Action #
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
4.1
4.1
4.1
4.1
4.1
Objective 2.1 Strengthen critical structures and infrastructures.
Review, prioritize, institute and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and
X
2.10
infrastructures.
2.1
X
X
2.11 Review emergency access /evacuation routes and mitigate any problem areas.
3.5
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies
X
2.20
and special districts.
2.2
Goal #3 Protect the County’s most valuable assets and vulnerable populations through cost effective and feasible
mitigation projects whenever financially possible
Objective 3.1 Protect buildings and valuable assets
3.10 Retrofit public buildings to make them more wind resistant
3.11 Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
3.12 Develop cost estimates of protecting a facility vs. buyout
3.13 Ensure architectural features are constructed to minimize windborne debris
3.14 Brace high value equipment
3.15 Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
3.16 Remove vegetation and combustible material from critical infrastructure
3.17 Encourage use of fire resistant utility poles
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
2.1
3.1
n/a
2.1
2.1
3.2
3.3
n/a
183
Goals, Objectives, and Actions
3.18 Build Fire roads into dense forest areas
Objective 3.2 Protect vulnerable populations
3.20 Recommend camping facilities and mobile home parks to have safe rooms on premises
3.21 Ensure Evacuation routes are adequate with special consideration for schools and nursing homes
3.22 Develop long-term agreements with local shelters
3.23 Ensure school buses have two-way radios on board
3.24 Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
Goal #4: Ensure that future development in the County is as “hazard proof” as possible.
Objective 4.1 Promote hazard proof development
4.10 Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
4.11 Adopt procedures for review of subdivision plans to minimize flood problems
4.12 Require new residential construction to meet latest wind resistant standards
4.13 Acquire properties susceptible to flood damage
4.14 Encourage retrofitting old homes to adopt similar standards of new homes
4.15 Encourage developers to build earthquake resistant structures
4.16 Maintain resources for public on retrofitting and protection techniques
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
C
D
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Updated
M/R Action #
n/a
X
X
X
X
X
3.4
3.5
1.2
3.6
3.7
X
5.8
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
n/a
184
Figure 4.2.2
New Mitigation Actions for 2011 Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan
1.1
2.3
3.8
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.5
5.6
5.7
Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance with NFIP requirements
Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
Build a tornado safe room
Develop a plan for upgrading and/or prioritizing low water crossings
Discourage development in known sinkhole areas
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
Install additional pumping stations as needed
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
185
4.3 Mitigation Goals, Objectives, and Actions
A comprehensive list of the goals and mitigation actions for the Cooper County Hazard
Mitigation Plan (2011) are listed below. The mitigation actions listed are for the entire Planning
Area; participating jurisdictions will differ in the specific actions undertaken in their
jurisdictions.
Actions which address reducing the effects of hazards on new and/or existing buildings and
infrastructure are indicated as such with an N (New), E (Existing), or B (Both).
1. Mitigation Planning - Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public and private
cooperation.
1.1 Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance with NFIP requirements
1.2 Develop agreements with local shelters
1.3 Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
1.4 Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility districts
2. Mitigation Policy - Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on lives and property.
B
E
B
B
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
E
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies and
special districts.
B
2.3 Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
2.4 Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
3. Mitigation Programs - Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs to protect lives
and property.
E
B
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
Recommend camping facilities and mobile home parks to have safe rooms on premises
Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing homes and mitigate any
problem areas.
E
E
E
B
B
3.6
Encourage school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band Devices on board and in
schools
B
3.7
3.8
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
Build a tornado safe room
E
N
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
186
4. Public Awareness - Increase public awareness of natural hazards.
4.1
4.6
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
Encourage purchase of drought insurance in agricultural communities
B
B
5. Future Development - Promote hazard-proof development
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8
Develop a plan for upgrading and/or prioritizing low water crossings
Discourage development in known sinkhole areas
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
Install additional pumping stations as needed
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
E
N
B
B
E
E
E
E
187
Organization of Mitigation Action Information
In order to make the information on mitigation actions easily accessible in this plan, the actions
have been organized in four ways.
Overview of Mitigation Actions including Hazards and Jurisdictions (Figure 4.3.1a-d)
The comprehensive list of goals and mitigation actions is shown in charts along with the hazards
addressed and applicable jurisdictions.
Mitigation Actions by Participating Jurisdiction (Section 4.3.2a-i)
The mitigation actions are listed by participating jurisdiction. The following abbreviations have
been used for hazards in these charts:
DF – Dam Failure
DR – Drought
EQ – Earthquake
HT – Extreme Heat
FL – Flood
SK – Land Subsidence/Sinkhole
LEV – Levee Failure
SWW – Severe Winter Weather
WF - Wildfire
WND – Windstorm
HST – Hailstorm
TRN – Tornado
Mitigation Actions Addressing Compliance with NFIP Requirements (Figure 4.3.3)
The NFIP participation statuses of jurisdictions are shown, as well as actions that address NFIP
compliance.
Individual Actions Administration, Implementation, and Prioritization (Section 4.4)
Finally, the mitigation actions are listed individually with plans for Prioritization,
Implementation, and Administration (Section 4.4).
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
188
Mitigation Actions by Hazard and Jurisdiction
1.4
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
x
x
x
2. Mitigation Policy - Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on lives and property.
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed
upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
2.1
infrastructures.
2.2
2.3
2.4
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to
foster collaboration among jurisdictions,
agencies and special districts.
Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone
areas
Have alternate fueling sites/sources for
emergency vehicles
Section 4
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tornado
X
Hailstorm
Levee Failure
Land Subsidence/ Sinkholes
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
Windstorm
1.3
Develop agreements with local shelters
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right
of ways
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility
providers to activate energy between utility
districts
Wildfire
1.2
X
Severe Winter Weather
1. Mitigation Planning - Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public and private cooperation.
Continue to enforce floodplain management
ordinances in compliance with NFIP
x
x
x
1.1
requirements
Flood
Extreme Heat
Earthquake
Drought
Dam Failure
Prairie Home R-V Schools
Linneman-Weekley Levee District
Wooldridge
Pilot Grove
Otterville
Bunceton
Boonville
Cooper County
Goals and Actions
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Action #
Figure 4.3.1a Overview of Mitigation Goals and Actions including Hazards and Jurisdictions
x
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
189
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Tornado
X
Hailstorm
Wildfire
X
Windstorm
Severe Winter Weather
Land Subsidence/ Sinkholes
X
Levee Failure
3. Mitigation Programs - Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs to protect lives and property
Evaluate access problems to critical
X
x
x
x
x
x
3.1 infrastructure
Provide back-up power to all critical
X
X
x
x
x
x
x
3.2 infrastructure
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or
combustible material from critical
x
x
x
x
x
x
3.3
infrastructure
Recommend camping facilities and
mobile home parks to have safe
x
3.4
rooms on premises
Review evacuation routes with
special consideration for schools and
X
x
x
3.5 nursing homes and mitigate any
problem areas.
Encourage school buses to be
equipped with a multi-channel VHF
X
X
X
x
x
3.6 High Band Devices on board and in
schools
Encourage shelters to have alternative
X
x
x
x
x
x
x
3.7 heating sources
Flood
Extreme Heat
Earthquake
Drought
Dam Failure
Prairie Home R-V Schools
Linneman-Weekley Levee District
Wooldridge
Pilot Grove
Otterville
Bunceton
Boonville
Action #
Cooper County
Goals and Actions
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Figure 4.3.1b Overview of Mitigation Goals and Actions including Hazards and Jurisdictions
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
x
4. Public Awareness - Increase public awareness of natural hazards in order to make the public a greater partner in hazard mitigation planning.
4.1
Distribute public education hazard
awareness information to the public
x
4.2
Encourage purchase of drought
insurance in agricultural communities
x
Section 4
x
x
x
x
x
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
190
Tornado
Hailstorm
Windstorm
Wildfire
Severe Winter Weather
Levee Failure
Land Subsidence/ Sinkholes
Flood
Extreme Heat
Earthquake
Drought
Dam Failure
Prairie Home R-V Schools
Linneman-Weekley Levee District
Wooldridge
Pilot Grove
Otterville
Bunceton
Boonville
Cooper County
Goals and Actions
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Action #
Figure 4.3.1c Overview of Mitigation Goals and Actions including Hazards and Jurisdictions
5. Future Development - Promote hazard-proof development
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8
Develop a plan for upgrading and/or
prioritizing low water crossings
Discourage development in known
sinkhole areas
Install dry hydrants and/or standard
hydrants as needed
Create secondary water supply
sources through interconnections or
agreements
Install additional pumping stations
as needed
x
Thicken and/or maintain levee as
needed to improve capabilities
Build a retainment levee to control
seep water and rain water
Acquire destroyed or damaged
properties and relocate people
voluntarily
x
Section 4
X
X
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
X
x
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
X
x
X
X
x
X
X
X
X
x
x
X
x
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
191
Mitigation Actions by Jurisdiction – Cooper County
X
1.2 Develop agreements with local shelters
X
1.3 Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
X
1.4 Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility districts
X
X X
2.1 Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or infrastructures.
X
X
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies and special
districts.
X
TRN
HST
WND
WF
SWW
LEV
FL
EH
EQ
DR
1.1 Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance with NFIP requirements
SK
Hazard
County
DF
Figure 4.3.2a Overview of Mitigation Actions for Cooper
X
X
X X X
X
X X X
X
X X X X X
X
X X X
X
X X X X X X X X X X X
2.3 Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
X
2.4 Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
X
X
3.1 Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
X
X
3.2 Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
X X
X X X
X
X X X
X
X
3.3 Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
X X X
X
3.4 Recommend camping facilities and mobile home parks to have safe rooms on premises
X
X
X X
X
3.5 Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing homes and mitigate any problem areas.
X
3.6 Encourage school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band Devices on board and in schools
X
X
X X X X
3.7 Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
X X X X X X
X
X
3.8 Build a tornado safe room
X
4.1 Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
4.2 Encourage purchase of drought insurance in agricultural communities
X
X X X X X X X X X X X
X
5.1 Develop a plan for upgrading and/or prioritizing low water crossings
X
5.2 Discourage development in known sinkhole areas
X
5.3 Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
5.4 Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
X
X X X
X
5.5 Install additional pumping stations as needed
X
X
5.6 Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
X
X
5.7 Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
X
X
5.8 Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
X
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
192
Boonville
Hazard
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
X
X
X
X
3.2
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
X
X
X
3.3
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
X
X
3.7
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
4.1
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
5.3
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
5.4
Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
5.8
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Develop agreements with local shelters
X
1.3
X
2.2
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility
districts
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings
and/or infrastructures.
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions,
agencies and special districts.
2.4
Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
3.1
1.4
2.1
Section 4
TRN
X
1.2
HST
WND
X
Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance with NFIP
requirements
FL
X
1.1
EH
X
EQ
X
DR
X
DF
WF
Boonville
SWW
Figure 4.3.2b Overview of Mitigation Actions for
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
193
Bunceton
Hazard
WND
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
X
X
X
X
3.2
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
X
X
X
3.3
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
X
X
3.7
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
4.1
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
5.3
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
5.4
Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
5.8
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
X
1.3
X
1.4
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility
districts
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings
and/or infrastructures.
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions,
agencies and special districts.
2.4
Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
3.1
Section 4
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TRN
WF
X
Develop agreements with local shelters
HST
SWW
X
1.2
EH
X
EQ
X
DR
FL
Figure 4.3.2c Overview of Mitigation Actions for Bunceton
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
194
Otterville
X
1.4
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility
districts
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions,
agencies and special districts.
2.3
Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
2.4
Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
X
3.1
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
X
3.2
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
X
3.3
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
3.7
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
4.1
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
5.3
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
5.4
Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
5.8
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Section 4
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TRN
X
HST
X
X
X
X
WND
1.3
WF
X
SWW
Develop agreements with local shelters
EH
EQ
DR
1.2
FL
Hazard
Figure 4.3.2d Overview of Mitigation Actions for Otterville
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
195
Pilot Grove
X
X
X
X
X
1.3
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
X
X
X
X
X
1.4
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility districts
X
X
X
X
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
X
X
X
X
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies
and special districts.
X
X
X
2.4
Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
X
X
X
X
X
3.1
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
X
X
X
3.2
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
X
X
X
3.3
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
X
X
3.7
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
4.1
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
5.3
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
5.4
Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
5.8
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Section 4
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
HST
Develop agreements with local shelters
WND
WF
1.2
EH
Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance with NFIP requirements
EQ
1.1
DR
SWW
Grove
FL
Figure 4.3.2e Overview of Mitigation Actions for Pilot
X
TRN
Hazard
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
196
Wooldridge
X
X
1.3
X
X
X
X
X
1.4
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between
utility districts
X
X
X
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings
and/or infrastructures.
X
X
X
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions,
agencies and special districts.
X
X
X
3.3
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
X
X
X
3.7
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
4.1
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
5.3
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
5.6
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
5.8
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Section 4
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
HST
WF
X
WND
SWW
X
FL
X
EH
Develop agreements with local shelters
EQ
1.2
DR
LEV
Figure 4.3.2f Overview of Mitigation Actions for Wooldridge
X
TRN
Hazard
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
197
Levee District
Hazard
LEV
Figure 4.3.2g Overview of Mitigation Actions for Linneman-Weekley
FL
Linneman-Weekley Levee District
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
X
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies and
special districts.
X
X
5.5
Install additional pumping stations as needed
X
X
5.6
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
X
X
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Hazard
LEV
Levee District
FL
Figure 4.3.2h Overview of Mitigation Actions for Overton-Wooldridge
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
X
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies and
special districts.
X
X
5.6
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
X
X
5.7
Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
X
X
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
198
Prairie Home R-V School District
Hazard
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
X
2.1
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
X
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies and
special districts.
X
3.5
Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing homes and mitigate any
problem areas.
X
3.6
Encourage school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band Devices on board and in
schools
X
3.8
Build a tornado safe room
Section 4
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TRN
X
HST
WND
1.3
WF
X
SWW
Develop agreements with local shelters
FL
1.2
EH
Home R-V School District
EQ
Figure 4.3.2i Overview of Mitigation Actions for Prairie
X
X
X
X
X
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
199
Mitigation Actions Addressing Compliance with NFIP Requirements
Requirement
§201.6(c)(3)(ii):
[The mitigation strategy] must also address the jurisdiction’s
participation in the National Flood Insurance program (NFIP), and
continued compliance with NFIP requirements, as appropriate.
Details of NFIP participation and flood mapping have been included in the Flood Profile in
Section 3.5. The NFIP participation statuses of jurisdictions are shown again in Figure 4.3.3,
along with the reasons that jurisdictions are not participating. It should be noted that of the three
jurisdictions currently not participating in the NFIP, Wooldridge is working towards
participation.
Figure 4.3.3
Jurisdictions Participating in NFIP
Cooper County
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Jurisdictions Not Participating in NFIP
Bunceton
The city has chosen not to participate in the NFIP due to lack of
structures in the floodplain and that the program is not currently a high
priority for the community. The city has stated that this issue may be
revisited in the next five years.
Otterville
The city has only a small sliver of 100 yr. floodplain within the city
limits. They do not currently see the program as a current priority.
Wooldridge
The village is currently in the process of getting reinstated in the
NFIP, it is not yet clear when Wooldridge will be reinstated.
Source: Community Surveys
The jurisdictions of Cooper County, Boonville, and Pilot Grove participate in the NFIP. The
following mitigation actions pertain to continued compliance with the NFIP; the participating
jurisdiction to which each action applies is listed after the action. While Bunceton, Otterville,
and Wooldridge are not participants in NFIP, they do list Flood as a hazard in their communities
and are also included in the figure.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
200
x
x
x
x
x
x
2.2
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration
among jurisdictions, agencies and special districts.
x
x
x
x
x
x
2.3
Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
4.1
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
x
x
5.1
Develop a plan for upgrading and/or prioritizing low water crossings
5.5
Install additional pumping stations as needed
5.6
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
5.7
Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
5.8
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
2.1
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
x
x
x
Wooldridge
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for
critical buildings and/or infrastructures.
Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance
with NFIP requirements
Pilot Grove
x
1.1
Otterville
Boonville
x
Mitigation Actions Addressing Compliance with NFIP
Requirements
Bunceton
Cooper County
Figure 4.3.3
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
x
201
4.4 Prioritization, Implementation, and Administration
Requirement
§201.6(c)(3)(iii):
[The mitigation strategy section shall include] an action plan
describing how the actions identified in section (c) (3) (ii) will be
prioritized, implemented, and administered by the local jurisdiction.
Prioritization shall include a special emphasis on the extent to which
benefits are maximized according to a cost benefit review of the
proposed projects and their associated costs.
Requirement
§201.6(c)(3)(iv):
For multi-jurisdictional plans, there must be identifiable action items
specific to the jurisdiction requesting FEMA approval or credit of the
plan.
Prioritization of Actions using STAPLEE and Benefit/Cost Reviews
After the comprehensive list of mitigation actions for the entire Planning Area had been
developed, the Technical Steering Committee carried out a STAPLEE review and Benefit/Cost
review on the actions. The following guidelines were used:
STAPLEE Review
The questions below were used as starting points for evaluating each action according to the STAPLEE
criteria. Scoring:
3 = Definitely YES
2 = Maybe YES
1 = Probably NO
0 = Definitely NO

Social: Is the action socially acceptable to the community?

Technical: Will the proposed strategy work? Will the action independently solve the problem?

Administrative: Is there someone to coordinate and lead the effort?

Political: Is the action politically acceptable? Is there public support both to implement and to
maintain the project?

Legal: Is there legal authority to implement the action?

Economic: Will the action benefit the area economically? Does the cost seem reasonable for the size
of the problem and the likely benefits?

Environmental: Is the action consistent with local, state, and federal environmental laws and
regulations? Will the project have a positive impact on the environment? Will historic structures be
saved or protected?
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
202
Benefit/Cost Review
Benefit
Two (2) points were added for each of the following avoided damages (8 points
maximum = highest benefit)




Injuries and/or casualties
Property damages
Loss-of-function/displacement impacts
Emergency management costs/community costs
Cost
Points were subtracted according to the following cost scale (-5 points maximum =
highest cost)
(-1) = Minimal – little cost to the jurisdiction involved
(-3) = Moderate – definite cost involved but could likely be worked into operating budget
(-5) = Significant – cost above and beyond most operating budgets; would require extra
appropriations to finance or to meet matching funds for a grant
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
203
Total Score
The scores for the STAPLEE Review and Benefit/Cost Review were added to determine a Total
Score for each action.
Priority Scale
To achieve an understanding of how a Total Score might be translated into a Priority Rating, a
sample matrix was filled out for the possible range of ratings an action might receive on both the
STAPLEE and Benefit/Cost Review (see Figure 4.4.2). The possible ratings tested ranged
between:

A hypothetical action with “Half probably NO and half maybe YES” answers on
STAPLEE (i.e. poor STAPLEE score) and Low Benefit/High Cost: Total Score = 7

A hypothetical action with “All definitely YES” on STAPLEE and High Benefit/Little
Cost: Total Score = 28
An inspection of the possible scores within this range led to the development of the following
Priority Scale based on the Total Score in the STAPLEE-Benefit/Cost Review process:
20-28 points = High Priority
14-19 points = Medium Priority
13 points and below = Low Priority
The results of the STAPLEE Review, Benefit/Cost Review, and Final Priority for each of the
mitigation actions are shown in Figure 4.4.1. It should be noted that most of the actions attained
a high priority rating; this is reflective of the fact that many actions which would have scored
poorly on the STAPLEE review were deleted for the update during the initial discussion/review
of the actions in the original plan (see Section 4.2). Also, many of the actions are ongoing and
already in place but remain high priorities of the jurisdictions.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
204
STAPLEE
Total
Benefit
Cost
B/C Total
Total
Priority
3
3
3
3
19
21
20
21
8
8
8
8
-1
-1
-1
-1
7
7
7
7
26
28
27
28
H
H
H
H
3 3 1 3 2 3 3
18
8
-1
7 25 H
3 3 3 3 3 3 3
21
8
-1
7 28 H
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
19
21
21
21
21
17
8
8
8
8
6
4
-1 7
-5 3
-1 7
-5 3
-1 5
-5 -1
3 3 3 3 3 3 3
21
6
-1
5 26 H
3 3 3 3 3 3 3
21
6
-3
3 24 H
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
21
21
21
20
19
21
21
21
21
21
19
19
8
4
8
2
8
8
8
8
4
4
4
8
-3 5 26 H
-5 -1 20 H
-1 7 28 H
-1 1 21 H
-1 7 26 H
-1 7 28 H
-5 3 24 H
-5 3 24 H
-1 3 24 H
-3 1 22 H
-5 -1 18 M
-5 3 22 H
S T A P L E E
Figure 4.4.1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
4.1
4.2
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
5.6
5.7
5.8
Overview of Prioritization of Actions
Continue to enforce floodplian management ordinances in compliance with NFIP requirements
Develop agreements with local shelters
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy between utility districts
Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for critical buildings and/or
infrastructures.
Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among jurisdictions, agencies and
special districts.
Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical infrastructure
Recommend camping facilities and mobile home parks to have safe rooms on premises
Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing homes and mitigate any
problem areas.
Encourge school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band Devices on board and in
schools
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
Build a tornado safe room
Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
Encourage purchase of drought insurance in agricultural communities
Develop a plan for upgrading and/or prioritizing low water crossings
Discourage development in known sinkhole areas
Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or agreements
Install additional pumping stations as needed
Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capablilities
Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
3
3
3
3
2
3
2
3
1
3
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
1
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
2
3
26
24
28
24
26
16
H
H
H
H
H
M
205
Figure 4.4.2
1=Prob NO
2=Maybe YES
0=Def NO
L
E
E
Half prob NO, half maybe YES on STAPLEE, Low Benefit, High cost
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
10
2
-5 -3
7
L
Half prob NO, half maybe YES on STAPLEE, Mod Benefit, Mod cost
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
10
5
-3
2
12
L
Half prob NO, half maybe YES on STAPLEE, High Benefit, Little cost
1
2
1
2
1
2
1
10
8
-1
7
17
M
All maybe YES on STAPLEE, Low Benefit, High cost
All maybe YES on STAPLEE, Moderate Benefit, Moderate cost
All maybe YES on STAPLEE, High Benefit, Little cost
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
14
14
14
2
5
8
-5 -3 11
-3 2 16
-1 7 21
L
M
H
Half maybe YES, half def YES on STAPLEE, Low Benefit, High cost
Half maybe YES, half def YES on STAPLEE, Mod Benefit, Mod cost
Half maybe YES, half def YES on STAPLEE, High Benefit, Little cost
2
2
2
3
3
3
2
2
2
3
3
3
2
2
2
3
3
3
2
2
2
17
17
17
2
5
8
-5 -3 14
-3 2 19
-1 7 24
M
M
H
All def YES on STAPLEE, Low Benefit, High cost
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
21
2
-5 -3 18
M
All def YES on STAPLEE, Moderate Benefit, Moderate cost
All def YES on STAPLEE, High Benefit, Little cost
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
21
21
5
8
-3
-1
H
H
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
2
7
23
28
PRIORITY
P
TOTAL
A
Cost
T
MITIGATION ACTIONS
B/C Total
S
Benefit
3=Def YES
STAPLEE
Total
Range of Ratings - STAPLEE and Benefit/Cost
206
Review of Actions by Participating Jurisdictions
After the prioritization of actions had occurred (Figure 4.4.1), each jurisdiction was given a list
of their communities actions and asked to review, edit, and finalize their actions. Much of this
review was done during the first public meeting on August 18, 2011 at the Cooper County
Emergency Operations Center in Boonville. The sign in sheet from this meeting can be found in
Appendix D. For those jurisdictions that were not present, Bunceton, Otterville, and Prairie
Home R-V School District, the actions were reviewed over the phone or in a meeting with the a
city representative. Below is the list of Participating Jurisdictions and their appointed
representative(s) in the review process.
Cooper County
Tom White (EMD), Candy Sorrell (Asst. EMD), Commissioner
Paul Davis, Commissioner Ernie Walther, Commissioner Eddie
Brickner
Boonville
Tim Carmichael (Boonville Fire)
Bunceton
Wendell Cunningham (Bunceton Fire)
Otterville
Traci Schoen (Clerk), Brenda Turpin (Mayor)
Pilot Grove
Pete Busalacki (Pilot Grove Police Department)
Wooldridge
Kelly Murphy (Chairman of the Board of Trustees)
Overton-Wooldridge
Levee District
Art Schnuck (Vice-President)
Linneman-Weekley
Levee District
Jason Linneman (President)
Prairie Home R-V
School District
Jason Stanoch (Principal)
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
207
Individual Actions Administration, Implementation, and Prioritization
The following pages will include all information pertaining to the administration,
implementation, and prioritization of each action.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
208
Implementation and Administration by Action
Goal 1 Mitigation Planning Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public and private cooperation.
1.1 Continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in compliance with
NFIP requirements
Cooper County
Boonville
Flood, Levee Failure
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Jurisdictions
Pilot Grove
Jurisdictions will continue to enforce floodplain management ordinances in accordance with NFIP
participation. This will also include the supplying updated information to FEMA when Flood Insurance
Rate Maps are being edited and revised.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Cooper County Commission, Cooper County EMA
SEMA, FEMA
Federal and State
Ongoing
Criterion for Completion
Compliance with floodplain ordinances. Sharing of data
and approval of new FIRM when revised or updated
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 19
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
1.2 Develop agreements with local shelters
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Flood
Levee Failure
Earthquake
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Windstorm
Tornado
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions actively participate with the county and the American Red Cross in ensuring that shelter
locations are identified and agreements for use are in place.
Cooper County Commission, Cooper County EMA
Lead Department or Agency
SEMA, FEMA, American Red Cross, local non-profits
Partners, if any
Federal and State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
sheltering agreements are in place and maintained as
Criterion for Completion
needed
Minimal
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
209
1.3 Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Earthquake
Wildfire
Windstorm
Hazard(s) addressed
Severe Winter Weather
Tornado
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will continue to encourage utility providers to maintain right of ways through consistent
communication.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Cooper County, Communities
Utility providers, Ameren UE, Co-Mo Electric
Federal and State
Ongoing
Right of ways are clear of problem vegetation and debris
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 20
Priority: 27 (HIGH)
1.4 Encourage cooperative agreements with utility providers to activate energy
between utility districts
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Dam Failure
Earthquake
Hazard(s) addressed
Extreme Heat
Hailstorm
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Severe Winter Weather
Tornado
Wildfire
Windstorm
All jurisdictions will continue to encourage utility providers to maintain agreements for restoring power as
needed during interruptions in service.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Section 4
Cooper County Commission, Cooper County EMA
Ameren UE, Co-Mo Electric, SEMA, FEMA
Federal and State
Ongoing
Completed MOU/MOA in place between utilities
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
210
Goal 2 Mitigation Policy –
Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on lives and property.
2.1 Review, prioritize, evaluate and monitor needed upgrades or retrofits for
critical buildings and/or infrastructures.
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions
Tornado
Dam Failure
Earthquake
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Windstorm
Flood
Severe Winter Weather
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will continue their current practice of inspecting critical infrastructure and making repairs
and upgrades as needed. Prioritization of upgrades and retrofitting is dependent on funding need.
Cooper County, Local Jurisdiction
Lead Department or Agency
Local agencies, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Local, State, and Federal
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
Upgrades and/or retrofits are identified
Criterion for Completion
Minimal
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
STAPLEE score: 18
Priority: 25 (HIGH)
2.2 Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among
jurisdictions, agencies and special districts.
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions
Hazard(s) addressed
All Hazards
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will continue to participate in various mutual aid agreements. All participating
jurisdictions participate with Cooper County EMA in the maintenance of the county Emergency
Operations Plan. Mutual aid agreements exist between utility districts, fire districts, and law enforcement.
Collaboration also exists between local agencies and state and federal agencies. Sheltering agreements
with local non-profits, businesses, and houses of worship are also maintained.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Section 4
Cooper County, Local Jurisdiction
Local agencies, SEMA, FEMA, USACE, USFW, etc…
Local, State, and Federal
Ongoing
Mutual aid agreements are in place and regularly
maintained
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
211
2.3 Identify low water crossings and/or flood prone areas
Cooper County
Jurisdictions
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Otterville
Both Cooper County and Otterville have identified flood prone areas, which can be found in Section 3
under "Flood". Cooper County is currently in the process of identifying all low water crossing locations
and mapping those locations in a GIS.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Cooper County Commission, Otterville City Council
Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission
Local
2012
All flooding locations and low water crossings are
identified
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 19
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
2.4 Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
Cooper County
Otterville
Jurisdictions
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Earthquake
Tornado
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Windstorm
Severe Winter Weather
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions have identified a need for additional fueling sites for emergency vehicles, especially when
flooding or other events occur that may block roadways and cause lengthy detours. Otterville, Pilot Grove,
and Bunceton have only one gas station in each respective community. These communities are in the
process of identifying additional sources and creating agreements with private establishments to ensure
access in case of an emergency. Cooper County and the City of Boonville have identified that there are
portions of their jurisdictions that may become cut off from other areas and will need alternative fueling
sites if this occurs.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Section 4
Cooper County Commission, Local Council
Privately owned gas stations and automotive shops
Local, Private
Ongoing
Additional sources are identified and staff are made
aware
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
212
Goal 3 Mitigation Programs –
Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs to protect lives and property.
3.1 Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
Cooper County
Otterville
Jurisdictions
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Earthquake
Severe Winter Weather
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Levee Failure
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will evaluate, on an annual basis, their ability to access all critical facilities during times
of hazardous weather, and/or flooding.
Cooper County EMA, Local jurisdiction
Lead Department or Agency
Local Agencies, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Local, Federal, State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
Access routes are evaluated on a consistent basis and
Criterion for Completion
changes in procedure are made as needed
Minimal
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
3.2 Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
Cooper County
Otterville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Earthquake
Tornado
Extreme Heat
Windstorm
Hazard(s) addressed
Severe Winter Weather
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All Jurisdictions seek to have available back-up power for all critical infrastructures, including but not
limited to; law enforcement, fire, EMS, medical facilities.
Jurisdictions
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-5
Section 4
Cooper County EMA, Local jurisdiction
Private business owners, Local Agency, SEMA, FEMA
Local, Federal, State
2016
Generators are installed, as needed
Significant
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
213
3.3 Remove obstructive vegetation and/or combustible material from critical
infrastructure
Cooper County
Jurisdictions
Boonville
Bunceton
Severe Winter Weather
Hazard(s) addressed
Wildfire
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Tornado
Windstorm
All jurisdictions currently have plans in place for maintenance of vegetation in their jurisdiction. This
action will be used to reinforce this effort.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 6/-1
Local Jurisdiction
Utility Providers
Local
Ongoing
Vegetation is removed or maintained properly
Minimal
PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
3.4 Recommend camping facilities and mobile home parks to have safe rooms on
premises
Cooper County
Jurisdictions
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Tornado
Cooper County will encourage all mobile home parks and camping facilities to have a safe room on their
premises. This can be achieved through new construction or designation of hardened facilities that may
already exist nearby.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 4/-5
Section 4
Cooper County EMA
Mobile Home park owners, campsite owners
Local, Federal, State
Ongoing
Facilities will be educated on the importance of a safe room.
Significant
I/C, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 17
Priority: 16 (MEDIUM)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
214
3.5 Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing
homes and mitigate any problem areas.
Jurisdictions
Cooper County
Earthquake
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Tornado
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Prairie Home R-V School District
Wildfire
Windstorm
Cooper County EMA, with the cooperation of school districts and nursing homes, will review evacuation
procedures on an annual basis to ensure public safety in response to natural and manmade hazards.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Cooper County EMA
School Districts, Nursing Homes, other special districts
Local
Ongoing
Criterion for Completion
Evacuation procedures are in place and reviewed in accordance with
emergency management protocols
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 6/-1
Section 4
Minimal
I/C, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
215
3.6 Encourage school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band
Device on board and in schools
Jurisdictions
Cooper County
Prairie Home R-V School District
Drought
Levee Failure
Earthquake
Severe Winter Weather
Tornado
Hazard(s) addressed
Extreme Heat
Wildfire
Flood
Windstorm
Hailstorm
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Both Cooper County EMA and Prairie Home R-V Schools will work together to secure funding to equip
busses with these radios. This is needed due to poor cell phone reception in certain areas, and a need for a
consistent and efficient form of communication between the school district main office and busses en
route.
Lead Department or
Cooper County EMA and Prairie Home R-V School District
Agency
SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Potential Funding
Local, Federal, State
Sources
Projected Completion
2014
Date
Radios are installed
Criterion for Completion
Moderate
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
I/C, LF, EMCC
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 6/-3
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
216
3.7 Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
Jurisdictions
Cooper County
Earthquake
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Prairie Home R-V School
District
Severe Winter Weather
Cooper County EMA will work with designated shelters to ensure there are alternative methods for heat,
namely backup generators to run gas or electric units or propane access.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Cooper County EMA
American Red Cross, SEMA, FEMA
Local, Federal, State
2016
Criterion for Completion
Alternative sources have been identified and cost
estimates for installation have been gathered
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-3
Moderate
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
3.8 Build a tornado safe room
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Tornado
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions are currently reviewing their need for a tornado safe room. Boonville, Bunceton,
Otterville, Pilot Grove do not currently have specific sites identified, but will review their need in the next
five years. Prairie Home R-V Schools are in the process of identifying a site location for such a building,
there is great need in this school district, because all staff and students do not fit into the interior rooms
used for tornados.
Cooper County EMA
Lead Department or Agency
Local Communities, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Federal and State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing (Needs identified by 2016)
Projected Completion Date
Sites for safe rooms have been identified
Criterion for Completion
Significant
Projected Cost
I/C, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 4/-5
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 20 (HIGH)
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
217
Goal 4 Public Awareness –
Increase public awareness of natural hazards in order to make the public a greater partner in
hazard mitigation planning.
4.1 Distribute public education hazard awareness information to the public
Cooper County
Otterville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Wooldridge
Hazard(s) addressed All Hazards
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
The Cooper County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) currently has several educational programs
in place. The Cooper County EMA is very involved with public education and awareness of natural
hazards and other hazards. The following actions are taken by the Cooper County EMA on a regular
basis:
Jurisdictions
- Promote educational materials for staff and the public regarding best practices for earthquake
preparedness
- Encourage safe driving through public education campaigns, websites, community events
- Provide public education materials concerning the dangers of icy roads
- Provide educational materials for outdoor workers and school athletic organizations on the
dangers of excessive heat exposure
- Promote education materials for homeowners near large fuel sources
- Encourage developers to build earthquake resistant structures
Lead Department or
Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding
Sources
Projected Completion
Date
Cooper County EMA
Public and Private agencies
Federal and State
Ongoing
Criterion for Completion
Cooper County EMA will continue its roll in public safety education
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Minimal
Section 4
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
218
4.2 Encourage purchase of drought insurance in agricultural communities
Cooper County
Otterville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Wooldridge
Hazard(s) addressed Drought
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Farmers will be supplied educational materials as needed to educate on the availability of drought
insurance.
Lead Department or
Cooper County Commission
Agency
Local insurance agencies, USDA
Partners, if any
Potential Funding
Private
Sources
Projected Completion
Ongoing
Date
Criterion for
Farmers are aware of drought insurance availability
Completion
Minimal
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
PD
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score:
STAPLEE score: 20
Priority: 21 (HIGH)
2/-1
Jurisdictions
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
219
Goal 5 Future Development –
Promote hazard-proof development
5.1 Develop a plan for upgrading and/or prioritizing low water crossings
Cooper County
Jurisdictions
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
The Cooper County and Commission and the Road and Bridge Department would like to have all low
water crossings identified in the county (Action 2.3). This would enable better planning for installing
signs, constructing new crossings, and would help with general public safety. This action is currently
underway through mapping by the Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission. In addition to
identifying the County will start prioritizing crossings that need to be replaced or upgraded.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Cooper County Road and Bridge Department
Mid-Missouri Regional Planning Commission
Local
2012
All low water crossings are identified and mapped
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 19
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
5.2 Discourage development in known sinkhole areas
Cooper County
Jurisdictions
Hazard(s) addressed
Land Subsidence/Sinkholes
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Cooper County departments will give advice and recommendations concerning construction and/or
landuse in known sinkhole areas when necessary. It should be noted that Cooper County does not
have zoning ordinances.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Section 4
Cooper County Commission, Cooper County EMA
Private land owners
Local
Ongoing
Land owners are aware of sinkhole areas
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
220
5.3 Install dry hydrants and/or standard hydrants as needed
Cooper County
Otterville
Jurisdictions
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Wooldridge
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All of the participating jurisdictions currently have standard fire hydrants within their boundaries. The
rural fire districts stated that there is a need for dry hydrants to be installed in various areas where
standard hydrants cannot be placed. All jurisdictions would implement this action by identifying and
evaluating areas of concern across the county. In some places the use of community and/or private
water sources may be needed.
Cooper County Commission, Cooper County EMA,
Lead Department or Agency
Rural and City Fire Departments
Private/Public land owners, Developers, Water
Partners, if any
providers
Private, Local, Federal, and State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
Hydrants are installed and/or agreements are in place
Criterion for Completion
for future installation and use
Significant
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-5
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
5.4 Create secondary water supply sources through interconnections or
agreements
Cooper County
Otterville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Extreme Heat
Drought
Hazard(s) addressed
Earthquake
Wildfire
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will continue to work towards agreements between water providers and will investigate
available funding for constructing connections. Currently community water providers and water
districts are separated by several miles and interconnection, while very beneficial, would be very
expensive.
Water Districts and Incorporated Communities
Lead Department or Agency
All water districts and incorporated communities
Partners, if any
Local, Federal, and State
Potential Funding Sources
2016
Projected Completion Date
Interconnections constructed to connect all water
Criterion for Completion
utilities
Significant
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-5
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
Jurisdictions
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
221
5.5 Install additional pumping stations as needed
Jurisdictions
Cooper County
Linneman-Weekley Levee
District
Flood
Hazard(s) addressed
Levee Failure
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
The levee district would identify areas that are in need of extra pumping stations and identify a
funding source.
Linneman-Weekley Levee District
Lead Department or Agency
Cooper County Commission, USACE, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Private, Local, Federal, and State
Potential Funding Sources
2016
Projected Completion Date
Two pumping stations installed
Criterion for Completion
Minimal
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages) PD
Benefit/Cost Score: 4/-1
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
5.6 Thicken and/or maintain levee as needed to improve capabilities
Cooper County
Jurisdictions
Overton-Wooldridge
Levee District
Hazard(s) addressed
Levee Failure
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Wooldridge
Linneman-Weekley
Levee District
Flood
Both levee districts will continue current maintenance practices consistent with US Army Corps of
Engineers guidelines. Thickening of the levee "toe" or base would increase from a slope of 1 to 2 to a
slope of 1 to 3 where needed (for every 1 foot of rise there would be 3 feet of run). In some areas a
slope of 1 to 5 may be necessary.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 4/-3
Section 4
Levee Districts, USACE
Cooper County, SEMA, FEMA
Private, Federal and State
Ongoing - project is continuous depending on
conditions
Slope is increases to a minimum of 1 to 3
Moderate
PD, LF
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 22 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
222
5.7 Build a retainment levee to control seep water and rain water
Jurisdictions
Cooper County
Overton-Wooldridge Levee
District
Flood
Hazard(s) addressed
Levee Failure
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
The Overton-Wooldridge Levee District would need to seek great financial assistance from FEMA or
the US Army Corps of Engineers to construct this retainment levee. A study would need to be
completed to identify exact location of the retainment levee to mitigate the effects of seep water.
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Lead Department or Agency
Cooper County, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Private, Federal and State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing - project is continuous depending on conditions
Projected Completion Date
Retainment levee constructed
Criterion for Completion
Significant
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
PD, LF
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 4/-5
STAPLEE score: 19
Priority: 18 (MEDIUM)
5.8 Acquire destroyed or damaged properties and relocate people voluntarily
Cooper County
Boonville
Bunceton
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Jurisdictions
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
All jurisdictions would like the opportunity to be eligible to buyout properties in the floodplain if
needed. Currently, only on jurisdiction has identified any properties for this activity. The Village of
Wooldridge has identified several properties within the 100 year floodplain for this activity. The
community is currently trying to reinstate themselves in the National Flood Insurance Program, but
until they are officially active any buyouts are not able to go forward.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-5
Section 4
Local jurisdiction
Cooper County, SEMA, FEMA
Federal and State
Ongoing
Buyout locations are identified and enrollment in
NFIP
Significant
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 19
Priority: 22 (HIGH)
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
223
4.5 Funding Sources
There are numerous ways which local mitigation projects can be funded.
Local Funds
These funds come predominantly from property and sales tax revenues; they are generally
allocated directly to school, public works, and other essential government functions. While there
may be little room for mitigation funding within this revenue stream, mitigation activities
frequently will be a part of essential government functions. For example, money that is allocated
for a new school can fund stronger than normal roofs to help the school in the event of a tornado.
Non-Governmental Funds
Another potential source of revenue for local mitigation efforts are contributions of nongovernmental organizations such as churches, charities, community relief funds, the Red Cross,
hospitals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. A variety of these local organizations can be
tapped to help carry out local hazard mitigation initiatives.
Federal Funds
The bulk of federal funding for mitigation is available through the FEMA Mitigation Grants
Programs; another possible funding source is Community Development Block Grants (CDBG)
after a Presidential Disaster Declaration.
FEMA MITIGATION GRANTS PROGRAMS - Jurisdictions which have adopted a FEMA
approved Hazard Mitigation Plan are eligible for hazard mitigation funding through FEMA grant
programs. The following five FEMA grant programs currently provide hazard mitigation
funding:





Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM)
Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)
Repetitive Flood Claims (RFC)
Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL)
Mitigation activities which are eligible for funding vary between the programs (see Figure 4.5.1).
All potential projects must match the stated goals and objectives of the Cooper County Hazard
Mitigation Plan and the State of Missouri Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
224
Figure 4.5.1
Eligible Activities for FEMA Mitigation Grant Programs
Activity
1. Mitigation Projects
Property Acquisition and Structure Demolition or Relocation
Structure Elevation
Mitigation Reconstruction
Dry Flood proofing of Historic Residential Structures
Dry Flood proofing of Non-residential Structures
Minor Localized Flood Reduction Projects
Structural Retrofitting of Existing Buildings
Non-structural Retrofitting of Existing Buildings and Facilities
Safe Room Construction
Infrastructure Retrofit
Soil Stabilization
Wildfire Mitigation
Post-disaster Code Enforcement
5% Initiative Projects
2. Hazard Mitigation Planning
3. Management Costs
HMGP
PDM
FMA
RFC
SRL
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Source: www.fema.gov/library/viewRecord.do?id=3648
Application and Cost Share Requirements:
The application process for the FEMA Mitigation Grant Programs includes a Benefit Cost
Analysis (BCA). A potential project must have a Benefit Cost Ratio of at least 1.0 to be
considered for funding; a ratio of 1.0 indicates at least $1 benefit for each $1 spent on the project.
A BCA is the first step in assessing if a project has the potential to be funded. The BCA for a
potential project is run on FEMA’s BCA Software; planners at the Mid-MO RPC are trained on
this software.
Application for most of the mitigation grant programs must be made through eGrants, FEMA’s
web-based, electronic grants management system. HMGP has a paper application.
Cost share requirements and the application format for these five programs are shown in Figure
4.26. Contributions of cash, in-kind services or materials, or any combination thereof, may be
accepted as part of the non-Federal cost share. For FMA, not more than one half of the nonFederal contribution may be provided from in-kind contributions.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
225
Figure 4.26
FEMA Mitigation Grant Programs
Cost Share
Grant Program
Federal/Local
Match
HMGP
75/25
Paper
PDM
75/25
e-grants
Notes
Qualification Requirements for "small impoverished":
• A community of 3,000 or fewer individuals identified by
the State as a rural community that is not a remote area
within the corporate boundaries of a larger city
• An average per capita annual income not exceeding 80
percent of the national per capita income, based on best
available data. (For current information:
http://www.bea.gov)
• A local unemployment rate exceeding by 1 percentage
point or more the most recently reported, average yearly
national unemployment rate. (For current information:
http://www.bls.gov/eag/eag.us.htm)
• Meet other criteria required by the State/Tribe/Territory
in which the community is located
Application
PDM
(Small
Impoverished
Community)
90/10
FMA
75/25
FMA
(Severe
Repetitive Loss
Property)
90/10
In Missouri, this cost share is less than the usual 75/25
because the State has an approved “Enhanced” State
Mitigation Plan.
e-grants
RFC
100/0
RFC is only available to applicants who cannot meet the
cost share requirement of FMA.
e-grants
SRL
90/10
In Missouri, this cost share is less than the usual 75/25
because the State has an approved “Enhanced” State
Mitigation Plan.
e-grants
Section 4
e-grants
e-grants
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
226
Details of each program are discussed below.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP)
The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) was created in November 1988 through Section
404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act. The HMGP assists
states and local communities in implementing long-term mitigation measures following a
Presidential disaster declaration. After a major disaster, communities may be able to identify
additional areas where mitigation can help prevent losses in the future.
HMGP funding is allocated using a “sliding scale” formula based on the percentage of the funds
spent on Public and Individual Assistance programs for each Presidential Disaster Declaration.
The HMGP can be used to fund projects to protect either public or private property; the proposed
projects must fit within the state and local government's overall mitigation strategy for the
disaster area, and comply with program guidelines.
Eligibility for funding under the HMGP is limited to state and local governments, certain private
nonprofit organizations or institutions that serve a public function, Indian tribes and authorized
tribal organizations. Applicants work through their state which is responsible for setting
priorities for funding and administering the program.
More information on this program is available at: www.fema.gov/government/grant/hmgp/
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program (PDM)
With the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, Congress approved the creation of a national program
to provide a funding mechanism that is not dependent on a Presidential Disaster Declaration.
The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Program provides funding for cost-effective hazard
mitigation activities that complement a comprehensive mitigation program, and reduce injuries,
loss of life, and damage and destruction of property. The PDM grant funds are provided to the
state which then provides sub-grants to local governments for eligible mitigation activities.
More information on this program is available at: www.fema.gov/government/grant/pdm/
Flood Mitigation Assistance Program (FMA)
FMA was created as part of the National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 (42 U.S.C. 4101)
with the goal of reducing or eliminating claims under the NFIP. Applicants must be participants
in good standing in NFIP and properties to be mitigated must have flood insurance.
States administer the FMA program and are responsible for selecting projects for funding from
the applicants submitted by all communities within the state. The state then forwards selected
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
227
applications to FEMA for an eligibility determination. Although individuals cannot apply
directly for FMA funds, their local government may submit an application on their behalf.
FMA funding for the state depends on the number of repetitive losses in the state. The frequency
of flooding in Missouri in recent years, coupled with the losses incurred, has caused Missouri’s
funding to rise. This is a good program for smaller projects like low water crossings, according
to Sheila Huddleston, Missouri State Hazard Mitigation Officer.
For FMA, not more than one half of the non-Federal may be provided from in-kind
contributions.
More information on this program is available at: www.fema.gov/government/grant/fma/
Repetitive Flood Claims Grant Program (RFC)
The Repetitive Flood Claims (RFC) grant program was authorized in 1968 to assist States and
communities in reducing flood damages to insured properties that have had one or more claims
to the NFIP.
In order to apply for funding through this 100% Federal share program, a community must show
that it can’t meet FMA requirements due to lack of cost share match or capacity to manage the
activities. This doesn’t necessarily mean it needs to be a low-income community. A St. Louis
area community was awarded a RFC grant on the basis that it couldn’t meet FMA requirements
because it was in the middle of the budget cycle.
More information on this program is available at: www.fema.gov/government/grant/rfc/
Severe Repetitive Loss Grant Program (SRL)
The Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) grant program was authorized in 2004 to provide funding to
reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to severe repetitive loss (SRL) properties
insured under the NFIP.
A SRL property is defined as a residential property that is covered under an NFIP flood
insurance policy and:
(a) Has at least four NFIP claim payments (including building and contents) over $5,000
each, and the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeds $20,000; or
(b) For which at least two separate claims payments (building payments only) have been
made with the cumulative amount of the building portion of such claims exceeding the
market value of the building.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
228
For both (a) and (b) above, at least two of the referenced claims must have occurred within any
ten-year period, and must be greater than 10 days apart. There are very specific requirements for
this grant program; requirements need to be studied carefully before making application.
For buyouts under SRL, a property must be on FEMA’s validated SRL list to be eligible.
Property owner consultations are required before submitting an application.
More information on this program is available at: www.fema.gov/government/grant/srl/
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
The objective of the CDBG program is to assist communities in rehabilitating substandard
dwelling structures and to expand economic opportunities, primarily for low-to-moderate-income
families. After a Presidential Disaster Declaration CDBG funds may be used for long-term needs
such as acquisition, reconstruction, and redevelopment of disaster-affected areas. There is no
low-to-moderate income requirement after a Presidential Disaster Declaration.
Section 4
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
229
Section 5: Plan Maintenance Process
Requirement
§201.6(c)(4)(i):
[The plan maintenance process shall include a] section describing the
method and schedule of monitoring, evaluating, and updating the mitigation
plan within a five-year cycle.
5.1 Plan Monitoring and Evaluation
The Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan will be monitored and evaluated on a yearly basis
during the months of March and April, beginning in the year following approval and adoption.
This would mean there will be four monitoring/evaluation periods (spring 2013, spring 2014,
spring 2015, spring 2016). The last monitoring and evaluation in 2016 will lead into the 5-year
update process.
The monitoring and evaluation with be facilitated through the Mid-MO Regional Planning
Commission. It will consist of the following:
1. Surveys will be sent to all participating jurisdictions for information including: mitigation
actions which have been implemented in the jurisdiction, changes in priorities of
mitigation actions within the jurisdiction, needs not addressed by the current plan. A
sample survey is shown in Figure 5.1.
2. Survey information will be collated by planners at the Mid-MO RPC.
3. Meeting(s) of the Hazard Mitigation Technical Steering Committee will be convened by
the Mid-MO RPC to discuss survey feedback, any changes in hazard risks in the county,
and any other pertinent information.
4. A yearly report will be written and included as an addendum to the current plan.
Section 5
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
230
Figure 5.1
Criterion for
Completion
Projected
Completion
Date
Plan for
Implementation
and
Administration
Lead
Department or
Agency
Mitigation Action
Priority
Action #
Yearly Survey of Mitigation Actions for ………. (Sample)
Current Status of Mitigation
Action
Comments
Please indicate the current status of each mitigation action on the above chart. Please note any change to the priorities of actions.
Are there any changes in your jurisdiction which may affect the content of the Cooper County Hazard Mitigation Plan? If so, please
describe.
Section 5
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
231
5.2 Plan Updating
FEMA requirements state a hazard mitigation plan must be updated and reapproved by FEMA
every five years; the five years is counted from when the first participating jurisdiction adopts
the approved plan.
Assuming approval and adoption of the current plan occurs in the spring of 2012, the Cooper
County Hazard Mitigation Plan will need to be updated and reapproved by FEMA in the spring
of 2017. Work on this update would need to begin approximately 6 to 9 months prior to the
actual deadline for reapproval in order to have adequate time for countywide discussion and
participation in the update.
Figure 5.2.1
Proposed Timeline for 5-year Update of Hazard Mitigation Plan
KEY: PED = Plan Expiration Date
Activity
Preliminary update of data
Prepare cost estimates for update of plan
and submit to SEMA
Receive Memorandum of Agreement from
SEMA for update
Review data for any additional updates
Contact participating jurisdictions re:
representation on Technical Steering
Committee for update of plan
Meetings to conduct preliminary review
and update of plan
Survey to participating jurisdictions re:
capabilities, vulnerable assets, future
development
Public Meeting #1 for comment and input
on draft update
Draft of update due at SEMA
Participating jurisdictions hold meetings
to discuss plan and mitigation actions
Public Meeting #2 for comment and input
on final update
Final plan due at SEMA for review before
submission to FEMA
Plan reviewed by SEMA
Required changes/additions made to plan
Plan submitted to FEMA
Participating jurisdictions adopt approved
plan
Section 5
Timeline to Begin
Responsible Party
Yearly during
maintenance/review of plan
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 14 months
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 12 months
SEMA
PED - 12 months
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 12 months
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 11 months
Technical Steering
Committee
PED - 11 months
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 8 months
Mid-MO RPC/Technical
Steering Committee
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 8 months
Participating Jurisdictions
PED - 6 months
Mid-MO RPC/Technical
Steering Committee
PED - 5 months
Mid-MO RPC
PED - 4 months
PED - 4 months
PED - 3 months
SEMA
Mid-MO RPC
SEMA
PED - 2 months
Participating Jurisdictions
PED - 9 months
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
232
The ongoing yearly maintenance and evaluation of the plan, as described previously, will be of
great value when undertaking the five year update. Continuity of personnel on the Hazard
Mitigation Technical Steering Committee throughout the five year process would be highly
beneficial in taking mitigation planning to the next level.
The following data gaps in the current plan should be examined during the 2016 update process:
Dam Failure
Information from the mapping of the high hazards dams in the county should be completed
before 2016. Emergency Action Plans (EAPs) may have been written for some, or all, of the
regulated dams in the county by this time. The following sites may be helpful in obtaining
current information on the progress of this work: DNR’s Dam Safety Program
(http://www.dnr.mo.gov/env/wrc/damsft/damsfthp.htm) and DamSafetyAction.org,
Levee Failure
There are some data gaps in assessing vulnerability to levee failure which, while not critical to
gaining an overall perspective on vulnerability, would increase accuracy if available.
Inundation information is not readily available for areas protected by levee districts and areas
protected by non-district or private levees are not known.
The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), working with FEMA and other federal, state, and
local agencies, assembled a Regional Interagency Levee Task Force (ILTF) in 2008 to provide a
uniform approach across the area impacted by flooding in the Midwest. Data is currently being
updated and made more available through this task force. Following the intense flooding
throughout the Missouri River Valley in 2011, the USACE added significant content to their
website. This information is continuously being updated and the new mapping capability may be
useful during the maintenance of this plan and during the next five year update. The webpage
for the National Levee Database can be found at
http://nld.usace.army.mil/egis/f?p=471:1:3352100546410181.
Section 5
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
233
5.3 Integration of Hazard Mitigation into Other Planning Mechanisms
Requirement
§201.6(c)(4)(ii):
[The plan shall include a] process by which local governments
incorporate the requirements of the mitigation plan into other
planning mechanisms such as comprehensive or capital improvement
plans, when appropriate.
Successful mitigation depends on the actual implementation of the mitigation actions arrived at
through the planning process. The composition of the Technical Steering Committee for the
update of the Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan bodes well for the successful
incorporation of the hazard mitigation strategy into other planning processes throughout the
Planning Area.
In addition to the core members of the Technical Steering Committee, the representatives from
Cooper County were resourceful in bringing other knowledgeable staff to meetings on subjects
in their particular areas of expertise. The entire process thus drew on experience and knowledge
from: elected officials/staff from the incorporated communities; senior department members
from Cooper County in key areas such as Emergency Management, Road and Bridge, Public
Health and Fire; and representatives from the educational institutions, levee districts, and fire
districts.
This diverse group worked to produce a thoughtful and useful document. The sheer number of
different people involved in the update process has raised the level of awareness of hazard
mitigation planning within the Planning Area; this will also be helpful when integrating the
Hazard Mitigation Plan into other planning processes.
Cooper County
The primary planning document for the unincorporated area of the county is The Cooper County
Emergency Operations Plan. An update of this plan is currently underway. During the next
update process, the requirements of the Hazard Mitigation Plan will be integrated with this
document.
In the meantime, the Cooper County Commission and the Cooper County EMA will adopt the
Hazard Mitigation Plan as an additional planning document for the County.
The Cooper County Emergency Management Director, Assistant Director, and County
Commissioners were key members of the Technical Steering Committee for the update of the
Hazard Mitigation Plan; they are also involved in developing the plan for implementing and
administering those County mitigation actions which fall under their scope of duties. They will
ensure that the mitigation actions are included in the EMA work program and other county
planning documents or work programs according to the prioritizations in the plan.
Section 5
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
234
Incorporated Communities of Boonville, Bunceton, Otterville, Pilot Grove, and Wooldridge
The smaller incorporated communities in the Planning Area do not have Master or
Comprehensive Plans. They are, however, part of the Cooper County EOP; the integration of the
Hazard Mitigation Plan with the EOP will serve to integrate the actions under the lead of the
EMD for these jurisdictions also.
In all of these communities, the City Council or the Board of Aldermen/Trustees serves as the
main planning body. These bodies were informed of the hazard mitigation update planning
process as it was taking place. The councils/boards approved the specific mitigation actions for
their jurisdictions, in addition to the plans for implementation and administration. In most of
these communities, the Council/Mayor is responsible for implementing most of the specific
mitigation actions.
Levee Districts
Neither the Linneman-Weekly Levee District nor the Overton-Wooldridge Levee District have
work programs. They do have annual budgets that they submit to the Cooper County
Commission. The levee districts may use this plan to help develop a budget to include actions
they have laid out in this plan. Both levee districts attended Steering Committee Meetings and
provided great input.
School Districts
The mitigation actions in the Hazard Mitigation Plan will be integrated into the Crisis
Management Plan for the Prairie Home R-V School District. These actions will be maintained
as goals in the schools plans and will be updated on a regular basis.
All Participating Jurisdictions
In addition to the specific incorporation/integration methods described for each participating
jurisdiction, it should be emphasized that the yearly maintenance of the Hazard Mitigation Plan,
as discussed in Section 5.1, will serve to help incorporate and integrate its requirements into the
planning in the jurisdictions.
Section 5
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
235
5.4 Public Participation in Plan Maintenance
Requirement
§201.6(c)(4)(iii):
[The plan maintenance process shall include a] discussion on how
the community will continue public participation in the plan
maintenance process.
The Cooper County Hazard Mitigation plan will be remain posted on the website of the MidMissouri Regional Planning Commission (www.mmrpc.org) for the public review and comment.
Either the plan itself or links to the plan will also be posted on as many websites of participating
jurisdictions as possible.
The Cooper County Emergency Management Director will facilitate presenting the entire plan to
interested groups within the county including:







Health Department Personnel
City Fire and Rural Fire Protection Districts
City Elected Officials/Administrators
Educational Personnel
Local Emergency Planning Committees
Local Police/Sheriff Department Personnel
Cooper County Commissioners/Directors
Section 5
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
236
Appendix A Adoption Resolutions
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Appendix B Meeting Agenda Sample
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Appendix C Sign-in Sheets from Meetings
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Appendix D Meeting Announcement Sample
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Appendix E City of Boonville Insurance Statement
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
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Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Appendix F
Boonville R-I School District
Jurisdiction Specific Information
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Section 1: Introduction
and Planning Process
This Appendix serves to incorporate the Boonville R-I School District into the Cooper County,
MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan in accordance with the requirements of 44 C.F.R. 201.6. It
contains all relevant, jurisdiction specific information for Boonville R-I School District. Where
applicable, information pertinent to the entire planning area (i.e., hazard profile data,
methodologies, etc.) is referenced back to the main body of the Cooper County, MO, Natural
Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Some key figures contained elsewhere in the Cooper County, MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation
Plan are amended in this Appendix to include information particular to the Boonville R-I School
District. This will provide the needed information for the school district when the required 5-year
update of the plan is undertaken for completion by June 27, 2017.
As stated in Section 1.4 of the main body of the plan (p. 6), Planners from the Mid-MO RPC
(Plan Author) developed the following criteria for a jurisdiction to qualify as a participating
jurisdiction in the Cooper County, MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan:
1. Submission of information regarding capabilities, vulnerable assets, and future
development within the jurisdiction
2. Review of a draft of the plan and provision of feedback, if warranted
3. Review of mitigation actions suggested by the Technical Steering Committee for the
jurisdiction; prioritization of actions deemed feasible for the jurisdiction based on
benefit/cost and time/resources available for implementation and administration
4. Formal adoption of the plan
In light of recent natural hazard events throughout the country, the Boonville R-I School District
requested that it be allowed to complete the above requirements and join the plan. The process of
joining the plan was clarified in email and phone conversations between Superintendent Mark
Ficken, Planning Representative for the District, and Susan Galeota, a Planner from the Mid-MO
Regional Planning Commission; an in-person meeting followed during which various issues
were discussed.
The School District subsequently completed all of the above requirements to be considered a
participating jurisdiction in the Cooper County, MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan. Prior to
adoption, the plan was again reviewed by the Planning Representative for the School District
(Superintendent Mark Ficken), Assistant Superintendent Jeff Brackman, and the Board of
Education.
The letter adopting the Cooper County, MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan as the hazard
mitigation plan for the Boonville R-I School District, and the Board of Education meeting
minutes showing approval of the adoption, are included at the end of this appendix.
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Section 2: Planning Area Profile
and Capabilities
2.8
Participating Jurisdictions - Inventory of Assets and Capabilities
The following chart indicates the personnel and property at risk in Boonville R-I School District.
Replacement
Cost
(Buildings and
Contents)
Grades
Certificated
Staff
Students
3-5
30
319
$8,078,128
Pre K-2
33
386
$8,321,299
Laura Speed Elliott Middle School
7-12
32
338
$8,597,334
Boonville High School
Boonslick Technical Education
Center
Administration Office
9-12
49
511
$10,792,449
9-12
11
$6,235,565
4
$2,639,727
Boonville R-I School District
David Barton Elementary School
Hannah Cole Primary School
Total Replacement Cost (Buildings and Contents)
$44,664,502
Sources: 9/25/14 staff/student data from DESE; replacement costs - Boonville R-I School District
The map on the following page shows the location of each of the school buildings in the district.
There are active development plans underway in the district. In April 2014, citizens passed a
$4.2 Million bond issue for the purpose of funding district-wide safety and security upgrades
along with upgrades to heating and cooling systems and other miscellaneous projects. The bond
issue was approved by 68% of the voters. In Spring 2015, the district plans to harden off part of
Hannah Cole Primary School (to FEMA 361 Standards) for a tornado safe room.
In addition, the Boonville R-I School District Board of Education has approved the demolition of
a 1939 building known as Central Elementary School which is no longer in use. In its place, the
district intends to build a multi-purpose community tornado safe room built to FEMA 361
specifications. This project is being undertaken in partnership with Cooper County, Cooper
County EMA, the City of Boonville, the YMCA, and the CCBC (Concerned Citizens for the
Black Community).
Some of the other functions being discussed for this building project are: classroom space for
adult education, trainings, pre-K and/or alternate high school; alternate EOC space; warming and
cooling centers. Some of these other functions are compatible with the actual hardened space of
the safe room, while others are not. Once design options and costs are explored, firmer decisions
can be made on the nature of the total project. However, the community safe room is the highest
priority.
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Section 3: Risk Assessment
Vulnerability Assessment
The hazard profiles in the main body of the plan were written for the entire Planning Area and
apply to Boonville R-I School District, if the hazard is an issue in the jurisdiction.
Figures 3.0.1 and 3.0.2 indicating the Vulnerability, Probability, and Severity ratings for each
hazard have been updated to include Boonville R-I School District. Information on how these
ratings were determined can be found on pages 79 and 81 of the main body of the plan. The
green highlighting in Figure 3.0.1 indicates that the Vulnerability Rating for a participating
jurisdiction varies from the overall vulnerability of the Planning Area.
Figure 3.0.1
Participating Jurisdictions' Vulnerability
Rating
NA
Property Damage
Injury or Death
not applicable
0-5%
5-10%
10-100%
L
M
Jurisdiction
Dam Failure
Drought
Earthquake
Extreme Heat
Flood
Hailstorm
Land Subsidence/ Sinkhole
Levee Failure
Severe Winter Weather
Tornado
Wildfire
Windstorm
H
not applicable
little or none
injuries and/or death possible
major injuries and/or death likely
Planning Area
L
L
H
M
H
M
L
H
M
H
L
H
Cooper County
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Linneman-Weekly Levee District
Overton-Wooldridge Levee District
Boonville R-I School District
Prairie Home R-V Schools
L
L
H
M
H
M
L
H
M
H
L
H
L
L
H
M
H
M
M
H
L
H
L
H
M
L
M
M
H
L
H
L
H
M
L
M
M
H
L
H
L
H
M
L
M
M
H
L
H
L
H
M
H
M
M
H
L
H
H
H
H
H
H
L
L
M
L
M
M
H
L
H
L
H
M
L
M
L
H
L
H
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
Figure 3.0.2
Participating Jurisdictions' Probability, Severity, and Vulnerability Overview
Probability = P
Severity = S
Vulnerability = V
High = H
Medium/Moderate = M
Low = L
Participating Jurisdiction
P S V P S V P S V P S V P S V P S V P
Planning Area
L L L L L L H M H
L L L L L L H M H
L L L L L L H M H
L L L H M H
Cooper County
Boonville
Bunceton
Otterville
Pilot Grove
Wooldridge
Linneman-Weekly Levee
District
Overton-Wooldridge Levee
District
Boonville R-I School District
Prairie Home R-V Schools
M M M H M H M M
M M M H M H M M
M M M H M H M M
M M M L L L M M
S
Windstorm
Wildfire
Tornado
Severe Winter
Weather
Levee Failure
Land Subsidence/
Sinkhole
Hailstorm
Flood
Extreme Heat
Earthquake
Drought
Dam Failure
Hazard
V P S V P S V P S V P S V P S V
M M L* L* M H H H M M H
M M L* L* M H H H M M H
H M M H
M
H M M H
M
L L L H M H M M M L L L M M M
L L L H M H M M M L L L M M M
L L L H M H M M M H H H M M M
H M M H H H L L L H H H
H M M H H H L L L H H H
M H H H M M H H H L L L H H H
H H H
M H H
H H H
M H H
L L L L L L M M M L L L M M M
H M H M M M L L L M M M
H H L L L H H H
H H L L L H H H
H H L L L H H H
H H L L L H H H
H M M H H H L L L H H H
H L M H H H L L L H H H
(*) Severity and Vulnerability may vary depending on size and location of sinkhole development.
NOTE: Grayed out box means not applicable
Cooper County Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan
Appendices
3.2 Drought Vulnerability – Low
This is primarily an agricultural issue; severe drought could have cascading economic impacts
which might indirectly affect the school district.
3.3 Earthquake Vulnerability – Low
The projected earthquake probability and intensity for Cooper County is shown in Figure 3.3.1.
(For more information on this, see pages 104-106 in the main part of the plan.)
Figure 3.3.1
Projected Earthquake Hazard for Cooper County
Magnitude at
NMSZ
Probability
of
Occurrence
(2002 -2052)
Intensity in
Cooper County
(MMI)
Expected Damage
6.7
25-40%
V
Minimal to none
7.6
7-10%
VI
Slight
It should be noted that the Earthquake Vulnerability Rating for Boonville R-I School District has
been determined to be Low whereas the rest of the jurisdictions in the plan were given a High
rating when the plan was written. It is felt that a Low rating is a more realistic assessment of the
Vulnerability given the information presented on projected probability and intensity. (The High
Vulnerability ratings were also noted in the FEMA plan review as a contradiction with the data
presented.)
Cooper County is outside of the high earthquake risk areas in Missouri in which school districts
are mandated by state law to provide earthquake training and exercises to students. While
expected damage in the County is expected to be slight at the most, there is the potential for
“emotional aftershocks” from this type of event. This is something to be aware of and prepared
for in the school district as students may need reassurance and reality based information on their
actual risk. The other potential issue from a strong earthquake affecting more easterly parts of the
state is the possibility of incoming requests for assistance with food, supplies, and sheltering.
3.4 Extreme Heat Vulnerability – Medium
Loss of life is the most significant consequence of extreme heat. The elderly and those active or
employed in outdoor settings are most vulnerable. This has direct bearing on the school district
in terms of safety issues with outdoors sports and activities. The Missouri State High School
Activities Association (MSHSAA) provides coaches with educational pamphlets on the dangers
of excessive heat.
278
3.5 Flood Vulnerability – Low
Boonville R-I School District does not own any property in the floodplain; this is the reason that
its vulnerability to flooding is much lower than both the City of Boonville and the Planning Area
as a whole.
There are, however, a number of low-water crossings outside the City of Boonville, but within
the school district boundaries, which are of concern. The school district is encouraging the
County to upgrade these low-water crossings to culverts. School bus drivers are not allowed to
drive into standing water and must re-route if a crossing has water. However, student commuters
driving from these areas may not make such a wise choice.
Two of the low-water crossings of concern had been previously mapped during the 2012 update
of the county natural hazard mitigation plan; the other two were not mapped at that time and will
be added to the “official” low-water crossing map.
Figures 3.5.2 (the 100 year flood boundary for Boonville) and 3.5.7 (Cooper County Low Water
Crossings) from the main part of the plan are shown on the following pages with the addition of
information for the Boonville R-I School District.
279
280
281
3.8 Severe Winter Weather Vulnerability – Moderate
The onset of potentially severe winter weather is a decision making moment for a school
district. Unnecessary traffic accidents, school bus mishaps, and students injured or stranded in
dangerous weather are all potential problems associated with the hazard.
In addition to the potential threat to health and safety, the Boonville R-I School District owns
numerous properties which could potentially be damaged by damaged water pipes or downed
power lines.
3.9 Wildfire Vulnerability – Low
Wildfires in Cooper County tend to be limited in their spatial extent thus minimizing their
impact. Using data from the MO Department of Conservation, the Missouri State Hazard
Mitigation Plan 2013 assigns Cooper County a low-medium overall vulnerability rating for
wildfire.
The Boonville R-I School District is located within the corporate boundaries of the City of
Boonville. While there are trees and forested tracts near some of the schools, these are not
significant enough expanses to raise the vulnerability rating from low to medium.
3.10 Windstorm, Tornado, and Hailstorm
Windstorm Vulnerability – High
Tornado Vulnerability – High
All above ground structures are vulnerable to the effects of a windstorm, tornado and other
associated hazards (hail, rain, flooding, flying debris, etc.) Much of the damage caused by high
winds and tornadoes occurs because of falling trees; people, buildings, and vehicles may be
damaged by falling trunks and branches. Critical infrastructure such as communication lines,
power lines, and cell towers may be blown down. Flying debris can causes damage to people,
homes, businesses and school buildings.
Having adequate safe room space to protect the school district’s students and staff from
windstorms and tornadoes is of vital concern to the Boonville R-I School District. Every school
except for Hannah Cole Primary has a basement which will be used in event of serious
windstorm and/or tornadoes. In Spring 2015, the district plans to harden off part of Hannah Cole
Primary School (to FEMA 361 Standards) for a tornado safe room.
In addition, as previously discussed, the Boonville R-I School District Board of Education has
approved the demolition of a 1939 building known as Central Elementary School which is no
longer in use. In its place, the district intends to build a multi-purpose community tornado safe
room built to FEMA 361 specifications. This project is being undertaken in partnership with
Cooper County, Cooper County EMA, the City of Boonville, the YMCA, and the CCBC
(Concerned Citizens for the Black Community).
Some of the other functions being discussed for this building project are: classroom space for
adult education, trainings, pre-K and/or alternate high school; alternate EOC space; warming and
282
cooling centers. Some of these other functions are compatible with the actual hardened space of
the safe room, while others are not. Once design options and costs are explored, firmer decisions
can be made on the nature of the total project. However, the community safe room is the highest
priority.
Hailstorm Vulnerability – Moderate
All above ground structures, infrastructure, and vegetation are vulnerable to the effects of a
hailstorm and other associated hazards associated with them (high winds, rain, flooding, flying
debris, etc.) Damage from hail is dictated by the size and velocity of the stones and the location
where they fall.
While there is potential for excessive and costly property damage from hailstorms, there is less
likelihood of personal injury. One should note, however, that this probability is not zero. People
can, and do, get killed by hail.
283
Section 4: Mitigation Strategy
Review of Actions by Participating Jurisdictions
The mitigation actions in the Cooper County, MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan (see pp. 186187 in main part of plan) were reviewed by the Planning Representative for Boonville R-I
School District. The following actions were chosen as appropriate for the District. Actions which
address reducing the effects of hazards on new and/or existing buildings and infrastructure are
indicated as such with an N (New), E (Existing), or B (Both).
1. Mitigation Planning - Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public and
private cooperation.
1.2
1.3
Develop agreements with local shelters
Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
E
B
2. Mitigation Policy - Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on lives and
property.
2.2 Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among
jurisdictions, agencies and special districts.
2.4 Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
B
B
3. Mitigation Programs - Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs to
protect lives and property.
3.1
3.2
3.5
3.6
3.7
3.8
Evaluate access problems to critical infrastructure
Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing homes
and mitigate any problem areas.
Encourage school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band
Devices on board and in schools
Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
Build a tornado safe room
E
E
B
B
E
N
Administration, Implementation, and Prioritization
The following pages includes information pertaining to the administration, implementation, and
prioritization of each action adopted by the Boonville R-I School District.
Prioritization of the actions had been carried out by the Technical Steering Committee which
originally updated the 2012. This prioritization was carried out using STAPLEE and included a
Benefit/Cost review (see pp. 202-206 in main body of plan for this process). The results of this
prioritization for actions pertaining to the district were reviewed and approved by the reviewers
for the Boonville R-I School District.
284
Goal 1 Mitigation Planning Mitigate effects of future natural hazards through public and private cooperation.
1.2 Develop agreements with local shelters
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Flood
Levee Failure
Earthquake
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Windstorm
Tornado
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions actively participate with the county and the American Red Cross in ensuring that shelter
locations are identified and agreements for use are in place.
Cooper County Commission, Cooper County EMA
Lead Department or Agency
SEMA, FEMA, American Red Cross, local non-profits
Partners, if any
Federal and State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
sheltering agreements are in place and maintained as
Criterion for Completion
needed
Minimal
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
1.3 Encourage Utility Companies to maintain right of ways
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Earthquake
Wildfire
Windstorm
Hazard(s) addressed
Severe Winter Weather
Tornado
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will continue to encourage utility providers to maintain right of ways through consistent
communication.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Cooper County, Communities
Utility providers, Ameren UE, Co-Mo Electric
Federal and State
Ongoing
Right of ways are clear of problem vegetation and debris
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 20
Priority: 27 (HIGH)
285
Goal 2 Mitigation Policy –
Develop policies that limit the impact of natural hazards on lives and property.
2.2 Identify, review, and implement mechanisms to foster collaboration among
jurisdictions, agencies and special districts.
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions
Hazard(s) addressed
All Hazards
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will continue to participate in various mutual aid agreements. All participating
jurisdictions participate with Cooper County EMA in the maintenance of the county Emergency
Operations Plan. Mutual aid agreements exist between utility districts, fire districts, and law enforcement.
Collaboration also exists between local agencies and state and federal agencies. Sheltering agreements
with local non-profits, businesses, and houses of worship are also maintained.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
Cooper County, Local Jurisdiction
Local agencies, SEMA, FEMA, USACE, USFW, etc…
Local, State, and Federal
Ongoing
Mutual aid agreements are in place and regularly
maintained
Minimal
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
286
2.4 Have alternate fueling sites/sources for emergency vehicles
Cooper County
Otterville
Jurisdictions
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Boonville R-I School District
Earthquake
Tornado
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Severe Winter Weather Windstorm
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions have identified a need for additional fueling sites for emergency vehicles, especially when
flooding or other events occur that may block roadways and cause lengthy detours. Otterville, Pilot Grove,
and Bunceton have only one gas station in each respective community. These communities are in the
process of identifying additional sources and creating agreements with private establishments to ensure
access in case of an emergency. Cooper County and the City of Boonville have identified that there are
portions of their jurisdictions that may become cut off from other areas and will need alternative fueling
sites if this occurs. Boonville R-I School District keeps an alternate source of fuel (350-400 gallons of
gravity-fed diesel) in-house for emergencies and normally fuels vehicles through MFA (MO Farmers’
Association).
Cooper County Commission, Local Council, Boonville
Lead Department or Agency
R-I School District
Privately owned gas stations and automotive shops
Partners, if any
Local, Private
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
Additional sources are identified and staff are made
Criterion for Completion
aware
Minimal
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
287
Goal 3 Mitigation Programs –
Implement cost effective and feasible mitigation programs to protect lives and property.
3.1 Evaluate access problems to critical
infrastructure
Cooper County
Otterville
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Boonville R-I School District
Earthquake
Severe Winter Weather
Wildfire
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Levee Failure
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions will evaluate, on an annual basis, their ability to access all critical facilities during times
of hazardous weather, and/or flooding.
Cooper County EMA, Local jurisdiction
Lead Department or Agency
Local Agencies, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Local, Federal, State
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing
Projected Completion Date
Access routes are evaluated on a consistent basis and
Criterion for Completion
changes in procedure are made as needed
Minimal
Projected Cost
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-1
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 28 (HIGH)
Jurisdictions
3.2 Provide back-up power to all critical infrastructure
Cooper County
Otterville
Jurisdictions
Boonville
Pilot Grove
Bunceton
Boonville R-I School District
Earthquake
Tornado
Extreme Heat
Windstorm
Hazard(s) addressed
Severe Winter Weather
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All Jurisdictions seek to have available back-up power for all critical infrastructures, including but not
limited to; law enforcement, fire, EMS, medical facilities.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Criterion for Completion
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Cooper County EMA, Local jurisdiction
Private business owners, Local Agency, SEMA, FEMA
Local, Federal, State
2016
Generators are installed, as needed
Significant
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
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Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-5
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
3.5 Review evacuation routes with special consideration for schools and nursing
homes and mitigate any problem areas.
Cooper County
Boonville R-I School District
Earthquake
Hazard(s) addressed
Flood
Tornado
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Jurisdictions
Prairie Home R-V School District
Wildfire
Windstorm
Cooper County EMA, with the cooperation of school districts and nursing homes, will review evacuation
procedures on an annual basis to ensure public safety in response to natural and manmade hazards.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Cooper County EMA
School Districts, Nursing Homes, other special districts
Local
Ongoing
Criterion for Completion
Evacuation procedures are in place and reviewed in accordance with
emergency management protocols
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 6/-1
Minimal
I/C, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
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3.6 Encourage school buses to be equipped with a multi-channel VHF High Band
Device on board and in schools
Cooper County
Prairie Home R-V School District
Boonville R-I School District
Drought
Levee Failure
Earthquake
Severe Winter Weather
Tornado
Hazard(s) addressed
Extreme Heat
Wildfire
Flood
Windstorm
Hailstorm
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Both Cooper County EMA and Prairie Home R-V Schools will work together to secure funding to equip
busses with these radios. This is needed due to poor cell phone reception in certain areas, and a need for a
consistent and efficient form of communication between the school district main office and busses en
route. Boonville R-I School District leases First Student busses which are in compliance with this action.
Lead Department or
Cooper County EMA and Prairie Home R-V School District
Agency
SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Potential Funding
Local, Federal, State
Sources
Projected Completion
2014
Date
Radios are installed
Criterion for Completion
Moderate
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided
I/C, LF, EMCC
Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 6/-3
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 24 (HIGH)
Jurisdictions
3.7 Encourage shelters to have alternative heating sources
Cooper County
Boonville R-I School District
Earthquake
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
Jurisdictions
Prairie Home R-V School District
Severe Winter Weather
Cooper County EMA will work with designated shelters to ensure there are alternative methods for heat,
namely backup generators to run gas or electric units or propane access.
Lead Department or Agency
Partners, if any
Potential Funding Sources
Projected Completion Date
Cooper County EMA
American Red Cross, SEMA, FEMA
Local, Federal, State
2016
Criterion for Completion
Alternative sources have been identified and cost
estimates for installation have been gathered
Projected Cost
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 8/-3
Moderate
I/C, PD, LF, EMCC
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 26 (HIGH)
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3.8 Build a tornado safe room
Jurisdictions
All Jurisdictions (excluding levee districts)
Tornado
Hazard(s) addressed
Plan for Implementation and Administration:
All jurisdictions are currently reviewing their need for a tornado safe room. Boonville, Bunceton,
Otterville, Pilot Grove do not currently have specific sites identified, but will review their need in the next
five years. Prairie Home R-V Schools are in the process of identifying a site location for such a building,
there is great need in this school district, because all staff and students do not fit into the interior rooms
used for tornados. Boonville R-I School District has passed a bond issue for, among other things, increases
in safety and security in the district; plans are being developed for a tornado safe room.
Cooper County EMA
Lead Department or Agency
Local Communities, SEMA, FEMA
Partners, if any
Federal and State; bond funding
Potential Funding Sources
Ongoing (Needs identified by 2016)
Projected Completion Date
Sites for safe rooms have been identified
Criterion for Completion
Significant
Projected Cost
I/C, EMCC
Benefits (Avoided Losses/Damages)
Benefit/Cost Score: 4/-5
STAPLEE score: 21
Priority: 20 (HIGH)
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Section 5: Plan Maintenance Process
5.3 Integration of Hazard Mitigation into Other Planning Mechanisms
The mitigation actions in the Cooper County, MO, Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan will be
integrated into the planning process of the Boonville R-I School District through the Safety,
Buildings, and Grounds Committee. This committee is composed primarily of community
members with expertise in the areas concerned.
The Safety, Buildings, and Grounds Committee of Boonville R-I School District is one of
numerous committees working on every aspect of the district. Members are recruited through
wide outreach into the Boonville/Cooper County community. Each committee has at least one
Board of Education member on it; a maximum of two Board members can be on any one
committee.
While community committee members do not have voting privileges for Board of Education
matters, these committees serve to bring the widest possible assessment of needs, problems, and
solutions to matters concerning the school district. The Safety, Buildings, and Grounds
Committee members have provided the diversity and representation which will allow for the
collaborative planning of a community safe room on the old Central Elementary School site.
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