Hazard Mitigation Plan for the
Bennington Region, Vermont
(Multi-Jurisdictional)
Prepared by:
The Bennington County Regional Commission
2004-2005
1
Acknowledgements
This project was funded through a grant program known as Pre-Disaster Mitigation from the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), administered by Vermont Emergency
Management. The Bennington County Regional Commission applied for the Pre-Disaster
Mitigation funds to develop this Hazard Mitigation Plan for the Bennington Region.
A special “thank you” to Town and Village staff and officials, Addison County Regional
Planning Commission, National Weather Service, Vermont State Climatologist, Vermont
Emergency Management, Vermont State Police, Vermont State Fire Marshal, Vermont Agency
of Transportation, Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Vermont Geological Survey, Federal
Emergency Management Agency, Local Emergency Planning Committee District #7,
Bennington County Regional Commission staff, as well as others that were instrumental in
supplying information needed for this plan.
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Table of Contents
Introduction & Purpose
5
State Hazard Mitigation Goals
7
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
23
List of Participants
27
Community Questionnaire & Hazard Inventory
29
Vermont’s Natural Hazards: History
31
Vermont Hazard Inventory & Risk Assessment
47
Bennington County Hazard Inventory & Risk Assessment
50
Significant Hazards
53
Flood/Flash Flood
54
Hazardous Materials
58
Structure Fire
60
Winter Storm
62
High Winds
64
Earthquake
66
Landslide/Erosion/Avalanche
67
Terrorism
68
Drought/Wildfire
70
Significant Hazards Maps
71
Vulnerability Analysis
76
HAZUS Assessment for Bennington County (See Insert)
77
County Level Maps
Critical Facilities Map (See Insert)
78
Flooding Summary Map (See Insert)
79
Bridge & Dam Location Map (See Insert)
80
Land Use Map (See Insert)
81
Watersheds Map (See Insert)
82
Traffic Flow Map (See Insert)
83
Mitigation Initiatives
84
3
BCRC Policies Supporting Hazard Mitigation
93
Mitigation Strategies
94
Mitigation Measures by Hazard Type
103
Landslide and Fluvial Erosion Hazards
115
Potential Funding Sources by Hazard
119
Plan Approval & Maintenance Procedures
136
Community Hazard Mitigation Project Application Process
138
Project Application Form (Non-Electronic)
Community Annexes
139
143
Annex A (Arlington)
144
Annex B (Bennington)
149
Annex C (Dorset)
154
Annex D (Landgrove)
159
Annex E (Manchester)
163
Annex F (North Bennington)
168
Annex G (Peru)
173
Annex H (Pownal)
177
Annex I (Rupert)
182
Annex J (Sandgate)
187
Annex K (Shaftsbury)
191
Glossary of Terms
197
Library
210
Acronyms and Abbreviations
218
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Introduction
Background
This plan is an All-Hazards Mitigation Plan for the Bennington region with annexes for each
community within the jurisdiction of the Bennington County Regional Commission (BCRC).
The impact of expected yet unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide an all-hazards local mitigation
plan to be used to make the communities of the Bennington region more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. Based on the results of
previous efforts, FEMA and state agencies have come to recognize that it is less expensive to
prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair damage after a disaster has struck. This plan
recognizes that communities have opportunities to identify mitigation strategies and measures
during all of the other phases of Emergency Management – Preparedness, Response and
Recovery. Hazards cannot be eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are,
where the hazards are most severe and identify local actions that can be taken to avoid exposure
to or otherwise reduce the severity of the hazard.
Additionally, the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000) establishes a national program
for Pre-Disaster Mitigation which includes mitigation planning and eligibility requirements for
state and local governments. The Act is aimed at reducing loss of life and property, human
suffering, economic disruption and disaster costs. High priority should be given to mitigation of
hazards at the local level with increased emphasis on assessment and avoidance of identified
risks, implementing loss reduction measures for existing exposures and ensuring critical
services/facilities survive a disaster.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures avoid the hazard by stopping or limiting new
exposures in known hazard areas, alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the frequency of
occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or land treatment,
adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or and could include projects such as:
a.
Flood-proofing structures
b.
Purchase of development rights in hazard prone areas
c.
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
d.
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
e.
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
f.
Ensuring adequate water supply
g.
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
h.
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
i.
Proactive land use planning for floodplains and other flood & erosion-prone areas
j.
Proper road maintenance and construction
k.
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
l.
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
m.
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
n.
Public information
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Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments in identifying all
hazards facing the county and their community. It also identifies and outlines strategies to begin
reducing risks from those identified hazards through avoidance and other protective measures.
Planning Process
The approach followed the Hazard Mitigation protocol established by FEMA for the conduct of
this study according to the following plan:
a.
Gather initial available data & conduct interviews
b.
Gather additional relevant data
c.
Analyze interview information and all pertinent data gathered according to FEMA
Hazard Analysis Protocol
d.
Produce Draft report w/recommendations & supporting data
e.
Obtain feedback from BCRC, Towns, and LEPC #7
f.
Present Findings and Submit Final Report
During the conduct of the study, we followed these steps in the Hazards Inventory/Risk
Analysis:
1.
Determine past hazards
2.
Determine possible future hazards
3.
Determine likely hazards
4.
Determine community vulnerability (Human & Economic) for each hazard. Each
identified hazard was analyzed with respect to the following criteria:
a.
Probability of occurrence
b.
Effect of the potential disaster on people and property
c.
Predictability of the hazard
d.
Frequency of occurrence
e.
Speed of onset of the potential disaster
f.
Duration of the disaster
g.
Scope and intensity of the potential disaster
h.
Controllability of the incident
i.
Protective Action Options
5.
Determine any in-place or planned hazard reduction or mitigation efforts.
6.
Make recommendations.
7.
Protective action options
Public Involvement
During the plan development process, representatives from the 17 communities in the
Bennington region were consulted. In most cases, information was obtained from the
community emergency management director, Select Board Chair, Town Manager, Fire Chief,
Road Foreman, or Public Works Director. The complete list of participants by position is
included in this plan.
During the development process, the draft Plan was presented and reviewed by the Local
Emergency Planning Committee, District #7 (LEPC) on December 16, 2003. The minutes of the
meeting are available through the Emergency Management Planner at the BCRC. A list of
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LEPC members is included in the section titled List of Participants. Input into the Plan was
obtained from the LEPC Subcommittee and Subgroups during the development process. All
meetings of the LEPC and its Subcommittees are public meetings, and are adequately warned at
least 15 days in advance of a meeting. All public meetings are advertised via email to over 150
recipients (including businesses and neighboring communities), and via regular mail to every
town within the jurisdiction, in addition to being advertised in the local newspaper.
Documentation of meetings is included in the “Participants” section of this plan. Town and
Village Officials worked with the BCRC on local annexes to the Plan. Continuing public
involvement in the approval, adoption and review/update of the plan is contained in Section 4.
State Hazard Mitigation Goals
Goal 1. Avoidance of Hazards
Rationale
Alternative hazard mitigation strategies can be categorized under two basic approaches: 1)
avoidance, or 2) removal, retrofit, restoration or stabilization. Of these two approaches,
avoidance is by far the most cost effective. Implementation mechanisms are typically relatively
inexpensive in comparison to the removal, retrofit, or protection of threatened or damaged
infrastructure investments.
The benefits achievable utilizing an avoidance approach are particularly significant in areas
where existing planning, design, funding, or regulatory mechanisms inadequately address hazard
exposure. The economic impact of future disaster losses associated with existing patterns
guiding development far outweigh the mitigation gains being achieved through retrofit
approaches (approach 2). In other words, if we do not set priority on avoidance/prevention
(approach 1), in the long term we may face even greater repair and replacement costs.
Policy Objective 1
Integrate hazard avoidance strategies for at-risk property and infrastructures into state, local and
regional development plans, land use plans, regulations and projects.
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 To the extent possible, create grant and loan priority incentives to ensure that all new
construction takes place outside of designated flood plain, fluvial erosion hazard, and
repetitive loss areas.
o Responsible Agencies/Dept.: ANR, VHCB, DHCA, B&GS, VTRANS
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
o Current Or Potential Funding Sources: CDBG Grants, Municipal Planning
Grants; Housing & Conservation Fund Grants, Clean Water State Revolving Loan
Fund, Engineering grants and Engineering Planning Advances; Vermont
Watershed Grants, Emergency Relief and Assistance Fund payments, VTRANS,
B&GS, Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants, FMA Grants, and other sources which
have yet to be finalized.

Ensure that proposed environmental and development legislation initiatives are in
accordance with the State Mitigation Plan.
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o Responsible Agencies/Departments: ANR, VEM, VHCB, DHCA, B&GS,
VTRANS
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
o Current &/Or Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTE Resources

Integrate state/local mitigation planning by coordinating VEM and RPC planning efforts
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: VEM, RPCs
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
o Current &/Or Potential Funding Sources: EMPG Grants
Goal 2: Prioritize Public Safety
Rationale
Of all types of natural hazards experienced in Vermont, flash flooding represents the most
frequent disaster mode and has resulted in by far the greatest magnitude of damage suffered by
private property and public infrastructure. There is no reason to expect this to change within the
foreseeable future.
Landslide failures endangering residential or commercial property or municipal infrastructure,
while less common, represent another significant natural hazard to public safety that has received
little attention in the past but is now becoming more prevalent as development encroaches into
more unstable areas.
While inundation-related flood loss is a significant component of flood disasters, the
predominant mode of damage is associated with the dynamic, and oftentimes catastrophic,
physical adjustment of stream channel dimensions and location during storm events due to bed
and bank erosion, debris and ice jams, structural failures, flow diversion, or flow modification by
man-made structures. Channel adjustments with devastating consequences have frequently been
documented wherein such adjustments are linked to historic channel management activities,
flood plain encroachments, adjacent land use practices and/or changes in watershed hydrology
associated with conversion of land cover and drainage activities.
The same context applies to landslide erosion hazards (which may or may not be associated with
fluvial processes) in that identification of hazard areas and avoidance of incompatible
investments in such areas is much more cost effective than post-development embankment
stabilization or removal of threatened structures.
In the prioritization, alternatives evaluation, and implementation phase of any flood hazard
mitigation project, an adequate technical understanding of the fluvial processes governing river
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behavior is imperative. In addition, this geomorphic information is essential to support the
development and implementation of any river corridor protection, management or restoration
plan, mechanism, or project. Ultimately, recognition and accommodation of fluvial and, in the
case of landslide hazards, geo-technical processes will be critical to successful achievement of
project objectives. This is true whether they fall within the avoidance or retrofit mode.
Policy Objective 2: Prioritize Identified High Risk/Highly Vulnerable Areas
Implement a Landslide and Fluvial Geomorphic Assessment and Mapping Program at the
regional or watershed level according to assessment protocols and mapping methodologies
published by the VT Department of Environmental Conservation, River Management Program
and the VT Geological Survey
Other known scientific assessment tools and protocols for other hazard types, e.g. HAZUS MH,
can be used to determine high risk, highly vulnerable areas or areas which have already
experienced repetitive loss. HAZUS MH projections for wind and flood damage are included
within this State Plan (See Appendix L).
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Conduct technical assessments guided by the data outputs of the fluvial geomorphic and
landslides assessment and mapping process.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: ANR
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTE’s within River
Management Program and State Geologist Office, Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants,
Clean & Clear Water Initiative Funding (State General Fund).
o Priority Status/Timeframe: High

Fund local or regional flood hazard mitigation planning activities, adoption of riparian
corridor protection mechanisms and/or management strategies through state grant
programs.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: ANR, VEM, DHCA
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Municipal Planning Grants; Vermont
Watershed Grants, HMGP, Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium

Utilize Regional Planning Commissions and the VT Department of Agriculture to assist
in coordinating flood hazard mitigation efforts and adoption of riparian corridor
protection mechanisms.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: RPCs, VT Dept. of Agriculture, ANR
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o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Municipal Planning Grants; Vermont
Watershed Grants, HMGP, Pre-Disaster Mitigation Competitive Grants
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium

Use risk and vulnerability data as the basis for developing action plans (utilizing
avoidance strategies whenever possible) and establishment of funding priorities.
Incorporate these into project selection criteria and use weighted ranking for PDM and
HMGP applications.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: HMGP Project Selection Committee,VEM
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTE’s
o Priority Status/Timeframe: High

Enact new legislation and/or strengthen existing regulations to ensure that all future
development is consistent with the most recent fluvial and mapping assessments.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: State Legislature, ANR, VEM
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Current FTEs
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium

Accelerate current mapping and risk assessment initiatives utilizing the latest
technologies, e.g. fluvial hazard risk assessment, HAZUS MH.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: ANR, VEM
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium/Low
Policy objective 3: implement mitigation measures immediately after major disasters
In the immediate aftermath of a federal disaster, there is a tendency to favor the immediate
restoration of damaged infrastructure to its previous condition. As much as possible, VEM, ANR
and other agencies will endeavor to have the appropriate mitigation features incorporated into the
re-building phases of Public Assistance projects. This is determined to be the most cost-effective
mitigation approach in the long-term.
Recommended mitigation actions & Activities
 VEM will work closely with FEMA and local officials after a major disaster to ensure
that appropriate mitigation features are incorporated into Public Assistance projects
Responsible Agencies/ Departments: VEM, ANR, VTrans, affected towns
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Current or Potential Funding Sources: federal Public Assistance funds, federal
mitigation funds, state emergency funds
Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
Goal 3: Fully Utilize Federal Funding Streams to Support Hazard Mitigation Initiatives
Rationale
Statewide priorities for project funding sometimes take precedence over federally derived
benefits according to formula/model driven benefit-cost analyses. Nonetheless, at least in the
foreseeable future, the HMGP, PDM, and FMA funding stream is one of the State’s most
important resources in accomplishing hazard mitigation goals.
As promulgated in the FEMA Community Assistance Program, Map Modernization Business
Case Plan prepared by ANR, the FEMA Map Modernization Program funding will be applied to
support the Riparian Corridor Protection Initiative through risk assessment and mapping of
fluvial erosion hazards. Map modernization utilizes the latest HAZUS MH and ARC GIS
technology. Hazard projections are currently underway by ANR and the Vermont Center for
Geographic Information (VCGI). These projections include fluvial erosion, flooding, wind, and
earthquake.
Secondarily, and in association with full development and integration of a geomorphic
assessment tool for highway bridges and culverts, federal highway funds may become a
significant funding source for hazard mitigation. Other significant potential federal funding
sources include the EPA Watershed Restoration program, the stream restoration funding through
the US Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. In order to
optimize these funding streams, federal and state requirements must be fully integrated. Also,
state personnel resources must be available to track, obtain and manage available federal monies
Policy Objective 3.1
Include/Consider Federally Required Hazard Mitigation Grant Project Criteria (44 CFR Part 206,
Subpart N) for HMGP and Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) Projects:
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Require that each HMGP and PDM project be in conformance with the State Mitigation
Plan and Local Mitigation Plan approved under 44 CFR part 201.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project focus on priority mitigation strategies as
identified in this State Plan, e.g. risk avoidance, repetitive loss areas, riparian corridor
protection, areas impacted by fluvial erosion, chronic flooding, et al.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project have a beneficial impact upon the designated
disaster area, whether or not located in the designated area.
11


Require that each HMGP and PDM project be in conformance with 44 CFR part 9,
Floodplain Management and Protection of Wetlands, and 44 CFR part 10, Environmental
Considerations.
Require that each HMGP and PDM project solve a problem independently or constitute a
functional portion of a solution where there is assurance that the project as a whole will
be completed. Projects that merely identify or analyze hazards are not eligible.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project be cost-effective and substantially reduce the
risk of future damage, hardship, loss, or suffering resulting from a major natural or manmade disaster.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project address a problem that has been repetitive, or
a problem that poses a significant risk to public health and safety if left unresolved.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project will not cost more than the anticipated value
of the reduction in both direct damages and subsequent negative impacts to the area if
future disasters were to occur. Both costs and benefits will be computed on a presentvalue basis.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project be the most practical, effective, and
environmentally sound alternative after consideration of a wide range of options.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project contribute to a practical long-term solution to
the problem it is intended to address.

Require that each HMGP and PDM project consider the long-term changes to the areas
it protects, to include manageable future maintenance and modification requirements.

Disallow project proposals which attempt to address issues solely related to deferred
maintenance or neglect of existing infrastructure facilities

Allow up to 7% of the State's HMGP grant be used to develop State, tribal and/or local
mitigation plans to meet the planning criteria outlined in 44 CFR part 201. Enhanced
Plan approval would allow up to 20% of post-disaster funds to be used for hazard
mitigation after a federally declared disaster.

Allow projects to be of any nature that will result in protection to public or private
property. Eligible projects include, but are not limited to:
o
o
o
o
o
o
o
Structural hazard control or protection projects
Transportation infrastructure facilities: roads, bridges, culverts
Construction activities that will result in protection from hazards
Repetitive loss properties
Retrofitting of facilities
Property acquisition or relocation, as defined in Section 206.434 (e)
Development of State or local mitigation standards
12
o Development of comprehensive mitigation programs with implementation as an
essential component
o Development or improvement of warning systems
o Assessment of land use compatible with natural processes and identified natural
hazards

Responsible Agencies/Departments: HMGP Project Selection Committee; VEM

Current or Potential Funding Sources: federal EMPG; existing General Fund
resources

Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
Policy Objective 3.2
Integrate Plan and Projects With Other State and/or Regional, Local Planning Initiatives:
In addition to providing multiple social, political, financial and environmental benefits,
integrated comprehensive planning efforts are a required element of an enhanced state mitigation
plan pursuant to 44 CFR §201.5(b)(1). In practice, plan priorities (and any subsequent
implementation projects) will be based upon the degree to which these can be integrated and
incorporated to the extent practicable with other State, local and regional initiatives. These
include comprehensive plans, growth management plans, economic development plans,
watershed basin plans, capital improvement plans, land development plans, and other emergency
management plans and FEMA programs/initiatives.
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Incorporate this objective into project selection criteria and use weighted ranking to
evaluate and prioritize PDM and HMGP applications which demonstrate clear
relationships to other state, local and regional planning efforts.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: HMGP Project Selection Committee; HM
Committee, VEM
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM; EMPG; State Gen. Fund $
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium

Bolster State ability to support development of nationally competitive PDM-C
applications
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: Vermont Emergency Management; ANR
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM-C
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
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Policy Objective 3.3
Integrate state hazard mitigation objectives into non-traditional federal funding streams.
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 As part of a collaborative process involving VTrans and ANR, integrate fluvial
geomorphic considerations into transportation infrastructure planning, design,
construction and maintenance activities.

Include fluvial erosion hazard risk assessment and mapping as a integral element of
FEMA Map Modernization activities.

When feasible, encourage project participation by the Army Corps of Engineers, USDA’s
Natural Resource Conservation Service, and others
Goal 4: Seek to Accomplish Multiple or Combined Hazard Mitigation Objectives
Rationale
Given continued challenges in developing comprehensive and cost effective solutions to multiple
federal and state initiatives and given that most benefits are economically quantifiable, priority
and support will be given to implementation plans and projects which have broader defined or
multiple “social benefits” and which seek to leverage limited resources to the greatest extent
practical.
Policy Objective 4.1
Encourage Projects Which Utilize An Environmentally Sustainable, Ecological Process:
In acknowledgment of existing state and federal resource protection goals, as well as natural
resource functions and values, the following will receive priority: project designs which
consider, support and enhance benefits to fish/wildlife, habitat, wetlands, open space protection,
support for rural resource economies, storm water runoff remediation, and pollution protection
for state streams, rivers, lakes and ground source drinking water.
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Incorporate this objective into project selection criteria and use weighted ranking to
evaluate and prioritize PDM and HMGP applications.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: HMGP Project Selection Committee; HM
Committee
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTEs
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
Policy Objective 4.2
 Identify and Incorporate Projects Which Utilize Multiple Funding Sources, and/or
Involve Multiple Jurisdictions
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Projects with multiple funding sources, multiple jurisdictions and/or combined government,
community/private backing have a broader base of support and thus would tend to increase the
likelihood that a given project would be constructed and maintained. Also, pooled funding
streams often provide opportunities to leverage matching funds. Given that there are multiple
sources of funds from specific state and federal programs, it is wise to encourage the application
of these various funding sources to address projects that match the purpose of these funds.
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Prioritize HMGP and PDM applications based upon the involvement of multiple political
jurisdictions (watersheds, regions or multi-town collaborations), multiple funding
sources, and multi-agency sponsorship or partnerships.

Incorporate these considerations into project selection criteria and use weighted ranking
for PDM and HMGP applications.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: HMGP Project Selection Committee, HM
Planning Committee, VEM
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTEs
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
Policy Objective 4.3
Utilize Implementation Mechanisms/Technical Support from Multiple Sources
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Prioritize HM and PDM Project funding based upon evidence of supporting
scientific/engineering documentation and support from a broad base of peer reviewers
(e.g. federal, state, regional, local) so as to ensure the technical validity of a proposed
project solution.

Incorporate this objective into project selection criteria and use weighted ranking for
PDM and HMGP applications.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: HMGP Project Selection Committee, HM
Planning Committee
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTEs
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium
Goal 5: Reduce Expenditures for Property and Infrastructure Protection
Rationale
Although avoidance is the State’s primary focus, a secondary goal for existing structures is
mitigation through removal, retrofit, restoration or stabilization. Projects that seek to implement
this goal can be expensive due to repetitive damage and design limitations.
15
Goal 6: Build Support and Capacity to Further Reduce Natural and Man-Made
Vulnerabilities at the state and local levels
Rationale
Since hazards tend to have the most dramatic affect at the local level, both physical and
economic mechanisms need to be in place to mitigate against the effects of future hazard events.
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 The Agency of Natural Resources may send a questionnaire to each town requesting the
location of any private or public dam not included on the National and State dam
inventory list.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: ANR, VEM
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM-C grant
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Low

Development of HAZMAT in-transit tracking systems for vehicles and trains carrying
extremely hazardous substances. It is proposed that operators give advance notice to the
State of hazardous cargo and routes to the final destination. This proposal may be
incorporated into VEM’s Vermont Emergency Management Planning & Response
Database (VEPARDS) system.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: VEM, HSU
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM-C grant
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium to High

Develop more effective mechanisms for coordination and cooperation between state,
municipal, non-profit and private emergency service providers. This would remedy any
existing deficiencies in coordinating disaster response and recovery efforts. The goal is to
achieve full operational functionality at the state, regional, and local levels to effectively
deal with unforeseen events such as mass evacuations, ice storms, hazmat spills, power
outages, etc. VEM would act as a central focal point and lead agency in coordingating all
emergency response and mitigation efforts state-wide.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: VEM, HSU, VT State Police, State and
Local Emergency Response Commissions, VT Dept. of Health, VT National
Guard
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM-C grant, HSU grants
o Priority Status/Timeframe: Medium to High
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Policy Objective 6.1: Provide Funding and Technical Assistance for the Development of
Local Mitigation Plans
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 Create a state process and timeframe by which the local plans will be reviewed,
coordinated, and linked to the State Mitigation Plan.

Create criteria for prioritizing communities and local jurisdictions that would receive
planning and project grants under available funding programs, which should include a
section on the coordination of local mitigation planning that includes the following:
consideration for communities with the highest risks, repetitive loss properties, most
intense development pressures, and strongest commitment to address these hazards
expressed in their respective regional and local mitigation plans. Furthermore, for nonplanning grants, a principal criterion for prioritizing grants shall be the extent to which
benefits are maximized according to a cost benefit review of proposed projects and their
associated costs.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: VEM, HM Committee
o Current or Potential Funding Sources: PDM-C grant
o Priority Status/Timeframe: High
Policy Objective 6.2: Enhance the Capacity for Vermont Emergency Management to
Deliver Grant Funds to Local Entities Efficiently and Effectively
Recommended Mitigation Actions & Activities
 VEM will continue its development of a comprehensive strategic plan with significant
public input from its partners and customers, in order to improve levels of service and
organizational efficiency in support of its many programs. This also applies to its partner
agencies on the Hazard Mitigation Committee. VEM will endeavor to improve working
relations among and between state, regional, and local partners.
VEM will sponsor PDM-C workshops with FEMA to enable towns to submit more
competitive grant applications.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: VEM, Agency partners, FEMA
o Current/Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTE’s
o Priority Status: Medium
Evaluation of Mitigation Actions and Activities
Mitigation actions and activities were prioritized based on:
1) Mitigation goals set forth in the State and Regional plans;
2) Risk assessments in the state and regional plans;
3) Priorities set forth in previous mitigation plans; and
17
4) Input from the State Hazard Mitigation Committee and other appropriate parties.
Goal 7: Bolster State Ability to Support Development of PDM-C Applications
Rationale
Given the competitive nature of the PDM-C process, the state needs to assist towns in developing
viable mitigation projects and planning proposals.
Recommended Actions & Activities
 Schedule practical workshop sessions to assist applicants in preparing competitive grant
applications, including sessions on benefit cost analysis, engineering design,
environmental permits, etc.
o Responsible Agencies/Departments: VEM, FEMA Region 1
o Current/Potential Funding Sources: Existing FTE’s, VEM funds
o Priority Status: Medium to High
Mitigation Goals Set Forth in the State Plan
 Which agencies and interested parties were involved in identifying priority
activities?
The State Hazard Mitigation Committee was involved in identifying priority
activities. The Committee includes representatives from Vermont Emergency
Management (VEM), Department of Housing and Community Affairs (DHCA),
Agency of Natural Resources (ANR), Agency of Transportation (AOT-VTrans),
Agency of Administration, Department of Labor and Industry, Department of
Education, Department of Health, Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities and
Health Care Access, Agency of Agriculture, Department of Buildings and General
Services, Agency of Human Services, and Regional Planning Commissions. Nonprofit environmental, community and business organizations were also invited to
mitigation committee meetings and are involved in the state hazard mitigation
planning process. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) involved in State Plan
development phase include the VT League of Cities and Towns, The Nature
Conservancy, and the White River Partnership.
VEM takes the lead in identifying potential mitigation projects in accordance with its
role within the State Hazard Mitigation Committee. In cooperation with its state and
local partners, VEM coordinates mitigation strategies and actively assists local
communities in achieving their mitigation goals and objectives through project and
planning grants.
DHCA provides significant guidance in identifying mitigation projects/planning
affecting land use and future land use, and supports activities in order to safeguard
municipal and regional planning in accordance with Title 24 VSA Chapter 117, Act
250, and the Downtown Development Act. DHCA also provides mitigation guidance
18
for projects and planning affecting local needs in housing, economic development,
public facilities, and public services for citizens of low to moderate incomes. The
agency also coordinates the state planning effort and helps provide training and
support for regional and local hazard mitigation planning.
ANR helps prioritize projects that protect, sustain, and enhance Vermont's natural
resources and helps to protect and enhance the state's air, water, forest, and other
natural resources. ANR also works to ensure that state mitigation activities are
commensurate with environmental conservation, fish & wildlife, and forest and
recreational concerns. In particular, ANR’s expertise in riverine erosion assessments
often provides an essential element in the design of many mitigation projects and
planning activities.

How were the actions and activities evaluated?
The following mitigation actions and activities were prioritized by the goals and
objectives in the statewide mitigation planning strategy. High priority indicates
ongoing/near term actions which are capable of being implemented with existing
resources and authorities; Medium priority indicates intended for action during the
3-year planning cycle using existing resources and authorities but which may require
reallocation or reprioritization to achieve and; Low priority indicates potential for
action during future 3-year planning cycles and which will require new of additional
resources or authority to implement and achieve.

How do the activities correspond to the plan goals and objectives?
Each mitigation action and activity identified in the following table is directly linked
to a plan goal and objective.

What are the means to achieve these mitigation activities?
See Plan Requirement 201.4 c 3 (i) for more information and identification of funding
sources.
MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
MITIGATION ACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES
IN STATEWIDE MITIGATION PLANNING STRATEGY
Provide training to state, regional and local officials
for hazard avoidance strategies, including but not
limited to: open space preservation, property
acquisition, creation of special assessment districts,
tax increment financing, repetitive loss properties,
assessment, mapping and implementation of local
riparian corridor protection mechanisms, wetlands
protection, zoning tools, subdivision planning and
development review, and implementing pro-active,
preventative mitigation projects for key infrastructure
locations.
19
PRIORITY
STATUS/TIME
FRAME
High
PLAN
GOAL
1.1
MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
MITIGATION ACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES
IN STATEWIDE MITIGATION PLANNING STRATEGY
Conduct technical assessments guided by the data
outputs of the fluvial geomorphic and landslides
assessment and mapping process.
Use risk and vulnerability data as the basis for
developing action plans (utilizing avoidance strategies
when possible) and establishment of funding priorities
and incorporate into project selection criteria and use
weighted ranking for PDM-C, HMGP, and FMA
applications.
Create criteria for prioritizing communities and local
jurisdictions that would receive planning and project
grants under available funding programs, which
should include a section on the coordination of local
mitigation planning that includes the following:
consideration for communities with the highest risks,
repetitive loss properties, most intense development
pressures, and strongest commitment to address these
hazards expressed in their respective regional and
local mitigation plans. Further, that for non-planning
grants, a principal criterion for prioritizing grants shall
be the extent to which benefits are maximized
according to a cost benefit review of proposed projects
and their associated costs.
Create a state process and timeframe by which the
local plans will be reviewed, coordinated, and linked
to the State Mitigation Plan.
Enact new legislation and/or strengthen existing
regulations to ensure that all future development is
consistent with the most recent fluvial and mapping
assessments
To the extent possible, create grant and loan priority
incentives to ensure that all new construction takes
place outside of designated flood plain, fluvial erosion
hazard, and repetitive loss areas.
Ensure that proposed environmental and development
legislation initiatives are in accordance with the State
Mitigation Plan.
Fund local or regional flood hazard mitigation
planning activities, adoption of riparian corridor
protection mechanisms and/or management strategies
through state grant programs.
Include requirements from federally required hazard
20
PRIORITY
STATUS/TIME
FRAME
High
PLAN
GOAL
2.1
High
2.2
High
6.1
High
6.1
Medium
2.2
Medium
1.1
Medium
1.1
Medium
2.1
Medium
3.1
MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
MITIGATION ACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES
IN STATEWIDE MITIGATION PLANNING STRATEGY
mitigation grant project criteria for HMGP and PDMC projects
Incorporate plan integration into project selection
criteria and use weighted ranking to evaluate and
prioritize PDM and HMGP applications which
demonstrate clear relationships to other state, local,
and regional planning efforts.
Bolster State ability to support development of
nationally competitive PDM-C applications
Incorporate “environmentally sustainable, ecological
process” into project selection criteria and use
weighted ranking to evaluate and prioritize PDM and
HMGP applications.
Prioritize HMGP, PDM and FMA applications based
upon the involvement of multiple political
jurisdictions (watersheds, regions or multi-town
collaborations).
Incorporate “implementation mechanisms/technical
support from multiple sources” into project selection
criteria and use weighted ranking for HMGP, PDM-C,
and FMA applications.
Provide training and education to state, regional and
local officials about hazard retrofit/upgrade strategies,
including but not limited to: road and bridge
standards, flood proofing, building elevation, fluvial
conflict resolution, and dam maintenance or removal.
VEM will develop an organizational strategic plan
with significant public input from its partners and
customers to improve level of service and
organizational efficiency in support of its many
programs
Accelerate current mapping and risk assessment
initiatives utilizing the latest technologies, e.g. Fluvial
hazard risk assessment, HAZUS MH
21
PRIORITY
STATUS/TIME
FRAME
PLAN
GOAL
Medium
3.2
Medium
3.2
Medium
4.1
Medium
4.2
Medium
4.2
Medium
5.1
Medium
6.2
Medium/Low
2.2
Achieve Mitigation Goals
Requirement 201.5 (b) (3): The Enhanced Plan must demonstrate that the State effectively uses
existing mitigation programs to achieve its mitigation goals.
State hazard mitigation goals are summarized as follows:
 To emphasize avoidance strategies over more costly restoration or retrofit approaches
 To reduce reconstruction costs by implementing preventative pre-disaster mitigation
infrastructure projects
 To implement mitigation measures that are cost-effective and environmentally sound
 To implement mitigation measures which complement and blend in with the natural
landscape
 To strengthen partnership ties with local towns and communities in order to more
effectively address local mitigation needs
The State of Vermont utilizes a diverse range of funding sources and programs in order to
achieve its mitigation goals. This includes the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), the
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Competitive (PDM-C) Program, the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)
Program, the Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG), and Map Modernization.
The State also has emergency funds available for critical transportation infrastructure projects
(i.e. roads, bridges) through the Agency of Transportation (AOT).
In order to strengthen ties to local communities, the SHMO works closely with local selectboard
chairs and town managers in selecting appropriate mitigation sites and helping local officials
complete mitigation project applications. Also, the SHMO helps coordinate assistance with other
state agencies, such as the Agency of Natural Resources or Agency of Transportation. For
example, VEM’s SHMO recently assisted the town of Rochester, VT in completing its HMGP
application for a long overdue mitigation project involving a local bridge in an advanced stage of
deterioration. The bridge is nearly 100 years old, and is the sole access route to dozens of local
residents. Completion of this project is vital to the town as it maintains accessibility for
emergency vehicles.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP): The State has earmarked this program for use in
post-disaster hazard mitigation projects. Because HMGP funds are post-disaster and are limited,
the State limits eligibility to declared counties only in the aftermath of a Presidential declared
disaster. In addition, the State utilizes the 5% HMGP set-aside funds to help fund planning
projects for local governments and other agencies. Under this program, in excess of $4.2 million
in federal funds has been allocated in the state since 1995, encompassing 11 Presidential
declared disasters.
The Pre-Disaster Mitigation Competitive (PDM-C) Program is a primary source of
mitigation funding in the state. This program allows towns to apply for mitigation funds in a
nation-wide competitive process. Every effort is made to assist towns in the application process
in order to have them compete effectively in this nation-wide program. For example, the SHMO
often assists towns in compiling the necessary data to complete the Benefit-Cost analysis, getting
the necessary environmental agency approval letters, etc.
22
The Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program assists in mitigating repetitive loss
properties, in accordance with the FEMA definition of repetitive loss. Solutions may include:
mitigation project implementation, property acquisition, elevation, relocation, et al.
Map Modernization is an element of the FEMA National Flood Insurance Program Community
Assistance Program that is focused on upgrading and updating existing NFIP mapping. The
Agency of Natural Resources (ANR) and FEMA Region I are collaborating in a pilot program
within which a fluvial erosion hazard risk assessment and mapping element is made an integral
element of Map Modernization. Also, VT ANR and the Vermont Center for Geographic
Information (VCGI) are collaborating on a state mapping initiative utilizing the HAZUS MH
program.
Detailed projections are being calculated to track potential damages by future
flooding events, windstorms, and earthquakes. These damage projections are overlaid onto state
maps, which will be incorporated into VEM’s Multi-Disaster Emergency Planning and Resource
Database (VEPARDS).
Bennington Region Hazard Mitigation Goals
1.
Local government will have the capability to develop, implement and maintain
effective mitigation programs.
a.
The effectiveness of mitigation initiatives implemented in the community will be
measured and documented.
b.
There will be a program to derive mitigation “lessons learned” from each
significant disaster event occurring in or near the community.
c.
Up-to-date technical skills in mitigation planning and programming will be
available for the community.
2.
All sectors of the community will work together to create a disaster resistant
community by the year 2020.
a.
Local agencies and organizations will establish specific interagency agreements
for the development and implementation of mitigation-related projects and
programs.
b.
Local elected governing bodies will promulgate the local mitigation plan and
support community mitigation programming.
c.
Outreach programs to gain participation in mitigation programs by business,
industry, institutions and community groups will be developed and implemented.
d.
The community will be periodically updated regarding local efforts in mitigation
planning and programming.
e.
The community’s public and private sector organizations will partner to promote
hazard mitigation programming throughout the community.
3.
The community will have the capability to initiate and sustain emergency response
operations during and after a disaster.
a.
Designated evacuation shelters will be retrofitted or relocated to ensure their
operability during and after disaster events.
b.
Emergency services organizations will have the capability to detect emergency
situations and promptly initiate emergency response operations.
c.
Local emergency services facilities will be retrofitted or relocated to withstand the
structural impacts of disasters.
23
d.
4.
5.
6.
Response capabilities will be available to protect visitors, special needs
individuals, and the homeless from a disaster’s health and safety impacts.
e.
The capability to effectively utilize available data and information related to
mitigation planning and program development will be available.
f.
Utility and communications systems supporting emergency services operations
will be retrofitted or relocated to withstand the impacts of disasters.
g.
Vehicle access routes to key health care facilities will be protected from blockage
as a result of a disaster.
The continuity of local government operations will not be significantly disrupted.
a.
Buildings and facilities used for the routine operations of government will be
retrofitted or relocated to withstand the impacts of disasters.
b.
Community redevelopment plans will be prepared to guide decision-making and
resource allocation by local government in the aftermath of a disaster.
c.
Important local government records and documents will be protected from the
impacts of disasters.
d.
Redundant equipment, facilities, and/or supplies will be obtained to facilitate
reestablishing local government operations after a disaster.
The health, safety and welfare of the community’s residents and visitors will not be
threatened by disasters.
a.
Adequate systems for notifying the public at risk and providing emergency
instruction during a disaster will be available in all identified hazard areas.
b.
Effective structural measures will be developed to protect residential areas from
the physical impacts of disasters.
c.
Facilities in the community posing an extra health or safety risk when damaged or
disrupted will be made less vulnerable to the impacts of a disaster.
d.
Public and private medical and health care facilities in the community will be
retrofitted or relocated to withstand the impacts of disasters.
e.
Safety devices on transportation networks will not fail because of a disaster.
f.
Structures, facilities and systems serving visitors to the community will be
prepared to meet their immediate health and safety needs.
g.
There will be adequate resources, equipment and supplies to meet victims’ health
and safety needs after a disaster.
The policies and regulations of local government will support effective hazard
mitigation programming throughout the community.
a.
All reconstruction or rehabilitation of local government facilities will incorporate
techniques to minimize the physical or operational vulnerability to disasters.
b.
Land use policies, plans and regulations will discourage or prohibit inappropriate
location of structures or infrastructure components in areas of higher risk.
c.
Local government will ensure that hazard mitigation needs and programs are
given appropriate emphasis in resource allocation and decision-making.
d.
Local governments will protect high hazard natural areas from new or continuing
development.
e.
Local jurisdictions will participate fully in the National Flood Insurance Program
and the associated Community Rating System.
f.
New local government facilities will be located outside of hazard areas and/or will
be designed to not be vulnerable to the impacts of such hazards.
24
g.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Reconstruction and rehabilitation of structures and utilities in the community will
incorporate appropriate hazard mitigation techniques.
h.
Regulations will be established and enforced to ensure that public and private
property maintenance is consistent with minimizing vulnerabilities to disaster.
Residents of the community will have homes, institutions and places of employment
that are not vulnerable to disasters.
a.
Economic incentive programs for the general public, businesses and industry to
implement structural and non-structural mitigation measures will be established.
b.
Programs for removal, relocation or retrofitting of vulnerable structures and
utilities in hazard areas will be established and implemented.
c.
The vulnerability to disasters of schools, libraries, museums, and other institutions
important to the daily lives of the community will be minimized.
The economic vitality of the community will not be threatened by a disaster.
a.
Components of the infrastructure needed by the community’s businesses and
industries will be protected from the impacts of disaster.
b.
Local government emergency response and disaster recovery plans will
appropriately consider the needs of key employers in the community.
c.
Local government will encourage community businesses and industries to make
their facilities and operations disaster resistant.
d.
Local government will establish programs, facilities and resources to support
business resumption activities by impacted local businesses and industry.
e.
Local government will implement programs to address public perceptions of
community condition and functioning in the aftermath of a disaster.
The availability and functioning of the community’s infrastructure will not be
significantly disrupted by a disaster here.
a.
Sources of energy normally used by the community will not be unwarrantedly
vulnerable to the impacts of a disaster.
b.
The telecommunications systems and facilities serving the community will not be
unwarrantedly vulnerable to the impacts of a disaster.
c.
Transportation facilities and systems serving the community will be constructed
and/or retrofitted to minimize the potential for disruption during a disaster.
d.
Water and sewer services in the community will not fail because of a disaster.
All members of the community will understand the hazards threatening local areas
and the techniques to minimize vulnerability to those hazards
a.
Data and information needed for defining hazards, risk areas and vulnerabilities in
the community will be obtained.
b.
Education programs in risk communication and hazard mitigation will be
established and implemented.
c.
Managers of public facilities will be knowledgeable in hazard mitigation
techniques and the components of the community’s mitigation plan.
d.
Technical training in mitigation planning and programming will be given to
appropriate local government employees.
e.
The owners and operators of businesses and industries in the community will be
knowledgeable in appropriate hazard mitigation techniques.
f.
The public living or working in defined hazard areas will be aware of that fact,
understand their vulnerability and know appropriate mitigation techniques.
25
g.
The public will have facilitated access to information needed to understand their
vulnerability to disasters and effective mitigation techniques.
Benefits
Adopting and maintaining this Hazard Mitigation Plan will:
 Make certain funding sources available to complete the identified mitigation
initiatives that would not otherwise be available if the plan was not in place.

Ease the receipt of post-disaster state and federal funding because the list of
mitigation initiatives is already identified.

Support effective pre and post-disaster decision making efforts.

Lessen each local government’s vulnerability to disasters by focusing limited
financial resources to specifically identified initiatives whose importance has been
ranked.

Connect hazard mitigation planning to community planning where possible.
Community planning efforts include the development of Town Plans, the annual
budget process, and Emergency Operations Planning at the local and regional levels.
Town Plans, the Hazard Mitigation Plan and its Annexes, and local and regional
Emergency Operations Plans should be integrated. During a plan update process,
each of the other plans should be reviewed to ensure that all plans remain consistent
and integrated. Communications should occur among departments within each
municipality, as well as on the regional level. The type of plan or planning function
will determine the party responsible for updates and conformance with related plans.
When Town Plans are updated by the towns, each town should review its other
(related) plans, including the Hazard Mitigation Plan, and incorporate goals and
information as appropriate. When the Emergency Operations Plan is updated by the
Local Emergency Planning Committee, the LEPC should review other related plans,
including the Hazard Mitigation Plan, and incorporate information where appropriate.
Currently, the EOP contains information that has been excerpted from the Hazard
Mitigation Plan. Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be
determined primarily at the town level, as outlined in the plans mentioned above, and
based on community need. A cost-benefit review is recommended to maximize
benefits.
26
List of Participants
ARLINGTON
Name
Keith Squires
Position
Select Board Chair & Emergency Management Director
BENNINGTON
Name
Patrick Kinney
Stuart Hurd
Position
Road Foreman
Town Manager
DORSET
Name
Thomas Glavin
Position
Town Manager & Emergency Management Director
GLASTENBURY
Name
Rickey Harrington
Position
Supervisor
LANDGROVE
Name
Josie Ameden
Position
Emergency Management Director
MANCHESTER
Name
Dick Holms
Position
Emergency Management Director
MANCHESTER VILLAGE
Name
Position
Dick Holms
Emergency Management Director
NORTH BENNINGTON
Name
Position
David Monks
Village Trustee
OLD BENNINGTON
Name
Position
PERU
Name
Charles Black
Position
Select Board Chair
27
POWNAL
Name
Casey Mattison
Position
Road Foreman
RUPERT
Name
Jay Wilson
Tom Wilson
Position
Fire Chief, Emergency Mgt Director, Road Foreman
Select Board Member
SANDGATE
Name
Jim Link
Position
Select Board Chair
Local Emergency Planning Committee Members:
Keith Squires, Town of Arlington
Nate Williams, Long Trail School
Tom Fields, State of Vermont
Lissa Luke, Bennington County Regional Commission
Tom DePollo, Past Chair
Donna Baker, American Red Cross
Lt. Steve Poirot, VT State Police Dept
Richard Gauthier, Bennington Police Dept
Gregory Bird, Energizer Battery
Karen Hewson, Southwestern VT Medical Center
Christian Phelps, Southwestern VT Medical Center
Randy Terk, District #12 EMS Board
Marcia Russo, VT Dept of Health
Jay Wilson, Rupert Fire Dept
Brian Billert, Bennington Fire Dept
Paul Ethier, Stamford Fire Dept
David O’Brien, United Counseling Service
Julia Maroney, Bennington Home Health
Bill Leach, VT Agency of Transportation District #1
Chris Gaines, ARES
Terry Morse, Town of Bennington
William Wright, State’s Attorney
Kevin Robinson, Southwestern VT Medical Center
Richard Holms, Manchester EMC
Bill Levine, Stamford EMC
28
Bennington County Regional Commission
Regional Hazard Mitigation Plan - Community Questionnaire
1. Does your community have an existing Hazard Analysis? If yes, continue to #2. If no,
please complete the attached Hazard Identification Chart and then continue to #2.
2. Of the hazards listed, which one(s) have or could affect your community?
3. Are there any hazards that you would add to the list (consider opening or closing facilities or
new structures that pose potential secondary hazards)?
4. Approximately how often does this hazard occur in your community (consider a seasonal
pattern)?
5. Which of these hazards is a significant threat to your community (how bad can it get, where
is it likely to strike, how large an area is it likely to affect, how long will it last, how fast is it
likely to occur, how much warning time is there, and does a warning system exist)?
6. What is your best estimate of the total population (private homes and businesses) that could
be seriously affected by this hazard?
7. What is your best estimate of the total infrastructure (public buildings, roads, bridges, access,
water & sewage treatment facilities, power sources, etc.) that could be seriously affected by
this hazard?
8. What, if any, hazard mitigation or disaster reduction efforts are in place or planned (existing
or planned local ordinances, transport routes, culvert sizes, facility relocation)?
9. Do any of the hazards listed trigger other hazards that could affect the community (cascading
emergencies)?
29
Hazard Inventory & Vulnerability Assessment
The following is a list of possible hazards for your community. Those with an * are desired to be
considered by BCRC. First, add to the list any others that might occur in your community. Do the
hazards have a high, medium, low, or no likelihood of being a threat to your community? Put your
answers in the column headed “Likelihood”. For example, if you live in Hawaii, you would put “no”
beside snow and ice storm. If you live near a river or on a flood plain, put high, medium, or low based
on your conversation with the National Flood Insurance Program Coordinator.
Look at the next column, “Vulnerability”. What is the vulnerability of your jurisdiction to this hazard?
Given all you know about the vulnerability of your community, does the hazard present the threat of a
disaster (YES), or just a routine emergency (NO)? Put your answer in the column.
In the final column, check those hazards that represent the worst threats to your community. The “worst
threats” are those hazards with threats that have high or medium (a) Likelihood of happening, or (b)
Disaster Vulnerability. These are the hazards on which you will want to concentrate first.
Possible Hazard
Likelihood
Vulnerability
Worst Threats
Tornado
Flood*
Flash Flood*
Hazardous Materials*
Radiological Incident
Structure Fire
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm*
High Wind*
Aircrash
Water Supply Contamination
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
Earthquake
Volcano
Drought*
Chemical/Biological Incident
Highway/Transport Accidents
Mudflow
Dam Failures
Wildfire/Forest Fire
Avalanche/Landslide
School Safety Issues*
30
“Climate Variability and Socioeconomic Consequences of Vermont’s Natural
Hazards: A Historical Perspective” By Lesley-Ann Dupigny-Giroux
The climate of Vermont has been described as changeable, with inherent variations. . . . Today, in the face of
inherent climate shifts and enhanced greenhouse gas effects, understanding the role of climate variability
becomes critical.
Over the last three centuries, Vermonters have lived with, learned from, and come to love the
weather and climate around them. In turn, the relentless march of the seasons, each with its own
series of weather events, has shaped our activities and the landscape. From the completion of the
state’s constitution during a severe thunderstorm in 1777, to the necessity-driven creation of
recipes during the January 1998 ice storm, weather and climate have greatly influenced the
socioeconomic fabric of our lives.
The climate of Vermont has been described as changeable, with inherent variations. Climate
variability refers to the natural fluctuations that occur in hydroclimatological variables such as
precipitation and temperature patterns, storm tracks, and frequency at a number of time scales
(annual, decadal, centennial, and even millennial). Such naturally occurring variations make it
difficult to distinguish long term trends in the climate record. Our knowledge about the climate
around us is ever improving, although actual observations of climatic parameters remain
somewhat limited. The interaction and inter-relatedness between the weather (i.e., daily
temperatures, storms, precipitation) and climate (e.g. the recurring patterns of droughts and
floods) on human activities and vice versa has long been documented in Vermont. Samuel
Williams first published The Natural and Civil History of Vermont in 1794, followed by Zadock
Thompson’s Natural History of Vermont in 1853, and Lectures on Milk, Fertilization, Birds,
Insects, Forestry, How to Foretell Storms, etc. by Dr. Hiram A. Cutting in 1884. In the twentieth
century, numerous accounts by naturalists, meteorologists, and climatologists, including F. E.
Hartwell (1922), Arthur Stone (1929) and David Ludlum (1985) have greatly enriched our
understanding of the complexities of the state’s weather and climate.
These complexities are highlighted by considering some well-known facets of life in Vermont. In
general, Vermont enjoys equally distributed precipitation due to the convergence of storm tracks
in New England originating in the northwest, west, and Gulf of Mexico. This implies that the
cloud shield affects much of the region, making it one of the cloudiest places in the U.S. Two
well-known climate singularities observed in Vermont include the January thaw and Indian
summer. A climate singularity refers to a meteorological event that tends to occur on or around a
well-defined date. Meteorologists now believe the January thaw occurs around the twenty-first of
January. When F. E. Hartwell wrote his article about Vermont’s weather for The Vermonter in
1922, the mild period could occur at any time from the final week in December to the middle of
February. Then, as now, thaws have been known to remove all of the snow cover from the Lake
Champlain valley, but do not tend to occur during severe winters.
Recently, pronounced thaws were observed in 1995 and 1996. Today, in the face of natural
climate shifts and enhanced greenhouse gas effects, understanding the role played by climate
variability becomes critical. Changes in climate regimes could have adverse impacts on tourism,
forestry, and water resources in Vermont. In particular, there is growing concern about the ability
of farmers to adapt to increasing climate variability. In quantifying the impact of climate
variability, individual events, and weather extremes on the state’s economic activities over the
31
past century-and-a-half, this account differs from earlier accounts in its focus on natural hazards.
Severe weather, droughts, and flooding are all examples of naturally occurring phenomena that
pose hazards or risks to human beings. It is the intersection between exposure to the risk by
vulnerable populations that leads to a natural disaster. This emphasis on hydroclimatic hazards
(and not geologic ones) will augment David Ludlum’s synopsis of Vermont’s weather by
highlighting the temporal and spatial underpinnings of climatic phenomena that have helped to
shape Vermont’s society and economy during the recent past.
Hazards in Vermont
Vermont is susceptible to a number of hydrometeorologic natural hazards ranging from
temperature extremes, drought, flooding, flash flooding, tornadoes, and damaging winds, to
severe thunderstorms, winter storms, and forest fires. Many of these phenomena are either made
up of several hazards or are associated with additional ones. For example, lightning and hail
often accompany severe thunderstorms. Winter storms can include snowstorms, blizzards, and
icing events. Every hazard has seasonal characteristics. For example, winter and spring flooding
can result from ice jams or sudden thaws, whereas during the fall, tropical cyclone remnants can
bring copious amounts of precipitation. Each hydroclimatic hazard also tends to occur in
temporal cycles, and thus, some have been more frequently observed during some decades but
not others. When this cyclical nature of extreme weather events is considered in conjunction with
evolving patterns of population growth, land use practices, and economic development, we
observe varying impacts on life, limb, and property over the course of Vermont’s history.
Flooding, with Special Reference to Tropical Cyclones
One of the most pervasive hazards that impinges upon and marks the Vermont landscape is
flooding. Flooding can be categorized as one of two types: flash flooding, which has a rapid
onset of six hours or less from the time of the initiating event; and flooding that has a more
gradual onset. Rarely does a year elapse without a flooding event of a significant magnitude
being reported in at least one of Vermont’s fourteen counties or perhaps statewide, making this
the number-one hazard across the state. Between 1955 and 1999, floods accounted for $16.97
million in damage annually.
In recent decades, 1973 ($422 million) and 1984 ($115 million) stand out as notable for extreme
amounts of flood damage. The causal factors that lead to flooding are strongly seasonal in nature
and include the arrival of consecutive large storms, snowmelt, ice jams, rain on frozen ground,
wet antecedent soil conditions, and the passage of tropical storms or hurricane remnants. In the
case of rain on frozen ground, downward percolation is inhibited, leading to surface runoff, as
occurred during the ice storm of January 1998. Runoff due to lack of infiltration also occurs
when the ground is already saturated from previous precipitation or a rising water table. Large
precipitation totals can be associated with a number of factors, including frontal systems. In
Vermont, the combination between frontal characteristics (such as orientation and speed) and
complex topographic barriers such as the Green Mountains and Taconics produces enhanced
precipitation totals (also known as the orographic effect). The Montgomery flood of July 15,
1997 is a good example of orographic enhancement of the effects of a backdoor cold front (that
moved from east to west) interacting with tropical moisture that was guided around the northern
spine of the Green Mountains by the upper level (jet stream) flow. In the towns of Montgomery,
Montgomery Center, Lowell, and Wolcott at least 6 inches of rain fell in less than six hours.
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Roads and bridges were washed out and homes were swept away. Along the Missisquoi River,
North Troy recorded a new record peak flow value that exceeded the 100-year recurrence
interval. The 1997 flooding at Montgomery points to another Vermont characteristic: repeat
occurrences of certain types of hazards. Prior to 1997, the Montgomery/Jay Peak area was also
affected in June 1993, while the Lamoille River in the adjacent watershed overflowed in August
1995. Repeat flooding was also observed in Underhill in 1998 and 2000. Ice jams can occur
during winter or spring and cause water accumulations that produce flooding upstream. If the ice
jam breaks free, then downstream flooding occurs, as was the case in Montpelier on March 11,
1992. As the floodwaters rose to seven feet in the business district, 400 families and major
businesses were affected. Montpelier is particularly prone to flooding given its location in the
Winooski River valley just upstream from the confluence with the Dog River. Throughout its
history, the capital city has been the site of flood damage, including extraordinary freshets
(defined by the Glossary of Meteorology to encompass flooding due to either rain or melting
snow) in July 1811 and July 1830. The floods of July 1859 and October 1869 produced heavy
losses and claimed several lives. Early residents of Montpelier used the high water marks left on
trees by the freshets as reminders against building too close to the water’s edge.
About a century-and-a-half ago, Zadock Thompson noted that “very little damage is ever done
by hurricanes or hail. The crops oftener suffer from an excess, than from a deficiency of
moisture, though seldom from either.”
By the early twentieth century, however, the arrival of tropical cyclone remnants had become a
double-edged sword. The precipitation accompanying these systems often has helped to reverse
or end an existing drought. This happened in August 1988 with the arrival of Tropical Storm
Chantal, again in October 1995 with Hurricane Opal, and most recently with Hurricane Dennis
and Tropical Storm Floyd in 1999. The opposite of this beneficial addition of moisture occurs
when, instead of being parched dry, the landscape is already moist to saturated as a result of
previous rainfall. Under these conditions, tropical remnants have produced widespread, and at
times, catastrophic flooding. For example, the Great Flood of 1927 resulted from record rainfall
totals produced by tropical storm remnants on November 3, following October precipitation
totals that were already 50 percent above normal. As this decaying storm tracked directly along
the spine of the Green Mountains, streams rose so rapidly that there was little time for warning.
The Winooski River rose 40–45 feet above its normal level, causing land and settlement along
the river to bear the brunt of the estimated $30 million in economic losses.
The 1927 flood was greater than the 100-year flood on many rivers and remains today as the
flood of record at many gauging stations. Eighty-four of the eighty-five fatalities during this New
England-wide flood occurred in Vermont. In addition, thousands of dairy cows and other farm
animals drowned. Rich topsoil on farmland either washed away or got buried under infertile silt,
such that no crops could be produced for many years. Montpelier remained isolated for days and
Waterbury for weeks. The flood disrupted communications across the state and with the outside
world, producing a “black triangle.” One positive highlight of the 1927 flood was the survival of
the Chittenden Dam near Rutland, which did not overflow, despite the copious precipitation.
Although some dams washed away in other parts of the state, the ones that did not (e.g. the
Deerfield River) pointed to the usefulness of such structures as flood control measures. In 1929,
the Report of Advisory Committee of Engineers on Flood Control recommended that “the only
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feasible method of diminishing flood flows in Vermont consists in constructing reservoirs for
power use.” The resulting flood control plans took advantage of New Deal programs such as the
Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). Today, attention has shifted to the wise use of floodplains
as a prevention strategy, including buy-outs, improving municipal transportation infrastructure,
and building flood resistant structures.
The Great New England hurricane of 1938 (ranked category 3 on the Saffir-Simpson scale for
hurricane intensity) arrived on September 21, following significant rainfall a few days earlier
between September 12 and 20. Between September 17 and 20 alone, over 6 inches of rain fell,
only to be followed by similar amounts during the hurricane itself. On some rivers (e.g., Black,
Williams, Saxtons, West), peak flows exceeded both the 1927 and 1936 floods. Winds wrapped
around the central low pressure to arrive from the northeast bringing salt-laden seawater and
seabirds including puffins and albatrosses, which were left floundering in fields and swamps
across Vermont in the aftermath. The state reported almost $4.4 million in highway and bridge
damage, especially in the areas around Brattleboro, Ludlow, Woodstock, Middlebury, and
Rutland. Farm losses from the wind and water stood at $7.6 million, while tremendous wind
speeds led to the loss of about half of the state’s sugar maples. The havoc wreaked by hurricanerelated winds was repeated most recently with the arrival of Tropical Storm Floyd on September
15–17, 1999. After surviving moderate losses ($1 million) as a result of the 1998–1999 drought,
the apple industry suffered approximately $3 million in damages in the wake of this storm.
Tropical cyclone remnants need not produce the catastrophic flooding of November 1927 or
September 1938. Throughout the twentieth century, other cyclones have produced flooding of
varying magnitudes and extents, as well as wind-related damage. Table 1 lists the tropical
cyclones or their remnants that moved directly over Vermont. It should be noted that, in addition
to these landfalling storm systems, the rainbands associated with the outer fringes of a decaying
tropical cyclone can also produce significant damage. The 1938 hurricane was notable in that it
followed a track very similar to the famous 1815 hurricane. The 1950s was a particularly active
decade for hurricane activity.
TABLE 1
1927 November 3
Great New England 1938 September 21
# 2 1949 August 29–30
Hurricane Baker 1952 September 1–2
Hurricane Carol 1954 August 31
Tropical Storm Brenda 1960 July 30
Hurricane Donna 1960 September 12
Tropical Storm Doria 1971 August 28
Hurricane Belle 1976 August 9–10
Hurricane David 1979 September 6–7
Hurricane Frederic 1979 September 14
Hurricane Gloria 1985 September 27
Tropical Storm Chris 1988 August 29
Hurricane Hugo 1989 September 22–23
Hurricane Bob 1991 August 19
Hurricane Opal 1995 October 5–6
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Hurricane Bertha 1996 July 13
Hurricane Fran 1996 September 8–9
Of note, Table 1 Tropical Remnants that Made Landfall In/Proximate to Vermont were
Hurricanes Edna and Hazel in 1954. Hazel tracked from the Carolinas all the way to the city of
Toronto in Ontario, with wind gusts of over 70 mph and considerable tree losses in the
Burlington area. In 1955, two category-3 hurricanes (Connie and Diane) affected New England.
In 1960, the flooding from Tropical Storm Brenda was confined to the extreme southeast of
Vermont, while Hurricane Donna six weeks later produced little flooding. In October 1962,
Tropical Storm Daisy’s remnants caused leaves to be stripped from trees, leading to clogged
drains and urban flooding. The remainder of the 1960s was relatively quiescent. The next major
event, Tropical Storm Doria’s remnants arrived in August 1971, causing landslides, road
washouts, and bridge damage in the southeast. In June 1972, the winds from Hurricane Agnes
felled trees and caused utility failures, blocked roads, and other property damage.
In the winter, flooding can occur due to rain on frozen ground, ice jams, and snowmelt. The
depth of the snowpack and the rapidity of its ablation (melting) are important factors in
determining the severity of snowmelt-related flooding. At times, rain on snow assists in the
ablation of the snow by the transfer of latent heat. This happened in March 1936 when a
snowpack with water equivalents of 2–10 inches covered much of the state, the ground was
frozen, and the streams covered with ice. The ice jam flooding on the Winooski River that
devastated Montpelier in March 1992 was caused by rainfall and snowmelt. Similarly, abovenormal temperatures on April 1, 1998 combined with excessive snowmelt to produce flooding on
Lake Champlain as it rose to over 100 feet. Flood stage on Lake Champlain in Burlington is
101.88 feet, while the lowest level on record is 92.04 feet.
Apart from ice jams and snowpack ablation, freezing rain and frozen ground conditions can also
produce flooding scenarios. During the first week of January 1998, a series of freezing events
affected southeastern Canada and northern New England, including Vermont. During this Great
Ice Storm of ’98, Grand Isle and Franklin counties were particularly hard hit. Record-breaking
rainfall combined with snowmelt to produce flooding on January 8 along the Otter Creek in
Rutland and the Black River in Coventry. Ice jams along the Sleepers River washed away a
bridge. Electricity pylons collapsed under the weight of the accumulating ice, and extended
power losses led to financial ones as milking operations were disrupted around the state. Forest
health issues came to the fore as crown loss, bole breakage, and other injuries, all of which are
consequential in their own right, became even moreso in the face of subsequent attacks by
disease and insects. Only one fatality occurred in Vermont, as a resident of the town of Milton,
who was critically injured on January 8, 1998, lost his final battle on May 22, 1999.
Freezing rain and glaze conditions are inherent features of the climate in northern New England
and occurred fairly frequently in the 1960s. These events resulted in school and business
closings, tree injury, and hazardous travel. In December 1969, a multi-type event took place that
is comparable in scope to the Great Ice Storm of 1998. This event began as a nor’easter on
December 26–28, bringing 45 inches of new snow to Waitsfield and 1.5–3 feet elsewhere.
Adding to a major snowstorm of a few days earlier, snow drifts ranged from 6–30 feet high, so
that only snowmobiles were functional. As the precipitation changed to freezing rain in the
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Northeast Kingdom and the Connecticut River valley, forest injury and utility line damage
became marked, leaving some customers without electricity for a week or more. Farmers lost
thousands of gallons of milk as the lack of power translated into a lack of storage options or
transportation opportunities.
Thus, flooding in Vermont can occur during any season and produce a variety of geophysical and
socioeconomic impacts. Flooding scenarios are often enhanced by the state’s complex and
rugged topography, antecedent moisture characteristics, and the tendency for flood-producing
storms to stall or stagnate over preferred locations.
A Note About Flash Flooding
In addition to the effects of flooding, we must also consider flash flooding. These rapid onset
events often result from stagnant or slowmoving thunderstorms as well as from the passage of a
series of thunderstorms over the same geographic area. Such high-intensity and often longduration events produce copious amounts of precipitation in a short period of time. These
precipitation amounts can quickly exceed bank-full stages along rivers and streams, trigger mass
movements (such as landslides and mudslides), sweep away unattached structures (e.g. trailer
parks), and carve new channels. Urban development and recreation activities, antecedent soil
conditions, and ground cover type exacerbate flash flooding. Vermont’s steep V-shaped valleys
help to constrain the flow, creating remarkable depths of flow at tremendous speeds. As far back
as 1853, Zadock Thompson noted these topographic characteristics along the Winooski,
Lamoille, and Missisquoi rivers, such that by default, roads could only be constructed along the
open valley floors, making them susceptible to flooding damage.
In the aftermath of the 1927 flood, Arthur F. Stone observed that, not only did the roadways,
bridges, culverts, and other built features encroach on streams in these valleys, but the secondary
growth and other vegetation that had replaced Vermont’s primeval forests following clear cutting
were inadequate to promote the infiltration and percolation necessary to delay runoff.
Today, over 70 percent of the state is now forested, but the encroachment of the built
environment on streams and rivers still plays a crucial role in flooding episodes. This
increasingly familiar scenario was repeated in late June 1998 (the third major flooding episode of
that summer) when a stationary front stalled, allowing a series of thunderstorms to train across
central Vermont. The already swollen rivers quickly overflowed onto adjacent roadways and
developed urban spaces, leading to the evacuation of the towns of Lincoln and Bristol on July 2.
Timing can significantly affect the consequences of flash floods. Many of the frontal systems
that affect northern Vermont are spawned at night. In addition to the difficulty of warning the
vulnerable populations of the impending danger, many of these storms were enhanced by the
steep slopes over which they passed. Examples include the Montgomery floods of July 15, 1997,
as well as the northern Vermont flooding on 19 and 27 June, 1998.
Droughts
In Vermont, there is a saying that one extreme follows another. This is especially true for the
hydrological extremes of floods and droughts, and examples abound. Extraordinary heat and
drought followed the yearlong snow and frost of 1816. Drought-like conditions that had been in
place since at least April preceded the November 1927 flood. The September 1938 hurricane
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brought relief from the severe drought of the 1930s. More recently, flash flooding in the northern
portions of the state in August followed the statewide drought in the spring and summer of 1995.
The statewide flooding of June/July 1998 gave way to the drought of 1998/1999. Very severe
droughts are rare in Vermont. They tend to affect the entire state and span a number of years.
Prior to the 2001–2002 episode, the droughts of the mid-1960s were the most severe and longlasting ones to afflict the state in the last fifty years. The years 1963, 1964, and 1965 were the
second, third, and fourth driest years since records began in 1895, while 2001 was the fifth driest.
Less severe droughts are relatively common and more localized in extent. As a drought
progresses, various socioeconomic sectors are affected. The 1998–1999 drought caused problems
for individuals, utilities, agriculture, tourism, and other economic sectors that depend on surface
or subsurface water supplies. An estimated $30 million in hay and pasture was lost statewide by
the end of 1999. In the western counties of Addison, Chittenden, and Rutland, which were
among the hardest hit, farmers suffered corn production losses estimated at $2,249,520, $29,586
and $664,290 respectively. Christmas tree farms lost 50 to 100 percent of the seedlings or
transplants set in 1999. Some crops and plants, however, benefited from the warm, dry
conditions. These included berries and grapes, which grew larger and sweeter than normal, while
hot weather crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and non-silage corn ripened early and in
abundance.
It should be noted that the effects of a precipitation shortfall cascade through the landscape,
affecting the surface soil moisture, streams, and groundwater in that order. The hydrologic
impacts of a given drought become increasingly evident as an episode evolves. During the 1998–
1999 drought, record low streamflows and groundwater levels were observed at a number of
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) sites and wells across the state by the end of August 1999.
While many individual drinking water wells also had run dry by this time, the water quality
issues that were present during the 1994–1995 drought were absent. The summer of 1995 was a
time of water conservation in many communities, while others, such as the towns of Newbury
and Barre City, brought in water supplies by truck. Such conservation measures were not
required during the 1998–1999 event due to the timing of the water shortages and the reversal of
the drought in the fall of 1999. Record low streamflows and dry wells were also a feature of the
2001–2002 drought, which when combined with the magnitude of the deficits, raises some
concern for the nature of the recharge of the state’s aquifers. Across state forests, a total of
85,000 acres (34,425 ha) showed the effects of the 1998/1999 drought with such symptoms as
leaf scorch, leaf yellowing, and early leaf color. Some deciduous trees began changing color by
mid-August and the fall foliage color in the Northeast Kingdom was described as “subdued.”
Several species, such as red and sugar maple, are susceptible to drought, and leaf scorch was
evident in urban trees across Chittenden County.
Thunderstorms
A thunderstorm is a storm that contains thunder and lightning. According to the National
Weather Service, Vermont and northern New York experience about twenty-five thunderstorm
days annually. At times thunderstorms may be associated with wind gusts, torrential rainfall, and
hail. A severe thunderstorm (defined by the National Weather Service as one with 3/4-inch hail
and surface wind gusts of 50 knots) is also capable of producing flash floods and tornadoes.
When thunderstorms form in a line along or ahead of a cold front, these are classified as a squall
line. Thunderstorms that form in winter can be associated with snowfall, which some refer to as
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thundersnow. Each of the thunderstorm-related events (lightning, strong wind, hail, flash flood,
and tornadoes) is itself a natural hazard that can cause property and crop damage as well as loss
of life. One of the most memorable thunderstorm outbreaks in Vermont occurred between May
21–31, 1968, when thunderstorms, lightning, hail, and high winds were observed across the state.
Although Vermont escaped the $133 million in flooding damage that occurred in New Jersey,
this severe weather outbreak was beneficial in that it helped to reverse the drought that had
gripped much of the northeast in the mid-1960s.
Tornadoes
One of the concomitant hazards of severe thunderstorms is the spawning of a tornado.
Historically, tornadoes were reported in Rutland on September 19, 1787, and again on May 3,
1790. Since 1950, tornadoes have struck every county except Grand Isle, Caledonia, and
Washington for an annual average of $241,600 in damage in 1999 dollars. Many of these
tornadoes tend to be weak (F0 or F1 on the Fujita Scale, used for ranking tornadoes based on the
damage caused and their speed of rotation). Between 1960 and 1969 alone, one waterspout on
Lake Champlain and ten tornadoes were observed across the state. Tornado damage tends to be
localized. Some recent examples include barn destruction in Cambridge and apple orchard
demolition in Bennington on June 24, 1960; timber, tree, and farm silo damage in St. Albans on
June 13, 1961; roof damage, twisting or uprooting of trees, and some electric power loss in
southeastern Windsor County on July 9, 1962. On August 7, 1970 a tornado at St. Albans injured
seven in a camp home and demolished buildings. A rare F2 tornado, observed in Colchester on
August 8, 1983, packed winds of 59 mph recorded at the Burlington International Airport and
unofficial winds of 80 mph. It capsized aircraft at the Champlain Airport and snapped trees 100
feet tall.
Tornadoes that form ahead of a cold front are often steered by southwesterly winds and move in
a northeasterly direction. Those that hit Vermont are no exception. In some cases, tornadoes are
not spotted, but rather inferred from the type and orientation of the resulting damage. Such cases
occurred in Swanton on October 31, 1965 and near the Burlington International Airport on
August 9, 1972, where a narrow path of destruction 0.1 mile long was reported. Tornado
sightings were frequent in the 1960s, less so during the 1970s, and rather rare in the 1990s, when
only two were observed. Of these, the most recent occurred in Bennington County on May 31,
1998, producing $630,000 in property damage and power outages that affected about 8,000
customers for two to three days. Prior to that, the September 3, 1993 tornado that touched down
in Orleans and Essex counties destroyed a Christmas tree farm as well as 70–80 acres in a maple
orchard worth $50,000.
Tornado outbreaks refer to a family of tornadoes that tend to form along a squall line. Such
outbreaks can either be spawned by the same thunderstorm or by several thunderstorms over a
period of time (more than two hours) and an extended spatial extent (more than 100 km). One
example of the former scenario occurred on May 20, 1962, when three tornadoes formed from
the same thunderstorm cell in Franklin and Orleans counties. On July 9 of the same year, another
cell spawned at least two more tornadoes in southeastern Windsor County. In the first case, a
barn, silo, and new trailer home were destroyed and tree damage was observed on both
occasions.
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Hail
The F2 tornado that swept across Bennington County on May 31, 1998 was accompanied by
1.75-inch diameter hail that produced $20,000 in property damage. Like lightning, hail is a
thunderstorm-related hazard that has produced significant property and crop damage through the
years. Farmers have sometimes called hail the “white plague,” because entire fields of crops can
be destroyed in minutes.
Apples are one of the crops most susceptible to hail damage. As far back as July 15, 1799,
accounts tell of devastating thunderstorms in the Connecticut towns of Lebanon, Bozrah, and
Franklin, which destroyed not only apples but also apple trees due to heavy rains, winds, and hail
as large as 7 inches in circumference. Hailstones destroyed entire apple orchards in May and
June 1959, as well as on July 10, 1966 in southern Vermont and two days later in the counties of
Addison, Rutland, and Bennington. On June 25, 1983 a three-minute hailstorm in Cornwall
damaged over 500 acres of apple crops, causing growers to label it as the worst storm in ten
years. Hailstones have flattened entire hay fields (e.g., the tornadic thunderstorm in Highgate
Springs on June 13, 1961) as well as cornfields from Grand Isle to Morrisville on August 18,
1969. In addition, large acreages of potatoes were also lost in the towns of Albany and
Craftsbury on July 21, 1964. On the same day as the hailstorm in Cornwall, another one, which
produced 1-inch diameter stones, prematurely ended a hot air balloon event in Quechee, forcing
balloonists to make emergency landings.
Overall, hail damage to property in Vermont has been estimated to be on the order of $111,000
between the beginning of 1993 and the end of March 2001.
Lightning
Lightning is an electrical discharge within a cloud, between clouds, or from a cloud to the
ground. While cloud-to-ground lightning only accounts for about 20 percent of all lightning
strikes, this type has been the most detrimental to life and property across the state. Between
January 1, 1993 and March 31, 2001, approximately $1,611,000 in lightning-related property
damage occurred. Next to flooding, lightning strikes have accounted for a disproportionate share
of hydrometeorological-related fatalities in Vermont since the 1960s. At least nine people have
died in lightning-related incidents. Others have sustained burns and other injuries. Dairy cows
and other livestock have been killed; barns have burned down completely; and communications
facilities have been impaired on a number of occasions including June 15, 1972 and July 21,
1983, when emergency services personnel were forced to use back-up supplies.
June 18–24, 2001 was designated as National Lightning Awareness Week around the U.S. One
of the most important messages of this campaign is that lightning not only strikes in conjunction
with a thunderstorm, but away from it as well. This occurs when positive lightning originates in
the cirriform anvil at the top of a thunderstorm. This type of lightning is particularly dangerous
because it can strike up to 5–10 miles away from the storm, and its lengthy duration ignites forest
fires more easily.
The threat of forest fires is heightened when large amounts of debris accumulate under dry
atmospheric conditions, as occurred when the drought of 1998–1999 followed the Ice Storm of
January 1998.
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Winds
Damaging winds can occur at any time of the year, can gust to more than hurricane speeds (74
mph) and can be classified as one of three types. One category, Shirkshires, are gravity or fall
winds that gain speed from being funneled through the Valley of Vermont, located in southwest
Bennington County between the Green Mountains and the Taconics. During one such event in
the county on March 12–13, 1962, wind gusts of up to 81 mph produced widespread, extensive
damage. One of the rare wind-related fatalities occurred when a man who was trying to open a
door against the wind went into heart seizure.
Very strong winds are also associated with thunderstorms when downward moving air (called a
downdraft) strikes the ground and moves out laterally to form a downburst. Downbursts are
examples of straight-line winds that can exceed 100 mph and produce damage that is reminiscent
of a tornado. Microbursts are downbursts of 4km or smaller in size, while macrobursts are larger
than 4km. When microbursts reach the ground and continue moving outward, they become a gust
front. Downbursts in combination with gust fronts have caused tree damage, flattened crops, and
downed power lines. Often, these damaging winds occur along with other hazards, such as hail.
During the winter, strong winds can accompany snowstorms, blizzards, and icing events. On
April 3–7, 1975, during the worst storm of the 1974–1975 season, record snowfall that was
heavy and wet combined with very strong winds to damage trees and take down power lines.
Statewide, high winds and glaze on February 15, 1967 broke glass panes, communications
antennae, and signs, and took down trees.
One atmospheric pattern that is conducive to windstorms occurs in advance of a cold front when
the associated low pressure system is moving to the north and west of Vermont. At the same
time, high pressure exists over the Canadian Maritimes. As air moves from the area of high
pressure to the area of low pressure, the strength of the resulting wind usually depends on the
gradient (or difference in pressure values between the two). Vermont’s complex topography is
conducive to creating downslope winds and/or strong winds that have been funneled through
narrow mountain passes. On January 27, 1996 windstorms of this sort produced air flow of 95
mph at Cambridge, damaging a school roof; 68 mph winds at Jericho, also resulting in roof
damage and; 67 mph at Waltham.
Winter Storms
Despite such tongue-in-cheek comments as “Vermont has only two seasons: winter and July,”
snowfall in its many varieties, sources, and durations has been both a boon and a bane to the
state. Winter sports industries (especially skiing) and various components of the agricultural
sector definitely reap benefits from this form of precipitation, although not without several
caveats. A number of systems or scenarios produce snowfall, including lake-effect and lakeenhanced snows off Lake Champlain, mountain-induced events, nor’easters and blizzards, and
frontal events.
For a winter storm to develop, three key ingredients need to be in place. The first is moisture so
that clouds and precipitation can form. Secondly, this moist air must be uplifted in some way so
that condensation can initiate the cloud formation. Such uplift is provided by warm and cold
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fronts, as well as by topographic barriers such as mountains. Third, cold air must be present
between the clouds and the ground to ensure that the precipitation falls as either snow or ice.
Just as Lake Champlain produces a moderating effect on the temperatures of the Champlain
Valley so that the growing season there is longer than in other parts of the state, so too it
influences snowfall. Alexander Tardy has found that most of the time, the lake’s influence is
limited to low clouds and flurries once an Arctic airmass has moved through.
At the other end of the spectrum, however, snowstorms on Lake Champlain can reduce visibility
to zero and produce over 12 inches of snowfall. Nor’easters (also called northeasters) are intense
low-pressure systems that develop or intensify along the North American eastern seaboard
between December and March. Moving northeastward along the coast, these systems are
accompanied by very strong winds, heavy snowfall, and at times, sleet. The nor’easter of
December 26–28, 1969 produced 1.5–3 feet of snow statewide and 45 inches at Waitsfield. The
state was declared a disaster area. Snowdrifts were 6–30 feet high, halting all traffic except by
snowmobile. Forests and utility lines were devastated, while roofs collapsed in both urban and
rural areas. Power outages on dairy farms led to the disposal of thousands of gallons of milk, due
to a lack of transportation or storage.
This situation would be repeated twenty-nine years later during the ice storm of January 1998,
when such losses contributed to the statewide total of $5.8 million in property damage. More
recently, the winter of 2000–2001 was marked by four nor’easters between December 31 and
March 31. Although the financial losses did not approach the 1969 storm, the later nor’easters in
the 2000–2001 season set new snowfall records (e.g., 22.9 inches at Burlington on March 5–6),
with the wet, heavy snow breaking branches and leading to telephone and power outages.
Blizzards are common occurrences in Vermont. True blizzards are dry, powdery snow events
that are accompanied by low temperatures and strong winds (34.5 miles per hour or 15.3 metres
per second) that can reduce visibility to a few metres. The Great Blizzard of March 1888 was
actually preceded by a blizzard on January 25–26. Roads were blocked and businesses closed in
Strafford for three days, while ten trains were stranded between Shelburne and Charlotte by huge
drifts. Peak winds of 47 mph and 42 mph were recorded at Brattleboro and Northfield
respectively. This storm would be followed by the unforgettable Blizzard of March 1888 during
which deep snowfall, extreme temperatures, and gale force winds converged. Snowfall totals
exceeded 40 inches over much of the southern counties, while at Danville, only 12 inches of
snow was measured. The temperatures dipped as low as -6F.
In the twentieth century, one of the worst blizzards in the state’s history occurred on December
29–31, 1962. Gale-force winds accompanied the 2–30 inches of snow that fell over the thirty-sixhour period, clogging highways and slowing air and rail transportation. The high winds and bitter
cold led to a number of frostbite reports and froze water pipes around the state. Stores, offices,
schools, and even ski operations closed, in some cases all week. Transportation hindrances
would also be a by-product of the Blizzard of 1993, another memorable event. Property losses
from this storm totaled over $500,000 including a barn that collapsed in Craftsbury and statewide
power outages that affected nearly 3,000 customers. In terms of its broad geographical extent,
the Blizzard of 1993 rivals the Great mid-February snowstorm of 1958, the Great Snowstorm of
January 1831, the Cold Storm of January 1857, and the Eastern Blizzard of 1899.
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Apart from these memorable storms, a few additional observations are notable. As mentioned
above, one extreme frequently follows another. For example, the September 1999–January 1,
2000 period was the least snowy on record at Burlington, while April 2000 became the second
snowiest April on record. Another observation revolves around the fact that, during some winters
(e.g., April 1967), snow squalls associated with thunder are especially common. In other years,
large snowfalls in October or November have led some ski resorts to open early, as was the case
in November 1965 and 1968. In the latter year, 10–20 inches of snowfall on November 7 and 8
precipitated early openings, but the addition of two feet of snow on November 10 forced the
closure of roads like State Route 9. Several thousand skiers were marooned with insufficient
food and accommodations.
The transportation sector frequently bears the brunt of severe winter weather. In the modern era,
no mode has been spared. Repeated snowstorms in January and February 1960 led to the closure
of Lake Champlain on February 14. Occasionally, heavy snow makes for difficult clearing and
removal, at times stranding motorists who have abandoned their automobiles. Holiday air travel
has also been disrupted.
The winters of 1968–1969 to 1971–1972 were the snowiest on record dating back to the 1800s.
At Burlington, the previous snowfall record of 132 inches was set in 1886–1887. The final total
for the 1970–1971 winter was 145.4 inches. The 122.5 inches received during the 2000–2001
winter exceeds the 1968–1969 (96.3 inches), 1969–1970 (104.6 inches) and 1971–1972 (108.9
inches) seasons. Prior to the 1970–1971 season, the 1965–1966 season held the record for the
highest snow total in the twentieth century at 111.7 inches. It is significant to note that this latter
record occurred at a time when much of the state was locked in a multiyear drought. During
these especially snowy winters repair personnel and line crews used snowmobiles and snowshoes
as a mode of transport. New snow removal equipment also debuted during this time and annual
budgets for winter maintenance were accordingly adjusted to better handle snow removal in the
post-1970 era.
During particularly snowy winters, the threat of snowmelt-related flooding in March or April is
heightened. By late March 1971, the water content in the snowpack was twice the normal value
in some areas. In addition, some rivers were at 160 percent and 185 percent of their normal
discharges. Under those conditions, officials predicted that only 1.9 inches of rain would be
needed to produce a flash flood.
In addition to winter recreation, another economic sector that is heavily dependent on snowfall is
the sugar maple industry. A blanket of snow during the winter protects the roots of these trees,
making it easier for them to extract soil water when temperatures rise and the sap begins to flow.
The latter occurs when the internal tree temperature rises above freezing, which corresponds to
air temperatures of 35–40F. Even though the 2000–2001 winter season provided excellent root
cover, the thermal factor was absent, as has been observed over the last four to five winters.
Along with the 1987 maple syrup season, the 275,000 gallons produced in 2001 ranked as the
second lowest production total since records began in 1916. The 1970–1971 record-breaking
snow season yielded the lowest maple syrup totals (240,000 gallons) on record.
42
Table 2 shows the vagaries of maple syrup production over the last eight years. The 1998 figure
reflects the aftermath of that year’s ice storm.
Table 2 Maple Syrup Production in Vermont, 1994–2000
Year Total (thousands of gallons)
1994 435
1995 365
1996 550
1997 395
1998 360
1999 370
2000 460
2001 275
Source: Vermont Department of Agriculture, Food & Markets.
Climatologists use a thirty-year period to compute statistics of the mean temperatures,
precipitation, and other parameters for a given region. One of the noteworthy characteristics of
Vermont’s climate is the tendency to stray above or below these expected values, a statement
that was as true in 1922 as it is today.
Temperature Extremes
Extremes in temperature and the seasonality of these extremes are important to both individuals
as well as economic activities. During the summer, both extreme cold and extreme heat can be
observed. The former is associated with frost, which can be detrimental during the growing
season. Extremely high temperatures can occur when a highpressure system (under which air is
descending towards the earth’s surface) develops and intensifies over the state. Under such
conditions, the potential for a heat wave exists. A heat wave is a period of three or more
consecutive days during which the diurnal maximum temperature meets or exceeds 90F. In
Burlington, the average number of days per year with above 90F temperatures is six. In 1999, a
drought year, this figure climbed to nineteen. Extreme maximum temperatures are often
observed during drought years, and in many cases, the records that are broken were long
standing and set during previous droughts. It should be noted that a heat wave can be either a
boon or a bane depending upon the time of year and the antecedent conditions. For example, the
hot conditions of August 1996 followed a cool, wet summer, thereby providing an extra boost for
plants.
In the fall, both abrupt cold snaps and record warmth can be observed, where the latter tends to
be associated with southerly flow. Similarly in winter, both extreme cold and record warm
conditions occur. The winter of 1933–1934 was particularly cold and the lowest temperature ever
recorded for the state (50F) occurred at Bloomfield on December 30, 1933. Prior to this, extreme
cold temperatures were widespread on January 4 and December 18, 1835, with 40F at
Montpelier and White River, 38F at Bradford, 30F at Rutland and 26F at Burlington.
Following the winter of 1933–1934, more than 20 percent of the apple trees in Vermont were
eliminated, although this figure was less than 2 percent for the Macintosh variety. Temperature is
a very important variable in promoting apple growth. The dwarf trees introduced in the 1860s
lacked the winter hardiness needed to be truly viable in Vermont. In 1868, the first Macintosh
43
tree, a transplant from Ontario, was planted in Newport. The severe winter of 1917–1918
destroyed almost all of the Baldwin and other strains. Only the Macintosh variety survived, and
it remains the dominant strain grown today. In 2001, temperature fluctuations in the spring
produced a different loss. Daily maxima of at least 90F followed by minima on the order of 20F
accelerated the flowering of the apple blossoms, which were then killed by the low nighttime
temperatures.
One of the most prolonged cold episodes lasted from January 18 to February 3, 1969. Diurnal
maxima were below 0F. Water mains and other connections froze and burst in record numbers
across the state. Since then, extreme cold has been recorded in February 1993 and again on
January 19, 1997. In both cases, cold dense air moving out from an Arctic high pressure system
caused temperatures to plummet. Daytime highs in 1993 were 10F, while the minima were 5F.
An interesting pattern is that these cold episodes tend to follow (and sometimes precede) severe
snowstorms. In some cases, cold dense, subsiding air in high pressure systems quickly follows
the passage of cold fronts that are associated with a given winter storm. In others, cold waves
(surges of cold air), which originate over Hudson Bay, move across northern Vermont fairly
frequently in the winter. Examples include one of the state’s worst blizzards on December 29–
31, 1962, near blizzard conditions on January 30–31, 1966, the 8–18 inches of heavy, wet,
clinging snow received on November 14–15, 1972, and the Great Ice Storm of 1998.
The variability in temperature extremes would not be complete without mentioning 1816, “the
year without a summer.” In April 1815, Mt. Tambora on the Sumbawa Island of Indonesia
erupted, spewing 150 km3 of ash into the air that reached well into the stratosphere at a height of
about 28 miles (44 km). The dust and aerosols thus produced and dispersed affected global
climate for up to two years. The northern hemisphere, especially New England and Europe, were
particularly affected, and accounts of the hardships suffered were preserved by farmers such as
James Winchester and Benjamin Harrison of Bennington. The severe winter of 1815–1816 gave
way to a warm, dry April that turned into a backward spring, a cold, snowy summer, and an early
fall. The month of May was dry and cold and although the start of June promised warmth (90F
on June 5), the series of cold spells that would keep Vermont and much of New England in their
grip through September and onwards arrived on June 6. As the maximum temperatures dropped
to 40F, snow began. Snowfall continued through June 8 with accumulations of 12 inches at
Montpelier and 18 inches at Cabot, accompanied by severe frost that froze standing water and
killed all but the hardiest crops, such as oats. Dry, windy conditions continued into July and
August. Although rain fell in other parts of New England, Vermont received no relief. Some
enterprising farmers built bonfires around their cornfields and salvaged some of the crop. On
August 21, a killing frost decimated more potato, corn, and bean crops. The cold drought
continued into September, accompanied by forest fires. Staples were destroyed. Livestock
starved due to lack of forage and later due to lack of hay in the winter. Money was scarce and it
was difficult to import food due to the condition of the roads. The years 1816–1817 were marked
by famine, but 1816 will remain infamous for the phrase, “eighteen hundred and froze to death.”
Thus tested, many people emigrated from Vermont and New England in the wake of the year
without a summer.
44
Conclusion
The human and physical landscapes of Vermont have been and continue to be shaped by the
vagaries of our weather and climate. The manifestations of certain events (e.g., shirkshires) are
native to the state and occur as a function of the state’s complex topography. In turn, the
topography has dictated to some extent the way in which infrastructure (in particular, roads) has
developed, thereby setting the stage for vulnerability to flooding. Many of the most devastating
floods, droughts, winter storms, and temperature extremes have been related to regional, and at
times, hemispheric patterns and changes. Atmospheric fluctuations have long fascinated human
beings and repeatedly proven a number of Vermont weather truisms such as “when the mountain
roars, close your doors.” Given the cyclical nature of hazards and the inherent variability of the
climatic system, perhaps we should remember that for Vermont, it is normal to be abnormal.
Notes
1. Ira Allen, The Natural and Political History of the State of Vermont [1798] (Rutland, Vt: Charles E. Tuttle
Company, 1969), 63.
2. Zadock Thompson, Natural History of Vermont, with Numerous Engravings and an Appendix
(Burlington, Vt: Zadock Thompson, Stacy & Jameson printers, 1853); Hiram A. Cutting, Lectures on Milk,
Fertilizations, Birds, Insects, Forestry, How to Foretell Storms, etc., (Montpelier, Vt: Watchman Journal Press,
1884); F. E. Hartwell, “The Climate and Weather of Vermont,” The Vermonter-The State Magazine 27, no.9
(1922):211–214; Arthur Stone, The Vermont of Today with Its Historical Background, Attractions and People (New
York, NY: Lewis Historical Publishing Company, Inc., 1929); David M. Ludlum, The Vermont Weather Book,
[1985] 2nd ed. (Montpelier, Vt: Vermont Historical Society, 1996).
3. Hartwell, “Climate and Weather of Vermont”: 212.
4. Ludlum, Vermont Weather Book.
5. ESIG, Extreme Weather Sourcebook 2001 [book on-line]. Accessed 13 June 2001. Available from
http://www.esig.ucar.edu/sourcebook/index.html.
6. Stone, Vermont of Today, 160–161.
7. Thompson, Natural History of Vermont, 13
8. Stone, Vermont of Today, 163.
9. Report of Advisory Committee of Engineers on Flood Control, Journal of The House of the State of Vermont,
Biennial Session (Montpelier, Vt: Capital City Press Printers, 1929), 40.
10. Gregory Sanford, 1 June 2001.
11. Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, Options for State Flood Control Policies and a Flood Control Program
(Waterbury, Vt: Department of Environmental Conservation, Water Quality Division, 1999).
12. Kendall Wild, “New England’s ’38 Hurricane Left a Trail of Ruin in Vt.,” The Sunday Rutland Herald and the
Sunday Times Argus, 18 September 1988, Section E.
13. Maria Elena Garcia, 25 June 2000.
14. Storm Data (Monthly Publication of the National Climatic Data Center), July 1960, October 1962, August 1971,
June 1972.
15. Storm Data, December 1969.
16. Thompson, Natural History of Vermont.
17. Stone, Vermont of Today, 159.
18. Michael Toussaint, July 2001.
19. Jeffery Carter, August 1999.
20. Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, “Water Supply and Quality.” Accessed on 13 June 2001. Available from
http://www.anr.state.vt.us/env96/ed961011.htm
21. Sandra Wilmot, November 1999.
22 .Storm Data, May 1968.
23. ESIG, Extreme Weather Sourcebook 2001.
24. Storm Data, June 1960, June 1961, July 1962, August 1970, August 1983.
25. Storm Data, September 1993, May 1998.
26. Storm Data, May 1962, July 1962.
45
27. C. Donald Ahrens, Meteorology Today: An Introduction to Weather, Climate and the Environment, 5th ed. (St.
Paul, Minn.: West Publishing Company, 1994).
28. Ray Helenek. “Terrible Hail Storm.” Accessed 13 June 2001. Available from http://
www.nws.noaa.gov/er/btv/html/NCO_Internet/JUL00_Issue/links_folder/terrible_hail.htm
29. Storm Data, May 1959, June 1959, June 1983.
30. Storm Data, June 1961, July 1964, August 1969.
31. Storm Data, June 1983; National Climatic Data Center, Storm Events Database. Accessed 13 June 2001.
Available from http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwEvents~storms
32. Storm Data, June 1972, July 1983.
33. National Weather Service, Lightning Safety. Accessed 13 June 2001, Available from http://
www.lightningsafety.noaa.gov/science.htm
34. Ludlum, Vermont Weather Book, 9.
35. Storm Data, March 1962.
36. Storm Data, April 1975, February 1967.
37. Paul Sisson and Charles McGill, “Green Mountain Windstorms.” Accessed 10 October 2001. Available from
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/btv/html/projects/downslope/index.html
38. Hartwell, “Climate and Weather of Vermont,” 211.
39. Alexander Tardy “Lake Effect and Lake Enhanced Snow in the Champlain Valley of Vermont.” Accessed on 13
June 2001. Available from http://www.nws.noaa.gov/er/buf/abstracts/tardy.htm
40. Storm Data, December 1969.
41. Ludlum, Vermont Weather Book, 162–169.
42. Storm Data, December 1962, March 1993; Ludlum, Vermont Weather Book, 172–175.
43. Storm Data, November 1965, November 1968, April 1967.
44. “Yea, We Did It! Wow! Most Snow Ever Here” Burlington Free Press, 22 March 1972.
45. “’71 Storms Break Record,” New England Telephone Green Mountaineer, 25 March 1971.
46. Brenda Morrissey, “Officials Map Strategy to Handle Damaging Floods, If They Develop,” Burlington Free
Press, March 1971.
47. MariaFranca Moreselli, 31 March 2001.
48. Lisa Rathke, “Bad Year for Vt. Maple Syrup,” Burlington Free Press, 20 June 2001, 6A.
49. Hartwell, “Climate and Weather of Vermont,” 212.
50. Thompson, Natural History of Vermont, 9.
51. Maria Elena Garcia, 25 June 2000.
52. Jim West, “Frosty Apples,” Vermont Times, 11, no.23 (6 June 2001).
53. Storm Data, February 1969, February 1993, January 1997.
54. Storm Data, December 1962, January 1966, November 1972.
55. Sylvester L. Vigilante, “Eighteen-Hundred-and-Froze-to-Death,” in Mischief in the Mountains, eds. Walter R.
Hard and Janet C. Greene (Montpelier, Vt: Vermont Life Magazine, 1970), 97–101.
56. Vigilante, “Eighteen-Hundred-and-Froze-to-Death,” 100–101.
46
Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
State Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment (HI/RA)
Assessing Risk
An analysis of municipality vulnerability begins with an inventory of possible hazards and an
assessment of the risk that they pose. These are the questions to be answered. What hazards can
affect your community? How bad can it get? How likely are they to occur? What will be
affected by these hazards? How will these hazards affect you? The magnitude (percentage of
the community affected) of the impact of the hazard can be classed as follows:
 Negligible: < 10% of properties damaged/Minimal disruption to quality of life.
 Limited: 10% to < 25% of properties damaged/Loss of essential facilities/services for up
to 7 days/Few (< 1% of population) injuries possible.
 Critical: 25% to 50% of properties damaged/Loss of essential facilities/services for > 7
days < 14 days/Major (< 10% of population) injuries/few deaths possible.
 Catastrophic: > 50% of properties damaged/loss of essential facilities/services for > 14
days/Severe (> 10% of population) injuries/multiple deaths possible.
The frequency of occurrence is classified as shown:
 Unlikely: < 1% probability in the next 100 years.
 Possible: 1% to 10% probability in the next year, or at least one chance in the next 100
years.
 Likely: 10% to 100% probability in the next year, or at least one chance in the next 10
years.
 Highly Likely: Near 100% probability in the next year.
Additionally, seasonal patterns that may exist are considered, what areas are likely to be affected
the most, the probable duration of the hazard, the speed of onset (amount of warning time,
considered with existing warning systems).
The combination of the impact of the hazard and the frequency was used to determine the
community vulnerability as HIGH, MODERATE or LOW. For example, a Flood event is highly
likely (nearly 100% probability in the next year) in many communities of Bennington County but
the degree of impact varies, so a highly likely flood with critical or catastrophic impact rates the
community vulnerability as HIGH. Another community with a highly likely or likely (at least
one chance in the next 10 years) flood with a limited impact would receive a vulnerability rating
of MODERATE. The vulnerability of a community having the occurrence of an event as
possible or unlikely with limited or negligible impact would be LOW.
These guidelines were used to assess the risk for the state HI/RA which is summarized below.
Since Vermont is such a small state, the state HI/RA is being used as the Bennington County
HI/RA, with a few minor alterations. For example, since flooding in Bennington County is
highly likely, the following HI/RA has been altered to reflect this. Although there are slight
differences among towns in terms of hazard risks, this HI/RA can also be used as a town HI/RA.
47
Vermont (Bennington County) Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
Floods:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Likely to Highly Likely
Negligible to Critical
High
Winter Snow and Ice Storms:
 Frequency:
Likely to Highly Likely
 Magnitude:
Negligible to Critical
 Risk:
High
Extreme Weather (Hurricanes, Tropical Storms, Thunderstorms, Lightning, High Winds,
Hail, and Tornadoes):
 Frequency:
Unlikely to Likely
 Magnitude:
Negligible to Critical
 Risk:
High for severe thunderstorms and associated weather. Moderate
for other extreme weather
Extreme Temperatures:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely to Possible
Negligible to Limited
Low
Droughts & Wildfires:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Possible to Likely
Negligible to Limited
Moderate
Structural Fire:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Possible to Highly Likely
Limited to Critical
High
Landslides:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely
Negligible to Limited
Low
48
Global Warming:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Not Applicable
Uncertain, potential for serious economic and ecological disruption
Moderate
Technological Hazards:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely to Possible
Limited to Critical
Moderate to High
Terrorism and Civil Hazards:
 Frequency:
Unlikely to Possible
 Magnitude:
Limited to Catastrophic
 Risk:
Moderate
Epidemics and other Health Threats:
 Frequency:
Unlikely to Possible
 Magnitude:
Limited to Catastrophic
 Risk:
Moderate
Earthquakes:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely to Possible
Negligible to Limited
Low to Moderate
Shortages:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely to Possible
Negligible to Critical
Low
Infestations/Invasive Species:
 Frequency:
Unlikely to Possible
 Magnitude:
Negligible to Critical
 Risk:
Low
49
Bennington County Description
The Bennington region encompasses 17 municipalities in the southwestern part of the State of
Vermont. It borders New York State to the west. The region is predominately rural, with main
community centers of Bennington in the south and Manchester in the north. The majority of the
Bennington region falls within three physiographic zones: the Green Mountains on the east, the
Taconic Range on the west, and the Vermont Valley lying between these two upland areas.
According to the 2000 U.S. Census, the population of the Bennington Region (Bennington
County minus the populations of Readsboro, Searsburg, and Winhall) is 35,387, an increase of
2.5% from 1990. The town with the highest population, Bennington, comprises nearly 45% of
that total. According to the Bennington Regional Plan, the population is expected to total
between 38,060 and 39,380 by 2005.
Bennington County Hazard Inventory/Risk Assessment
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Albany, describes the weather affecting Bennington
County in the following manner:
Bennington County is situated in southwest Vermont, on the edge of the Green Mountains.
Vermont is situated such that storms frequently traverse the state.
Weather
conditions/hazards impacting Bennington County are variable and seasonally dependent.
Moisture originating from the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and the Great Lakes clash
with warm air from the southern United States and bitter cold air from Canada to form a
volatile mix. Terrain also plays an important role.
Winter
During the winter months, roughly from November through March, heavy snow is a frequent
visitor to the county. Storms in the early and late part of the season exhibit a tendency to
produce a heavy wet snow. The weight of this wet snow can snap tree limbs and power lines
resulting in power outages. Additionally, early season storms may be elevation dependent,
with the greatest amount of snow falling in the mountainous portions of the county.
Another aspect of winter is ice jam flooding. After substantial ice forms on area rivers,
several days of unusual warmth (resulting in snow melt), coupled with rainfall, can lead to
ice breakup. As the ice breaks up on the rivers, chunks of ice form jams which cause
localized flooding on main stem and tributary rivers. Ice jams are most prevalent during the
January thaw (late January) and in March and April as spring approaches. Anytime heavy
rain occurs, flooding is a possibility.
Another hazard of winter is the ice storm. This event is fairly rare, but can cripple
communications, travel and utilities thus disrupting everyday life. Ice storms occur when the
lower levels of the atmosphere and/or ground are at or below freezing, and rain is falling
through warmer air aloft. The precipitation freezes upon contact with the ground, objects on
the ground, trees and power lines.
50
Lighter events of mixed precipitation are more common than ice storms. These “mixed
precipitation” events include a mixture of snow, sleet and freezing rain and usually occur
after several inches of snow has already fallen. Damaging winds may also accompany winter
storms.
Spring
In Spring (roughly April into June), the major weather hazards in the county would be
flooding (due to ice jams in April or heavy rain anytime). During May and June, the
convective season begins with the threat of severe thunderstorms. Severe thunderstorms, by
definition, are those that cause strong and damaging winds (usually 58 mph or greater) and/or
large hail (3/4 inch diameter or larger). Tornadoes occur occasionally in Bennington County,
and are a hazard that everyone should be aware of.
Summer
During Summer (roughly mid June to mid September), convective weather is the main threat.
This includes Severe Thunderstorms that result in locally strong straight line or downburst
winds. Refer to spring for severe thunderstorm definition. Another hazard with ANY
thunderstorm is lightning, which can be a killer. Lightning can strike up to 15 miles outside
the parent storm. It does NOT have to be raining on you to put you at risk for a lightning
strike. Anyone participating in outside activities needs to be aware of this. Again, tornadoes
do occur occasionally. Tornadoes in Vermont tend to be small, weak and short-lived, but
have done significant damage in the county in recent years.
During the summer months, flooding tends to be more of the flash flood type of event. Water
levels on rivers and streams rises very rapidly, usually in a period of 6 hours or less of the
actual precipitation event. Thunderstorms may form or move over mountainous areas or river
basin(s) and drop copious amounts of precipitation. The main stem rivers can flood as well as
the smaller streams.
Fall
During the fall (mid September - mid November), there are several weather hazards that pose
threats to Bennington County. Strong storm systems move from the Ohio Valley through the
Great Lakes and into Canada, which cause strong south or southeast winds. These High
Winds (sustained winds of 40 mph or greater or wind gust of 58 mph or greater) can cause
damage such as tree limbs blown down and power outages.
As these storms move into Canada, the associated cold front then moves across our area with
gusty west or northwest winds and colder air. Heavy rain may accompany these storm
systems with possible flooding.
Another weather threat in the fall is heavy rain and/or strong winds from the remnants of
Tropical Storms. These systems, while generally not impacting us with Hurricane force
winds, can result in strong winds (40-60 mph) and very heavy rains (3 inches or more). These
conditions can lead to power outages as trees and power lines are blown down. Also
significant flooding may result. Remnants of Tropical Storm Chantal in 1989, Tropical Storm
Dean in the mid 90s and Tropical Storm Floyd in 1999 are examples.
51
Summary
Each season presents unique weather hazards. However, two weather threats that can occur
anytime of year are Flooding and High Winds. In addition, while discussing natural hazards,
one should not forget the possibility of earthquakes. The region did experience an earthquake
in 2002. Dam breaks due to excessive rain or structure failures are also hazards.
Any of the weather conditions mentioned above may combine with a manmade disaster
(hazardous material spill, for example) to complicate a dangerous situation.
This completes the overview of weather conditions that may result in hazardous conditions in
Bennington County. Other threats (generally less extreme and less frequent) include: periods
of excessive heat or cold/windchill (especially impact those sensitive to weather extremes),
frost and freeze conditions as well as excessive wet or dry/drought conditions may have
negative impacts on agricultural and water supply interests, forest fire and attendant weather
conditions, mud slides from excessive rainfall or snow pack avalanches in winter.
Any local or county mitigation plan should include a robust SKYWARN or volunteer
weather spotter network. This should be coupled with 24 hour local or state emergency
communications/operations center with communication links to the National Weather
Service (NWS). Community education of the weather hazards is very important. Town
centers could have weather and natural hazards safety display bulletin boards. This could be
a joint effort with the NWS and coupled with the Storm Ready program or with your local
American Red Cross Chapter.
In summary, the major weather threats which frequent Bennington County include: Flooding
or Flash Flooding, Severe Thunderstorms and Lightning, Tornadoes, High Winds, Heavy
Snowfall, Ice Storm, Extended Dry weather/Drought and their impacts upon Public/School
Safety as well as economic impacts.
Bennington County is vulnerable to a variety of hazards. They range from natural to
technological to civil/political disorder. BCRC requested that the following hazards be initially
considered: Flood, High Wind, Heavy Snow, Ice Storm, Hazardous Materials, Drought and
School Safety Issues. Those hazards were included in the list of hazards that were part of the
Hazard Inventory/Vulnerability Assessment matrix that was used for local community
interviews. Hazards that could affect Bennington County include:
Flood
Flash Flood
Hazardous Materials (Fixed Site & Transport)
Radiological Incident
Structure Fire
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm
High Winds
Avalanche/Landslide/Mudflow/Erosion
Air crash
Water Supply Contamination
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
Earthquake
Drought
Chemical/Biological Incident
Dam Failures
Wildfire/Forest Fire
School Safety Issues
52
Significant Hazards
Based on the results of local community interviews and the history of disasters in the State and
County, the following hazards were identified consistently as significant threats to the
jurisdiction:






Flood/Flash Flood
Hazardous Materials (Fixed Site & Transport)
Structure Fire
Winter Storm
High Winds (Sustained winds of 40mph or more with gusts of 58mph or greater) –
Hurricanes, tropical storms, nor’easters, thunderstorms, tornadoes and localized
downbursts were included in this category.
Drought
Due to a recent earthquake that was centered across Lake Champlain in New York and the
increased concern with possible terrorist activities, earthquake and terrorism have added to the
significant hazards list for the countywide plan. Additionally, fluvial erosion along the rivers
and streams of Vermont has been identified at the state level as a significant aspect of flooding.
Other hazards were identified as locally significant and will be discussed in the respective
community annex.
The following county level maps have been included in this plan: Critical Facilities, Flood
Hazard Areas, Bridge and Dam Locations, Land Use, Watersheds, and Traffic Flow.
Town level maps of Flood Hazard Areas, Critical Facilities, and Risk Areas have been included
in the annexes.
The hazard maps provided in the regional portion of this plan, as well as in the town annexes,
have been used in determining magnitude and risk of hazards in the region. Critical facilities and
other structures located within hazard areas have been identified in the town annexes.
Assessing a community’s vulnerability in terms of future buildings, infrastructure, and critical
facilities located within identified hazard areas is difficult. Most of the towns in Bennington
County have zoning bylaws, which dictate the development in hazard areas. Development in
flood hazard areas, for example, is very limited in most towns, and therefore the vulnerability of
future buildings and infrastructure in these areas can be considered fairly low. The vulnerability
of future buildings and infrastructure to some hazards (i.e. winter storms, extreme weather, fires)
is particularly difficult, since it is nearly impossible to determine where a future hazard of that
nature may occur. Most of the towns in Bennington County have adopted building codes, which
regulate the structural design of buildings. When buildings and infrastructure are built using
higher standards (building codes), they are less susceptible to damage by a hazard, thereby
lowering a community’s vulnerability. Land use patterns and population trends have been
analyzed and included in each town annex in an attempt to determine community vulnerability to
future hazards.
53
Flood/Flash Flood
Description:
The overflowing of rivers, streams, drains and lakes due to excessive rain, rapid snow
melt or ice.
Flooding of land adjoining the normal course of a stream or river has been a natural
occurrence since the beginning of time. If these floodplain areas were left in their natural
state, floods would not cause significant damage. Development has increased the
potential for flooding because rainfall that used to soak into the ground or take several
days to reach a river or a stream via a natural drainage basin now quickly runs off streets,
parking lots and rooftops and through man-made channels and pipes.
Floods can damage or destroy public and private property, disable utilities, make roads
and bridges impassable, destroy crops and agricultural lands, cause disruption to
emergency services, and result in fatalities. People may be stranded in their homes for a
time without power or heat or they may be unable to reach their homes. Long-term
collateral dangers include the outbreak of disease, loss of livestock, broken sewer lines or
wash out of septic systems causing water supply pollution, downed power lines, loss of
fuel storage tanks, fires and release of hazardous materials.
Flood prone areas are found throughout Bennington County as every lake, river and
stream has a floodplain. County and town level flood hazard area maps have been
included in this plan. The type of development that exists within the floodplain will
determine the extent of damage that flooding will cause. Of all types of natural hazards
experienced in Vermont, flash flooding has historically resulted in the greatest magnitude
of damage suffered by private property and public infrastructure. There is little reason to
expect this to change within the near future. The State of Vermont reports that between
1989 and 2000, $708,280 has been spent to repair the publicly-owned infrastructure
(Public Assistance) in Bennington County due to damage that has occurred during
Presidentially Declared Disasters.
While inundation-related flood loss is a significant component of flood disasters, the
more common mode of damage is associated with the dynamic, and oftentimes
catastrophic, physical adjustment of stream channel dimensions and location during
storm events. These adjustments are often due to bed and bank erosion, debris and ice
jams, or structural failure of or flow diversion by man-made structures.
The National Weather Service issues flood watches and warnings when conditions are
right for flooding. A flood watch indicates that meteorological conditions are conducive
to flooding. People in the watch area are instructed to stay tuned to local radio or
television stations for updates on flooding and weather conditions. When flooding is
imminent, a flood warning is issued. The warning will identify the anticipated time, level
and duration of flooding. Persons in areas that will be flooded are instructed to take
appropriate protective actions, up to and including evacuation of family members and
removal or elevation of valuable personal property.
54
When assessing community vulnerability, E911 points from the existing database were
overlaid on the existing Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs). Flood risk information
presented on FIRMs is based on historic, meteorological, hydrologic, and hydraulic data,
as well as open-space conditions, flood control works, and development. To prepare
FIRMs that illustrate the extent of flood hazard in a flood prone community, FEMA
conducts engineering studies referred to as Flood Insurance Studies (FISs). Using
information gathered in these studies, FEMA engineers and cartographers delineate
Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) on FIRMs. SFHAs are those areas subject to
inundation by a flood that has a 1-percent or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded
during any given year. This type of flood is referred to as a base flood. A base flood has
a 26-percent chance of occurring during a 30-year period, the length of many mortgages.
The base flood is a regulatory standard used by Federal agencies, and most states, to
administer floodplain management programs, and is also used by the National Flood
Insurance Program as the basis for insurance requirements nationwide. Those E911
addresses that plotted in the SFHA or the 100-year flood zone were considered
vulnerable and counted against the total number of addresses within the community. The
average value (community average, if available or county average, if not) of the residence
was multiplied times the number of them in the zone to determine the value of the
potential loss. It is interesting to note that much of the flood related damage to public
infrastructure in the Bennington Region has historically not occurred within the identified
100-year flood zone. By multiplying the number of structures within the region’s flood
hazard areas by the average value of a structure (average by town), it is possible to
estimate that the total value of structures within flood hazard areas is $120 million (this
figure is broken out by town in each town annex).
History of Occurrences:
Presidential Disaster Declarations occurred in Bennington County on the following dates:
 January 1996, FEMA-1101-DR
 July 2000, FEMA-1336-DR
 December 2000, FEMA-1358-DR
 September 2003, FEMA-1488-DR
Other recent significant events have included:
 January 1998 - Flooding
 September 1999 - Flooding
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Utilities
 Water/Sewer
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
 Disruption of Government Services
 Economic Loss
 Fast Moving Water
55



Health Problems
Toxic Release
Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Building/Structure Collapse
 Communications Failure
 Isolated Areas
 Power Outage
 Landslide/Mudslide/Erosion
 Transportation Interruption
 Water Pollution
 Water Supply Disruption
Impact of Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People
 Displaced Families
 Loss of Sanitation Services
 Loss of Water Services
 Casualties & Death
Property/Environment
 Air Pollution
 Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy
 Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base
 Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies:
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): The NFIP was instituted in 1968 to make
flood insurance available in those communities agreeing to regulate future floodplain
development. As a participant in the NFIP, a community must adopt regulations that:
1) require any new residential construction within the 100 year floodplain to have the
lowest floor, including the basement, elevated above the 100 year flood elevation; 2)
allow non-residential structures to be elevated or dry flood proofed (the flood
proofing must be certified by a registered professional engineer or architect); 3)
require anchoring of manufactured homes in flood prone areas. The community must
also maintain a record of all lowest floor elevations or the elevations to which
buildings in flood hazard areas have been flood proofed. In return for adopting
floodplain management regulations, the federal government makes flood insurance
56
available to the citizens of the community. In 1973, the NFIP was amended to
mandate the purchase of flood insurance as a condition of any federally regulated,
supervised or insured loan on any construction or building within the 100-year
floodplain.
Flood hazard mitigation alternative strategies can be categorized into two basic
approaches: 1) removal, retrofit, restoration or stabilization of existing hazards; or 2)
avoidance and protection. Of these two strategies, avoidance and protection is the
most cost effective, as implementation mechanisms can be very inexpensive in
comparison to the retrofit or stabilization of existing human investments on unstable
fluvial systems.
The same context applies to landslide erosion hazards, which may or may not be
associated with fluvial processes; in that identification of hazard areas and avoidance
of incompatible investments in such areas is much more cost effective than postdevelopment embankment stabilization or removal of threatened structures.
Flood Hazard Mitigation projects would be greatly benefited by landslide and fluvial
geomorphic assessments when used as a tool to assist in determining a projects
potential success.
For this reason local Hazard Mitigation Plans should support the implementation of a
landslide and fluvial geomorphic hazard assessment and mapping program conducted
on a watershed basis prior to any mitigation activities which may potentially affect
that watershed. These assessments provide value in identifying unstable and
hazardous rivers, stream banks and related infrastructure. Such assessments should,
whenever possible, be conducted according to assessment protocols and mapping
methodologies published by the VT Department of Environmental Conservation,
River Management Program and the VT Geological Survey.
57
Hazardous Materials (Fixed Site and Transport)
Description:
Hazardous materials accidents can occur anywhere there is a road, rail line, pipeline or
fixed facility storing hazardous materials. Almost the entire county is at risk of an
unpredictable accident of some type. Most accidents are small spills and leaks, but some
result in injuries, property damage, environmental contamination and other consequences.
These materials are poisonous, corrosive, flammable, and radioactive or pose other
hazards.
Emergencies involving hazardous materials can be expected to range from a minor
accident with no off-site effects to a major accident that may result in an off-site release
of hazardous or toxic materials. The overall objective of chemical emergency response
planning and preparedness is to minimize exposure for a wide range of accidents that
could produce off-site levels of contamination in excess of Levels of Concern (LOC)
established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Minimizing this exposure will
reduce the consequences of an emergency to people in the area near facilities which
manufacture, store and process hazardous materials.
Large volumes of hazardous materials are transported to and through the county by
railroad and highway daily. Within Bennington County, there are a number of public and
private fixed facilities that produce or use hazardous materials. Coordinating procedures
for hazardous materials response are found in the County’s Emergency Plan for
Hazardous Materials (a plan for use in responding to and recovering from a release of
hazardous materials or toxic materials). This plan addresses the range of potential
emergency situations and the appropriate measures to be implemented to minimize
exposure through inhalation, ingestion or direct exposure. Mishandling and improper
disposal or storage of medical wastes and low-level radioactive products from medical
use are also a hazard to Bennington County.
There were a total of 189 reporting Tier II Hazardous Materials Sites in Bennington
County as of 2002. Over half of those sites are concentrated within the Town of
Bennington.
History of Occurrences:
In 2001, there were 15 incidents reported involving hazardous materials in Bennington
County. In 2002, there were 12 incidents. That number dropped to 4 incidents in the first
seven months of 2003. Recent events include:





HAZMAT spill (11/11/02) - Bennington, 15 gallons of gasoline
HAZMAT spill (11/23/02) - Pownal, 60 gallons of kerosene
HAZMAT spill (4/15/03) - Woodford, 50 gallons of diesel fuel
HAZMAT spill (7/2/03) - Manchester, 2 gallons of gasoline
HAZMAT spill (7/17/03) - Bennington, unknown quantity of gasoline
58
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Petroleum Products
 Radio/TV/Print Media
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer
 Utilities
 Schools
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
 Disruption of Government Services
 Economic Loss
 Health Problems
 Toxic Release
 Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Building/Structure Collapse
 Communications Failure
 Explosion/Fire
 Isolated Areas
 Power Outage
 Landslide/Mudslide/Erosion
 Transportation Interruption
 Water Pollution
 Water Supply Disruption
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People:
 Displaced Families
 Loss of Sanitation Services
 Loss of Water Services
 Casualties & Deaths
Property/Environment:
 Air Pollution
 Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy:
 Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base
 Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies:
See Section on Mitigation Strategies
59
Structure Fire
Description:
Structure fires are often referred to as the “universal hazard” because they occur in
virtually every community.
Vermont has the highest per capita death rate from fire in the nation. This is in fact the
deadliest form of disaster throughout the state. In 2000, there were 831 structural fires in
the state, 12 of which resulted in 22 civilian deaths, 20 of which occurred at residences.
There were 8 fire-related fatalities in Bennington County in 2000. Although there have
been requirements for smoke detectors in rental housing for over 20 years, and
requirements for smoke detectors in single family dwellings since 1994, there was only
one building involved in the fatal fires in 2000 that had evidence of working smoke
alarms.
One of the three major fires in the State of Vermont occurred in Bennington, on
December 17, 2000. Six members of the same family died in a nighttime fire that
destroyed their residence. According to the Vermont State Police Fire Investigation Unit,
the investigation into the cause of the fire is continuing.
On average, fire departments in Bennington County respond to a combined total of 106
structure fire calls annually. On January 18, 2000, two people died in their Arlington
home as a result of an electrical fire.
Less frequent than individual fires are major downtown fires that can destroy town
centers and necessitate a large response and often requiring economic aid for recovery. A
fire in an unprotected downtown can be devastating.
The number of fires as a result of arson has slowly been declining since 1994, although
arson is still the cause of about one-third of the total fires. In 2000, the estimated loss as
a result of arson was $2,256,620.
According to the Report of the Vermont Fire Marshall, there were 1,394 total structure
fires and 17 civilian fire deaths in Vermont in 2003.
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Petroleum Products
 Radio/TV/Print Media
 Telephone/Communications Systems
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer
 Utilities
 Schools
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
60






Disruption of Government Services
Economic Loss
Casualties
Health Problems
Toxic Release
Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Building/Structure Collapse
 Communications Failure
 Explosion/Fire
 Power Outage
 Landslide/Mudslide/Erosion
 Transportation Interruption
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People:
 Displaced Families
 Loss of Sanitation Services
 Loss of Water Services
 Casualties & Deaths
Property/Environment:
 Air Pollution
 Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy:
 Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base
 Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies:
See Section on Mitigation Strategies
61
Winter Storm
Description:
A winter storm is defined as a storm that generates sufficient quantities of snow, ice or
sleet to result in hazardous conditions and/or property damage. Ice storms are sometimes
incorrectly referred to as sleet storms. Sleet is similar to hail, only smaller, and can be
easily identified as frozen rain drops (ice pellets) that bounce when hitting the ground or
other objects. Sleet does not stick to wires or trees, but in sufficient depth, can cause
hazardous driving conditions. Ice storms are the result of cold rain that freezes on contact
with the surface coating the ground, tress, buildings, overhead wires and other exposed
objects with ice, sometimes causing extensive damage.
One of the major problems associated with ice storms is the loss of electrical power.
Major electric utility companies have active, ongoing programs to improve system
reliability and protect facilities from damage by ice, severe winds and other hazards.
Typically, these programs focus on trimming trees to prevent encroachment of overhead
lines, strengthening vulnerable system components, protecting equipment from lightning
strikes and placing new distribution lines underground. Other major problems include
closed roads and restricted transportation.
By observing winter storm watches and warnings, adequate preparations can usually be
made to lessen the impact of snow, ice and sleet conditions on Bennington County
communities. Providing for the mass care and sheltering of residents left without heat or
electricity for an extended time and mobilizing sufficient resources to clear broken tree
limbs from roads, are the primary challenges facing community officials. Severe snow,
ice and sleet storms can affect every Bennington County community. Every community
should plan and prepare for these emergencies. That planning and preparedness effort
should include the identification of mass care facilities and necessary resources such as
cots, blankets food supplies and generators, as well as debris removal equipment and
services. In addition, communities should develop debris management procedures (to
include the identification of debris storage, processing and disposal sites) so that the tree
and other storm related debris could be handled in the most expedient, efficient and
environmentally safe manner possible.
History of Occurrences:
Snow and/or ice events occur on a regular basis. Recent significant events have included:
 November 1996 - Winter Weather
 December 1996 - Winter Weather
 March 1997 - Winter Weather
 April 1997 - Winter Weather
 November 1997 - Winter Weather
 December 1997 - Winter Weather
 January 1999 - Winter Weather
 March 1999 - Winter Weather
 December 2000 - Winter Storm
 March 2001 - Snow Emergency
62
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Petroleum Products
 Radio/TV/Print Media
 Telephone/Communications Systems
 Railroads
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer
 Utilities
 Schools
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
 Disruption of Government Services
 Economic Loss
 Casualties
 Extreme Cold
 Toxic Release
 Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Building/Structure Collapse
 Communications Failure
 Explosion/Fire
 Power Outage
 Isolated Areas
 Transportation Interruption
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People:
 Displaced Families
 Isolated/Stranded
 Loss of Sanitation Services
 Loss of Water Services
 Casualties & Deaths
Property/Environment:
 Air Pollution
 Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy:
 Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base
 Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies: See Section on Mitigation Strategies
63
High Winds
Description:
Thunderstorms can generate high winds, downing hundreds of large trees in a few
minutes. The State can also experience tornadoes, which are capable of damaging or
destroying structures, downing trees and power lines and creating injuries and death from
collapsing buildings and flying objects. Tornadoes are less common than hail storms and
high winds, but have occurred throughout Vermont. In fact, 34 tornadoes were recorded
in the State between 1950 and 1999, injuring 10 people and causing over $8.4 million
dollars in estimated property damage. Nearly all of these occurred from May through
August and most of these occurred in the afternoon.
History of Occurrences:
Significant events have included:
 March 1955 - Tornado
 June 1960 - Tornado
 May 1969 - Tornado
 May 1998 - Tornado
 July 2003 - Tornado
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Petroleum Products
 Radio/TV/Print Media
 Telephone/Communications Systems
 Railroads
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer
 Utilities
 Schools
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
 Disruption of Government Services
 Economic Loss
 Casualties
 Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Building/Structure Collapse
 Communications Failure
 Explosion/Fire
 Power Outage
 Isolated Areas
 Transportation Interruption
64
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People:
 Displaced Families
 Isolated/Stranded
 Loss of Sanitation Services
 Loss of Water Services
 Casualties & Deaths
Property/Environment:
 Air Pollution
 Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion



Economy:
Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
Loss of Tax Base
Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies:
See Section on Mitigation Strategies.
65
Earthquakes
Description:
Vermont is classified as an area with “moderate" seismic activity. This can be compared
to the west coast of the U.S., which is classified as “very high" and the north-central
states classified as “very low." Sixty-three known or possible earthquakes have been
centered in Vermont since 1843 (Ebel, et al 1995). The two strongest recorded quakes
measured in Vermont were of a magnitude 4.1 on the Richter scale. One was centered in
Swanton and occurred on July 6, 1943, and the second occurred in 1962 at Middlebury.
The Swanton quake caused little damage, but the Middlebury quake did result in broken
windows, cracked plaster and falling objects (VEM, 1995).
In addition, earthquakes centered outside the state have been felt in Vermont. Twin
quakes of 5.5 occurred in New Hampshire in 1940. In 1988, an earthquake with a
magnitude 6.2 on the Richter scale took place in Saguenay, Quebec and caused shaking
in the northern two thirds of Vermont (Ebel, et al 1995).
Refer to HAZUS Assessment included in this plan for an earthquake analysis of
Bennington County, as prepared by the Vermont Geological Survey.
History of Occurrences:
 May 2002 – 5.2 earthquake centered across Lake Champlain in New York
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Petroleum Products
 Telephone/Communications Systems
 Railroads
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer
 Utilities
 Schools
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
 Disruption of Government Services
 Economic Loss
 Casualties
 Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Communications Failure
 Explosion/Fire
 Power Outage
 Isolated Areas
 Transportation Interruption
66
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People:
 Displaced Families; Isolated/Stranded; Casualties/Deaths
Property/Environment:
 Air & Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy:
 Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base; Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies: See Section on Mitigation Strategies.
Landslide/Erosion/Avalanche
Description:
Landslides are typically associated with periods of heavy rainfall or rapid snow melt and
tend to worsen the effects of flooding that often accompanies these events. Some
landslides move slowly and cause damage gradually, whereas others move so rapidly that
they can destroy property and take lives suddenly and unexpectedly. Gravity is the force
driving landslide movement. Factors that allow the force of gravity to overcome the
resistance of earth material to landslide movement include saturation by water,
steepening of slopes by erosion or construction, and alternate freezing or thawing.
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Railroads/Roads/Highways/Bridges; Water/Sewer/Utilities
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Economic Loss; Transportation Interruption
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Water Contamination
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People/Animals:
 Casualties/Displaced Families
Property/Environment:
 Soil Degradation; Bridges/Roads; Homes/Businesses
Economy:
 Business/Transportation Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
Mitigation Strategies: See Section on Mitigation Strategies
67
Terrorism
Description:
According to the Vermont First Responder Guide to An Act of Terrorism, Terrorism is
defined as “the unlawful use of force or violence against a person or property to
intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in
furtherance of political or social objectives.” As outlined in the Guide, we know the
following about terrorism:
 Terrorist events may occur with little or no warning and may involve a variety of
tactics that are not limited to bombing, hostage taking, chemical, biological, or
nuclear incidents.
 The fact that an emergency is the result of a terrorist event may not be clear
during the initial phases of crisis response and an event may not be determined to
be a terrorist event for hours, days, or even weeks after the event.
 A terrorist attack will more than likely overwhelm local and regional response
capabilities.
 The local and state emergency response organizations must develop tactical and
technical response capabilities to deal with the wide range of terrorist threats.
 No single agency at the local, state, or federal level possesses the authority and
expertise to act unilaterally on the issues that could arise while responding to an
act of terrorism in Vermont.
 Adequate capability may or may not exist to alert or warn the public of impending
terrorist activities.
Terrorism and civil hazards include actions that people intentionally do to threaten lives
and property. They may range from a single person on a shooting rampage, to a cyber
attack that harms computer systems, to the organized use of weapons of mass destruction
(WMD). WMD events could involve chemical, biological, explosive or radioactive
weapons. VEM and Vermont State Police conducted a risk/threat assessment of potential
WMD attacks in 2000 that ranked potential targets by State Police district. At that time,
no known or suspected terrorists (potential threat elements) were operating in Vermont,
but the FBI was aware that many terrorist organizations have cells in the Montreal area.
Additional analysis of the threat from terrorism is ongoing, due to the actual use of
hijacked aircraft as flying bombs and biological weapons (anthrax in letters) in
September and October, 2001. A vulnerability analysis has been done by VTDEC's Dam
Safety Section ( 11/1/01) for the intentional breach by explosives of dams that normally
hold back at least 1,000 acres-feet of water, and this resulted in 15 priority dams where
security could be focused. Vermont Yankee and State buildings, and Burlington
International Airport have upgraded security.
The threat assessment indicates the most probable (though unlikely) attack is still a
conventional bombing, hostage taking, kidnapping or shooting. A WMD attack must still
be considered a rare event, but with the potential for catastrophic consequences. The
most likely scenario of WMD event in Vermont would involve the detonation of an
improvised explosive device at a chemical facility (such as bulk liquid propane storage or
manufacturing facility) near a large population center.
68
History of Occurrence:
There have been no terrorism related events in Vermont but the recent World Trade
Center attack impacted the state in terms of proximity and support provided to response
and recovery operations with personnel and equipment.
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Petroleum Products
 Telephone/Communications Systems
 Railroads
 Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer
 Utilities
 Schools
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Disrupted Transportation
 Disruption of Government Services
 Economic Loss
 Casualties
 Loss of Utilities
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Communications Failure
 Explosion/Fire
 Power Outage
 Isolated Areas
 Transportation Interruption
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People:
 Displaced Families
 Isolated/Stranded
 Casualties & Deaths
Property/Environment:
 Air Pollution
 Water Pollution
 Soil Contamination
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy:
 Business Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base
 Unemployment (Long/Short Term)
Mitigation Strategies: See Section on Mitigation Strategies.
69
Drought/Wildfire
Description:
All areas in the United States are at risk of drought at any time of the year. Temperatures
that hover 10 degrees or more above the average high temperature for the region and last
for several weeks are defined as extreme heat. Humid or muggy conditions, which add to
the discomfort of high temperatures, occur when a "dome" of high atmospheric pressure
traps hazy, damp air near the ground. Excessively dry and hot conditions can provoke
dust storms and low visibility. Droughts occur when a long period passes without
substantial rainfall. A heat wave combined with a drought is a very dangerous situation.
Droughts often can lead to wildfires. There are three types of wildland fires: a surface
fire is the most common and slowly burns along the floor of the forest, killing and
damaging trees; a ground fire is usually started by lightening and burns on or below the
forest floor; a crown fire spreads rapidly by wind and moves quickly by jumping along
the tops of trees. Due to the typically moist, green forest land in Bennington County,
wildfires are not common here, and therefore, they are not considered a significant threat.
History of Occurrences:
 March 2000 (drought conditions)
Impact on Infrastructure:
 Railroads/Roads/Highways/Bridges
 Water/Sewer; Utilities
Primary Effects of the Hazard:
 Economic Loss
 Casualties/Sickness
 Extreme Heat
Secondary Effects of the Hazard:
 Wildland Fire
 Transportation Interruption
Impact of the Hazard on the Jurisdiction:
People/Animals:
 Sickness/Health Problems/Casualties
Property/Environment:
 Soil Degradation
 Bridges/Roads
 Fire/Explosion
Economy:
 Business/Transportation Interruptions (Permanent/Temporary)
 Loss of Tax Base
Mitigation Strategies: See Section on Mitigation Strategies
70
Significant Hazards Maps
71
Map Above: Earthquakes
Map Above: Faults
72
Map Above: Hurricane Risk
Map Above: Hurricane Tracks
73
Map Above: Landslide Susceptibility
Map Above: Annual Snowfall
74
Map Above: Tornadoes
Map Above: Tornado Density
75
Vulnerability Analysis
The hazards previously discussed range from natural to technical to civil political disorder.
Determining the extent of these hazards and population at risk involves a multiple step process.
We have identified the hazards and their significance with a view toward the duration of impact,
intensity of impact, and threat predictability. The data that follows provides specific information
about earthquake vulnerability, hazardous materials, flood plains, bridge locations, dam
locations, and current traffic flow along the major routes in Bennington County. The
vulnerability of each community to the hazards identified throughout Bennington County is
outlined in the individual community annexes. For example, each Annex contains a town level
map of flood hazard areas, which depicts the number and type of structures within these areas.
In terms of future land use and development, refer to the county level Land Use Map included in
this plan. Using the methodology described in the paragraph above, and using the county and
town level maps included in this plan, it is possible to assess the risk of the significant hazards
identified for Bennington County as follows:
Flood/Flash Flood:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Likely to Highly Likely
Negligible to Critical
High
Hazardous Materials (Fixed Site & Transport):
 Frequency:
Possible to Highly Likely
 Magnitude:
Negligible to Critical
 Risk:
Moderate to High
Structure Fire:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Likely to Highly Likely
Negligible to Critical (localized)
High
Winter Storm:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Likely to Highly Likely
Negligible to Critical
High
High Winds:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Likely to Highly Likely
Negligible to Critical
High
Earthquake:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely to Possible
Negligible to Limited
Low
Terrorism:
 Frequency:
 Magnitude:
 Risk:
Unlikely to Possible
Limited to Critical
Low
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HAZUS Assessments for Bennington County
(See Insert)
77
Critical Facilities Map
(See Insert)
78
County-wide Flooding Summary
(See Insert)
79
Bridge & Dam Locations Map
(See Insert)
80
Land Use Map
(See Insert)
81
Watersheds Map
(See Insert)
82
Traffic Flow in Bennington County
(See Insert)
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Mitigation Initiatives
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following listing and descriptions show existing Hazard Mitigation programs at various
agencies from the different levels of government.
FEDERAL
FEMA
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
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program. As part of the Disaster Mitigation Act of
2000 (Section 322 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency
Act), this program continues the requirement for a Standard State Mitigation
plan; provides for States to receive an increased percentage of HMGP funds
(from 15 to 20 percent of the total estimated eligible Federal assistance) if, at
the time of the declaration of a major disaster, they have in effect a FEMAapproved Enhanced State Mitigation Plan; establishes a new requirement for
local mitigation plans; and authorizes up to 7 percent of the HMGP funds
available to a State to be used for the development of State, tribal and local
mitigation plans.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. The Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
(Section 404 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency
Assistance Act) is activated during Presidential Disaster Declarations to assist
in identifying mitigation projects, and funding these projects on a 75%
Federal/25% non-Federal cost share basis. Mitigation program funding is
based on 20% of the federal funds expended for the Infrastructure and
Individual Assistance Programs. The HMGP supports other program
activities, i.e. participation the NFIP is required for recipients of HMGP
funds.
Disaster Preparedness Improvement Grants. Under the Disaster
Preparedness Improvement Grants (Section 201 of the Stafford Act), FEMA
provides up to 50% matching funds to states annually to improve or update
their disaster assistance plans and capabilities. States can use these funds to:
implement measures in a Hazard Mitigation Plan; develop pre-disaster Hazard
Mitigation Plans; expand an existing Hazard Mitigation Plan; develop hazard
specific annexes; or develop administrative plans for the implementation of
the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program.
Hazard Mitigation Technical Assistance Program Contract. HMTAP was
established to provide FEMA with response capability for various postdisaster mitigation opportunities. The contractor has the capability to: (1)
evaluate construction science techniques and practices, including build codes;
(2) prepare environmental assessments or impact statements and historic
preservation reviews and assessments; (3) conduct biological assessments and
surveys, (4) conduct surveys, assessments, and reviews of other areas of
impact such as water quality and wetland delineation; (5) conduct benefit/cost,
social science, and public administration assessments; (6) conduct post-event
assessments to identify mitigation opportunities; (7) Provide post-disaster land
surveying, mapping services and cost estimates using GIS, GPS, and remote
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sensing; (8) Perform floodplain analyses; (9) conduct hazard identification
and risk assessment to confirm accuracy and specific actions or methodologies
needed for disaster areas; (10) document estimated flood elevations to guide
reconstruction and to compute flood frequency; and (11) provide training for
benefit/cost analysis, retrofit options, the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program,
and National Environmental Policy Act.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The National Flood Insurance
Program (NFIP) makes federally subsidized flood insurance available to
property owners in locations agreeing to participate in the NFIP. If
communities enter the NFIP, they are required to adopt floodplain ordinances
meeting criteria established by FEMA. These criteria include: requiring
permits for development within designated floodplains; review development
plans and subdivision proposals to determine whether proposed sites will be
reasonably safe from flooding; require protection of water supply and sewage
systems to minimize infiltration of floodwater; obtain, review, and utilize all
base flood elevation data; and assure the maintenance of flood carrying
capacities within all watercourses.
The Community Rating System. An element of the NFIP, is designed to
promote the availability of flood insurance, reduce future flood damages, and
ensure the accurate rating of flood insurance policies. Participating
communities may receive credit for proven mitigation measures, thus reducing
the cost of flood insurance within their jurisdictions.
The Individual Assistance Loss Prevention Program. Available to provide
eligible owner- occupants, who sustained damage and received Disaster
Housing Minimal Repair Funds, the opportunity to participate in a voluntary
program where additional 100% federal funds are made available to break the
damage-rebuild-damage cycle and help homeowners reduce or eliminate
losses from future weather-related damage.
The Individual and Family Grant (IFG) Minimization Program.
Available to provide IFG-eligible owner- occupants the opportunity to
participate in a voluntary program where additional state and federal funds are
made available to break the damage-rebuild-damage cycle, and help reduce or
eliminate losses from future weather-related damage. In addition, FEMA’s
800 series provides funding for low cost mitigation measures.
The Infrastructure Program (Section 406 of the Stafford Act). Authorizes
funding for the repair, restoration, or replacement of damaged facilities
belonging to public and private non-profit entities, and for other associated
expenses, including emergency protective measures and debris removal. The
Infrastructure Program also authorizes funding for appropriate cost-effective
hazard mitigation related to damaged public facilities.
The National Inventory of Dams (US Army Corps of Engineers project).
Identifies high-hazard dams and encourages the development of warning
systems and emergency plans for many of these facilities.
Hazardous Materials Program. FEMA’s mission under this program is to
provide technical and financial assistance to States and local jurisdictions and
to coordinate with public and private sector entities to develop, implement,
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and evaluate HAZMAT emergency preparedness programs. FEMA supports
State and local agencies in the design, implementation, and evaluation of
HAZMAT- related training and planning exercises, and cooperates with the
U.S. Department of Transportation in the maintenance of electronic bulletin
boards to provide the latest information on HAZMAT planning, training,
exercises, and conferences.
US Fire Administration (USFA). Through the USIA, FEMA administers a
nationwide program to enhance fire prevention and control activities and to
reduce significantly the loss of life and property caused by fires. Programs are
carried out by: National Fire Academy; Office of Fire Prevention and Arson
Control; Office of Firefighter Health and Safety; Office of Fire Data and
Analysis; Office of Federal Fire Policy and Coordination; Office of National
Emergency Training Center Operations and Support, and Office of
Educational Technology.
The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986 imposed upon
state and local governments planning and preparedness requirements for emergencies
involving the release of hazardous materials. The role of the federal government in
response to an emergency involving the release of hazardous materials is to support local
and state emergency operations. Activation of the federal Regional Response Team
(RRT) provides access to federal resources not available at the state and local levels. An
on scene coordinator is designated to manage federal resources and support. The national
warning and communications center for emergencies involving the release of hazardous
materials is manned 24 hours a day, and is located at the U.S. Coast Guard headquarters
in Washington, D.C.
The National Weather Service provides meteorological and hydrologic services that
includes weather and hydrologic warnings, forecasts, and related information. The
primary mission of the NWS is to save lives and reduce property damage through timely
issuances of tornado and flood warnings and river stage forecasts. To cope with
dangerous weather, the NWS interacts with emergency services personnel throughout the
state by: issuance of tornado and flash flood watches or warnings for those areas in which
a threat is posed; issuance of flood watches and warnings for major streams and rivers
within the state. Bennington County is within the coverage area of the NWS office in
Albany, New York.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers undertake a broad range of civil works projects to
develop, manage, and conserve the nation's water resources. No work may be undertaken
without authorization and funding from Congress, either from specific legislation or
continuing authorities. Projects are planned to serve as many purposes as are feasible and
to protect or improve the environment as much as possible. The Corps is involved in
developing and implementing plans for flood control, navigation, hydropower, recreation,
and water supply. The Corps has authority for emergency operations, bank protection,
permit administration, and technical assistance. Corps of Engineers assistance includes:
 Studies and Projects
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Discretionary Authority to implement certain types of water resources projects
without specific Congressional approval. These projects are typically limited in
cost and duration, and include:
 Section 14 - Emergency Stream bank Protection of Public Facilities, limitation
of $500,000 per project.
 Section 107 - Small Navigation Projects, usually for port facilities and
navigation channels. Work on channels usually improves stream flow and aids
flood control efforts.
 Section 205 - Small Flood Control Projects, not to exceed $5 million. Funds
may be used for projects such as upgrading flood protection structures and
channelization of streams.
 Floodplain Technical Assistance, to include:
 Conducting floodplain mapping surveys to provide either first-time
mapping of an area or to correct older floodplain maps;
 Conducting flood studies in cooperation with FEMA to determine
actual flood levels for settlement of flood insurance claims;
 Providing technical advice regarding proposed floodplain
ordinances and building codes.
 Emergency operations to respond to flood emergencies, to include flood
fighting, constructing advance temporary measures in anticipation of
imminent flood, and the repair of damaged flood control works after the flood
event.
 Permit authority, the Corps has the authority to issue Permits to cover
construction excavation and other related work in or over navigable
waterways; and Permits covering the discharge of fill material in all waters of
the United States and adjacent wetlands.
Department of Housing and Urban Development
 Community Development Block Grant Program. Funds are provided as grants
to units of local government. Local governments can use the funds to:
construct flood and drainage facilities; finance rehabilitation projects that
include flood proofing, elevation, purchase of flood insurance, etc.; finance
acquisition and relocation of homes to remove them from the floodplains.

Rental Rehabilitation Program. Funds to rehabilitate rental properties can be
used for flood proofing and repair to flood damage.

Section 312 Loan Program. Provides funds to rehabilitate both residential
and non-residential properties, including flood repair and flood proofing.
Department of Agriculture Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) can
provide technical assistance in the conservation, development, and productive use of
water resources. In addition, the NRCS monitors use of prime farmland.
 Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention. Technical and financial
assistance to local entities to plan and install works of improvement for
watershed protection, flood prevention, agricultural water management, and
other approved purposes.
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Resource Conservation and Development. Technical and financial assistance
to local entities to plan and install works of improvement for watershed
protection, flood prevention, agricultural water management, and other
approved purposes.
Emergency Watershed Protection. Provides assistance to reduce hazards to
life and property in watersheds damaged by severe natural events. NRCS can
provide 100% of the cost of exigency situations, and 80% of the cost for nonexigency situations, if funds are available.
Conservation Technical Assistance. Provided to land users to control erosion,
sediment, and to reduce upstream flooding.
River Basin Surveys and Investigations. Includes Conservation River Basin
Studies to assist in solving existing problems or meeting existing or projected
needs, and Floodplain Management Studies to provide information and
assistance for reducing future flood damages. Financial assistance is provided
by sponsors.
U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides certain hazard studies and recommendations.
A portion of the mission of the USGS is to collect and analyze data on the quantity of
surface water through a network of gauging stations. The data is used in preparing flood
frequency reports to evaluate the severity of floods. This data is useful in flood hazard
mitigation studies, establishing flood prone areas, and potential flood heights near
hydraulic structures.
Economic Development Administration was established to generate new jobs, to help
protect existing jobs, and to stimulate commercial and industrial growth in economically
distressed areas of the United States.
Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance Programs provide loans to
businesses and individuals affected by presidential and SBA disaster declarations. The
program provides direct loans to businesses to repair or replace uninsured disaster
damage to property owned by the business, including real estate, machinery, and
equipment, inventory and supplies. Businesses of any size are eligible. Non-profit
organizations are also eligible. Assistance to individuals comes in the form of lowinterest loans for repair or replacing damaged real and personal property. The SBA
administers the Disaster Assistance Programs.
 Pre-Disaster Mitigation Loans. This new loan program began in January 2000
and is funded for five years. This program makes funds for mitigation
available to businesses in Project Impact communities.
STATE
Agency of Transportation
 Town Highway Grants Program. State aid grants for highways are made
annually to the governing body based on the number of Class 1,2 or 3 miles in
the Municipality. The General Assembly appropriates a lump sum annually
for this purpose (19 V.S.A. Section 306(a)). Distribution is made quarterly,
with no application required. There is no requirement that State funds be
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matched with local funds, other than a requirement that municipalities expend
no less than $300 per mile of local tax revenues of their highways (19 V.S.A.
Section 307).
Town Highway Bridge Program. State assistance for major rehabilitation or
reconstruction of bridges with a span of six feet or more on class 1, 2 or 3
town highways is made available by the Secretary of Transportation from
annual appropriations for that purpose (19 V.S.A. Section 306(b)). State
assistance amounts are not limited for any one project. The State assistance
requires 10 percent participation or match of total project cost with town funds
for replacement projects and 5% for rehabilitation projects. The local match is
capped at the amount raised by a municipal tax rate of $0.50 on the Grand List
(19 V.S.A. Section 309(a)).
Town Highway Structures Program. State grants for bridges, culverts and
retaining walls that are part of the municipalities highway (Class 1, 2 or 3)
infrastructure are made by the Secretary of Transportation from annual
appropriations for the purpose. State grant amounts are limited to $150,000
for any one project. State funds are required to be matched, as follows:
o By at least 20% of the total project cost, or
o By at least 10% of the total project cost providing that town has adopted
Town Highway codes and standards and the town has conducted a
highway infrastructure study (not less than three years old), which
identifies all town culverts, bridges and identified road problems.
Town Highway Class 2 Roadway Program. State grants to provide for the
preservation of any Class 2 highways by providing grants for resurfacing or
reconstruction are made by the Secretary of Transportation or his/her designee
from annual appropriations for that purpose. State grants are limited to
$150,000 for any one project and there are match requirements fir the town
similar to the Town Highway Structures Program.
Town Road & Bridge Standards, Infrastructure Study. As a result of
legislative action relating to the Town Aid programs an incentive program
was created providing additional funding to towns meeting two requirements:
o Adopted codes and standards.
o Conducted a network infrastructure study.
Department of Public Safety, Division of Emergency Management
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Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Previously described under Federal
Programs.
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program. Previously described under Federal
Programs.
Local Emergency Management Director Program. A continuing program of
training for local emergency management directors to provide a consistent
base of knowledge to understand their roles and responsibilities in Emergency
Management.
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REGIONAL
The Bennington County Regional Commission (BCRC) provides assistance to local governments
concerning planning for businesses, transportation, emergency management and population.
An effective ongoing program is the local culvert survey and upgrade program, which is
sponsored by the BCRC. This program provides funding to communities for survey and location
of installed culverts to determine condition and effectiveness. Those identified as needing repair
and replacement are eligible for hazard mitigation funding.
The BCRC has these policies/guidance that support hazard mitigation:
 Facilitate a transportation system that balances the goals of safety,
convenience, cost, energy efficiency, environmental protection, economic
growth and recreation.
 Encourage the efficient use of the Region’s natural resources and the
appropriate extraction of earth resources and the proper restoration of the
aesthetic qualities of the area.
 Support an efficient system of public facilities and services to meet future
needs.
LOCAL
Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities are contained in the community appendices.
Land Use and Future Land Use (Bennington Regional Plan - 2002)
The regulation of land use falls primarily to municipalities through the use of
zoning bylaws.
In terms of floodplains, the Regional Plan states: “Towns in the region that
contain significant river or stream floodplains have adopted flood hazard area
regulations based on federal standards and maps. Development in floodplain
areas is inherently dangerous, due both to the immediate hazards associated with
flood water inundation, and to the increased flooding that may occur downstream
when developed floodplains are no longer capable of retaining flood waters. Such
development can also interfere with the function and quality of floodplain
wetlands. Flood hazard regulations are therefore necessary to reduce the risk that
construction in floodplain areas will result in property damage, personal injury, or
unnecessary costs to the public.”
In areas on the Future Land Use map, land uses as allowed by municipal zoning
bylaws are generally as follows.
Areas Designated as Residential Use (Less Than 10 Acres)
Residential uses are permitted uses subject in some towns to the requirements of
on-site sewage ordinances. Most towns also allow planned developments as
conditional uses, although this provision is not widely utilized at present. The
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Regional Plan supports residential use as permitted in town bylaws, but
encourages the use of cluster/PUD developments particularly in developments on
agricultural and forestlands, and/or to protect regionally significant resources. As
the Regional Commission works with towns in updating plans, zoning bylaws,
and subdivision regulations, the commission will encourage towns to adopt
policies, which encourage cluster/PUD development to protect these same
resources, as well as other locally significant resources.
Home occupations are also permitted uses in most municipal bylaws. This is
consistent with economic base policies that encourage smaller, community-based
businesses, However, the commission is aware of problems with administering
home occupation/cottage industry bylaws and worked with the Towns of Ferris
burgh and Monkton to secure CDBG funds to gather additional information about
these uses so that bylaws can be revised to more realistically review and permit
such uses. Agriculture and forestry (where appropriate) are generally permitted
uses. This is consistent with Regional Plan policies supporting continuation of
local resource based business. The Regional Plan specifically encourages the use
of AMP’s, AAP’s and BMP’s.
Several towns also have mineral extraction by-laws, The Regional Plan policies
reflect the intent of these bylaws and reinforce the importance of wise use of these
resources, given their uneven distribution (sand and gravel) in the region, as well
as the economic ramifications of a continuing mineral resource in the region.
Land Uses in Areas Designated as Residential Uses (On 10 or More Acres)
Single-family uses are usually permitted on larger lot sizes. In much of Vermont,
larger lot designations are used in areas with more severe physical constraints to
development in an attempt to discourage development and control density of
development. Often the result is a string of development along a road that now
requires more maintenance and a decimation of resource lands.
Towns are gradually learning that the use of Pods with clusters of housing
units works better to meet the above goals than large lot designations. The
Regional Commission will continue to work with towns to explain the PUD
concept and to encourage its use on appropriate sites.
Agriculture and forestry are usually permitted uses. This is consistent with
Regional Plan policies encouraging both uses, Some towns include outdoor
recreation as either a permitted or conditional use in these districts. The Regional
Planning Commission is working with State Forests and Parks and Recreation
Division to prepare a detailed look at recreation in the region. Once this is
completed, the Commission will include appropriate recreational policies and data
in the Regional Plan and will be better prepared to assist towns in planning for
recreation.
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Industrial and Commercial
Every town except Sandgate has one or more commercial area designations.
These are all located in areas of existing commercial development, usually the
historic village centers. Bennington has a designated downtown business district.
Because of the availability of infrastructure it is clear that most major commercial
or industrial development will likely occur in Bennington or Manchester, with
continuing infill in the smaller towns. The Regional Plan supports village cluster
with major developments in regional and sub-regional clusters.
Conservation
Conservation areas are sprinkled liberally over the region. Much of the higher
elevation land on the eastern border of the region is designated in 25-acre
conservation districts. Land along many rivers and abutting several major
wetlands and marshes is also designated conservation.
Aquifer areas are shown in the water resources section of this plan. Most aquifers
are within the town that they serve and so are of local concern. The Regional
Commission will provide towns with examples of aquifer protection districts from
other regions and encourage their adoption here. Those aquifer areas serving
more than one town are of regional significance and are shown on the Regionally
Significant Resources Map.
Public and Semi-Public
Public and semi-public uses are generally either permitted or more usually
conditional uses. All zoning bylaws in the region include directly or by reference
the limitations of 24 VSA § 4409.
Agriculture and Forestry
The future land use map identifies those areas designated for agricultural and
forestry uses in the Bennington Region. In addition, maps in the agricultural and
forestry lands sections of this plan show those lands which are of prime and
statewide importance under Criterion 9B for Act 250, and those lands rated
highest for forest productivity by the Soil Conservation Service.
Open Space
Because of the abundance of the rural landscape, the public and quasi-public
opportunities for outdoor recreation and the proximity of the Green Mountains
National Forest, most towns do not have lands designated as open space. Most of
them understand the clustering and the village center concept in maintaining open
space and have included such provisions in local plans and bylaws.
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BCRC Policies and Guidance Supporting Hazard Mitigation
The 2002 Regional Plan outlines the following overall goals that support Hazard Mitigation:


The BCRC should continue to assist with the preparation of Rapid
Response Plans for towns in the region, as well as continue an active roll
on the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The BCRC should remain
the liaison between the towns and Vermont Emergency Management,
gather and disseminate damage reports in the event of an emergency, and
provide information to towns on grants and training sessions available to
emergency responders.
Plan future growth to reinforce historic development patterns, and to
provide desirable housing and economic opportunities.
The following Natural Resource policies also support Hazard Mitigation:


The surface waters of the Bennington region are extraordinary valuable
natural resources that must be protected from incompatible development
and land uses.
Development in floodplains must be carefully controlled in accordance
with flood hazard area regulations. Development is strongly discouraged
in flood hazard areas.
The following Land Use policies support Hazard Mitigation:


New development should be concentrated in and around established
growth centers; scattered development that is remote and has little
relationship to existing settlement patters should be avoided.
Residential development must be carefully planned in areas where
predominant natural slopes exceed 15 percent; residential development
should not be permitted where slopes are 20 percent or greater.
The following Transportation Planning policies encourage Hazard Mitigation:

All new road construction should be consistent with limitations imposed
by topographical conditions, natural areas, and areas having special
resource value.
These Public Utilities, Facilities & Services policies support Hazard Mitigation:


Public investments in utilities, facilities, and services should support and
reinforce historical development trends.
Such investments should
encourage development in designated growth centers, and not in outlying
areas.
Emphasis should be placed on the maintenance of existing public water
supply and wastewater disposal systems to serve areas of concentrated
development, or to correct a serious health hazard.
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Mitigation Projects/Activities by Type of Mitigation Strategy
Having previously defined Mitigation, it is important to note that it is a concept that includes
many varied activities. They may range from policy and program development, through public
education and constituency building, to scientific research and structural engineering. Mitigation
activities should strive to balance current actions and expenditures with potential losses from
future hazards (cost of activities versus future benefits). These projects/activities can be used as
a part or parts of these suggested Mitigation Strategies and are listed by strategy. Potential
funding sources are identified by hazard in this plan.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Mitigation Strategies
Building Design/Codes/Use
8. Mitigation Committee.
Regulations.
9. Protection/Retrofit of
Community Preparedness
Infrastructure & Essential
Activities.
Facilities.
Financial & Tax Incentives.
10. Public Awareness/Training &
Hazard Control & Protective
Education.
Works.
11. Public Health/Emergency
Insurance Programs.
Medical Care/Education.
Land Use Planning/Management.
12. Public Protection.
Science & Technology
13. Laws/Ordinances/Inspections.
Projects/Activities by Type of Mitigation Strategy
Building Design, Codes, Use Regulations
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Require structures to be built to withstand destructive forces, e.g. hurricane force
wind, wave force, earthquake, etc.
Require mobile home anchorage.
Require retrofit of repetitive loss properties as a condition for receiving a building
permit for other activities.
Retrofit of buildings (by hazard).
Design, construction, land use (by hazard):
 Floods: flood proofing; regulatory frameworks; controlling
parameters;
flood-resistant
design
practices;
benefit/cost/technical feasibility analysis; finished floor
elevation 18 inches above 100 year flood level.
 Earthquake: seismic safety design; construction; land use.
 Wind / Storm: wind safety design; determining wind
loading on structures; brace gable end roof framing;
corrosion resistant hurricane clips; water resistant adhesives
for shingles; trusses manufactured in accordance with local
wind models; distance from tree to house must be greater
than height of full grown tree; windborne debris impact
standards.
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Multi-hazard design, construction, land use.
Home owners hazard mitigation retrofit guide(s).
Building codes that will:
 Regulate storm-water drainage.
 Include "safe room" provision to protect against tornadoes.
 Require new or redeveloped mobile home parks to include
a hardened facility for resident evacuation during
emergency events, e.g. high winds, micro-bursts,
hurricanes, tornadoes.
 Promote reduction in density and intensity in areas that
have experienced repetitive damage.
 Promote water conservation.
 Mandate emergency water restriction measures.
 Wellhead protection.
 Regulate handling of hazardous materials and waste onsite.
 Require spill contingency plan for marinas.
 Address controlled burns.
Community Preparedness Activities
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Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) and/or a current Rapid Response Plan (RRP).
Post-disaster redevelopment plan.
Equipment acquisition.
Resource development.
Town/City officials, emergency response, emergency management staff attending
professional training sessions:
 Damage assessment training.
 Management of emergency operations.
 Orientation to disaster assistance programs.
 FEMA/State conference training sessions.
 Hazard specific conference training sessions.
 Responder specific conference training sessions.
 FEMA professional development training courses.
Building inspector courses, such as: hurricane/wind resistant structural design,
roofing updates, wood construction, fire resistance and egress.
Damage assessment plan, program, system as a part of the Emergency Operations
Plan (EOP) and/or Rapid Response Plan (RRP).
Debris management (A plan to collect, sort. store, burn and dispose of debris).
Temporary housing
Response/recovery evaluation (situation reporting).
Drills:
 Staged mock disasters.
 Structural fire drills.
 Chemical spill drills.
 Medical response.
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Warning system tests.
Emergency communications tests,
Emergency public information tests.
Emergency power tests.
Regularly scheduled maintenance programs:
 Stormwater drainage maintenance.
 Removal of debris from drainage ditches.
 General litter removal.
 Tree trimming along power lines.
 Cutting vegetation to allow visibility at intersections
Complete a comprehensive self- assessment (program review) of the community's
emergency management program.
Financial and Tax Incentives
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Tax incentives.
Insurance rebates.
Home mitigation retrofit grants to home owners.
Exempt retrofit improvements from future property tax assessment increases.
Do not charge for building permits (but issue them) relating to hazard retrofit
projects.
Establish "hazard districts" to provide a stable funding source for hazard
mitigation projects and activities.
Use of state and federal funding sources for mitigation projects and activities.
Work with insurance companies and mortgage companies to establish lower
insurance premiums for building retrofits.
Tax benefits for demolishing damaged buildings, homes.
Community economic development: Ensure that existing businesses and industry
will want to remain in you community by protecting and enhancing infrastructure
and critical facilities, e.g. transportation, water, power, etc.
Fiscal management planning: How will costs of mitigation project activities be
distributed among existing residents, future residents, landowners, industry, etc.?
Provide an economic profile of the planning area including an analysis of the
economic potential of high risk areas and the cost of recovering from disasters both with, and with out, existing and proposed mitigation initiatives.
Establish rules, laws that limit public expenditures in areas identified as subject to
repetitive damage from disasters.
Obtain lower community insurance premiums through implementing outreach
projects that focus on hazard mitigation issues such as building construction
requirements and regulations, the beneficial functions of natural systems
(wetlands, floodplains), and hazard area identification.
Hazard Control and Protective Works
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Floods: Flood proofing, dams, reservoirs, levees, dikes, drainage systems,
detention basins/ponds, and other storm drainage upgrades.
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Hurricanes: Building strengthening: shutters, safe rooms
Drought: Soil erosion controls, improved agricultural cultivation practices, water
supply protection and conservation.
Earthquake: Seismic-resistant new construction.
Hazardous Materials Management.
High winds: Tree-shelter belts, wind breaks. siting of key facilities in lee of
hillsides, plant forestry areas upwind.
General (corrective measures applied to existing development): acquisition of
developed properties, relocation, redevelopment and renewal, site and building
modifications.
Handbook for building and property owners containing instructions, information
on hazard control and protection (Training and education programs).
Handbook for natural resource conservation agencies and organizations
containing instructions, information on hazard control and protection (Training
and education programs).
Structural projects (hazard control measures to keep a hazard(s) from impacting
property).
Engineering studies.
Maintenance Programs: storm water drainage, tree trimming, litter removal
Insurance Programs
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Distribution of Floodplain Management Handbook: Current information on the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and flood hazard mitigation.
Conduct community flood insurance workshops.
Land Use Planning/Management: General
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Establishment of “hazard zones”.
Special districts.
Land acquisition.
Acquiring land located in High Hazard Areas.
Purchasing land where structures are subject to repeated
damage from disasters.
Hazard risk maps to aid public and private land management planning to:
Minimize repetitive losses.
- Reduce vulnerability of existing development.
- Reduce vulnerability of new development.
List and map repetitive loss properties.
- Identify ways to reduce repetitive losses.
Establish construction "set back (from hazard) lines” for new
construction and reconstruction.
Moratoriums on new development and construction in hazard areas.
Establish "hazard district(s)", with ad valorem taxing authority.
- Districts would then fund such projects as:
 Construction, repairs, upgrades to evacuation route,
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Retrofit of existing shelters.
Cost-sharing of building upgrades for new structure, to be
used as shelters.
Flood and wind retrofit demonstration projects and
individual grants.
Public education programs.
Acquisition, relocation, elevation of repetitive loss@
properties.
Matching funds for state and federal grants.
Add mitigation goals to the community's Municipal Plan.
Apply predictive models indicating population growth versus increased potential for risk and damage, as designated
in-future land use maps included in the local Municipal
Plan.
Land Use Planning/Management: Floods
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Floodplain Management Workshops
Post-Flood Training on Floodplain Management and Flood Insurance.
Floodplain Management Handbook.
Building(s) relocation, rebuilding.
Establishment of “base flood elevations (benchmarks)”
Provide information on flood proofing and retrofitting to homeowners.
Conduct flood proofing and retrofitting demonstration projects.
 Work with insurance industry, building supply companies,
community and neighborhood associations. Document
successes well and distribute findings.
Train homeowners to sandbag their property.
Acquisition of repetitive loss properties.
Purchase conservation casements to reduce development in floodplain areas.
Assess, retrofit existing flood prone septic tank systems.
Assist residential and commercial property owners with vulnerability inspections
and identification of retrofit options.
Establish codes for "flood proofing standards."
Laws/Ordinances/Rules/Inspections
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Crowd control procedures.
Emergency permitting procedures.
Transportation routing, controls.
Hazard risk disclosures in property transactions.
Strengthen real estate disclosures of hazards and prior damages to structures.
 Attach information to land titles.
Change building codes and other ordinances to allow for a permitting moratorium
immediately following disasters.
 Safety Inspections.
 Risk reduction orders.
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Establish post disaster programs, procedures for damage assessments, permitting
and inspections.
Establish an ordinance to establish a post-disaster community redevelopment task
force that includes various neighborhood and interest-based groups. A main focus
of the task force is to encourage public participation in the post-storm
redevelopment planning and review process.
Mitigation Committee
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Establish committee to establish, review, and evaluate mitigation projects and
activities.
Establish a mitigation planning process to include time frame(s) for
accomplishing local projects/activities, degree of public involvement in the
planning process, and how local mitigation efforts will be coordinated in the
future.
Identify community mitigation personnel and resources.
Establish information network within the region.
 Participate in state and national information sharing
networks, associations.
 Reconstruction (post disaster) strategies by hazard.
 Form a "Reconstruction Task Force" comprised of citizens
and local government staff to insist and guide mitigation
activities.
Review and reference all existing plans, policies, and ordinances that relate to
public safety, hazard mitigation, and long-term recovery. Many of the same ideas
- like public safety and loss reduction - are repeated in these documents. When
collated together through an indexing process, these common themes will
establish the guiding principles for a community's mitigation strategy.
Prepare a table or index to show where the local mitigation strategy criteria have
been addressed in these existing documents.
Recommend plans, ordinances, policies for identified mitigation strategies and
activities not addressed in existing documents.
 Review the goals, policies and objectives of the
community's Municipal Plan.
 Identify goals that should be included that address hazard
mitigation and long-term recovery.
Integrate mitigation strategy(ies) into the community's EOP.
Provide a multi-hazard map of the community.
Identify topic areas requiring additional study or research to support loss
reduction.
Protection/Retrofit of Infrastructure and Critical Facilities
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Non-structural mitigation projects.
Survey, inventory buildings to estimate cost of rehabilitating to with stand known
hazards (wind, flood, fire, etc.)
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Establish a GIS "critical facilities database." Use data to identify mitigation needs
and opportunities.
 Provide an inventory and map of all critical facilities within
the community, including those vulnerable to damage from
disasters. [Such u fire and police departments, wastewater
treatment facilities, schools, etc.]
Retrofitting public facilities:
 Elevation of structures.
 Structure relocation.
 Structural reinforcement.
 Strapping of utilities.
Installation of storm shutters or tie downs.
Installing radio telemetry monitoring system for public u6iities.
Establish mitigation project "partnerships" with private organizations.
Repair, retrofit, construct shelters.
Provide specific retrofit guidance to property owners.
Infrastructure Design and Maintenance:
 Road Design and Maintenance Handbook.
 Flexible, buried utility services.
 Identification of transportation system improvements and
protection, i.e. what highways should be targeted for increased capacity to allow for quicker evacuation from
hazard areas?
Emergency response planning: Pre-planned activities during events to minimize
impacts to structures.
Public Awareness, Training, Education
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Hazard Identification and Mapping.
Use of GIS.
Hazard safety programs: non-structural mitigation techniques, planning and
preparedness activities, response actions, post disaster actions, recovery activities.
Educate local government administrator on benefits of mitigation and how to
incorporate mitigation into community management and planning.
Educate local professional groups/associations (engineers, architects, building
officials) on benefits of mitigation and how to incorporate mitigation into
community management and planning.
Educate public about potential grant and loan sources for retrofit projects.
Establish mitigation education project 'partnerships" with private organizations.
Work with insurance companies and mortgage companies to promote retrofits that
will reduce building damage and lower insurance premiums.
Emergency preparedness education programs for schools.
Drills, exercises in homes, workplaces, classrooms, etc.
Offer classes to citizens through fire department on Emergency Response
Training (CERT).
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Non-structural hazard mitigation tasks.
Emergency preparedness activities.
Immediate care and response requirements.
Public service announcements.
Preparation videos, programs shown on local television station(s).
Hazard “safety fairs”.
Hazard conferences, seminars.
Hazard awareness weeks.
Preparedness handbooks, brochures.
 Distribution of hazard specific survival guides.
 Distribution of “homeowner's guides to retrofit”.
Newsletters.
Regular newspaper articles.
Mitigation media (photo, video) archives.
Direct mailings.
Utility bill inserts.
Distribution of “video how to” guides to Larger audiences.
Building retrofit training.
Mitigation technical service centers.
Publications, videos, CD-ROMS promoting mitigation and preparedness.
Website.
FAX-back system which provides public safety information.
Risk Communication Programs.
 Risk reduction techniques.
 Newsletters.
 Hazard identification, risk assessment.
 Public hearings.
 Risk maps.
Public Health and Emergency Medical Care, Education
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Stockpile medicines and supplies.
Emergency water and sanitation resources, plans, procedures.
Information and instructions for hygiene, sanitation, preparing food/water, etc.
Encourage pre-disaster personal health and well being, e.g. current physical
exams, inoculations, etc.
First aid training programs.
Animal and vector control programs.
CPR Training.
Public Protection
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Evacuation studies and plans.
Designate evacuation mutes.
 Erect warning and evacuation route signs.
Survey, designate shelters.
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 Inspect shelters.
 Identify specific shelter retrofit projects.
Promote in-house shelters.
Warning systems.
 Nuclear disaster sirens and loudspeakers.
 Telephone warning system.
Installing emergency power generators (critical public facilities).
Emergency communication and information systems. (Ensure that an effective
communications network between local and state officials and the public during
hazard events is developed and implemented.)
 NOAA weather receivers.
 Emergency Alert System (formally Emergency Broadcast
System).
 Public service announcements.
 Joint media information centers.
Hazard detection systems:
 River, stream gauges.
 Rain gauges.
 Wind gauges.
 Meteorological sensors.
Emergency response planning: Pre-planned activities during events to minimize
impacts, i.e. sand bag operations.
Hazard Vulnerability Assessment studies; Risk Mapping.
Science and Technology
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Technology transfer programs.
Use geographic information technology to support hazard identification and risk
assessment.
 Computer modeling (Geographic Information Systems)

Risk mapping.
 HAZUS computer program - Risk mapping. FEMA’s loss
estimation model (a.k.a. HAZUS) includes a wealth of
information on critical facilities. A tool to support local
government hazards mapping.
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Mitigation Measures by Hazard Type
Mitigation measures for “all-hazards” have been adapted from a flood mitigation approach
developed by French Wetmore, of Wetmore and Associates in Park Forest, Illinois, into six
categories:
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Prevention – measures intended to keep a hazard risk problem from becoming
worse. They ensure that future development does not increase hazard losses.
Examples would include: Planning and Zoning, Open space preservation, Land
Development regulations, Storm water management.
Property Protection – measures used to modify buildings, or their surroundings,
subject to hazard risk rather than prevent the hazard from occurring. Examples
are: Acquisition of vulnerable properties, Relocation from hazard prone areas,
Rebuild or modify structures to reduce damage by future hazard events, Floodproofing of flood-prone buildings.
Natural Resource Protection – measures intended to reduce the intensity of hazard
effects as well as improve the quality of the environment and wildlife habitats.
Erosion and sediment control and Wetlands protection are examples.
Emergency Services – measures that protect people before and after a hazard
event. That would include: Warning, Response, Critical facilities protection,
Health and safety maintenance.
Structural Projects – measures that involve construction of man-made structures
to control hazards. Some examples would include: dams, reservoirs, debris basins,
channel modifications, storm sewers, elevated roadways.
Public Information – activities intended to inform and remind people about
hazardous areas and the measures to avoid potential damage and injury. Examples
are: Outreach projects, Real estate disclosure, Technical assistance, Community
education programs.
The following suggested Mitigation Measures were taken from the website of the Northeast
States Emergency Consortium (NSEC).
ALL HAZARDS
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Map vulnerable areas and distribute information about the hazard mitigation strategy and
projects.
Provide information to contractors and homeowners on the risks of building in hazardprone areas.
Develop a list of techniques for homeowner self-inspection and implementation of
mitigation activities.
Organize and conduct professional training opportunities regarding natural hazards and
hazard mitigation.
Distribute NOAA weather radios.
Develop sound land use planning based on known hazards.
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Enforce effective building codes and local ordinances.
Increase public awareness of community hazards.
Provide sites that are as free as possible from risk to natural hazards for commercial and
industrial activities.
Consider conservation of open space by acquisition of repetitive loss structures.
Ensure a balance among residential growth, conservation of environmental resources
through a detailed analysis of the risks and vulnerability to natural hazards.
Conduct joint planning and sharing of resources across regions, communities, and states.
Establish a hazard mitigation council.
For future proposed development design guidelines, incorporate hazard mitigation
provisions, including improved maps.
Consider adding a "safe room" requirement for all new buildings.
Establish incentives to encourage business owners and homeowners to retrofit buildings
with hazard resistant features.
Teach disaster and hazard awareness in schools.
FLOOD
Flood Hazard Mitigation Measures for Communities:
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Developing and enforcing all-hazards building codes,
Adopting incentives to encourage mitigation
Developing administrative structures to support the implementation of mitigation
programs
Mitigation should be incorporated into future land use plans through riparian corridor
protection, limiting flood hazard area development, and other measures.
Developing and conducting public information campaigns on hazard mitigation should be
a priority.
Participate in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Conduct watershed geomorphic assessments.
Encourage riparian corridor protection.
Flood Hazard Mitigation Measures for Individuals:
How to Protect Your Property:
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Keep insurance policies, documents, and other valuables in a safe-deposit box. You may
need quick, easy access to these documents. Keep them in a safe place less likely to be
damaged during a flood.
Avoid building in a floodplain unless you elevate and reinforce your home. Some
communities do not permit building in known floodplains. If there are no restrictions, and
you are building in a floodplain, take precautions, making it less likely your home will be
damaged during a flood.
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Raise your furnace, water heater, and electric panel to higher floors or the attic if they are
in areas of your home that may be flooded. Raising this equipment will prevent damage.
An undamaged water heater may be your best source of fresh water after a flood.
Install check valves in building sewer traps to prevent flood water from backing up into
the drains of your home. As a last resort, when floods threaten, use large corks or
stoppers to plug showers, tubs, or basins.
Construct barriers such as levees, berms, and flood walls to stop flood water from
entering the building. Permission to construct such barriers may be required by local
building codes. Check local building codes and ordinances for safety requirements.
Seal walls in basements with waterproofing compounds to avoid seepage through cracks.
Consult with a construction professional for further information if these and other
damage reduction measures can be taken. Check local building codes and ordinances for
safety requirements.
Contact your local emergency management office for more information on mitigation
options to further reduce potential flood damage. Your local emergency management
office may be able to provide additional resources and information on ways to reduce
potential damage.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Hazardous Material Hazard Mitigation Measures for Communities:
FEMA's National Mitigation Action Plan suggests that state and local mitigation plans include
the following:
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Developing and enforcing all-hazards building codes,
Adopting incentives to encourage mitigation
Developing administrative structures to support the implementation of mitigation
programs
Mitigation should be incorporated into land use management plans.
Developing and conducting public information campaigns on hazard mitigation should be
a priority.
Natural hazard events have often triggered technological hazards such as ruptured pipelines and
building fires, clearly linking the natural and technological risks. Accordingly, the National
Mitigation Strategy, as an all-hazards strategy, will build upon existing programs that mitigate
technological hazards, and focus on the critical importance of coordination among efforts to
mitigate hazards, regardless of the source of the risk.
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Recognize the dangers posed by hazardous materials.
Identify places where hazardous materials are likely to be encountered.
Understand when a hazard may exist.
Contact the appropriate persons or agencies to give or receive specific hazardous
materials information.
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Identify procedures to minimize personal and community exposure to hazardous
materials.
Hazardous materials events can and do occur as independent events. Natural hazard events,
however, have often triggered technological hazards such as ruptured pipelines and building
fires, clearly linking the natural and technological risks. Accordingly, the National Mitigation
Strategy, as an all-hazards strategy, will build upon existing programs that mitigate technological
hazards, and focus on the critical importance of coordination among efforts to mitigate hazards,
regardless of the source of the risk.
Communities can and should:
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Recognize and identify the dangers posed by hazardous materials in the community.
Identify industries and other locations places where hazardous materials are stored and
used.
Develop a community hazardous materials emergency plan.
Develop an early warning and notification system.
Work with local businesses and industry to Identify procedures to minimize personal and
community exposure to hazardous materials.
Hazardous Materials Hazard Mitigation Measures for Individuals: Individual and families should
develop a personal plan of what to do in case of a hazardous materials accident.
How to Plan for a Hazardous Materials Incident:
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Learn to detect the presence of a hazardous material.
Many hazardous materials do not have a taste or an odor. Some materials can be detected
because they cause physical reactions such as watering eyes or nausea. Some hazardous
materials exist beneath the surface of the ground and can be recognized by an oil or
foam-like appearance.
Contact your Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) or local emergency
management office for information about hazardous materials and community response
plans.
Find out evacuation plans for your workplace and your children's schools.
Be ready to evacuate. Plan several evacuation routes out of the area.
Ask about industry and community warning systems.
Have disaster supplies on hand.
Flashlight and extra batteries
Portable, battery-operated radio and extra batteries
First aid kit and manual
Emergency food and water
Non-electric can opener
Essential medicines
Cash and credit cards
Sturdy shoes
106
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Develop an emergency communication plan. In case family members are separated from
one another during a hazardous materials accident (this is a real possibility during the day
when adults are at work and children are at school), develop a plan for reuniting after the
disaster. Ask an out-of-state relative or friend to serve as the "family contact." After a
disaster, it's often easier to call long distance. Make sure everyone knows the name,
address and phone number of the contact person.
STRUCTURE FIRE
Fire Hazard Mitigation Measures for Communities:
FEMA's National Mitigation Action Plan suggests that state and local mitigation plans include
the following:
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Developing and enforcing all-hazards building codes,
Adopting incentives to encourage mitigation
Developing administrative structures to support the implementation of mitigation
programs
Mitigation should be incorporated into land use management plans.
Developing and conducting public information campaigns on hazard mitigation should be
a priority.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) serves as the national focus on reducing fire
deaths, injuries, and property losses. In 1974, Congress passed the Federal Fire Prevention and
Control Act, which established the USFA and the fire research program at the National Institute
of Standards and Technology (NIST). The USFA works to involve the public and private sector
to reduce losses through public education, arson detection and control, technology and research,
fire data collection and analysis and fire service training and education. NIST performs and
supports research on all aspects of fire with the aim of providing scientific and technical
knowledge
applicable
to
the
prevention
and
control
of
fires.
Fire Hazard Mitigation Measures for Individuals:
How to Protect Your Property:
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Keep lawns trimmed, leaves raked, and the roof and rain-gutters free from debris such as
dead limbs and leaves.
Stack firewood at least 30 feet away from your home.
Store flammable materials, liquids and solvents in metal containers outside the home at
least 30 feet away from structures and wooden fences.
Create defensible space by thinning trees and brush within 30 feet around your home.
Landscape your property with fire resistant plants and vegetation to prevent fire from
spreading quickly.
Post home address signs that are clearly visible from the road.
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Provide emergency vehicle access with properly constructed driveways and roadways, at
least 12 feet wide with adequate turnaround space.
Make sure water sources, such as hydrants and ponds, are accessible to the fire
department.
Burning yard waste is a fire hazard. Check with your local fire agency on a nonemergency number for fire permit requirements and restricted burning times.
Use fire resistant, protective roofing and materials like stone, brick and metal to protect
your home. Avoid using wood materials that offer the least fire protection.
Cover all exterior vents, attics and eaves with metal mesh screens no larger than 6
millimeters.
Install multipane windows, tempered safety glass or fireproof shutters to protect large
windows from radiant heat.
Use fire-resistant draperies for added window protection.
Have chimneys, wood stoves and all home heating systems inspected and cleaned
annually by a certified specialist.
Fire Alarm Safety requires checking on or installing fire alarms in your home.
Residential sprinklers have become more cost effective for homes. Currently, they protect
few homes.
How to Prepare for a Fire Emergency:
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Know how to contact fire emergency services in your area.
Plan ahead. Make sure you and your family are prepared for a fire emergency.
Develop and practice escape and evacuation plans with your family.
Install smoke alarms on every level of your home. Test them monthly and change the
batteries at least once a year. Consider installing the new long-life smoke alarms.
WINTER STORM
Winter Storm Hazard Mitigation Measures for Communities:
FEMA's National Mitigation Action Plan suggests that state and local mitigation plans
include the following:
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Developing and enforcing all-hazards building codes,
Adopting incentives to encourage mitigation
Developing administrative structures to support the implementation of mitigation
programs
Mitigation should be incorporated into land use management plans.
Developing and conducting public information campaigns on hazard mitigation should be
a priority.
In addition, FEMA recommends the following actions to further protect communities from the
effects of Winter Storms:
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Building code development and enforcement of snow loads
Develop a storm water management plan for snowmelt
Assuring adequate supplies of sand and salt
Maintaining snow removal equipment so that it is ready to be deployed
Retrofitting public buildings to withstand snowloads and prevent roof collapse
Clearing roofs of excessive snow accumulations
Develop a winter storm pan or annex to the local emergency management plan
Develop a capability to monitor weather forecasts, conditions and warnings issued by the
National Weather Service
Identify appropriate shelters for people who may need to evacuate due to loss of
electricity, heat or coastal flooding due to storm surge
Assure that critical facilities such as police and fire stations and schools are accessible
and equipped
Clearing streets and roads of snow to assure the passage of public safety vehicles and
general traffic.
Winter Storm Hazard Mitigation Measures For Individuals:
How to Protect Your Property:
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Make sure your home is properly insulated. If necessary, insulate walls and attic. This
will help you to conserve electricity and reduce your home's power demands for heat.
Caulk and weather-strip doors and windowsills to keep cold air out, allowing the inside
temperature to stay warmer longer.
Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside. This will provide
an extra layer of insulation, keeping more cold air out.
To keep pipes from freezing:
Wrap pipes in insulation or layers of old newspapers.
Cover the newspapers with plastic to keep out moisture.
Let faucets drip a little to avoid freezing.
Know how to shut off water valves.
If the pipes freeze, remove any insulation or layers of newspapers and wrap pipes in rags.
Completely open all faucets and pour hot water over the pipes, starting where they were
most exposed to the cold (or where the cold was most likely to penetrate). A hand-held
hair dryer, used with caution to prevent overheating, also works well.
Consider storing sufficient heating fuel. Regular fuel sources may be cut off. Be cautious
of fire hazards when storing any type of fuel.
Before winter, be sure you install and check smoke alarms.
Consider keeping safe emergency heating equipment:
Fireplace with ample supply of wood.
Small, well-vented wood, coal, or camp stove with fuel.
Portable space heater or kerosene heater. Check with your local fire department on the
legality of using kerosene heaters in your community. Use only the correct fuel for your
unit and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Refuel outdoors only, and only when
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cool. Keep your kerosene heater at least three feet away from furniture and other
flammable objects.
When using alternative heat from a fireplace, wood stove, space heater, etc., use fire
safeguards and ventilate properly. Fire hazard is greatly increased in the winter because
alternate heating sources are used without following proper safety precautions.
Install snow fences in rural areas to reduce drifting in roads and paths, which could block
access to homes, barns, and animals' feed and water.
If you live in a flood-prone area, consider purchasing flood insurance to cover possible
flood damage that may occur during the spring thaw. Homeowners' policies do not cover
damage from floods. Ask your insurance agent about the National Flood Insurance
Program if you are at risk.
How to Plan for a Winter Storm:
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Understand the hazards of wind chill, which combines the cooling effect of wind and
cold temperatures on exposed skin. As the wind increases, heat is carried away from a
person's body at an accelerated rate, driving down the body temperature. "Wind chill" is a
calculation of how cold it feels when the effects of wind speed and temperature are
combined. A strong wind combined with a temperature of just below freezing can have
the same effect as a still air temperature about 35 degrees colder.
Service snow removal equipment before winter storm season. Equipment should be
available for use if needed. Maintain it in good working order.
Keep your car's gas tank full for emergency use and to keep the fuel line from freezing.
Get training. Take an American Red Cross first aid course to learn how to treat exposure
to the cold, frostbite, and hypothermia.
Discuss with your family what to do if a winter storm WATCH or WARNING is issued.
Designate one household member as the winter storm preparedness leader. Have him or
her discuss what to do if a winter storm watch or warning is issued. Have another
household member state what he or she would do if caught outside or in a vehicle during
a winter storm. Everyone should know what to do in case all family members are not
together. Discussing winter storms ahead of time helps reduce fear and lets everyone
know how to respond during a winter storm.
HIGH WINDS
High Wind Hazard Mitigation Measures for Communities:
FEMA's National Mitigation Action Plan suggests that state and local mitigation plans include
the following:
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Developing and enforcing all-hazards building codes,
Adopting incentives to encourage mitigation
Developing administrative structures to support the implementation of mitigation
programs
Mitigation should be incorporated into land use management plans.
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
Developing and conducting public information campaigns on hazard mitigation should be
a priority.
FEMA also suggests that communities further reduce their vulnerability to hurricanes through
the adoption and enforcement of wind- and flood-resistant building codes. Sound land-use
planning can also ensure that structures are not built in the highest hazard areas.
High Wind Hazard Mitigation Measures for Individuals:
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Make a list of items to bring inside in the event of a storm. A list will help you remember
anything that can be broken or picked up by strong winds. High winds, often in excess of
40 miles per hour, can turn unanchored items into missiles, causing damage or injury
when they hit.
Keep trees and shrubbery trimmed. Make trees more wind resistant by removing diseased
or damaged limbs, then strategically remove branches so that wind can blow through.
High winds frequently break weak limbs and hurl them at great speed, causing damage
when they hit property. Debris collection services may not be operating just before a
storm, so it is best to do this well in advance of approaching storms.
Remove any debris or loose items in your yard. High winds can pick up anything
unsecured, creating damage to property when the debris hits.
Install protection to the outside areas of sliding glass doors. Glass doors are as vulnerable
as windows to breakage by wind-driven objects.
If you live in a flood plain or are prone to flooding, also follow flood preparedness
precautions. Nor’easters and severe thunderstorms can bring great amounts of rain and
frequently cause floods.
EARTHQUAKE
Earthquake Hazard Mitigation Measures for Communities:
FEMA's National Mitigation Action Plan suggests that state and local mitigation plans include
the following:





Developing and enforcing all-hazards building codes,
Adopting incentives to encourage mitigation
Developing administrative structures to support the implementation of mitigation
programs
Mitigation should be incorporated into land use management plans.
Developing and conducting public information campaigns on hazard mitigation should be
a priority.
FEMA's Earthquake Program has four basic goals directly related to the mitigation of hazards
caused by earthquakes. They are to:

Promote Understanding of Earthquakes and Their Effects.
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Work to Better Identify Earthquake Risk.
Improve Earthquake-Resistant Design and Construction Techniques.
Encourage the use of Earthquake-Safe Policies and Planning Practices.
Earthquake Hazard Mitigation Measures for Individuals
How to Protect Your Property:
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Bolt bookcases, china cabinets, and other tall furniture to wall studs. Brace or anchor
high or top-heavy objects. During an earthquake, these items can fall over, causing
damage or injury.
Secure items that might fall (televisions, books, computers, etc.). Falling items can cause
damage or injury.
Install strong latches or bolts on cabinets. The contents of cabinets can shift during the
shaking of an earthquake. Latches will prevent cabinets from flying open and contents
from falling out.
Move large or heavy objects and fragile items (glass or china) to lower shelves. There
will be less damage and less chance of injury if these items are on lower shelves.
Store breakable items such as bottled foods, glass, and china in low, closed cabinets with
latches. Latches will help keep contents of cabinets inside.
Store weed killers, pesticides, and flammable products securely in closed cabinets with
latches, on bottom shelves. Chemical products will be less likely to create hazardous
situations from lower, confined locations.
Hang heavy items, such as pictures and mirrors, away from beds, couches, and anywhere
people sit. Earthquakes can knock things off walls, causing damage or injury.
Brace overhead light fixtures. During earthquakes, overhead light fixtures are the most
common items to fall, causing damage or injury.
Strap the water heater to wall studs. The water heater may be your best source of
drinkable water following an earthquake. Protect it from damage and leaks.
Bolt down any gas appliances. After an earthquake, broken gas lines frequently create
fire hazards.
Install flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks. Flexible fittings will be less likely
to break.
Repair any deep cracks in ceilings or foundations. Get expert advice if there are signs of
structural defects. Earthquakes can turn cracks into ruptures and make smaller problems
bigger.
Check to see if your house is bolted to its foundation. Homes bolted to their foundations
are less likely to be severely damaged during earthquakes. Homes that are not bolted
have been known to slide off their foundations, and many have been destroyed because
they are uninhabitable.
Consider having your building evaluated by a professional structural design engineer.
Ask about home repair and strengthening tips for exterior features, such as porches, front
and back decks, sliding glass doors, canopies, carports, and garage doors. Learn about
additional ways you can protect your home. A professional can give you advice on how
to reduce potential damage.
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Follow local seismic building standards and safe land use codes that regulate land use
along fault lines. Some municipalities, counties, and states have enacted codes and
standards to protect property and occupants. Learn about your area's codes before
construction.
How to Plan for an Earthquake:
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Pick "safe places" in each room of your home. A safe place could be under a sturdy table
or desk or against an interior wall away from windows, bookcases, or tall furniture that
could fall on you. The shorter the distance to move to safety, the less likely you will be
injured. Injury statistics show that persons moving more than 10 feet during an
earthquake's shaking are most likely to experience injury.
Practice drop, cover, and hold-on in each safe place. Drop under a sturdy desk or table,
hold on, and protect your eyes by pressing your face against your arm. Practicing will
make these actions an automatic response. When an earthquake or other disaster occurs,
many people hesitate, trying to remember what they are supposed to do. Responding
quickly and automatically may help protect you from injury.
Practice drop, cover, and hold-on at least twice a year. Frequent practice will help
reinforce safe behavior.
Talk with your insurance agent. Different areas have different requirements for
earthquake protection. Study locations of active faults, and if you are at risk, consider
purchasing earthquake insurance.
Inform guests, babysitters, and caregivers of your plan. Everyone in your home should
know what to do if an earthquake occurs. Assure yourself that others will respond
properly even if you are not at home during the earthquake.
Get training. Take a first aid class from your local Red Cross chapter. Get training on
how to use a fire extinguisher from your local fire department. Keep your training
current. Training will help you to keep calm and know what to do when an earthquake
occurs.
Discuss earthquakes with your family. Everyone should know what to do in case all
family members are not together. Discussing earthquakes ahead of time helps reduce fear
and anxiety and lets everyone know how to respond.
TERRORISM
Terrorism Mitigation Measures for Communities:
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Structural mitigation strategies to reduce facility vulnerabilities.
Enhance security measures.
Design and install vehicle barrier systems.
Reduce the desirability of potential targets.
Implement emergency management systems.
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Terrorism Mitigation Measures for Individuals:
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Be alert and aware of your surrounding area.
Take precautions when traveling.
Be aware of conspicuous or unusual behavior.
Do not accept packages from strangers.
Do not leave luggage unattended.
Learn where emergency exists are located.
Think ahead about how to evacuate a building, subway or congested public area.
Learn where staircases are located.
Notice your immediate surroundings.
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Rationale for Emphasis of State, Regional and Local Hazard Mitigation Plans
on a Landslide and Fluvial Erosion Hazards Assessment and Mapping
Program for the Purpose of Avoidance of At-Risk Land Use Investments and
Endangerment of Public Safety and Reduction of Expenditures for Property
and Infrastructure Protection
Of all types of natural hazards experienced in Vermont, flash flooding represents the most
frequent disaster mode and has resulted in by far the greatest magnitude of damage suffered by
private property and public infrastructure. There is no reason to expect this to change within the
foreseeable future.
Landslide failures endangering residential or commercial property or municipal infrastructure,
while less common, represent another significant natural hazard to public safety that has received
little attention in the past but is now becoming more prevalent as development encroaches into
more unstable areas.
While inundation-related flood loss is a significant component of flood disasters, the
predominant mode of damage is associated with the dynamic, and oftentimes catastrophic,
physical adjustment of stream channel dimensions and location during storm events due to bed
and bank erosion, debris and ice jams, structural failures, flow diversion, or flow modification by
man made structures. Channel adjustments with devastating consequences have frequently been
documented wherein such adjustments are linked to historic channel management activities,
flood plain encroachments, adjacent land use practices and/or changes in watershed hydrology
associated with conversion of land cover and drainage activities.
Flood hazard mitigation alternative strategies can be categorized under two basic approaches or
strategies: 1) removal, retrofit, restoration or stabilization; or 2) avoidance. Of these two
strategies, avoidance is far and away the most cost effective, as implementation mechanisms can
be very inexpensive in comparison to the removal, retrofit, or protection of threatened or
damaged existing human investments; or stabilization or restoration of unstable, in-adjustment
fluvial systems.
The same context applies to landslide erosion hazards (which may or may not be associated with
fluvial processes) in that identification of hazard areas and avoidance of incompatible
investments in such areas is much more cost effective than post-development embankment
stabilization or removal of threatened structures.
In the prioritization, alternatives evaluation, and implementation of any flood hazard mitigation
project, whether it falls within category 1) or 2) above, an adequate technical understanding of
the fluvial processes governing river behavior that are at work within any given stream reach is
imperative. As well, this geomorphic information is essential to support the consideration,
development and implementation of any river corridor protection, management or restoration
plan, mechanism, or project. Ultimately, recognition and accommodation of fluvial and, in the
case of landslide hazards, geotechnical processes, to the extent possible, will be critical to
successful achievement of project objectives; whether they be of avoidance, or retrofit mode.
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For this reason, State, Regional and Local Hazard Mitigation Plans adopted pursuant to the
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (44 CFR, Parts 201 and 206, Interim Final Rule) should
emphasize and express a commitment to the implementation of a landslide and fluvial
geomorphic hazard assessment and mapping program preferably conducted on a regional or
watershed level. In the interest of consistency, compatibility, and assurance of technical
accuracy, such assessments must be conducted according to assessment protocols and mapping
methodologies published by the VT Department of Environmental Conservation, River
Management Program and the VT Geological Survey.
Funding of local or regional flood hazard mitigation planning activities, adoption of riparian
corridor protection mechanisms and/or management strategies, and projects implementation will
be preceded by the technical assessments and guided by the data outputs of the fluvial
geomorphic and landslides assessment and mapping process.
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Suggested Model Language
Addressing Fluvial and Landslide Erosion Hazards
for Inclusion in the Regional or Local Hazard Mitigation Plan
Pursuant to the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (44 CFR, Parts 201 and 206)
Plan Acknowledgment and Prioritization of Fluvial Erosion and Landslide Hazards:
In acknowledgment that existing technical resources and land use guidance or regulatory
authorities, such as the National Flood Insurance Program, do not adequately identify high risk
areas for development: a) along riparian corridors with respect to fluvial erosion hazards; and
b) throughout the town (region) with respect to landslide hazards; it is therefore deemed a high
priority of this Hazard Mitigation Plan to provide the technical support for, and to develop and
implement protection mechanisms at the local level that will serve to avoid land use investments
that would be, over time, endangered by, incompatible or in conflict with fluvial adjustment and
erosion processes, and landslides.
Plan Commitment to Performance of Fluvial Geomorphic and Landslides Hazard
Assessment:
In cooperation with regional or watershed level entities, the town shall, no later than (date),
complete a fluvial geomorphic assessment of, at a minimum, (list of streams or designated
stream reaches); and, no later than (date) shall complete a landslides hazard assessment. Fluvial
assessments shall be conducted as guided by the VT ANR Fluvial Geomorphic Assessment
Protocols. Landslide hazard assessment shall be conducted as guided by protocols provided by
the VT Geological Survey.
Note 1: Assessments to be performed, (subject to availability) utilizing PDM planning or project
funds or other outside sources.
Note 2: Deadline dates should be either 5 or 10 years after the plan adoption date depending on
the level of priority of flood hazards in the plan.
Note 3: If the town wishes to select only a subset of streams upon which to perform fluvial
assessments, the list should be guided by the history of flood and erosion damage, the history of
channel management, and the proximity of existing or potential development or public
infrastructure to the active channel. Justification should be provided for streams, watersheds, or
stream reaches not selected for fluvial assessment or portions of the town not designated for
landslide assessment. For instance, area or river corridor is protected from development.
Plan Commitment to Development of Fluvial Erosion and Landslides Hazards Map:
No later than one year after completion of the fluvial geomorphic and landslide hazard
assessment, the town, under contract with the Regional Planning Commission, or other GIS
mapping service provider, shall develop a fluvial erosion and landslide hazards map. Such map
shall be consistent with mapping standards and protocols developed by VT ANR.
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Note 1: RPC or GIS provider will produce a map draft which must undergo a QA/QC
review by VT ANR. Upon confirmation, a final map will be drawn.
Note 2: Landslide hazard areas will consist of polygons drawn on a map. Fluvial
erosion hazards will be designated by ascribing hazard ratings to discrete stream
reaches.
Plan Commitment to Adoption and Implementation of Local Riparian Corridor
Protection and Fluvial and Landslides Hazard Avoidance Mechanisms and
Initiatives:
No later than five years following production of the final fluvial erosion and landslides
hazard map, the town shall have adopted a fluvial erosion and landslide hazards
avoidance plan (as an update of the local Hazard Mitigation Plan). Within the same time
frame, the town shall have adopted and implemented riparian corridor and landslide areas
protection mechanisms or ordinances that assure development in these areas will not be
endangered by fluvial adjustment processes or mass wasting failures associated with
landslides. Local hazard avoidance mechanisms must meet minimum standards
promulgated
within
the
State
Hazard
Mitigation
Plan.
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Potential Funding Sources by Hazard
Flooding
Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Grant #
Title
10.760
Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities
To provide basic human amenities, alleviate health hazards and promote the orderly growth of the
rural areas of the nation by meeting the need for new and improved rural water and waste
disposal facilities.
10.907
Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting
To provide information on forthcoming seasonal water supplies from streams that derive most of
their run off from snow melt. To help farm operators, rural communities, and municipalities use
water- supply forecasts in managing water resources. To provide hydrometeorological data for
regulating reservoir storage and managing stream flow. To obtain, evaluate and disseminate
climate data in support of NRCS conservation activities including models.
10.906
Watershed Surveys and Planning
To provide planning assistance to Federal, State, and local agencies for the development of
coordinated water and related land resources programs in watersheds and river basins. Special
priority is given to the objective of setting priorities in helping to solve problems of upstream rural
community flooding, water quality improvement coming from agricultural nonpoint sources,
wetland preservation and drought management for agriculture and rural communities. Special
emphasis is given to assisting communities which desire to adopt floodplain management
regulations to meet the requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program.
10.905
Plant Materials for Conservation
To assemble, evaluate, select, release, and introduce into commerce, and promote the use of
new and improved plant materials for soil, water, and related resource conservation and
environmental improvement programs. To develop technology for land management and
restoration with plant materials. To transfer technology on plant materials.
10.904
Watershed Protection and Flood Prevention
To provide technical and financial assistance in carrying out works of improvement to protect,
develop, and utilize the land and water resources in small watersheds.
10.901
Resource Conservation and Development
To encourage and improve the capability of State and local units of government and local
nonprofit organizations in rural areas to plan, develop and carry out programs for resource
conservation and development.
10.770
Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants
Provide water and waste disposal facilities and services to low income rural communities whose
residents face significant health risks.
Department of Commerce (DOC)
119
Grant #
Title
11.462
Hydrologic Research
To maintain a cooperative university/Federal partnership to conduct joint research and
development on pressing surface water hydrology issues common to National, regional, local
operational offices, private consulting hydrologists, and academics.
11.420
Coastal Zone Management Estuarine Research Reserves
To assist States in the acquisition, monitoring, research, development and operation of national
estuarine research reserves for the purpose of creating natural field laboratories to gather data and
make studies of, and educate people about the natural and human processes occurring within the
estuaries of the coastal zone.
11.419
Coastal Zone Management Administration Awards
To assist States in implementing and enhancing Coastal Zone Management programs that have
been approved by the Secretary of Commerce.
11.417
Sea Grant Support
To support the establishment and operation of major university centers for marine resources
research, education, and training and to support marine advisory services. Some individual efforts
in these same areas also receive funding.
11.405
Anadromous Fish Conservation Act Program
To cooperate with the States and other nonfederal interests in the conservation, development, and
enhancement of the nation's Anadromous fish stocks and the fish in the Great Lakes and Lake
Champlain that ascend streams to spawn, and for the control of sea lamprey.
Department of Defense (DOD)
Grant #
Title
12.112
Payments to States in Lieu of Real Estate Taxes
To compensate local taxing units for the loss of taxes from federally acquired lands, 75 percent of
all monies received or deposited in the Treasury during any fiscal year for the account of leasing of
lands acquired by the United States for flood control, navigation and allied purposes, including the
development of hydroelectric power, are paid at the end of each year to the States in which such
property is situated.
12.111
Emergency Advance Measures for Flood Prevention
To perform activities prior to flooding or flood fight that would assist in protecting against loss of life
and damages to property due to flooding.
12.110
Planning Assistance to States
To cooperate with any State in the preparation of comprehensive plans for the development,
utilization and conservation of water and related land resources of drainage basins located within
the boundaries of such State.
12.109
Protection, Clearing and Straightening Channels
To restore channels for purposes of navigation or flood control.
12.108
Snagging and Clearing for Flood Control
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To reduce flood damages.
12.106
Flood Control Projects
To reduce flood damages through projects not specifically authorized by Congress.
12.105
Protection of Essential Highways, Highway Bridge
Approaches, and Public Works
To provide bank protection of highways, highway bridges, essential public works, churches,
hospitals, schools, and other nonprofit public services endangered by flood-caused erosion.
12.104
Flood Plain Management Services
To promote appropriate recognition of flood hazards in land and water use planning and
development through the provision of flood and flood plain related data, technical services, and
guidance.
12.103
Emergency Operations Flood Response and Post Flood
Response
To provide emergency flood response and post flood response assistance as required to
supplement State and local efforts and capabilities in time of flood or coastal storm.
12.102
Emergency Rehabitation of Flood Control Works or Federally
Authorized Coastal Protection Works
To assist in the repair and restoration of flood control works damaged by flood, or federally
authorized hurricane flood and shore protection works damaged by extraordinary wind, wave, or
water action.
12.101
Beach Erosion Control
Projects
To control beach and shore erosion to public shores through projects not specifically authorized by
Congress.
12.100
Aquatic Plant Control
To provide for the cooperation of the Army Corps of Engineers with State and local government
agencies in the control of obnoxious aquatic plants in rivers, harbors, and allied waters.
12.107
Navigation Projects
To provide the most practicable and economic means of fulfilling the needs of general navigation,
through projects not specifically authorized by Congress.
Department of Interior (DOI)
Grant #
15.623
Title
North American Wetlands
Conservation Fund
To provide grant funds for wetlands conservation projects in the United States to be matched 1:1
by U.S. nonfederal dollars.
15.921
Rivers, Trails and Conservation
Assistance
To provide staff assistance to support partnerships between government and citizens to increase
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the number of rivers and landscapes protected and trails established nationwide.
15.614
Coastal Wetlands Planning, Protection
and Restoration Act
To grant funds to coastal States to carry out coastal wetlands conservation projects.
15.037
Water Resources on Indian Lands
To assist Indian tribes in the management, planning, and development of their water and related
land resources.
Department of Transportation (DOT)
Grant #
Title
20.007
Bridge Alteration
To accomplish alteration of obstructive bridges to render navigation through or under it reasonably
free, easy, and unobstructed for the benefit of navigation.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Grant #
Title
66.604
Environmental Justice Grants to Small Community Groups
To provide financial assistance to grassroots community-based groups to support projects to
design, demonstrate or disseminate practices, methods or techniques related to environmental
justice. Specifically, EPA will grant funding assistance to be used for: 1. environmental justice
education and awareness programs; 2. environmental Justice Programs (for example, river
monitoring and pollution prevention programs); 3. technical assistance in gathering and
interpreting existing environmental justice data; and 4. technical assistance to access available
public information.
66.461
Wetlands Grants
To assist States, tribes, local governments and the public in developing capacity to protect,
manage and restore wetlands.
66.419
Water Pollution Control State and Interstate Program Support
To assist States (including territories, the District of Columbia, and Indian Tribes qualified under
Section 518(e)), and interstate agencies in establishing and maintaining adequate measures for
prevention and control of surface and ground water pollution.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
Grant
Title
#
83.552 Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG)
To encourage the development of comprehensive emergency management, including for terrorism
consequence management, at the State and local level and to improve emergency planning,
preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery capabilities. By combining several funding
streams into a consolidated Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG), FEMA's
purpose is to ensure that recipients have the flexibility necessary to achieve measurable results in
key functional areas of emergency management. Incorporated into EMPG are the following:
83.011, Hazardous Materials Training Program for Implementation of the Superfund Amendment
and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986; 83.505, State Disaster Preparedness Grants; 83.534,
Emergency Management State and Local Assistance; and 83.535, Mitigation Assistance. Indian
tribal governments must still apply under 83.011. This flexibility will be achieved within the
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standard grant administration process. The thirteen key functional areas of emergency
management are: Laws and Authorities; Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment; Hazard
Management; Resource Management; Planning; Direction, Control, and Coordination;
Communications and Warning; Operations and Procedures; Logistics and Facilities; Training;
Exercises; Public Education and Information; and Finance and Administration.
83.551 Project Impact Building Disaster Resistant Communities
To encourage the implementation of a sustained pre- disaster mitigation program with activities
that reduce the existing risk of natural hazard losses within the geographic location of the
designated communities.
83.550 National Dam Safety Program
To encourage the establishment and maintenance of effective State programs intended to ensure
dam safety, to protect human life and property, and to improve State dam safety programs.
83.545 Disaster Housing Program
To provide assistance to households affected by a disaster to assist with their disaster-created
housing needs.
83.543 Individual and Family Grants
To provide funds for the necessary expenses and serious needs of disaster victims which cannot
be met through other forms of disaster assistance or through other means such as insurance.
83.541 Disaster Unemployment Assistance
To provide Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) weekly benefits to help individuals who are
left jobless in the wake of a Federally-declared major disaster, and are not eligible for regular
Unemployment Insurance benefits.
83.540
Disaster Legal Services
To provide legal assistance to individuals affected by a major Federal disaster.
83.538
Cora Brown Fund
To use funds made possible by a bequest of funds from the late Cora C. Brown of Kansas City,
Missouri, who left a portion of her estate to the United States for the purpose of helping victims of
natural disasters not caused by or attributed to war.
83.536
Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA)
To assist States and communities in implementing measures to reduce or eliminate the long-term
risk of flood damage to buildings, manufactured homes, and other structures insurable under the
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
83.530
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Resident Educational
Program
To improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers, and
Federal officials as well, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the
Comprehensive Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of management
common to all emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.529
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Independent Study
Program
123
To enhance public and selected audience knowledge of emergency management practices among
State and local government managers in response to emergencies and disasters. The program
currently consists of 24 courses. They are IS-1, Emergency Program Manager; IS-2, Emergency
Preparedness, USA; IS-3, Radiological Emergency Management; IS-5, Hazardous Materials: A
Citizen's Orientation; IS-7, A Citizen's Guide to Disaster Assistance; IS-8, Building for the
Earthquakes of Tomorrow: Complying with Executive Order 12699; IS-120, An Orientation to
Community Disaster Exercises; IS-275, Role of the EOC in Community Preparedness Response
and Recovery Activities; IS-279, Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood Prone
Residential Structures; IS-301, Radiological Emergency Response; IS-330, Refresher Course for
Radiological Monitors; IS-195, Basic Incident Command System; IS-010, Animals in Disaster; IS011, Animals in Disaster: Community Planning Awareness and Preparedness; IS-393, Introduction
to Mitigation; IS-346, Orientation to Hazardous Materials for Hospital Personnel; IS-9, Managing
Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program; IS-288, The Role of
Volunteer Agencies in Emergency Management; IS-324, Community Hurricane Preparedness; IS394, Mitigation for Home Owners; IS-513, The Professional in Emergency Management; and IS534, Emergency Response to Terrorism; IS 12-Acquisition Buyout; IS- 330 Refresher Course for
Radiological Monitors; IS-600 Special Considerations for FEMA Public Assistance Projects.
83.527
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Training Assistance
To defray travel and per diem expenses of State and local emergency management personnel
who attend training courses conducted by the Emergency Management Institute, at the
Emmitsburg, Maryland facility; Bluemont, Virginia facility; and selected off-site locations. Its
purpose is to improve emergency management practices among State and local government
managers, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the Comprehensive
Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of management common to all
emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.105
Community Assistance Program State Support Services Element
(CAP-SSSE)
To ensure that communities participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are
achieving flood loss reduction measures consistent with program direction. The CAP-SSSE is
intended to identify, prevent and resolve floodplain management issues in participating
communities before they develop into problems requiring enforcement action.
83.100
Flood Insurance
To enable persons to purchase insurance against physical damage to or loss of buildings and/or
contents therein caused by floods, mudslide (i.e., mudflow), or flood-related erosion, thereby
reducing Federal disaster assistance payments, and to promote wise floodplain management
practices in the Nation's flood-prone and mudflow- prone areas.
Hazardous Materials
USDA
Grant #
Title
10.760
Water and Waste Disposal Systems for Rural Communities
To provide basic human amenities, alleviate health hazards and promote the orderly growth of the
rural areas of the nation by meeting the need for new and improved rural water and waste disposal
facilities.
10.770
Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants
Provide water and waste disposal facilities and services to low income rural communities whose
124
residents face significant health risks.
Department of Health & Human Services (HHS)
Grant #
Title
93.142
NIEHS Hazardous Waste Worker Health and Safety Training
To provide cooperative agreements and project grant support for the development and
administration of model worker health and safety training programs consisting of classroom and
practical health and safety training of workers and their supervisors, who are engaged in activities
related to hazardous materials, hazardous waste generation, treatment, storage, disposal, removal,
containment, transportation, or emergency response. To assist organizations in the development of
institutional competency to provide appropriate training and education to hazardous waste workers.
DOT
Title
Grant #
20.714
National Pipeline Mapping System
To create a National Pipeline Mapping System (NPMS) that will consist of multiple State
repositories, and a National repository that will include location and selected attributes of the major
natural gas transmission and hazardous liquid pipelines and liquefied natural gas facilities
operating in the United States.
20.600
State and Community Highway Safety
To provide a coordinated national highway safety program to reduce traffic accidents, deaths,
injuries, and property damage.
20.303
Grants-in-Aid for Railroad Safety State Participation
To promote safety in all areas of railroad operations; reduce railroad related accidents and
casualties; and to reduce damage to property caused by accidents involving any carrier of
hazardous materials by providing State participation in the enforcement and promotion of safety
practices.
20.217
Motor Carrier Safety
To protect the public from risks inherent in commercial vehicle operations on the public highways,
and to minimize risks involved in moving hazardous materials over public highways.
20.006
State Access to the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund
To encourage greater State participation in response to actual or threatened discharges of oil.
20.700
Pipeline Safety
To develop and maintain State natural gas, liquefied natural gas, and hazardous liquid pipeline
safety programs.
EPA
Title
Grant #
66.810
CEPP Technical Assistance Grants Program
To provide financial assistance to States, Local agencies, and Indian Tribes for chemical accident
prevention activities that relate to the Risk Management Program under the Clean Air Act Section
112(r). To provide financial assistance to Tribes for chemical emergency planning, and community
125
right-to-know programs which are established to prevent or eliminate unreasonable risk to the
health and environment of communities within the State.
66.805
Leaking Underground Storage Tank Trust Fund Program
To support State and Tribal corrective action and enforcement programs that address releases
from underground storage tanks containing petroleum.
66.804
State and Tribal Underground Storage Tanks Program
To assist State governments and Indian Nations in the development and implementation of
underground storage tank (UST) programs.
66.802
Superfund State Site Specific Cooperative Agreements
To (1) conduct site characterization activities at potential confirmed hazardous waste sites; (2)
undertake remedial planning and remedial implementation actions at sites on the National Priorities
List (NPL) to clean up the hazardous waste sites that are found to pose hazards to human health;
and (3) effectively implement the statutory requirements of CERCLA 121 (f) which mandates
substantial and meaningful State involvement.
66.801
Hazardous Waste Management State Program Support
To assist State governments in the development and implementation of an authorized hazardous
waste management program for the purpose of controlling the generation, transportation,
treatment, storage and disposal of hazardous wastes.
66.700
Consolidated Pesticide Enforcement Cooperative Agreements
To (a) assist States, territories and possessions of the U.S., including the District of Columbia and
Indian Tribes, in developing and maintaining comprehensive pesticide programs that address all
aspects of pesticide enforcement, and special pesticide initiatives; (b) sponsor cooperative
surveillance, monitoring and analytical procedures; and (c) encourage regulatory activities within
the States.
66.508
Senior Environmental Employment Program
To use the talents of Americans 55 years of age or older to provide technical assistance to Federal,
State, and local environmental agencies for projects of pollution prevention, abatement and control.
FEMA
Title
Hazardous Materials Assistance Program
Provide technical and financial assistance through the States to support State, local and Indian
tribal governments in oil and hazardous materials emergency planning and exercising. To enhance
State, Tribal and local governments capabilities to inter-operate with the National Response
System (NRS). To support the Comprehensive Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Emergency
Response - Capability Assessment Program (CHER-CAP) Activities.
Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG) FEMA
To encourage the development of comprehensive emergency management, including for terrorism
consequence management, at the State and local level and to improve emergency planning,
preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery capabilities. By combining several funding
streams into a consolidated Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG), FEMA's
purpose is to ensure that recipients have the flexibility necessary to achieve measurable results in
key functional areas of emergency management. Incorporated into EMPG are the following:
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83.011, Hazardous Materials Training Program for Implementation of the Superfund Amendment
and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986; 83.505, State Disaster Preparedness Grants; 83.534,
Emergency Management State and Local Assistance; and 83.535, Mitigation Assistance. Indian
tribal governments must still apply under 83.011. This flexibility will be achieved within the standard
grant administration process. The thirteen key functional areas of emergency management are:
Laws and Authorities; Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment; Hazard Management; Resource
Management; Planning; Direction, Control, and Coordination; Communications and Warning;
Operations and Procedures; Logistics and Facilities; Training; Exercises; Public Education and
Information; and Finance and Administration.
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Resident Educational Program
To improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers, and
Federal officials as well, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the
Comprehensive Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of management
common to all emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Independent Study Program
To enhance public and selected audience knowledge of emergency management practices among
State and local government managers in response to emergencies and disasters. The program
currently consists of 24 courses. They are IS-1, Emergency Program Manager; IS-2, Emergency
Preparedness, USA; IS-3, Radiological Emergency Management; IS-5, Hazardous Materials: A
Citizen's Orientation; IS-7, A Citizen's Guide to Disaster Assistance; IS-8, Building for the
Earthquakes of Tomorrow: Complying with Executive Order 12699; IS-120, An Orientation to
Community Disaster Exercises; IS-275, Role of the EOC in Community Preparedness Response
and Recovery Activities; IS-279, Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood Prone
Residential Structures; IS-301, Radiological Emergency Response; IS-330, Refresher Course for
Radiological Monitors; IS-195, Basic Incident Command System; IS-010, Animals in Disaster; IS011, Animals in Disaster: Community Planning Awareness and Preparedness; IS-393, Introduction
to Mitigation; IS-346, Orientation to Hazardous Materials for Hospital Personnel; IS-9, Managing
Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program; IS-288, The Role of
Volunteer Agencies in Emergency Management; IS-324, Community Hurricane Preparedness; IS394, Mitigation for Home Owners; IS-513, The Professional in Emergency Management; and IS534, Emergency Response to Terrorism; IS 12-Acquisition Buyout; IS- 330 Refresher Course for
Radiological Monitors; IS-600 Special Considerations for FEMA Public Assistance Projects.
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Training Assistance
To defray travel and per diem expenses of State and local emergency management personnel who
attend training courses conducted by the Emergency Management Institute, at the Emmitsburg,
Maryland facility; Bluemont, Virginia facility; and selected off-site locations. Its purpose is to
improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers, in
response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the Comprehensive Emergency
Management System by unifying the elements of management common to all emergencies:
planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
Hazardous Materials Training Program for Implementation of the Superfund Amendment and
Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986
To make funding available to provide training in support of Tribal governments emergency
planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery capabilities. These programs must
provide special emphasis on emergencies associated with hazardous chemicals.
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Fire
USDA
Grant #
Title
10.766
Community Facilities Loans and Grants
To construct, enlarge, extend, or otherwise improve community facilities providing essential
services to rural residents.
10.664
Cooperative Forestry Assistance
With respect to nonfederal forest and other rural lands to assist in the advancement of forest
resources management; the encouragement of the production of timber; the control of insects
and diseases affecting trees and forests; the control of rural fires; the efficient utilization of wood
and wood residues, including the recycling of wood fiber; the improvement and maintenance of
fish and wildlife habitat; and the planning and conduct of urban and community forestry programs
Department of
Justice (DOJ)
Title
Grant #
16.006
County and Municipal Agency Domestic Preparedness Equipment
Support Programs
To equip and prepare municipal fire and emergency first responders for Weapons of Mass
Destruction (WMD) domestic terrorist attacks including nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare
and other explosive incidents.
FEMA.
Grant #
Title
83.552
Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG)
To encourage the development of comprehensive emergency management, including for
terrorism consequence management, at the State and local level and to improve emergency
planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery capabilities. By combining several
funding streams into a consolidated Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG),
FEMA's purpose is to ensure that recipients have the flexibility necessary to achieve measurable
results in key functional areas of emergency management. Incorporated into EMPG are the
following: 83.011, Hazardous Materials Training Program for Implementation of the Superfund
Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986; 83.505, State Disaster Preparedness
Grants; 83.534, Emergency Management State and Local Assistance; and 83.535, Mitigation
Assistance. Indian tribal governments must still apply under 83.011. This flexibility will be
achieved within the standard grant administration process. The thirteen key functional areas of
emergency management are: Laws and Authorities; Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment;
Hazard Management; Resource Management; Planning; Direction, Control, and Coordination;
Communications and Warning; Operations and Procedures; Logistics and Facilities; Training;
Exercises; Public Education and Information; and Finance and Administration.
83.551
Project Impact Building Disaster Resistant Communities
To encourage the implementation of a sustained pre- disaster mitigation program with activities
that reduce the existing risk of natural hazard losses within the geographic location of the
designated communities.
83.548
Hazard Mitigation Grant (HMGP)
128
To provide States and local governments financial assistance to implement measures that will
permanently reduce or eliminate future damages and losses from natural hazards through safer
building practices and improving existing structures and supporting infrastructure.
83.543
Individual and Family Grants
To provide funds for the necessary expenses and serious needs of disaster victims which cannot
be met through other forms of disaster assistance or through other means such as insurance.
83.542
Fire Suppression Assistance
To provide grants to States for the suppression of any fire on public (nonfederal) or privately
owned forest or grassland that threatens to become a major disaster.
83.541
Disaster Unemployment Assistance
To provide Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) weekly benefits to help individuals who are
left jobless in the wake of a Federally-declared major disaster, and are not eligible for regular
Unemployment Insurance benefits.
83.540
Disaster Legal Services
To provide legal assistance to individuals affected by a major Federal disaster.
83.538
Cora Brown Fund
To use funds made possible by a bequest of funds from the late Cora C. Brown of Kansas City,
Missouri, who left a portion of her estate to the United States for the purpose of helping victims of
natural disasters not caused by or attributed to war.
83.530
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Resident Educational Program
To improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers,
and Federal officials as well, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the
Comprehensive Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of management
common to all emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.529
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Independent Study Program
To enhance public and selected audience knowledge of emergency management practices
among State and local government managers in response to emergencies and disasters. The
program currently consists of 24 courses. They are IS-1, Emergency Program Manager; IS-2,
Emergency Preparedness, USA; IS-3, Radiological Emergency Management; IS-5, Hazardous
Materials: A Citizen's Orientation; IS-7, A Citizen's Guide to Disaster Assistance; IS-8, Building for
the Earthquakes of Tomorrow: Complying with Executive Order 12699; IS-120, An Orientation to
Community Disaster Exercises; IS-275, Role of the EOC in Community Preparedness Response
and Recovery Activities; IS-279, Engineering Principles and Practices for Retrofitting Flood Prone
Residential Structures; IS-301, Radiological Emergency Response; IS-330, Refresher Course for
Radiological Monitors; IS-195, Basic Incident Command System; IS-010, Animals in Disaster; IS011, Animals in Disaster: Community Planning Awareness and Preparedness; IS-393,
Introduction to Mitigation; IS-346, Orientation to Hazardous Materials for Hospital Personnel; IS-9,
Managing Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program; IS-288, The
Role of Volunteer Agencies in Emergency Management; IS-324, Community Hurricane
Preparedness; IS-394, Mitigation for Home Owners; IS-513, The Professional in Emergency
Management; and IS-534, Emergency Response to Terrorism; IS 12-Acquisition Buyout; IS- 330
Refresher Course for Radiological Monitors; IS-600 Special Considerations for FEMA Public
Assistance Projects.
83.527
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Training Assistance
129
To defray travel and per diem expenses of State and local emergency management personnel
who attend training courses conducted by the Emergency Management Institute, at the
Emmitsburg, Maryland facility; Bluemont, Virginia facility; and selected off-site locations. Its
purpose is to improve emergency management practices among State and local government
managers, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the Comprehensive
Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of management common to all
emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.010
National Fire Academy Educational Program
To increase the professional level of the fire service and others responsible for fire prevention and
control.
83.007
Reimbursement for Firefighting on Federal Property
To provide that each fire service organization which engages in firefighting operations on Federal
property may be reimbursed for their direct expenses and direct losses (those losses and
expenses that are not considered normal operating expenses) incurred in firefighting.
83.009
National Fire Academy Training Assistance
To provide travel stipends to students attending Academy courses.
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
FEMA
Grant #
Title
83.552
Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG)
To encourage the development of comprehensive emergency management, including for terrorism
consequence management, at the State and local level and to improve emergency planning, preparedness,
mitigation, response,
and recovery capabilities. By combining several funding streams into a consolidated Emergency Management
Performance Grant (EMPG), FEMA's purpose is to ensure that recipients have the flexibility necessary to
achieve measurable results in key functional areas of emergency management. Incorporated into EMPG are
the following: 83.011, Hazardous Materials Training Program for Implementation of the Superfund Amendment
and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986; 83.505, State Disaster Preparedness Grants; 83.534, Emergency
Management State and Local Assistance; and 83.535, Mitigation Assistance. Indian tribal governments must
still apply under 83.011. This flexibility will be achieved within the standard grant administration process. The
thirteen key functional areas of emergency management are: Laws and Authorities; Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment; Hazard Management; Resource Management; Planning; Direction, Control, and
Coordination; Communications and Warning; Operations and Procedures; Logistics and Facilities; Training;
Exercises; Public Education and Information; and Finance and Administration.
83.551
Project Impact Building Disaster Resistant Communities
To encourage the implementation of a sustained pre- disaster mitigation program with activities that reduce the
existing risk of natural hazard losses within the geographic location of the designated communities.
83.545
Disaster Housing Program
To provide assistance to households affected by a disaster to assist with their disaster-created housing needs.
83.543
Individual and Family Grants
130
To provide funds for the necessary expenses and serious needs of disaster victims which cannot be met
through
other forms of disaster assistance or through other means such as insurance.
83.540
Disaster Legal Services
To provide legal assistance to individuals affected by a major Federal disaster.
83.538
Cora Brown Fund
To use funds made possible by a bequest of funds from the late Cora C. Brown of Kansas City, Missouri, who
left a portion of her estate to the United States for the purpose of helping victims of natural disasters not
caused by or attributed to war.
83.530
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Resident Educational Program
To improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers, and Federal
officials
as well, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the Comprehensive Emergency
Management System by unifying the elements of management common to all emergencies: planning,
preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.529
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Independent Study Program
To defray travel and per diem expenses of State and local emergency management personnel who attend
training courses conducted by the Emergency Management Institute, at the Emmitsburg, Maryland facility;
Bluemont, Virginia facility; and selected off-site locations. Its purpose is to improve emergency management
practices among State and local government managers, in response to emergencies and disasters.
Programs embody the Comprehensive Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of
management common to all emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.010
National Fire Academy Educational Program
To increase the professional level of the fire service and others responsible for fire prevention and control.
83.007
Reimbursement for Firefighting on Federal Property
To provide that each fire service organization which engages in firefighting operations on Federal property
may be reimbursed for their direct expenses and direct losses (those losses and expenses that are not
considered normal operating expenses) incurred in firefighting.
83.009
National Fire Academy Training Assistance
To provide travel stipends to students attending Academy courses.
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
FEMA
Grant #
Title
83.552
Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG)
To encourage the development of comprehensive emergency management, including for terrorism
consequence management, at the State and local level and to improve emergency planning, preparedness,
mitigation, response,
and recovery capabilities. By combining several funding streams into a consolidated Emergency Management
Performance Grant (EMPG), FEMA's purpose is to ensure that recipients have the flexibility necessary to
131
achieve measurable results in key functional areas of emergency management. Incorporated into EMPG are
the following: 83.011, Hazardous Materials Training Program for Implementation of the Superfund Amendment
and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986; 83.505, State Disaster Preparedness Grants; 83.534, Emergency
Management State and Local Assistance; and 83.535, Mitigation Assistance. Indian tribal governments must
still apply under 83.011. This flexibility will be achieved within the standard grant administration process. The
thirteen key functional areas of emergency management are: Laws and Authorities; Hazard Identification and
Risk Assessment; Hazard Management; Resource Management; Planning; Direction, Control, and
Coordination; Communications and Warning; Operations and Procedures; Logistics and Facilities; Training;
Exercises; Public Education and Information; and Finance and Administration.
83.551
Project Impact Building Disaster Resistant Communities
To encourage the implementation of a sustained pre- disaster mitigation program with activities that reduce the
existing risk of natural hazard losses within the geographic location of the designated communities.
83.545
Disaster Housing Program
To provide assistance to households affected by a disaster to assist with their disaster-created housing needs.
83.543
Individual and Family Grants
To provide funds for the necessary expenses and serious needs of disaster victims which cannot be met
through
other forms of disaster assistance or through other means such as insurance.
83.540
Disaster Legal Services
To provide legal assistance to individuals affected by a major Federal disaster.
83.538
Cora Brown Fund
To use funds made possible by a bequest of funds from the late Cora C. Brown of Kansas City, Missouri, who
left a portion of her estate to the United States for the purpose of helping victims of natural disasters not
caused by or attributed to war.
83.530
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Resident Educational
Program
To improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers, and Federal
officials
as well, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the Comprehensive Emergency
Management System by unifying the elements of management common to all emergencies: planning,
preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.529
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Independent Study Program
To enhance public and selected audience knowledge of emergency management practices among State
and local government managers in response to emergencies and disasters. The program currently consists
of 24 courses. They are IS-1, Emergency Program Manager; IS-2, Emergency Preparedness, USA; IS-3,
Radiological Emergency Management; IS-5, Hazardous Materials: A Citizen's Orientation; IS-7, A Citizen's
Guide to Disaster Assistance; IS-8, Building for the Earthquakes of Tomorrow: Complying with Executive
Order 12699; IS-120, An Orientation to Community Disaster Exercises; IS-275, Role of the EOC in
Community Preparedness Response and Recovery Activities; IS-279, Engineering Principles and Practices
for Retrofitting Flood Prone Residential Structures; IS-301, Radiological Emergency Response; IS-330,
Refresher Course for Radiological Monitors; IS-195, Basic Incident Command System; IS-010, Animals in
Disaster; IS-011, Animals in Disaster: Community Planning Awareness and Preparedness; IS-393,
Introduction to Mitigation; IS-346, Orientation to Hazardous Materials for Hospital Personnel; IS-9, Managing
Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program; IS-288, The Role of Volunteer
Agencies in Emergency Management; IS-324, Community Hurricane Preparedness; IS-394, Mitigation for
132
Home Owners; IS-513, The Professional in Emergency Management; and IS-534, Emergency Response to
Terrorism; IS 12-Acquisition Buyout; IS- 330 Refresher Course for Radiological Monitors; IS-600 Special
Considerations for FEMA Public Assistance Projects.
83.527
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Training Assistance
To defray travel and per diem expenses of State and local emergency management personnel who attend
training courses conducted by the Emergency Management Institute, at the Emmitsburg, Maryland facility;
Bluemont, Virginia facility; and selected off-site locations. Its purpose is to improve emergency management
practices among State and local government managers, in response to emergencies and disasters.
Programs embody the Comprehensive Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of
management common to all emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
DOD
Title
Grant #
12.101
Beach Erosion Control Projects
To control beach and shore erosion to public shores through projects not specifically authorized by
Congress.
USDA
Title
Grant #
10.907
Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting
To provide information on forthcoming seasonal water supplies from streams that derive most of their run off
from snow melt. To help farm operators, rural communities, and municipalities use water- supply forecasts
in managing water resources. To provide hydrometeorological data for regulating reservoir storage and
managing stream flow. To obtain, evaluate and disseminate climate data in support of NRCS conservation
activities including models.
Terrorism
DOJ
Grant #
Title
16.614
State and Local Anti-Terrorism Training
To provide delivery of specialized, multiagency anti- terrorism preparedness training. This training, along
with related research, law enforcement intelligence, operational issues development, and technical
assistance support activities, is delivered to State and local law enforcement and prosecution authorities.
While State and local law enforcement preparation and readiness issues addressed in this project are
tailored to interventions in domestic terrorism, major portions of the program's preparedness and
operational readiness outcomes are equally applicable to any terrorist threat or incident whether
domestically or internationally inspired.
16.577
Emergency Federal Law Enforcement Assistance
To provide necessary assistance to a State government in order to provide an adequate response to an
uncommon situation which requires law enforcement, which is or threatens to become of serious or
epidemic proportions, and with respect to which State and local resources are inadequate to protect the
lives and property of citizens, or to enforce the criminal law.
16.565
National Institute of Justice Domestic Anti-Terrorism Technology Development Program
133
To support the development of counter terrorism technologies, assist in the development of standards for
those technologies, and work with state and local jurisdictions to identify particular areas of vulnerability to
terrorist acts and be better prepared to respond if such acts occur.
16.007
State Domestic Preparedness Equipment Support Program
Funding will be provided to plan for and execute a comprehensive threat and needs assessment, to develop
a 3-year plan to enhance first responder capabilities, and to provide for equipment purchases and the
provision of specialized training.
16.006
County and Municipal Agency Domestic Preparedness Equipment Support Programs
To equip and prepare municipal fire and emergency first responders for Weapons of Mass Destruction
(WMD) domestic terrorist attacks including nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare and other explosive
incidents.
Department of Treasury
Title
Grant #
21.052
Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms Training Assistance
To help the participant identify the laws relating to alcohol, tobacco, firearms and explosives, and provide
training in specific investigative skills and techniques, and to help State, county, and local law enforcement
officers improve their law enforcement capabilities in the organized crime area, including arson, undercover,
firearms and explosives investigations.
FEMA
Grant #
Title
83.552
Emergency Management Performance Grants (EMPG)
To encourage the development of comprehensive emergency management, including for terrorism
consequence management, at the State and local level and to improve emergency planning, preparedness,
mitigation, response, and recovery capabilities. By combining several funding streams into a consolidated
Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG), FEMA's purpose is to ensure that recipients have
the flexibility necessary to achieve measurable results in key functional areas of emergency management.
Incorporated into EMPG are the following: 83.011, Hazardous Materials Training Program for
Implementation of the Superfund Amendment and Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986; 83.505, State
Disaster Preparedness Grants; 83.534, Emergency Management State and Local Assistance; and 83.535,
Mitigation Assistance. Indian tribal governments must still apply under 83.011. This flexibility will be
achieved within the standard grant administration process. The thirteen key functional areas of emergency
management are: Laws and Authorities; Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment; Hazard Management;
Resource Management; Planning; Direction, Control, and Coordination; Communications and Warning;
Operations and Procedures; Logistics and Facilities; Training; Exercises; Public Education and Information;
and Finance and Administration.
83.547
First Responder Counter-Terrorism Training Assistance
To enhance the capabilities of first responders in managing the consequences of terrorist acts.
83.530
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Resident Educational Program
To improve emergency management practices among State and local government managers, and Federal
officials as well, in response to emergencies and disasters. Programs embody the Comprehensive
Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of management common to all emergencies:
planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.529
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Independent Study Program
134
To enhance public and selected audience knowledge of emergency management practices among State
and local government managers in response to emergencies and disasters. The program currently consists
of 24 courses. They are IS-1, Emergency Program Manager; IS-2, Emergency Preparedness, USA; IS-3,
Radiological Emergency Management; IS-5, Hazardous Materials: A Citizen's Orientation; IS-7, A Citizen's
Guide to Disaster Assistance; IS-8, Building for the Earthquakes of Tomorrow: Complying with Executive
Order 12699; IS-120, An Orientation to Community Disaster Exercises; IS-275, Role of the EOC in
Community Preparedness Response and Recovery Activities; IS-279, Engineering Principles and Practices
for Retrofitting Flood Prone Residential Structures; IS-301, Radiological Emergency Response; IS-330,
Refresher Course for Radiological Monitors; IS-195, Basic Incident Command System; IS-010, Animals in
Disaster; IS-011, Animals in Disaster: Community Planning Awareness and Preparedness; IS-393,
Introduction to Mitigation; IS-346, Orientation to Hazardous Materials for Hospital Personnel; IS-9,
Managing Floodplain Development through the National Flood Insurance Program; IS-288, The Role of
Volunteer Agencies in Emergency Management; IS-324, Community Hurricane Preparedness; IS-394,
Mitigation for Home Owners; IS-513, The Professional in Emergency Management; and IS-534, Emergency
Response to Terrorism; IS 12-Acquisition Buyout; IS- 330 Refresher Course for Radiological Monitors; IS600 Special Considerations for FEMA Public Assistance Projects.
83.527
Emergency Management Institute (EMI)_Training Assistance
To defray travel and per diem expenses of State and local emergency management personnel who attend
training courses conducted by the Emergency Management Institute, at the Emmitsburg, Maryland facility;
Bluemont, Virginia facility; and selected off-site locations. Its purpose is to improve emergency management
practices among State and local government managers, in response to emergencies and disasters.
Programs embody the Comprehensive Emergency Management System by unifying the elements of
management common to all emergencies: planning, preparedness, mitigation, response, and recovery.
83.526
National Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Response System
To develop an immediately deployable, national response capability to locate and extricate, and medically
stabilize victims of structural collapse during a disaster, while simultaneously enhancing the US&R
response capabilities of State and local governments.
In addition, FEMA’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation Competitive Grant Program (PDM-c) may be
used to fund repetitive loss projects for those communities that have an approved Hazard
Mitigation Plan.
135
Plan Initial Approval and Maintenance Procedures
Plan Initial Approval Procedures
In addition to public involvement in the initial development of the plan, opportunities for
public comment included several presentations to the Local Emergency Planning
Commission (LEPC) and its Subcommittees. These meetings were public meetings and
warned as required. Following consideration of the comments from those forums, the
draft plan was presented to the State Hazard Mitigation Committee through the State
Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO) for review and comment and a recommendation for
forwarding to FEMA Region I.
Following an affirmative recommendation for forwarding to FEMA Region I, the plan
will be presented to each governing body of the communities in Bennington County for
adoption. The adoption of the plan by the community governing body demonstrates
agreement with the Countywide Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan and their individual
community Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan appendix.
Subsequent to adoption by the community governing body, the plan will be forwarded to
FEMA Region I for formal review and approval.
Routine Plan Maintenance Procedures
The Hazard Mitigation Plan is dynamic. To ensure that the plan remains current and
relevant, it is important that it be updated periodically. The plan will be updated every
five years in accordance with the following procedure:
1. The Bennington County Regional Commission will convene a meeting of
Review/Update committee.
2. The committee will discuss the process to determine if the evaluation criteria is
still appropriate or modifications or additions are needed due to changing
conditions since the last update occurred. Data needs will be reviewed, data
sources identified and responsibility for collecting information will be assigned to
members.
3. A draft report will be prepared based on these evaluation criteria:
a. Changes in community and government processes, which are hazard-related
and have occurred since the last review.
b. Progress in implementation of plan initiatives and projects.
c. Effectiveness of previously implemented initiatives and projects.
d. Evaluation of unanticipated challenges or opportunities that may have
occurred between the date of adoption and the date of the report.
e. Evaluation of hazard-related public policies, initiatives and projects.
f. Review and discussion of the effectiveness of public and private sector
coordination and cooperation.
4. BCRC convenes a second meeting of the review/update committee to review the
draft report. Consensus reached on changes to the draft.
5. BCRC incorporates changes.
136
6. BCRC notifies and schedules a public meeting of the communities and the
review/update committee prepares presentation.
7. Communities observe presentation and provide comments on draft report.
8. BCRC incorporates community comments into draft report.
9. BCRC finalizes report and distributes to communities.
10. Community Emergency Management Directors present report to local governing
bodies and other interested parties.
Programs, Initiatives and Projects Review
Although the plan will be reviewed in its entirety every five years as described above,
each town may review and update their programs, initiatives and projects more often
directly with the State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO) based on changing local needs
and priorities.
Post-Disaster Review Procedures
Should a declared disaster occur, a special review will occur in accordance with the
following procedures:
1. Within six (6) months of a declared emergency event, VEM will initiate a post
disaster review and assessment. Members of the State Hazard Mitigation
Committee will be notified that the assessment process has commenced.
2. This post disaster review and assessment will document the facts of the event and
assess whether existing Hazard Mitigation Plans effectively addressed the hazard.
3. A draft After Action Report of the review and assessment will be distributed to
the Review/Update Committee.
4. A meeting of the committee will be convened by BCRC to make a determination
whether the plan needs to be amended. If the committee determines that NO
modification of the plan is needed, then the report is distributed to local
communities.
5. If the committee determines that modification of the plan IS needed, then BCRC
drafts an amended plan based on the recommendations of the committee.
6. Follow steps 7 – 10 from Routine Plan Maintenance Procedures.
137
Community Hazard Mitigation Project Application Process
Annual Project and Activity Review
Although the requirement of the plan is for a complete review and update every five
years, it will be necessary to review the associated project and activity list on an annual
basis. This is especially true in those years when there is not a major disaster that
impacts Bennington County. It is recommended that the same working group tasked with
mitigation plan revision also be the group to conduct the annual project and activity
review.
Annually, the BCRC, on behalf of the working group, will request a progress report be
submitted from communities on previously approved projects or activities and
submission of any new projects or activities (see Project Application). The working
group will then meet to review the status of ongoing projects and evaluate new project
applications. This will include projects under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program and
the Pre-Disaster Mitigation Competitive Grant Program.
Evaluation Criteria
A suggested project evaluation methodology is outlined below:
A. Community Benefit
 Does the project address critical elements of the community infrastructure?

Does the project mitigate a frequently occurring problem or a problem to which
the community is particularly vulnerable?

What is the benefit/cost ratio of the project applying the following Benefit/Cost
ratio formula:
(Loss Exposure ($) Before Project minus Loss Exposure ($) After
Project) divided by the Cost of the Project.
B. Community Commitment
 Is the project consistent with existing municipal plan?

Is there demonstrated public support for this project or recognition of the
problem?
C. Project Implementation
 Is there a funding source currently available for this project?

Are matching funds or in-kind services available for this project?

How long will it take for the proposed mitigation project to accomplish its stated
goals?
D. Benefit-Cost Analysis (using FEMA standards)
138
HMGP Project Application Form (Non-Electronic)
Project Application
State of Vermont Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (Modified – NonElectronic)
General Project Information:
1. County: _______________________________________________________
2. Date Submitted: _____ / _____ / _____
3. Name of Subgrantee: _____________________________________________
4. State or Local Contact for the Project
Name of Contact: _____________________________________________________
Title: _______________________________________________________________
Mailing Address: ______________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Business Phone Number: ________________________________________________
Fax Number: __________________________________________________________
E-mail address: ________________________________________________________
5. Location of the Project:_____________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
6. Description of Project Location:
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
7. Local General Highway Map attached (required)
139
8. Flood Insurance Rate Map attached (if applicable) yes/no
9. Topographic Map attached (optional): yes/no
10. The Problem Statement:
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
11. The Project Objective:
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
12. Statement of Damages per Event: (Required for Post Disaster Project/Not
Required for Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grant)
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________

Damage narrative attached: (Required)

Itemized List of previous damages including year and amount spent attached:
(Required)
13. Picture(s) of project site: (if available)
140
14. List of Alternative Solutions (give brief description and cost estimate of each )

Alternative 1:

Alternative 2:

Alternative 3:
(FEMA requires that each project contain consideration of at least 2 alternatives
beside the “do nothing” alternative)
 Additional information on each alternatives attached? yes/no
 Cost estimate for each alternative attached? yes/no
15. Analyzing the Alternatives:
 Do any of the alternatives have significant impacts or limitations? yes/no (if
yes please attach a description of the impacts or limitations)
 Is there additional information concerning these impacts attached? yes/no
16. Preferred alternative:
________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________
17. Scope of work and time line for preferred alternative: (Please attach)
18. FEMA funds requested:
a. Total Project Costs:
$___________
b. FEMA funds (75% of Line 1): $___________
c. Matching funds (25% of Line 1): $___________
1.)Applicant share:
$___________
2.)In-kind services:
$___________
3.)Other non-Federal funds:
$___________
d. TOTAL PROJECT COST:(Line 2 + Line 3)$___________
note: Line a and d should be equal.
141
19. Technical Confirmation:
Note: all culvert upgrades, bank stabilization projects, road upgrades, etc. must
have written technical confirmation. Please include these to expedite your project
through the approval process.
Has the hydrology/hydraulics/structural design of this project been endorsed by the
local Highway District Engineer, local Stream Alteration Engineer, a Consulting
Engineer or other Technical Experts: _____ Supporting letter(s) enclosed: _____
20. Authorization:
I certify that the information presented in this Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
project application is valid to the best of my knowledge. Should this project receive
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding I affirm that _______________________
will be responsible for appropriate regular maintenance of the project.
Authorized Signature _______________________________ Date
________________
142
Annexes (Municipal Plans)
Example Town/City Plan Format
Town/City of
March 8, 2016
Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan
I.
Introduction and Purpose
II.
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
III.
Community Plan Goals that Support Hazard Mitigation
IV.
Community Background
V.
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
List based on interviews and other sources
VI.
Community Vulnerability by Hazard
VII.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities in the Community
VIII.
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
Flood Map
Hazmat Map
Local Areas of Concern Map
Essential Facilities Map
Page 143
Annex A (Arlington)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Arlington.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 144
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted Dec 2002) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Development in flood hazard areas must be carefully controlled in accordance with the
Town’s Flood Hazard Regulations.
 Designate critical land areas where development should not occur or where special
protective measures should be taken.
 Maintain and enforce the Town’s land use regulations…
 Employ the latest planning tools and techniques in arriving at land use decisions,
including the utilization of State and Regional Commission services…
Community (as taken from Town Plan)
“The Town of Arlington, located in Bennington County in the southwestern corner of the State
of Vermont, was chartered in 1761. As a part of the independent government of Vermont, it
joined the United States when Vermont was admitted to the Union in 1791 as the first new state
following the Revolution. In the early years, farming, logging, quarrying, and small crafts were
the principal occupations in the area. The railroad era began in the mid-nineteenth century and
the first large scale industry, a shoe-peg factory, was built in Arlington in 1863. A railroad car
factory followed shortly thereafter along with a variety of commercial enterprises.”
Existing land use patterns in Arlington include development primarily along the Route 7A and
Route 313 corridors. There are two centralized Village areas on and near Route 7A, and one
small Hamlet along Route 313. Remaining land uses along the major roads is Rural
development. Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Arlington.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Arlington is 2,397. From 1970
to 1980, the population experienced an increase of 13%, but since then, the population has been
increasing at a significantly lower and decreasing rate; increasing 5.3% from 1980 to 1990, and
4.3% from 1990 to 2000.
The Town of Arlington has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which
regulate development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is
subject to review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws
outline permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Page 145
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Arlington, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as High in terms of
likelihood:
Structure Fire
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Highway/Transport Accidents
In terms of Vulnerability, these hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a routine
emergency):
Flood
Flash Flood
Structure Fire
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Drought
Highway/Transport Accidents
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
High Winds/Winter Storms/Ice Storms/Power Outage - High winds and Winter Storms occur
each year. Severe damage happens on a 5-year average. These hazards would be town-wide and
region-wide, with several hours to 1-2 days notice. It is estimated that between 80 and 90% of
the total population and between 50 and 60% of the total infrastructure could be seriously
affected by this hazard. Winter Storms and/or High Winds can cause power outages. Power
outages during the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during the winter season, 2-3
hours of power outage is a very serious situation. The magnitude of winter storms normally
ranges from negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to
reach the level of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous
road conditions, and extreme temperatures.
Flooding - The average grand list value of a structure in Arlington is $128,754.90. There are 51
structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $6.6 million. The
East Arlington Fire Station is located within a Flood Hazard Area.
Structure Fire - On January 18, 2000, two people died in their Arlington home as a result of an
electrical fire. The Arlington Fire Department reports responding to an average of 86 total calls
annually, 9 of which are structure fires and 16 of which are hazardous conditions.
Hazard Materials & Highway/Transport Accidents - There are 13 sites in town that have
sufficient types and/or quantities of hazardous materials to require reporting.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The Town of Arlington currently has in place: local zoning that includes standards for drainage
structures that are constructed on private property, standards for all future highway construction
and repairs of town highways, flood hazard area regulations that comply with Federal standards,
which makes flood insurance available to residents, and shelters are designated and approved by
the American Red Cross.
Building Design, Codes, Use Regulations
o Require mobile home anchorage.
Page 146
o Floodproofing, regulatory frameworks, controlling parameters, flood-resistant
design practices, beneficial/cost/technical feasibility analysis, finished
floor elevation 18 inches above 100 year flood level.
o Regulate storm-water drainage.
o Promote water conservation.
o Ensue wellhead protection.
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP/EOP is final draft.
o Emergency Response and Mgt Staff attending professional training sessions.
o Staged mock disasters, structural fire & chemical spill drills, medical response
o Emergency communications & power tests.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (culvert survey &
replacement, ditching along roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Drainage systems and other storm drainage upgrades.
Land Use Planning/Management: Flood
o Floodplain Management Handbook.
o Establishment of “base flood elevations (benchmarks)”.
o Provide information on floodproofing and retrofitting to homeowners.
o Establish codes for “floodproofing standards”.
Protection/Retrofit of Infrastructure and Critical Facilities
o Road Design and Maintenance Handbook.
Public Awareness, Training & Education
o Emergency preparedness education programs for schools.
o Offer classes to citizens through fire department on Emergency Response.
Public Protection
o Survey and Designate Shelters.
o Installing emergency power generators (critical public facilities).
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Arlington. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).
 Does the action reduce damage?
 Does the action contribute to community objectives?
 Does the action meet existing regulations?
Page 147









Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex. Mitigation strategies and
implementation methods shall be determined based on community need. Potential funding
sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is recommended to maximize
benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
28
 Short to Med. Term
 Local Resources
Increase community
Select Board &
 Free Red Cross
Assistance and training
preparedness training
Community
Training Offered
from Red Cross
31
Select Board
 Short to Med. Term
Install/Upgrade generators w/support from
at designated shelters &
shelters &
 Local & State
Conduct “needs
public facilities
facilities
Resources
assessment”
27
 Med. to Long Term
Flood-proof Fire House in Select Board,
 Local & State
Conduct assessment &
Flood Hazard Area
Fire Dept
Resources
explore options
28
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Arlington:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 148
Annex B (Bennington)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Bennington.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 149
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted June 2000) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Encourage the long-term preservation and wise use of important natural features
including high quality agricultural land, water resources and wetlands, significant natural
areas and wildlife habitat areas, and scenic and historic resources.
 To build on the existing settlement pattern of the Town.
 Encourage urban development to occur in a well defined urban area, that is, Bennington’s
“urban growth center” and rural residential development in defined rural residential
growth areas.
 Keep the rugged and poorly accessible mountain and forest areas free from unnecessary
development, reserved for forestry and recreational uses appropriate to their specific
character.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted June 2000)
“The Town of Bennington is roughly square in shape, about 6-1/2 miles by 6-1/2 miles.
Including the separately incorporated Villages of North Bennington and Old Bennington,
Bennington has a land area of about 26,700 acres, or over 41 square miles. Approximately
16,500 acres (61%) is valley land with fields, forests, flood plains, wetlands, ridges, and hills of
varying degrees of slope. A significant amount of the land area is above 1,000-1,200 feet in
elevation and is characterized by forested land with steep slopes and shallow soils. These fragile
uplands comprise approximately 11,000 acres, representing 39% of the town. Approximately
300 acres on Bald Mountain are greater than 2,500 feet in elevation. Development in
Bennington has historically occurred within the valley, focused on the (former) Village of
Bennington and the Villages of North Bennington and Old Bennington. In recent times,
development has occurred in a more scattered fashion in the valley lands. There is still
substantial acreage in rural and agricultural use, and there is clearly potential for further
development in both urban and rural areas. New development will be affected by topography,
soils, drainage, flood hazard areas, wetlands, and other natural features which influence growth,
and by all of the planning policies of the Town.”
Existing land use patterns in Bennington include centralized Urban development primarily along
the Route 9, Route 67, and US7 corridors. There are two centralized Village areas, known as
Old Bennington and North Bennington. Remaining land uses are classified as Rural
development. Forest use accounts for much of the Northeast and Southwest corners of
Bennington.
Page 150
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Bennington is 15,737. From
1970 to present, the population has been increasing at a decreasing rate; increasing 8.4% from
1970 to 1980, 4.0% from 1980 to 1990, and -4.3% from 1990 to 2000.
The Town of Bennington has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which
regulate development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is
subject to review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws
outline permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Hazard Materials & Highway/Transport Accidents - There are 100 sites in town that have
sufficient types and/or quantities of hazardous materials to require reporting.
Power Shortage/Failure - Power shortages and failures occur often in Bennington but have not
been serious to date. Power outages during the warmer months are not a serious problem, but
during the winter season, 2-3 hours of power outage is a very serious situation.
Flooding - The average grand list value of a structure in Bennington is $122,042.80. There are
458 structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $56 million.
Much of downtown Bennington is located within Flood Hazard Areas. The Bennington Fire
Station, three schools, numerous commercial properties, and critical facilities are located within
Flood Hazard Areas.
Structure Fire - A major fire occurred in Bennington on December 17, 2000. Six members of the
same family died in a nighttime fire that destroyed their residence. On average, the Bennington
Rural and Bennington Village Fire Departments reported responding to a combined total of 398
fire calls annually; 38 of which are structure fires and 68 of which are hazardous conditions.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur approximately two times per year, but are generally
considered a “routine emergency”, rather than a disaster. Winter Storms can cause power
outages. Power outages during the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during the
winter season, 2-3 hours of power outage is a very serious situation. The magnitude of winter
storms normally ranges from negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a
winter storm to reach the level of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of
power, hazardous road conditions, and extreme temperatures.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed below:
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP/EOP is final draft.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (culvert survey &
replacement, ditching along roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Page 151
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs (culvert survey & replacement, ditching along
roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at intersections).
Land Use Planning/Management: Flood
o Establish Flood Hazard Areas.
Public Awareness, Training & Education
o Hazard Identification and Mapping.
Planned Mitigation Projects within the Town of Bennington include:
River Road - There is about 400 feet of river bank that was washed away in the summer
of 2003 due to heavy rains. Because of the heavy rains, the guardrail and road are
washing into the Walloomsac River.
Silk Road - There is about 300 feet of river bank that was washed away in the summer of
2003 due to heavy rains. Because of the heavy rains, the guardrail and road are washing
into the Walloomsac River.
Kocher Drive - There is about 300 feet of river bank that was washed away in the
summer of 2003 due to heavy rains. Because of the heavy rains, the guardrail and road
are washing into the Furnace Brook.
Morse Road - There is a downed tree that is blocking the flow of the River.
North Street - The Walloomsac River is washing out the bank on the south side of the
river walkway due to heavy rains, and the river walkway is washing out with almost
every rain storm.
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The Town of Bennington has identified the above ongoing projects as critical, and plans to
increase efforts in those areas in the future. In addition, the Town of Bennington would like to
add stone and Rip Rap to stabilize the following areas: River Road, Silk Road, Kocher Drive,
Morse Road, and North Street.
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Bennington. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).




Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Page 152








Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
29
Flood-proof (fix by
appropriate method,
including rip rap) River
 Med. to Long Term
Road, Silk Road, Kocher
Select Board,
 Local Resources
Drive, Morse Road, and
Road Foreman,
Conduct assessment &
North
Street
&
Community
 PDM-c Funds
explore options
30
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Flood-proof
Structures Select Board,
Resources
Located in Flood Hazard Other Agencies,
Conduct assessment &
Areas
Community
 PDM-c Funds
explore options
29
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Bennington:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Plan amended 1/23/06 to include following language:
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
Page 153
Annex C (Dorset)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Dorset.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 154
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted Feb 1998) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Retain as much permanent open space as possible through cluster development,
preservation of natural resource lands and natural hazard areas, and encouragement of
agricultural and forest practices.
 Require adherence to the State and Federal wetlands regulations.
 Continue to update floodplain regulations, as required and in a timely fashion so that the
Town remains in continuing compliance with the requirements of the Federal Flood
Insurance Program.
 New development, including the construction of new buildings, public or private roads,
or driveways, may not be permitted in Natural Hazard Areas, except where allowed
through variance procedures.
 Lands with slopes of 20% grade and greater are not considered developable except if
allowed through variance procedures.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted June 2002)
“The Town of Dorset has an area of 29,504 acres, or 46.1 square miles, made up of many types
of land and waterways: flat valley land, swamps, rolling hills, steep mountains, streams, and
rivers. The geography of the Town divides it roughly into two development axes, both of which
radiate out from the larger urban center of Manchester to the south. Only one public road within
the Town links the two valleys - Morse Hill Road - which climbs over the lower southern side of
Mount Aeolus.”
Existing land use patterns in Dorset include development primarily along the Route 30 and US7
corridors. There are two centralized Villages; one located on Route 30 and one located on US7.
There are two Hamlets; one located on Route 30 and one located on US7. Remaining land uses
along the main corridors are classified as Rural development. Forest use accounts for the
remaining land in Dorset.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Dorset is 2,036. From 1970 to
1980, the population experienced an increase of 27.5%, but since then, the population has been
increasing at a significantly lower and decreasing rate; increasing 16.4% from 1980 to 1990, and
6.1% from 1990 to 2000.
Page 155
The Town of Dorset has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which regulate
development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is subject to
review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws outline
permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Dorset, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as Medium in terms of
likelihood:
MEDIUM
Power Shortage/Failure
In terms of Vulnerability, the following hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency):
Aircrash
Chemical/Biological Incident
Hazards that have or could affect the Town of Dorset include:
Flood
Flash Flood
Hazardous Materials
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Drought
It is estimated that approximately 10 homes in Dorset could be seriously affected by any of the
hazards listed above. It is also estimated that approximately $25,000 of the total infrastructure
within the Town could be seriously affected by any of the hazards listed above. Of the hazards
identified above, occurrences in the last 9 years have been “insignificant”.
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Power Shortage/Failure - Power shortages and failures occur occasionally, but have not been
serious to date. Power outages during the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during
the winter season, 2-3 hours of power outage is a very serious situation. Dorset has installed an
emergency generator at the school in the event that people have to be relocated to a shelter.
Flood/Flash Flood - The average grand list value of a structure in Dorset is $292,792.20. There
are 27 structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $8 million.
The Fire Station, a farm, and two commercial properties are located in Flood Hazard Areas.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur occasionally, but are generally considered a “routine
emergency”, rather than a disaster. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
Page 156
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
High Wind/Earthquake/Tornado/Drought - High winds, earthquakes, tornadoes, and drought
represent significant possible threats to the town. These types of hazards can lead to power
outages.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed by Mitigation
Strategies in the countywide plan.
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP/EOP is final draft.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (culvert survey &
replacement, ditching along roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs (culvert survey & replacement, ditching along
roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at intersections).
Land Use Planning/Management
o Flood Hazard Regulations
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The Town of Dorset has identified the above ongoing projects as important. No additional
strategies are deemed “significant”. According to local interviews, major disasters would require
that State and Federal agencies be present to handle, and local departments would only be
available to assist the State and Federal agencies.
The Town of Dorset has identified the Mad Tom Beaver Dam as a priority project.
Approximately 6-7 years ago, the village was flooded after the beaver dam broke. Since that
time, the beaver dam has been rebuilt, and could flood the village again. The Town of Dorset
has identified that the solution to this problem could be to build a concrete structure at the
location of the beaver dam.
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Dorset. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).
 Does the action reduce damage?
 Does the action contribute to community objectives?
 Does the action meet existing regulations?
Page 157









Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
29
 Med. to Long Term Conduct assessment &
 Local & State
Select Board,
explore options;
Resources
Assess Mad Tom Beaver
Road Foreman,
technical assistance
Dam
& Community
 PDM-c Funds
from VEM & ANR
27
 Med. to Long Term
Flood-proof structures
 Local & State
located in Flood Hazard
Select Board,
Resources
Areas, including critical
Other Agencies,
Conduct assessment &
facilities
Community
 PDM-c Funds
explore options
28
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Dorset:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 158
Annex D (Landgrove)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Landgrove.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 159
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted February 1994) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Identify and protect important natural resources and historic features.
 Effectively manage future growth and development.
 New growth should be encouraged in areas where physical conditions are most capable
of supporting such development…
 The natural characteristics and values of Landgrove’s streams and wetlands should be
preserved…
 Development in floodplains must be carefully controlled in accordance with flood hazard
area regulations.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted Feb 1994)
“Landgrove is a small rural town located on the eastern slope of the Green Mountains in
Southern Vermont. The area was first settled by William Utley in 1769; he established a farm in
the fertile valley that is still known as “Utley Flats”. The Town was legally chartered in 1780, its
municipal limits being determined largely by the boundaries of adjacent towns. Landgrove
originally covered 7,040 acres, but the resolution of a boundary dispute with Peru in 1835
reduced the town’s size to the 5,696 acres that it currently occupies.”
Existing land use patterns in Landgrove include Rural development throughout the town. There
is a Hamlet located along Town Highway #1, and two small Forest areas in Landgrove.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Landgrove is 144. From 1970
to 1980, the population experienced an increase of 16.4%, but since then, the population has
been increasing at a significantly lower and decreasing rate; increasing 10.7% from 1980 to
1990, and 7.5% from 1990 to 2000.
The Town of Landgrove has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which
regulate development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is
subject to review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws
outline permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Page 160
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Landgrove, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as Medium in terms of
likelihood:
MEDIUM
Flash Flood
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Highway/Transport Accidents
In terms of Vulnerability, the following hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency):
Tornado
Hazardous Materials
Radiological Incident
Chemical/Biological Incident
Landgrove considers the following hazard to be the Worst Threat: Flash Flood.
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Flash Floods - There is presently no warning system, and there would be no warning time in the
event of a flash flood. The average grand list value of a structure in Landgrove is $286,104.10.
There are 5 structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $1.4
million. There are no critical facilities within Flood Hazard Areas.
Highway Accidents - Landgrove has more motor vehicle accidents on one-quarter of a mile of
state highway than any other hazards. There is presently no warning system, and there would be
no warning time in the event of a highway accident.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur occasionally, but are generally considered a “routine
emergency”, rather than a disaster. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
For the hazards listed above, Landgrove has determined that there is no way to calculate the
effects of such hazards on population or public infrastructure.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed below:
Community Preparedness Activities
o Rapid Response Plan
Page 161
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Landgrove. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
documents the criteria considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the following
criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (Poor), “2” (Average) and “3” (Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
29
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. Additionally, the local American
Red Cross chapter may be contacted to assist with community education programs. Mitigation
strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community need. A costbenefit review is recommended to maximize benefits.
Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
Local Areas of Concern Map
Essential Facilities Map
Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 162
Annex E (Manchester)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Manchester.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 163
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted June 2002) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Any development that may adversely impact any special resource area or unique natural
feature mentioned herein, or not mentioned but in the public interest, shall not be
permitted.
 As specified in the Zoning Ordinance, the placing of fill in the regulatory floodway shall
not be permitted.
 Buildings shall be sited sensitively, with respect to site-specific opportunities and
constraints, and shall be of appropriate size and scale.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted June 2002)
“Manchester is blessed in many ways ranging from a spectacular natural setting to a strong
volunteer ethic and sense of community with supports an amazing variety of
programs…Manchester’s broad array of cultural attractions is another essential component of the
quality of life for residents and visitors alike…One critical point of agreement and common
ground is the importance of community spirit and protecting our community’s quality of life…”
Existing land use patterns in Manchester include Urban development primarily along the Route
7A and Route 11/30 corridors. A centralized Village, known as Manchester Village, is located
on Route 7A. There are two Hamlets; one along Richville Road and one at the intersection of
Barnumville Road and High Meadow Way. Remaining land uses along the main corridors are
classified as Rural development. Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Manchester.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Manchester is 4,180. From
1970 to 1980, the population experienced an increase of 11.7%, followed by an increase of
11.1% from 1980 to 1990. From 1990 to 2000, the population increased 15.4%.
The Town of Manchester has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which
regulate development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is
subject to review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws
outline permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Page 164
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Manchester, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as High or Medium in
terms of likelihood:
HIGH
MEDIUM
Structure Fire
Flood
Power Shortage/Failure
Flash Flood
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Hazardous Materials
High Wind
Highway/Transport Accidents
In terms of Vulnerability, the following hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency):
Tornado
Hazardous Materials
Radiological Incident
Aircrash
Water Supply Contamination
Earthquake
Chemical/Biological Incident
Highway/Transport Accidents
School Safety Issues
The Town of Manchester considers the following hazards to be the Worst Threats:
Hazardous Materials
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Earthquake
Highway/Transport Accidents
School Safety Issues
Tornado
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Hazard Materials & Highway/Transport Accidents - There are 33 sites in town that have
sufficient types and/or quantities of hazardous materials to require reporting.
Flooding - The average grand list value of a structure in Manchester is $222,166.50. There are
115 structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $25 million.
There is a school, electric substation, and an industrial facility located within Flood Hazard
Areas.
Power Shortage/Failure - Power shortages and failures occur often in Manchester but have not
been serious to date. Winter storms or high winds often result in power failure. Power outages
during the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during the winter season, 2-3 hours of
power outage is a very serious situation.
Page 165
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur occasionally, but are generally considered a “routine
emergency”, rather than a disaster. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
High Wind/Earthquake/Tornado - High winds, earthquakes, and tornadoes represent significant
possible threats to the town. It is estimated that 4,500 people and about 25% of the total
infrastructure could be seriously affected by these hazards.
School Safety Issues - The likelihood of school safety issues in Manchester is low, but the town
is still vulnerable to the hazard, and considers this hazard to be among the worst threats.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed by Mitigation
Strategies in the countywide plan.
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP/EOP is final draft.
o Emergency Response & Mgt Staff attend professional training sessions.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (culvert survey &
replacement, ditching along roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs (culvert survey & replacement, ditching along
roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at intersections).
Land Use Planning/Management: Flood
o Establish Flood Hazard Areas.
Public Awareness, Training & Education
o Hazard Identification and Mapping.
Public Protection
o Survey and Designate Shelters.
o Emergency communications and information systems (NOAA weather
receivers, Emergency Alert System (EAS)).
o Auxiliary Power for Fire Station & School (Shelter).
o Hazard Vulnerability Assessments.
o Emergency Medical Care.
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Manchester. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
Page 166
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex. Mitigation strategies and
implementation methods shall be determined based on community need. Potential funding
sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is recommended to maximize
benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
29
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Flood-proof structures
Select Board,
Resources
located in Flood Hazard
Other Agencies,
Conduct assessment &
Areas
Community
 PDM-c Funds
explore options
28
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Manchester:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 167
Annex F (North Bennington)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Village of North Bennington.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 168
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted August 1992) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Establish a series of overlay zones (resource protection, scenery, fragile areas, land
suitability, etc.) and policies for their protection.
 Reassess the status of the Lake Paran shoreland protection zone to ensure protection of
the shoreline and recreation/scenic values of the lake. Coordinate with other
municipality’s bylaws and regulations. (Actually, very little of Lake Paran shoreline is
within North Bennington.)”
 Future land use and development must take into account the affect on natural and historic
resources identified.
 Restrict development and filling in of wetlands, along the main stream channels, to
protect their recharge and water storage benefits as they relate to flooding and to protect
them as wildlife habitats.
 Encourage the natural state of streams, except when there is a potential threat against life
and property.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted August 1992)
“Joseph Haviland acquired the Patent on lands surrounding the creek running through North
Bennington in 1739. He named it Haviland Mills and settled the area in 1761. His son-in-law,
Moses Sage, denounced him as a Tory in 1776, took over the settlement, and renamed it Sage
City. The Commissary for Colonel John Stark, fed American troops at the Battle of Bennington,
with corn meal ground at the mills on the creek.” “What is now known as Paran creek (a biblical
name) supplied power to more than a dozen mills.” “In 1852, a devastating flood washed out all
the factories along the creek. In addition, a series of equally disastrous fires over the next half
century destroyed the other major factories. Some were rebuilt, but the strong industrial base of
the Village had already begun to erode and it gradually took on the more residential character it
enjoys today.”
Land use in North Bennington is primarily Village use development along the Route 67 corridor.
Development includes both residences and commercial properties. According to the 2000 US
Census, the population is currently 1,428 in this 1.89 square mile Village. This is a decrease in
population of 6.1% since 1990.
The Village of North Bennington has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws,
which regulate development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard
Page 169
Areas is subject to review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning
Bylaws outline permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In North Bennington, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as High and
Medium in terms of likelihood:
HIGH
MEDIUM
Flood
Tornado
Flash Flood
Power Shortage/Failure
Structure Fire
High Wind
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
School Safety Issues
Highway/Transport Accidents
Dam Failures
In terms of Vulnerability, the following hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency):
Tornado
Flood
Flash Flood
Structure Fire
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Dam Failures
North Bennington has determined that the following hazards present the worst threats:
Flood
Structure Fire
Dam Failures (top priority)
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Dam Failures - If one of the Paran Creek dams broke, it could flood approximately half of the
Village. It is estimated that approximately 500-600 homes and businesses in North Bennington
could be seriously affected by a dam failure. In terms of public infrastructure within the Town,
roads, bridges, and sewage treatment facilities could be seriously affected. Dam failures
typically occur once a year or less.
Structure Fire – On average, the North Bennington Fire Department responds to a total of 71
calls annually; 8 of which are structure fires, and 8 of which are hazardous conditions, annually.
Flooding - The average grand list value of a structure in the Town of Bennington is $122,042.80.
There are 3 structures in flood hazard areas within the Village, resulting in a potential estimated
total loss of $366,128.40. There is a commercial building located in the Flood Hazard Area.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur occasionally, but are generally considered a “routine
emergency”, rather than a disaster. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
Page 170
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed below:
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP/EOP is final draft.
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs (culvert survey & replacement, ditching along
roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at intersections).
Land Use Planning/Management: Flood
o 500 foot Shoreland Protection Area around Lake Paran, with Zoning Bylaws
for defined use.
o Flood Hazard Areas defined in Zoning Bylaws with building restrictions.
Public Protection
o Fire Department trained and equipped for Deep Water Rescue.
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Village of North Bennington. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the
most appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following
list documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Page 171
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
29
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Flood-proof or relocate
Select Board,
Resources
structures located in Flood Other Agencies,
Conduct assessment &
Hazard Areas
Community
 PDM-c Funds
explore options
29
 Med. to Long Term
Conduct assessment
 Local & State
and determine
Resources
Land acquisition in high
Select Board,
priorities; work with
hazard areas
Private Owners
 PDM-c Funds
land owners
29
27
Adopt Building Codes
33
Additional training for
Building Inspectors
33
Conduct review of
Emergency Mgt Program
32
Prepare evacuation studies
and plans
Select Board,
Other Officials
 Short to Med. Term
 Local Resources
Technical assistance
from BCRC & VEM
Select Board,
Building
Inspectors
Select Board, Em
Mgt Director,
First Response
Agencies
Select Board, Em
Mgt Director,
First Response
Agencies
 Short to Long Term
 Local & State
Resources
Work with local
Building Inspectors and
State Agencies
 Short to Med. Term
 Local Resources
Conduct assessment of
current conditions
 Short to Med. Term
 Local Resources
Conduct assessment of
current plans; revise
plan as needed
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Village of North Bennington:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 172
Annex G (Peru)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Peru.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 173
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted May 2001) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Planned residential and planned unit developments are recognized as desirable forms of
development to minimize costs to homeowners and the town, to protect sensitive areas, to
minimize natural resource consumption, and to plan according to land capability.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted May 2001)
“The town of Peru, in the northeast corner of Bennington County, was originally called variously
Brindly, Brumley, or Bromley. It was one of the 128 Hampshire Grants made by Governor
Benning Wentworth in 1761.” “…Fred Pabst…decided to concentrate his efforts on developing
Bromley.” “Skiing changed the old way of life in Vermont. Formerly limited to summer and
leaf season, tourism blossomed with the coming of snow.”
Existing land use patterns in Peru include development primarily along the Route 11 corridor,
with one Hamlet. Remaining land uses along the main corridors are classified as Rural
development. Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Peru.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Peru is 416. From 1970 to
1980, the population experienced an increase of 28.4%, followed by an increase of 3.8% from
1980 to 1990 and an increase of 28.4% from 1990 to 2000.
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Peru, the interviews indicate that the following hazards could affect the community:
Flash Flood
Power Shortage/Failure
High Winds
Winter Storm/Ice
Hazardous Materials
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Hazard Materials & Highway/Transport Accidents – There is a moderate risk of a hazardous
materials incident in Peru, the magnitude of which could range from Limited to Critical.
Page 174
Flooding - The average grand list value of a structure in Peru is $180,298.70. There are 0
structures within Flood Hazard Areas. Peru is not in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Power Shortage/Failure - Power shortages and failures occur occasionally in Peru, but have not
been serious to date. Winter storms or high winds often result in power failure. Power outages
during the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during the winter season, 2-3 hours of
power outage is a very serious situation.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur occasionally, but are generally considered a “routine
emergency”, rather than a disaster. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed below:
Hazard Control & Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs: storm water drainage, tree trimming, litter removal.
Public Protection
o Installing Emergency Power Generators
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Peru. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most appropriate
policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list documents
the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the following
criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2” (indicating Average)
and “3” (indicating Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
Page 175
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Create Rapid Response Plan Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
27
28
Generators in public
buildings
Select Board,
Community
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Resources
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Peru:
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 176
Conduct “needs
assessment”
Annex H (Pownal)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Pownal.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 177
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted Oct 2000; amended Oct 2002) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Any development which encroaches upon or may have an undue adverse impact on any
unique natural feature mentioned herein, or not mentioned but in the public interest, shall
be discouraged.
 Development in the 100 year floodway fringe should meet certain building design criteria
in order to minimize flood damage. All development must meet federal and state
standards for flood protection.
 Land use along streams, water bodies, and drainage channels should not adversely affect
the quality of these waters.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted October 2000)
“With the backdrop of the Taconic and Green Mountains and an abundance of rolling farmland,
Pownal offers one of the most pleasing visual landscapes in the region. A community with a rich
heritage and varied history, the Town today faces the challenges of changing times, changing
lifestyles, and changing economic conditions. Since 1960, Pownal has grown phenomenally, and
new problems have arisen which require attention from an informed and concerned populace.”
Existing land use patterns in Pownal include development primarily along the Route 346 and
US7 corridors. There is a Village located at the intersection of Routes 346 and US7, a Village on
US7, and a Hamlet on Route 346. Remaining land uses along the main corridors are classified as
Rural development. Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Pownal.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Pownal is 3,560. From 1970 to
1980, the population experienced an increase of 33.9%, but since then, the population has been
increasing at a decreasing and significantly lower rate; increasing 6.6% from 1980 to 1990 and
2.1% from 1990 to 2000.
The Town of Pownal has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which regulate
development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is subject to
review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws outline
permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas.
Page 178
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Pownal, the interviews indicate that the following hazards could affect the community:
HIGH
Flood
Tornado
Hazardous Materials
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Flood - Seasonal. No warning system. The Town of Pownal estimates that a population of 3,560
could be seriously affected by this hazard. It is also estimated that total infrastructure of 1,948
properties could be seriously affected by this hazard. The average grand list value of a structure
in Pownal is $66,715.48. There are 205 structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential
estimated total loss of $13.6 million. The two Fire Stations, Rescue Squad, farms, schools,
industrial facilities, commercial, and residential buildings are located within Flood Hazard Areas.
Power Shortage/Failure - Power shortages and failures occur often in Pownal but have not been
serious to date. Winter storms or high winds often result in power failure. Power outages during
the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during the winter season, 2-3 hours of power
outage is a very serious situation.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur occasionally, but are generally considered a “routine
emergency”, rather than a disaster. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
High Wind/Earthquake/Tornado - High winds, earthquakes, and tornadoes represent significant
possible threats to the town, the magnitude of which could range from Limited to Critical. These
types of hazards can lead to power outages.
Structure Fire – On average, the Pownal Fire Departments respond to a combined total of 115
call annually; of which 17 are structure fires and 10 are hazardous conditions calls.
Hazardous Materials - There are 4 sites in the Town of Pownal that have sufficient types and/or
quantities of hazardous materials to require reporting. Hazardous Materials from railroad
derailment possible (random). No warning system. The Town of Pownal estimates that a
population of 3,560 could be seriously affected by this hazard. It is also estimated that total
infrastructure of 1,948 properties could be seriously affected by this hazard.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed below:
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP is final draft.
Page 179
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Pownal has assessed the risks due to undersized structures in the northeast
section of town and is currently developing strategies for implementation.
o Replacement of Bridge #2 on TH3 (Barber Pond Road).
o Replacement of culverts on TH22 (Cross Road).
o Replacement of culverts on (outlet Barber Pond) Barber Pond Road/TH3.
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Peru. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most appropriate
policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list documents
the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the following
criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2” (indicating Average)
and “3” (indicating Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Page 180
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps

Short
Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
27
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Flood-proof structures
Resources
located in Flood Hazard
Select Board,
Conduct “needs
Areas
Community
 PDM-c Funds
assessment”
31
 Short to Med. Term
Conduct assessment
 Local & State
Replace culverts with a
and evaluate options;
Resources
bridge on TH10 (Skiparee
Select Board,
Technical Assistance
Road)
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from VEM & ANR
32
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Pownal:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 181
Annex I (Rupert)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Rupert.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 182
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted Sept 2003) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Ensure that the health, safety, education, and general welfare for full-time residents is
met.
 Limit residential development to areas which can easily accommodate that
development…
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted Sept 2003)
“Rupert is the northwest town of the Bennington County region. It lies immediately west of the
Town of Dorset and north of the Town of Sandgate. Its neighbor to the north is the Town of
Pawlet, in Rutland County. Rupert also adjoins the New York State Towns of Hebron and Salem
to the west…Rupert is divided by a mountain ridge extending from the southeast corner of the
Town in roughly a straight line to Rupert Mountain at approximately the mid-point of the
northerly town line…Agriculture is more important in Rupert than in any other town in the
region…”
Existing land use patterns in Rupert include Rural development primarily along the Route 315,
Route 153, and Route 30 corridors. There is a Hamlet located along Route 315 and a Hamlet
located along Route 153. Remaining land uses along the main corridors are classified as Rural
development. Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Rupert.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Rupert is 704. From 1970 to
1980, the population increased 4%. From 1980 to 1990, the population increased significantly,
at 8.1%. Then, from 1990 to 2000, the population increase dropped slightly, to a 7.6% increase.
The Town of Rupert has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which regulate
development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is subject to
review procedures and must meet strict development standards. The Zoning Bylaws outline
permitted, conditional, and prohibited uses in Flood Hazard Areas. The Zoning Bylaws outline
the standards that proposed development must meet, application procedures and requirements,
and flood proofing measures.
Page 183
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Rupert, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as High or Medium in
terms of likelihood:
HIGH
MEDIUM
None
Flash Flood
Structure Fire
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
Drought
Highway/Transport Accidents
Wildfire/Forest Fire
In terms of Vulnerability, the following hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency):
Flash Flood
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
The Town of Rupert considers the following hazards to be the Worst Threats:
Flash Flood
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Hurricane/Tropical Storm
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Flash Flood - Recently, the Town of Rupert has experienced three flash floods. Prior to those
flash floods, there had been only one or two floods in the last 50 years. Flash floods can take out
roads and/or culverts and bridges. It is estimated that approximately 300 private homes and
businesses could be seriously affected by this type of hazard. Many problem areas have been
addressed by the Town of Rupert in the last two to three years, and therefore, the Town feels that
public infrastructure is not threatened at this time. Many undersized culverts have been
upgraded to mitigate flash flooding. The average grand list value of a structure in Rupert is
$154,915.20. There are 32 structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated
total loss of $5 million. One commercial property and two farms are located within Flood
Hazard Areas. The Town Office used to be located in a Flood Hazard Area, but it was relocated
two years ago.
Structure Fire – The Rupert Fire Department reports responding to an average of 35 total fire
calls annually. On average, 6 of those calls are structure fires, 3 are wildland fires, and 6 are
considered hazardous conditions, annually.
Winter Storm/Ice Storm - Winter storms occur approximately two times per year, the magnitude
of which normally ranges from negligible to limited. It is possible for the magnitude of a winter
storm to reach the level of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power,
hazardous road conditions, and extreme temperatures.
Page 184
High Wind/Hurricane/Tropical Storm - High winds and tropical storms represent significant
possible threats to the town, the magnitude of which could range from Limited to Critical. These
types of hazards can lead to power outages.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects, and activities are listed below.
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP is final draft.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (culvert survey &
replacement, ditching along roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs (upgraded numerous undersized culverts and replaced
with larger pipes or concrete boxes - to mitigate flash flooding).
Public Protection
o Survey and Designate Shelters.
o Upgraded radio communications through local Fire Dept. to assure a positive
communication network with local and state officials during an emergency.
o Fire Dept. purchased emergency power generator for use at critical public
facility (shelter).
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Rupert. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
Page 185
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Technical assistance
 Local Resources
from BCRC
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
support from
Technical assistance
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
PRIORITY
Who is
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director
33
27
Upgrade flood drainage
structures
Assess White Creek
Watershed (including its
potential for flooding due to
streambank erosion, gravel
Select Board,
deposits, and forest debris
Road Foreman,
blockage.
Private Owners
28
Flood-proofing structures
within Flood Hazard Areas
27
Select Board,
Private Owners
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Resources
 PDM-c Funds
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Resources
 PDM-c Funds
Assistance from BCRC,
VEM, ANR, private
residents & land
owners;
Hire consultant
Conduct assessment of
needs and options
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Rupert:




Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
Local Areas of Concern Map
Essential Facilities Map
Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 186
Annex J (Sandgate)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Sandgate.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments identify all hazards
facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks from
identified hazards.
Page 187
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted March 2002) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 Effectively manage future growth and development.
 Identify and protect important natural resources and historic features.
 Growth should be directed to areas where physical conditions are most capable of
supporting such development.
 The natural characteristics and values of Sandgate’s streams, ponds, and wetlands should
be preserved. The municipal zoning bylaws regulate uses within designated buffer areas
adjacent to these resources.
Community (as taken from Town Plan, adopted March 2002)
“Prior to the arrival of the first white settlers, the area now occupied by the Town of Sandgate
was part of the hunting and fishing grounds of several Indian tribes. An important Indian trail
traversed the town and a campground was located at a spring near Chunks Brook. The Town of
Sandgate was chartered on August 11, 1761 by Benning Wentworth, Governor of New
Hampshire. The town was laid out as a square with each side approximately six miles long.
Sandgate actually covers 27,072 acres of extremely rugged land in the middle of the Taconic
Mountain Range. The east side of the town, which includes the valley of the Green River, is
separated from the Camden Valley and West Sandgate by a high mountain ridge that is crossed
by just one road that snakes through “The Notch” in that ridge.”
Existing land use in Sandgate includes a small amount of Rural development primarily along
Sandgate Road, Bear Town Road, and West Sandgate Road, with a Hamlet at the intersection of
these roads. Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Sandgate.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Sandgate is 353. From 1970 to
1980, the population increased 84.3%. From 1980 to 1990, the population increased 18.8%.
Then, from 1990 to 2000, the population increased 27.0%.
Page 188
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Sandgate, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as High or Medium in
terms of likelihood:
HIGH
MEDIUM
Power Shortage/Failure
Flash Flood
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Structure Fire
High Wind
Wildfire/Forest Fire
In terms of Vulnerability, the following hazards present the threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency). Sandgate considers these hazards to be the Worst Threats:
Flash Flood
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
Flash Flood - This type of hazard generally occurs bi-annually, and it is estimated that about 350
homes and/or businesses and 50% of the total public infrastructure could be seriously affected by
this hazard. The average grand list value of a structure in Sandgate is $97,699.18. There are 6
structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $586,195.08.
There are two commercial buildings located in Flood Hazard Areas. Sandgate is not in the
National Flood Insurance Program.
Winter Storm - Winter storms occur approximately two times per year, the magnitude of which
normally ranges from negligible to limited. It is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to
reach the level of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous
road conditions, and extreme temperatures. It is estimated that about 350 homes and/or
businesses and 50% of the total public infrastructure could be seriously affected by this hazard.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The ongoing or recently completed programs, projects or activities are listed by Mitigation
Strategies in the countywide plan.
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP/EOP is final draft.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (culvert survey &
replacement, ditching along roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Maintenance Programs (culvert survey & replacement, ditching along
roadways, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at intersections).
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Sandgate. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
Page 189
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).












Does the action reduce damage?
Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex.
Mitigation strategies and implementation methods shall be determined based on community
need. Potential funding sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is
recommended to maximize benefits.
Note: In the table below, time frames are defined as follows: Short term equals 6 months to one year. Medium term
equals 1-3 years. Long term equals 4+ years
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
27
 Med. to Long Term
 Local & State
Select Board,
Resources
Flood-proofing structures
Town Officials,
Conduct assessment of
within Flood Hazard Areas Private Owners
needs and options
 PDM-c Funds
28
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Sandgate:
 Flood Hazard/Unmapped Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Local Areas of Concern Map
 Essential Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
Page 190
Annex K (Shaftsbury)
Introduction
This annex, when used with the appropriate sections of the basic plan, is an All-Hazard
Mitigation Plan for the Town of Shaftsbury.
The impact of expected, but unpredictable natural and human-caused events can be reduced
through community planning. The goal of this plan is to provide all-hazards local mitigation
strategy that makes the communities of Bennington County more disaster resistant.
Hazard Mitigation is any sustained action that reduces or eliminates long-term risk to people and
property from natural and human-caused hazards and their effects. FEMA and state agencies
have come to recognize that it is less expensive to prevent disasters than to repeatedly repair
damage after a disaster has struck. This plan recognizes that communities have opportunities to
identify mitigation strategies and measures during all of the other phases of Emergency
Management – Preparedness, Response and Recovery. Hazards cannot be completely
eliminated, but it is possible to determine what the hazards are, where the hazards are most
severe, and identify local actions that can be taken to reduce the severity of the hazard.
Hazard Mitigations Strategies and Measures alter the hazard by eliminating or reducing the
frequency of occurrence, avert the hazard by redirecting the impact by means of a structure or
land treatment, adapt to the hazard by modifying structures or standards or avoid the hazard by
stopping or limiting development and could include projects such as:













Flood-proofing structures
Tying down propane/fuel tanks in flood-prone areas
Elevating furnaces and water heaters
Identifying & modifying high traffic incident locations and routes
Ensuring adequate water supply
Elevating structures or utilities above flood levels
Identifying & upgrading undersized culverts
Proactive land use planning for floodplains & other flood-prone areas
Proper road maintenance and construction
Ensuring critical facilities are safely located
Buyout & relocation of structures in harms way
Establish & enforce appropriate building codes
Public information
Purpose
The purpose of this Hazard Mitigation Plan is to assist local governments in identifying all
hazards facing the county and their community and identify strategies to begin reducing risks
from identified hazards.
Page 191
Bennington County Hazard Mitigation Goals
 Reduce the loss of life and injury resulting from all hazards.
 Mitigate financial losses incurred by municipal, residential, industrial, agricultural and
commercial establishments due to disasters.
 Reduce the damage to public infrastructure resulting from all hazards.
 Recognize the connections between land use, storm-water road design and maintenance
and the effects from disasters.
 Ensure that mitigation measures are sympathetic to the natural features of community
rivers, streams and other surface waters; historic resources; character of neighborhoods;
and the capacity of the community to implement them.
 Encourage hazard mitigation planning as a part of the Municipal Planning Process.
Town Plan (adopted March 2, 2004) Goals that support Hazard Mitigation
 To prevent erosion and other environmental hazards, residential development should be
limited, and must be carefully planned, in areas where predominant natural slopes exceed
15%. Where natural slopes exceed 20%, no residential development should occur.
 Open space designs are particularly important when certain conditions are present. The
Planning Commission must be aware of the conditions and should require developers to
implement an open space design when failure to do so would result in…encroachment
upon an important natural or historic area, wildlife habitat, or a stream, wetland, or other
water body.
Community (as taken from Town Plan)
“The Town of Shaftsbury was established by Benning Wentworth, governor of the province of
New Hampshire, in 1761, when he granted 66 shares comprising some 23,040 acres of land. The
Town was named after the third Earl of Shaftesbury, England. When not fighting the New
Yorkers or the British during the Revolutionary War, Shaftsbury’s residents were hard at work
making a living and carving a community out of the wilderness. There was, of course,
considerable agricultural development in the early years of the community. Early manufacturing
focused on small home-based enterprises that produced potash, flax, maple sugar, and similar
products. Shaftsbury’s first factory was a small tannery. In the early 1800’s, the Town became
well known for its wool that was derived from Merino sheep. Forests were cleared not only for
cropland and pasture, but also to feed logs to the Town’s saw mills and paper mills, and
eventually to produce charcoal for the Burden Iron Works. After the sheep boom ended in the
mid-1800’s, many farmers turned to dairy farming. As the number of farms declined, the
population became less dispersed and the village areas began to grow. Together with improved
roads and the advent of the automobile, the result was a Town that became functionally much
smaller than it had originally been.”
Existing land use patterns in Shaftsbury include development primarily along the Route 7A
corridor. There is a centralized Village area on and near Route 7A at the south, and one Hamlet
along Route 7A further north. Remaining land use along the major roads is Rural development.
Forest use accounts for the remaining land in Shaftsbury.
According to the 2000 US Census, the population in the Town of Shaftsbury is 3,767. From
1970 to 1980, the population experienced an increase of 24.5%, but since then, the population
Page 192
has been increasing at a significantly lower and decreasing rate; increasing 12.2% from 1980 to
1990, and 11.8% from 1990 to 2000.
The Town of Shaftsbury has Flood Hazard Area Regulations in their Zoning Bylaws, which
regulate development in Flood Hazard Areas. Proposed development in Flood Hazard Areas is
subject to review procedures and must meet strict development standards through the Zoning
Board of Adjustment.
Community Hazard Inventory and Risk Assessment
In Shaftsbury, the interviews indicate that the following hazards are listed as High in terms of
likelihood:
Flood
Flash Flood
Structure Fire
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
High Wind
Highway/Transport Accidents
In terms of Vulnerability, these hazards present the worst threat of a disaster (and not simply a
routine emergency):
Tornado
Flood
Flash Flood
Hazardous Materials
Structure Fire
High Wind
Power Shortage/Failure
Winter Storm/Ice Storm
Drought
Highway/Transport Accidents
Wildfire/Forest Fire
Community Vulnerability Analysis by Hazard
High Winds/Winter Storms/Ice Storms/Power Outage – Weather related hazards normally occur
during winter, spring, and fall, but could occur any time of the year. They could be on a yearly
basis, to as much as every 50-100 years based on cyclical weather patterns. These hazards can
be localized or widespread, with little or no warning, such as the tornado in 2001, which was
localized and brief in duration. Weather related hazards can also affect a larger area and be
longer in duration with more warning time. It is estimated that the entire population of 3,767
could be affected by this hazard given a widespread situation, or a smaller number if the hazard
is localized. Approximately 75% to 90% of the total infrastructure could be seriously affected by
this hazard. Winter Storms and/or High Winds can cause power outages. Power outages during
the warmer months are not a serious problem, but during the winter season, 2-3 hours of power
outage is a very serious situation. The magnitude of winter storms normally ranges from
negligible to limited, although it is possible for the magnitude of a winter storm to reach the level
of critical. Common effects of winter storms include loss of power, hazardous road conditions,
and extreme temperatures.
Flooding - The average grand list value of a structure in Shaftsbury is $150,000.00. There are 5
structures in flood hazard areas, resulting in a potential estimated total loss of $750,000.00.
Structure Fire – Driven by alternative fuels, such as wood heat and residential building codes, the
number of residential structure fires could increase or decrease, and could be driven by seasons
and population growth. In 2005, the Shaftsbury Fire Dept responded to a total of 87 calls, 11 of
which were structure fires and 6 were wildland fires. In January 1997, there was one fire-related
fatality, and in February 1997, there were two fire-related fatalities.
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Drought - Significant drought during any season, along with expanding use of wildland areas and
existing weather conditions would drive the potential wildfire risk, and could be with little
warning or as much as days, and could affect widespread areas.
Hazard Materials & Highway/Transport Accidents - There are 3 sites in town that have sufficient
types and/or quantities of hazardous materials to require reporting. Based on industrial growth,
hazardous materials and transportation accidents could occur and be localized to the main travel
and industrial corridors. Industrial hazardous materials accidents pose a threat with no warning,
but tend to be localized. VT Route 7A runs north to south, through the entire length of the Town
of Shaftsbury, and poses a significant transportation/hazardous materials threat with no warning,
and depending on the location, could be localized or widespread.
Existing Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The Town of Shaftsbury currently has in place: local zoning that includes standards for drainage
structures, standards for future highway construction and repairs of town highways, flood hazard
area regulations that comply with Federal standards, which makes flood insurance available to
residents, and shelters are designated and approved by the American Red Cross.
Building Design, Codes, Use Regulations
o Require mobile home anchorage.
o Retrofit of buildings.
o Floodproofing, regulatory frameworks, controlling parameters, flood-resistant
design practices, beneficial/cost/technical feasibility analysis, finished
floor elevation 18 inches above 100 year flood level.
o Regulate storm-water drainage.
o Promote water conservation.
o Ensure wellhead protection.
o Regulate handling of hazardous materials and waste onsite.
Community Preparedness Activities
o Current RRP is revised annually; EOP is initial draft.
o Equipment acquisition plan is initial draft.
o Emergency Response and Mgt Staff attend professional training sessions.
o Response/recovery evaluation (situation reporting) is part of EOP/RRP.
o Structural fire & chemical spill drills.
o Emergency power tests at EOC locations.
o Regularly scheduled maintenance programs ongoing (stormwater drainage
maintenance, removal of debris from drainage ditches, general litter removal,
tree trimming along power lines, cutting vegetation to allow visibility at
intersections).
Financial and Tax Incentives
o Use of state and federal funding sources for mitigation projects and activities.
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Hazard Control and Protective Works
o Flood: Floodproofing, dams, reservoirs, levees, dikes, drainage systems,
storm drainage upgrades, hydraulic studies (box culverts).
o Drought: Soil erosion controls, improved agricultural cultivation practices,
water supply protection and conservation.
o Hazardous Materials Management.
o Engineering studies – hydraulic studies.
o Maintenance Programs: storm water drainage, tree trimming, litter removal.
Land Use Planning/Management: General
o Establishment of “hazard zones”.
o Hazard risk maps to aid public and private land management planning.
o Establish construction “set back (from hazard) lines” for new construction and
reconstruction.
Land Use Planning/Management: Flood
o Establishment of “base flood elevations (benchmarks)”.
o Establish codes for “floodproofing standards”.
Mitigation Committee
o Integrate mitigation strategy(ies) into community EOP.
Protection/Retrofit of Infrastructure and Critical Facilities
o GIS critical facilities database – inventory and map in draft stage.
Public Awareness, Training & Education
o Emergency preparedness education programs for schools.
o Drills, exercises in homes, workplaces, classrooms, etc.
Public Health and Emergency Medical Care, Education
o Emergency water and sanitation resources, plans, procedures (refer to North
Bennington EOP).
Public Protection
o Survey and Designate Shelters with Red Cross.
o Installing emergency power generators (critical public facilities).
Identified Hazard Mitigation Programs, Projects and Activities
The following identified programs, projects and activities are future Mitigation Strategies for the
Town of Shaftsbury. These mitigation strategies have been chosen by the town as the most
appropriate policies and programs to lessen the impacts of potential hazards. The following list
documents the questions (criteria) considered in establishing an order of priority. Each of the
following criteria was rated according to a numeric score of “1” (indicating Poor), “2”
(indicating Average) and “3” (indicating Good).
 Does the action reduce damage?
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










Does the action contribute to community objectives?
Does the action meet existing regulations?
Does the action protect historic structures or structures critical to town operations?
Can the action be implemented quickly?
Is the action socially acceptable?
Is the action technically feasible?
Is the action administratively possible?
Is the action politically acceptable?
Is the action legal?
Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost of implementation?
Is the action environmentally sound?
The ranking of these criteria is largely based on best available information and best judgment as
many projects are not fully scoped out at this time. The actions are listed in the table below in
order of how they scored based upon this ranking system (36 is the highest possible score). The
full scoring matrix used is located at the end of this annex. Mitigation strategies and
implementation methods shall be determined based on community need. Potential funding
sources are found in the countywide plan. A cost-benefit review is recommended for each task.
Note: Time frames below are as follows: Short term = 6 mo-1 yr. Medium term = 1-3 yrs. Long term = 4+ yrs.
Approx. Time Frame &
PRIORITY
Who is
Potential Funding
Initial Implementation
SCORE MITIGATION ACTION
Responsible
Sources
Steps
 Short Term
Update Rapid Response
Select Board &
Technical assistance
Plan at least annually
Em Mgt Director  Local Resources
from BCRC
33
 Short to Long Term
Conduct “needs
Select Board w/  Local & State
assessment”;
Resources
Upgrade flood drainage
support from
Technical assistance
structures
Road Foreman
 PDM-c Funds
from BCRC & VEM
32
 Short to Med. Term
 Local Resources
Select Board,
Increase emergency
Responders, &
 Free Red Cross
Assistance and training
preparedness training
Community
Training Offered from Academies, LEPC
30
30
29
27
Revise Emergency
Select Board &
Operations Plan annually Em Mgt Director
Select Board,
Building design, codes, Planning Board,
use regulations
Dev Review Bd
Select Board, Em
Mgt Director,
Establish GIS database
Responders
 Short Term
 Local Resources
 Short to Long Term
 Local Resources
 Short to Long Term
 Local Resources
Technical assistance
from BCRC
Technical assistance
Technical assistance
from BCRC; local
depts.
Based on fluvial erosion hazard risk assessments, the Town will consider riparian corridor
protection alternatives with the objective of reducing future erosion hazard related flood losses.
The following maps have been included in this Annex for the Town of Shaftsbury:
 Flood Hazard Areas Map
 Critical Facilities Map
 Refer to county level Land Use Map included in this Plan
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GLOSSARY
Acceleration: The rate of change of velocity with respect to time. Acceleration due to gravity at
the earth's surface is 9.8 meters per second squared. That means that every second that something
falls toward the surface of earth its velocity increases by 9.8 meters per second.
Acquisition of hazard-prone structures: Local governments can acquire lands in high hazard
areas through conservation easements, purchase of development rights, or outright purchase of
property.
Asset: Any manmade or natural feature that has value, including, but not limited to people;
buildings; infrastructure like bridges, roads, and sewer and water systems; lifelines like
electricity and communication resources; or environmental, cultural, or recreational features like
parks, dunes, wetlands, or landmarks.
Base Flood: Flood that has a 1 percent probability of being equaled or exceeded in any given
year. Also known as the 100-year flood.
Base Flood Elevation (BFE): Elevation of the base flood in relation to a specified datum, such
as the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929. The Base Flood Elevation is used as a standard
for the National Flood Insurance Program.
Bedrock: The solid rock that underlies loose material, such as soil, sand, clay, or gravel.
Benefit: Net project outcomes, usually defined in monetary terms. Benefits may include direct
and indirect effects. For the purposes of conducting a benefit-cost analysis of proposed
mitigation measures, benefits are limited to specific, measurable risk reduction factors, including
a reduction in expected property losses (building, contents, and function) and protection of
human life.
Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA): A systematic, quantitative method of comparing the projected
benefits to projected costs of a project or policy. It is used as a measure of cost effectiveness.
Biological agents: Biological agents are organisms or toxins that have illness-producing effects
on people, livestock and crops.
Blizzard Warning: A Blizzard Warning is declared when considerable falling and/or blowing
snow with sustained wind speeds of at least 35 mph will affect an area.
Building: A structure that is walled and roofed, principally above ground and permanently
affixed to a site. The term includes a manufactured home on a permanent foundation on which
the wheel and axles carry no weight.
Capability assessment: An assessment that provides a description and analysis of a community
or state's current capacity to address the threats associated with hazards. The capability
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assessment attempts to identify and evaluate existing policies, regulations, programs, and
practices that positively or negatively affect the community or state's
vulnerability to hazards or specific threats.
Chemical agents: Chemical agents are poisonous gases, liquids or solids that have toxic effects
on people, animals or plants.
Coastal zone: The area along the shore where the ocean meets the land as the surface of the land
rises above the ocean. This land/water interface includes barrier islands, estuaries, beaches,
coastal wetlands, and land areas with direct drainage to the ocean.
Community Emergency Response Team (CERT): CERT is the mechanism to establish, train
and maintain a local cadre of residents to act as first responders in the event of an emergency. A
CERT team is especially critical in the first three days following a disaster when conditions may
prevent access by emergency response personnel.
Community Rating System (CRS): CRS is a program that provides incentives for National
Flood Insurance Program communities to complete activities that reduce flood hazard risk. When
the community completes specified activities, the insurance premiums of these policyholders in
communities are reduced.
Computer-Aided Design And Drafting (CADD): A computerized system enabling quick and
accurate electronic 2-D and 3-D drawings, topographic mapping, site plans, and profile/crosssection drawings.
Cost-Effectiveness: Cost-effectiveness is a key evaluation criterion for federal grant programs.
Cost- effectiveness has several possible definitions, although for grant-making purposes FEMA
defines a cost-effective project as one whose long-term benefits exceed its costs. That is, a
project should prevent more expected damages than it costs initially to fund the effort. This is
done to ensure that limited public funds are used in the most efficient manner possible. Benefitcost analysis is one way to illustrate that a project is cost-effective.
Contour: A line of equal ground elevation located on a topographic (contour) map.
Critical facilities: Facilities vital to the health, safety, and welfare of the population and that are
especially important following hazard events. Critical facilities include, but are not limited to,
shelters, police and fire stations, and hospitals.
Dam Hazard Class: The hazard class is determined by the downstream risk to life and property
in the event of failure. Category 1 is assigned to high hazard dams that pose substantial life
safety risk. Category 2 (significant hazard dams) poses less life-safety risk. Category 3 dams are
low hazard and pose little risk to life or property.
Dam Height: The height, measured in feet, is the vertical distance from the lowest point on the
crest of the dam to the lowest point in the original streambed.
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Debris: The scattered remains of assets broken or destroyed in a hazard event. Debris caused by
a wind or water hazard event can cause additional damage to other assets.
Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA 2000): DMA 2000 (Public Law 106-390) is the latest
legislation to improve the planning process. Signed into law on October 30, 2000, this new
legislation reinforces the importance of mitigation planning and emphasizes planning for
disasters before they occur.
Digitize: To convert electronically points, lines, and area boundaries shown on maps into x, y
coordinates (e.g., latitude and longitude, universal transverse mercator (UTM), or table
coordinates) for use in computer applications.
Duration: The average time (in days), which the building's occupants typically must operate
from a temporary location while repairs are made to the original building due to damages
resulting from a hazard event. How long a hazard event lasts.
Earthquake: A sudden motion or trembling caused by a release of strain accumulated within or
along the edge of the earth's tectonic plates.
Excessive Heat Warning: The Albany NWS Forecast Office will issue and excessive heat
warning when the heat index is expected to exceed 115 degrees for any length of time during the
day or the heat index will be equal to or exceed 105 degrees for more than 3 hours in a day for at
least 2 consecutive days.
Excessive Heat Watch: The Albany NWS Forecast Office will issue and excessive heat watch
when it is possible for the heat index to exceed 115 degrees for any length of time during the day
or the heat index will be equal to or exceed 105 degrees for more than 3 hours in a day for at
least 2 consecutive days.
Elevation of structures: Raising structures above the base flood elevation to protect structures
located in areas prone to flooding.
Emergency response services: The actions of first responders such as firefighters, police, and
other emergency services personnel at the scene of a hazard event. The first responders take
appropriate action to contain the hazard, protect property, conduct search and rescue operations,
provide mass care, and ensure public safety.
Epicenter: The epicenter of an earthquake is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the
focus.
Erosion: Wearing away of the land surface by detachment and movement of soil and rock
fragments, during a flood or storm or over a period of years, through the action of wind, water, or
other geologic processes.
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Erosion Hazard Area: Area anticipated to be lost to shoreline retreat over a given period of
time. The projected inland extent of the area is measured by multiplying the average annual longterm recession rate by the number of years desired.
Essential Facility: Elements that are important to ensure a full recovery of a community or state
following a hazard event. These would include: government functions, major employers, banks,
schools, and certain commercial establishments, such as grocery stores, hardware stores, and gas
stations.
Extent: The size of an area affected by a hazard or hazard event.
Extratropical Cyclone: Cyclonic storm events like Nor'easters and severe winter low-pressure
systems. Both West and East coasts can experience these non-tropical storms that produce galeforce winds and precipitation in the form of heavy rain or snow. These cyclonic storms,
commonly called Nor'easters on the East Coast because of the direction of the storm winds, can
last for several days and can be very large – 1,000-mile wide storms are not uncommon.
Fault: A fault is a fracture in the Earth's crust along which two blocks of the crust have slipped
with respect to each other.
Focus: The focus of an earthquake is the point underneath the earth's surface where an
earthquake originates.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): Agency created in 1979 to provide a
single point of accountability for all federal activities related to disaster mitigation and
emergency preparedness, response, and recovery. FEMA is now part of the Department of
Homeland Security.
Fire Potential Index (FPI): Developed by USGS and USFS to assess and map fire hazard
potential over broad areas. Based on such geographic information, national policy makers and
on-the-ground fire managers established priorities for prevention activities in the defined area to
reduce the risk of managed and wildfire ignition and spread. Prediction of fire hazard shortens
the time between fire ignition and initial attack by enabling fire managers to pre-allocate and
stage suppression forces to high fire risk areas.
Flash Flood: A flood event occurring with little or no warning where water levels rise at an
extremely fast rate.
Flood: A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land
areas from (1) the overflow of inland or tidal waters, (2) the unusual and rapid accumulation or
runoff of surface waters from any source, or (3) mudflows or the sudden collapse of shoreline
land.
Flood Depth: Height of the floodwater surface above the ground surface.
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Flood Elevation: Elevation of the water surface above an established datum, e.g. National
Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929, North American Vertical Datum of 1988, or Mean Sea Level.
Flood Hazard Area: The area on a map shown to be inundated by a flood of a given magnitude.
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM): Map of a community, prepared by FEMA, which shows
both the special flood hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community
under the National Flood insurance Program.
Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) Program: A program created as part of the National Flood
Insurance Reform Act of 1994. FMA provides funding to assist communities and states in
implementing actions that reduce or eliminate the long-term risk of flood damage to buildings,
manufactured homes, and other NFIP insurable structures, with a focus on repetitive loss
properties.
Flood Insurance Study (FIS): A study that provides an examination, evaluation, and
determination of flood hazards and, if appropriate, corresponding water surface elevations in a
community or communities.
Floodplain: Any land area, including watercourse, susceptible to partial or complete inundation
by water from any source.
Flood proofing: Actions that prevent or minimize future flood damage. Making the areas below
the anticipated flood level watertight or intentionally allowing floodwaters to enter the interior to
equalize flood pressures are examples of flood proofing.
Flood Zone: A geographical area shown on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) that reflects the
severity or type of flooding in the area.
Frequency: A measure of how often events of a particular magnitude are expected to occur.
Frequency describes how often a hazard of a specific magnitude, duration, and/or extent
typically occurs, on average. Statistically, a hazard with a 100-year recurrence interval is
expected to occur once every 100 years on average, and would have a 1 percent chance – its
probability – of happening in any given year. The reliability of this information varies depending
on the kind of hazard being considered.
Fujita Scale of Tornado Intensity: Rates tornadoes with numeric values from F0 to F5 based
on tornado wind speed and damage sustained. An F0 indicates minimal damage such as broken
tree limbs or signs, while and F5 indicated severe damage sustained.
Functional Downtime: The average time (in days) during which a function (business or service)
is unable to provide its services due to a hazard event.
Geographic Area Impacted: The physical area in which the effects of the hazard are
experienced.
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Geographic Information Systems (GIS): A computer software application that relates physical
features on the earth to a database to be used for mapping and analysis.
Goals: General guidelines that explain what you want to achieve. They are usually broad policytype statements, long term in nature, and represent global visions.
Ground Motion: The vibration or shaking of the ground during an earthquake. When a fault
ruptures, seismic waves radiate, causing the ground to vibrate. The severity of the vibration
increases with the amount of energy released and decreases with distance from the causative
fault or epicenter, but soft soils can further amplify ground motions
Hazard: A source of potential danger or adverse condition.
Hazard Event: A specific occurrence of a particular type of hazard.
Hazard Identification: The process of identifying hazards that threaten an area.
Hazard information center: Information booths, publication kiosks, exhibits, etc. that display
information to educate the public about hazards that affect the jurisdiction and hazard mitigation
activities people can undertake.
Hazard Mitigation: Sustained actions taken to reduce or eliminate long-term risk from hazards
and their effects.
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP): Authorized under Section 404 of the Robert T.
Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, HMGP is administered by FEMA and
provides grants to states, tribes, and local governments to implement hazard mitigation actions
after a major disaster declaration. The purpose of the program is to reduce the loss of life and
property due to natural disasters and to enable mitigation activities to be implemented as a
community recovers from a disaster.
Hazard profile: A description of the physical characteristics of hazards and a determination of
various descriptors, including magnitude, duration, frequency, probability, and extent. In most
cases, a community can most easily use these descriptors when they are recorded and displayed
as maps.
HAZUS, HAZUS-MH: A GIS-based, nationally standardized, loss estimation tool developed by
FEMA. HAZUS-MH is the new multi-hazard version that includes earthquake, wind, hurricane,
and flood loss estimate components.
Heat Advisory: The Albany NWS Forecast Office will issue a heat advisory when the heat
index is expected to exceed 105 degrees, but be less than 115 degrees and less than 3 hours in a
day and/or when nighttime lows are forecast to remain above 80 degrees for 2 consecutive days.
Heat Index: This is what the temperature feels like to the human body based on both the air
temperature and humidity.
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Hurricane: An intense tropical cyclone, formed in the atmosphere over warm ocean areas, in
which wind speeds reach 74 miles per hour or more and blow in a large spiral around a relatively
calm center or "eye." Hurricanes develop over the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast Pacific
Ocean, or the South Pacific Ocean east of 160ºE longitude. Hurricane circulation is counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere and clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.
Hydrology: The science of dealing with the waters of the earth. A flood discharge is developed
by a hydrologic study.
Infrastructure: Refers to the public services of a community that have a direct impact on the
quality of life. Infrastructure includes communication technology, such as phone lines or Internet
access; vital services, such as public water supplies and sewer treatment facilities; and an area's
transportation system: airports, heliports, highways, bridges, tunnels, roadbeds, overpasses,
railways, bridges, rail yards, depots; and waterways, canals, locks, seaports, ferries, harbors, drydocks, piers, and regional dams.
Intensity: A measure of the effects of a hazard event at a particular place.
Landslide: Downward movement of a slope and materials under the force of gravity.
Lateral Spreads: Develop on gentle slopes and entail the sidelong movement of large masses of
soil as an underlying layer liquefies in a seismic event.
Liquefaction: The phenomenon that occurs when ground shaking causes loose soils to lose
strength and act like viscous fluid. Liquefaction causes two types of ground failure: lateral spread
and loss of bearing strength.
Loss of Bearing Strength: Results when the soil supporting structures liquefies. This can cause
structures to tip and topple.
Loss estimation: Forecasts of human and economic impacts and property damage from future
hazard events, based on current scientific and engineering knowledge.
Lowest Floor: Under the NFIP, the lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including
basement) of a structure.
Magnitude: A measure of the strength of a hazard event. The magnitude (also referred to as
severity) of a given hazard event is usually determined using technical measures specific to the
hazard.
Maximum Storage: This volume, also measured in acre-feet, is the maximum amount of liquid
impounded behind the dam when the water level is at its maximum.
Memorandum of Agreement (MOA): A non-binding statement that defines the duties,
responsibilities, and commitment of the different parties or individuals; provides a clear
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statement of values, principles, and goals; and establishes an organizational structure to assist in
measuring and evaluating progress.
Mitigate: To cause something to become less harsh or hostile, to make less severe or painful.
Mitigation actions: Activities or projects that help achieve the goals and objectives of a
mitigation plan.
Mitigation plan: The document that articulates results from the systematic process of identifying
hazards and evaluating vulnerability, identifying goals, objectives and actions to reduce or
eliminate the effects of identified hazards, and an implementation plan for carrying out the
actions.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP): Federal program created by Congress in 1968 that
makes flood insurance available in communities that enact minimum floodplain management
regulations in 44 CFR §60.3.
National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD): Datum established in 1929 and used in
the NFIP as a basis for measuring flood, ground, and structural elevations, previously referred to
as Sea Level Datum or Mean Sea Level. The Base Flood Elevations shown on most of the Flood
Insurance Rate Maps issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency are referenced to
NGVD.
National Weather Service (NWS): Prepares and issues flood, severe weather, and coastal storm
warnings and can provide technical assistance to Federal and state entities in preparing weather
and flood warning plans.
Nor'easter: An extra-tropical cyclone producing gale-force winds and precipitation in the form
of heavy snow or rain.
Normal Storage: This is the total volume of water and sediment that is stored behind the dam
when it is at its normal level. This volume is measured in acre-feet, which is a foot of water
covering one acre. It is the equivalent of 43,560 cubic feet or 325,829 gallons.
Objectives: Objectives define strategies or implementation steps to attain the identified goals.
Unlike goals, objectives are specific and measurable.
Open space preservation: Preserving undeveloped areas from development through any number
of methods, including low-density zoning, open space zoning, easements, or public or private
acquisition. Open space preservation is a technique that can be used to prevent flood damage in
flood-prone areas, land failures on steep slopes or liquefaction-prone soils, and can enhance the
natural and beneficial functions of floodplains.
Ordinance: A term for a law or regulation adopted by a local government.
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Outflow: Follows water inundation creating strong currents that rip at structures and pound them
with debris, and erode beaches and coastal structures.
Overtopping: Water flowing over the parts of the dam or the abutments that should not be
overflowed and causes a failure by erosion, structural collapse, piping or some other cause or
causes. Usually occurs because of inadequate or blocked spillways during flood events.
Planimetric: Describes maps that indicate only man-made features like buildings.
Planning: The act or process of making or carrying out plans; the establishment of goals,
policies, and procedures for a social or economic unit.
Piping: Progressive internal erosion of a soil mass, such as a dam embankment, foundation or
abutment, by uncontrolled seepage that eventually erodes a channel or “pipe” through the dam
and results in a rapid release of the contents of the reservoir. Piping is a major cause of earth dam
failures and other dams with earth foundations or abutments.
Policy: A course of action or specific rule of conduct to be followed in achieving goals and
objectives.
Post-disaster mitigation: Mitigation actions taken after a disaster has occurred, usually during
recovery and reconstruction.
Post-disaster recovery ordinance: An ordinance authorizing certain governmental actions to be
taken during the immediate aftermath of a hazard event to expedite implementation of recovery
and reconstruction actions identified in a pre-event plan.
Post-disaster recovery planning: The process of planning those steps the jurisdiction will take
to implement long-term reconstruction with a primary goal of mitigating its exposure to future
hazards. The post-disaster recovery planning process can also involve coordination with other
types of plans and agencies, but it is distinct from planning for emergency operations.
Preparedness: Actions that strengthen the capability of government, citizens, and communities
to respond to disasters.
Probability: A statistical measure of the likelihood that a hazard event will occur.
Public education and outreach programs: Any campaign to make the public more aware of
hazard mitigation and mitigation programs, including hazard information centers, mailings,
public meetings, etc.
Recovery: The actions taken by an individual or community after a catastrophic event to restore
order and lifelines in a community.
Recurrence Interval: The time between hazard events of similar size in a given location. It is
based on the probability that the given event will be equaled or exceeded in any given year.
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Regulation: Most states have granted local jurisdictions broad regulatory powers to enable the
enactment and enforcement of ordinances that deal with public health, safety, and welfare. These
include building codes, building inspections, zoning, floodplain and subdivision ordinances, and
growth management initiatives.
Regulatory power: Local jurisdictions have the authority to regulate certain activities in their
jurisdiction. With respect to mitigation planning, the focus is on such things as regulating land
use development and construction through zoning, building codes, subdivision regulations,
design standards, and floodplain regulations.
Relocation out of hazard areas: A mitigation technique that features the process of demolishing
or moving a building to a new location outside the hazard area.
Repetitive Loss Property: A property that is currently insured for which two or more National
Flood Insurance Program losses (occurring more than ten days apart) of at least $1000 each have
been paid within any 10-year period since 1978.
Replacement Value: The cost of rebuilding a structure. This is usually expressed in terms of
cost per square foot, and reflects the present-day cost of labor and materials to construct a
building of a particular size, type and quality.
Resources: Resources include the people, materials, technologies, money, etc., required to
implement strategies or processes. The costs of these resources are often included in a budget.
Response: The actions taken during and immediately an event to address immediate life and
safety needs and to minimize further damage to properties.
Resolutions: Expressions of a governing body's opinion, will, or intention that can be executive
or administrative in nature. Most planning documents must undergo a council resolution, which
must be supported in an official vote by a majority of representatives to be adopted. Other
methods of making a statement or announcement about a particular issue or topic include
proclamations and declarations.
Richter Scale: A numerical scale of earthquake magnitude devised by seismologist C.F. Richter
in 1935.
Risk: The estimated impact that a hazard would have on people, services, facilities, and
structures in a community; the likelihood of a hazard event resulting in an adverse condition that
causes injury or damage. Risk is often expressed in relative terms such as a high, moderate, or
low likelihood of sustaining damage above a particular threshold due to a specific type of hazard
event. It also can be expressed in terms of potential monetary losses associated with the intensity
of the hazard.
Riverine: Of or produced by a river.
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Scale: A proportion used in determining a dimensional relationship; the ratio of the distance
between two points on a map and the actual distance between the two points on the earth's
surface.
Scarp: A steep slope.
Scour: Removal of soil or fill material by the flow of floodwaters. The term is frequently used to
describe storm-induced, localized conical erosion around pilings and other foundation supports
where the obstruction of flow increases turbulence.
Seismicity: Describes the likelihood of an area being subject to earthquakes.
Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA): An area within a floodplain having a 1 percent or greater
chance of flood occurrence in any given year (100-year floodplain); represented on Flood
Insurance Rate Maps by darkly shaded areas with zone designations that include the letter A or
V.
Stafford Act: The Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, PL 100107 was signed into law November 23, 1988 and amended the Disaster Relief Act of 1974, PL
93-288. The Stafford Act is the statutory authority for most federal disaster response activities,
especially as they pertain to FEMA and its programs.
Stakeholder: Stakeholders are individuals or groups that will be affected in any way by an
action or policy, including businesses, private organizations, and citizens, that will be affected in
any way by an action or policy.
State Hazard Mitigation Officer (SHMO): The state government representative who is the
primary point of contact with FEMA, other state and federal agencies, and local units of
government in the planning and implementation of pre- and post-disaster mitigation activities.
Storm Surge: Rise in the water surface above normal water level on the open coast due to the
action of wind stress and atmospheric pressure on the water surface.
Structure: Something constructed. (See also Building)
Structural retrofitting: Modifying existing buildings and infrastructure to protect them from
hazards.
Subdivision: The division of a tract of land into two or more lots for sale or development.
Subdivision and development regulations: Regulations and standards governing the division of
land for development or sale. Subdivision regulations can control the configuration of parcels,
set standards for developer-built infrastructure, and set standards for minimizing runoff,
impervious surfaces, and sediment during development. They can be used to minimize exposure
of buildings and infrastructure to hazards.
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Substantial Damage: Damage of any origin sustained by a structure in a Special Flood Hazard
Area whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before-damaged condition would equal or
exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the structure before the damage.
Surface Faulting: The differential movement of two sides of a fracture – in other words, the
location where the ground breaks apart. The length, width, and displacement of the ground
characterize surface faults.
Tectonic Plate: Torsionally rigid, thin segments of the earth's lithosphere that may be assumed
to move horizontally and adjoin other plates. It is the friction between plate boundaries that cause
seismic activity.
Topographic: Characterizes maps that show natural features and indicate the physical shape of
the land using contour lines. These maps may also include manmade features.
Tornado: A violently rotating column of air extending from a thunderstorm to the ground.
Tornado Warning: A tornado warning is declared when a tornado has been sighted or indicated
by weather radar in an area. Affected people should be prepared to move to a pre-designated
place of safety.
Tornado Watch: A tornado watch is declared when tornadoes are possible in an area. Affected
people should remain alert for approaching storms.
Town plan: A document, also known as a "general plan," covering the entire geographic area of
a community and expressing community goals and objectives. The plan lays out the vision,
policies, and strategies for the future of the community, including all of the physical elements
that will determine the community's future development. This plan can discuss the community's
desired physical development, desired rate and quantity of growth, community character,
transportation services, location of growth, and siting of public facilities and transportation. In
most states, the comprehensive plan has no authority in and of itself, but serves as a guide for
community decision-making.
Tropical Cyclone: A generic term for a cyclonic, low-pressure system over tropical or
subtropical waters.
Tropical Depression: A tropical cyclone with maximum sustained winds of less than 39 mph.
Tropical Storm: A tropical cyclone having maximum sustained winds greater than 39 mph and
less than 74 mph.
Vulnerability: Describes how exposed or susceptible an asset is to damage. Vulnerability
depends on an asset's construction, contents, and the economic value of its functions. Like
indirect damages, the vulnerability of one element of the community is often related to the
vulnerability of another. For example, many businesses depend on uninterrupted electrical
power—if an electric substation is flooded, it not only affects the substation but a number of
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businesses as well. Often, indirect effects can be much more widespread and damaging than
direct ones.
Vulnerability assessment: The extent of injury and damage that may result from a hazard event
of a given intensity in a given area. The vulnerability assessment should address the effects of
hazard events on the existing and future built environment.
Water Displacement: When a large mass of earth on the ocean bottom sinks or uplifts, the
column of water directly above it is displaced, forming the tsunami wave. The rate of
displacement, motion of the ocean floor at the epicenter, the amount of displacement of the
rupture zone, and the depth of water above the rupture zone all contribute to the intensity of the
tsunami.
Wave Runup: The height that the wave extends up to on steep shorelines, measured above a
reference level (the normal height of the sea, corrected to the state of the tide at the time of wave
arrival).
Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD):
Winter Storm Warning: A Winter Storm Warning is declared when severe winter weather
conditions will affect an area.
Winter Storm Watch: A Winter Storm Watch is declared when severe winter weather
conditions may affect an area.
Wildfire: An uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels, exposing and possibly
consuming structures.
Zone: A geographical area shown on a Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) that reflects the
severity or type of flooding in the area.
Zoning: The division of land within a local jurisdiction by local legislative regulation into zones
of allowable types and intensities of land uses.
Zoning bylaw: Designation of allowable land use and intensities for a local jurisdiction. Zoning
ordinances consist of two components: a zoning text and a zoning map.
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LIBRARY
General Contact Information
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - http://www.fema.gov
FEMA Publications Warehouse - 1-800-480-2520
FEMA Mitigation Planning - http://www.fema.gov/mit/planning.htm
American Planning Association - http://www.planning.org
Institute for Business and Home Safety - http://www.ibhs.org
National Hurricane Center - http://www.nhc.noaa.gov
National Institute of Building Sciences (NIBS) - http://www.nibs.org/nibshome.htm
National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) - http://www.nist.gov
National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
http://www.noaa.gov
National Weather Service - http://www.nws.noaa.gov
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Regional Sites and Districts http://www.usace.army.mil/organizations.htm#Divisions
United States Geological Survey (USGS) Homepage
http://www.usgs.gov/888-ASK-USGS
Identify Hazards
American Red Cross local chapters - http://www.redcross.org/where/where.html
Disaster Center - http://www.disastercenter.com
Digital Q3 Flood Data - http://msc.fema.gov/MSC/statemap.htm
ESRI - http://www.esri.com/hazards
Federal Emergency Management Agency - Multi-Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment: A
Cornerstone of the National Mitigation Strategy. 1997 Planning for Post-Disaster Recovery and
Reconstruction. FEMA and American Planning Association. Planning Advisory Service (PAS)
Report Number 483/484. 1998.
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Landslide Risk Areas http://landslides.usgs.gov/html_files/landslides/nationalmap/national.html
National Weather Service (NWS) – Regional Offices
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/regions.shtml
Natural Hazards Center
http://www.Colorado.EDU/hazards/sites/costs.html
Natural Hazards Statistics - http://www.noaa.gov/om/hazstats.htm
NOAA, Central Library - http://www.lib.noaa.gov
NOAA, National Geophysical Data Center http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/seg/hazard/resource
State Emergency Management Agencies
http://www.fema.gov/fema/statedr.htm
http://www.ak-prepared.com/statelinks.htm
State Geologists - http://www.kgs.ukans.edu/AASG/AASG.html
State Hazard Mitigation Officers
http://www.floods.org/shmos.htm
http://www.hazmit.net/
State Historic Preservation Officers - http://www.sso.org/ncshpo/shpolist.htm
Tsunami Hazard Mitigation - http://www.pmel.noaa.gov/~bernard/senatec.html
U.S. Geological Survey - http://geohazards.cr.usgs.gov/eq/pubmaps/us.pga.050.map.gif
Wildfire Danger Conditions - http://www.fs.fed.us/land/wfas/fd_class.gif
Wind Zones - http://www.fema.gov/mit/bpat/bpn_tsfs.htm
World Wide Weather and Climate Events
http://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/ol/reports/weather-events.html#STORM
Profile Hazard Events
Association of State Dam Safety Officials
http://crunch.tec.army.mil/nid/webpages/nid.cfm
Coastal and lake bathymetry and climate – NOAA National Data Center
http://www.ngdc.noaa.gov/mgg/bathymetry
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Elevation, hydrology, land use, transportation, etc. – USGS National Mapping Information http://mapping.usgs.gov
Endangered species, etc. – U.S. National Biological Information Infrastructure
http://www.nbii.gov
Federal Lands – Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Geospatial Home Page
http://www.blm.gov/gis
FEMA Map Service Center http://www.fema.gov/maps/
Flood Risk and Map Information http://www.fema.gov/nfip/fmapinfo.htm
Forestry Service Contacts
State:http://www.stateforesters.org/sflist.html
Regional:http://www.fs.fed.us/intro/directory/orgdir.htm
GIS Data Sources for Forest Areas – USDA Forest Service (USFS)
http://www.fs.fed.us
HAZUS instruction and technical information
http://www.fema.gov/hazus/
HAZUS99 User's Manual and HAZUS99 Technical
Manual, Vols. 1, 2, & 3. FEMA-366
National parks – National Park Service (NPS) - http://www.nps.gov/gis
National Wetlands Inventory – U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
http://www.nwi.fws.gov
NFIP Guide to Flood Maps - http://www.fema.gov/nfip/readmap.htm
NFIP State Coordinators - http://www.floods.org/stcoor.html
Seismic hazards – USGS National Seismic Hazard Mapping Project
http://geohazards.cr.usgs.gov/eq
Spatial Data Resources by State
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/products/nchaz/htm/dinfo_6.htm
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - http://www.corpsgeo1.usace.army.mil
USDA Wildfire Fuel Model Map - http://www.fs.fed.us/land/wfas/nfdr_map.htm
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USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service(NRCS) – National Cartography and Geospatial
Center (NCGC) - http://www.statlab.iastate.edu/soils/nsdaf
USGS Topographic Maps
http://mapping.usgs.gov/mac/nimamaps/topo.html
http://mcmcweb.er.usgs.gov/topomaps/
Inventory Assets
Bureau of Labor Statistics - http://stats.bls.gov/datahome.htm
Census Information
http://factfinder.census.gov/servlet/BasicFactsServlet
http://www.census.gov/geo/www/tiger/
Consumer Price Index - http://woodrow.mpls.frb.fed.us/economy/calc/cpihome.html
FEMA Publication on Substantial Damage
Guidance on Estimating Substantial Damage. FEMA-311
HAZUS instruction and technical information- http://www.fema.gov/hazus/
CD-ROM: HAZUS99 User's Manual and HAZUS99 Technical Manual, Vols. 1, 2, & 3
Socio-Economic Data Resources
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/products/nchaz/htm/dinfo_4.htm
USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service http://www.nhq.nrcs.usda.gov/RID/RID.html
Assess Risk
Building construction costs. Building Construction Cost Data, 2001. Means. 2001.
Commercial and residential cost per square foot. Repair & Remodeling Cost Data, Commercial,
Residential. Means. 1999.
Residential cost per square foot. Residential Cost Data, 2000. Means. Howard M. Chandler
(Editor). 2000.
General Hazard Information
www.vermonthistory.org
Northeast States Emergency Consortium - www.serve.com/NESEC/
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Floods
Association of State Dam Safety Officials
http://crunch.tec.army.mil/nid/webpages/nid.cfm
FEMA Map Service Center 800.358.9616
Copies of FIRMs, FISs, DFIRMs, Digital Q3 Flood Data, and FHBMs
- http://www.fema.gov/maps/
Flash-Flood Safety Rules - http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/nh-flsfd.htm
Flood Risk and Map Information - http://www.fema.gov/nfip/fmapinfo.htm
Flood Safety Rules - http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/nh-flood.htm
Floodplain Management Association - http://www.floodplain.org
General Flood Information
http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/Talking_Abo
ut_Disaster/Flood_and_Flash_Flood/flood_and_flash_flood.html
Guide to Flood Maps on the web -http://www.fema.gov/nfip/readmap.htm
Latest hydrological information (flooding, droughts, snow conditions, and water supply)
http://www.nws.noaa.gov/oh/hic/current/
Real-time hydrologic data page - http://water.usgs.gov/realtime.html
Regional River Forecast Centers - http://www.srh.noaa.gov/abrfc/rfc_wfo.html
State Floodplain Managers - http://www.floods.org/stcoor.htm
United States Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) http://www.usace.army.mil/inet/functions/cw
USGS Streamflow Data Historical - http://water.usgs.gov/usa/nwis/sw
Earthquakes
Building Seismic Safety Council - http://www.bssconline.org
California Division of Mines and Geology http://www.consrv.ca.gov/dmg/shezp/index.htm
Earthquake hazard history, by state
http://wwwneic.cr.usgs.gov/neis/states/states.html
Earthquake maps and information
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http://www.abag.ca.gov/bayarea/eqmaps/eqmaps.html
FEMA HAZUS homepage
http://www.fema.gov/hazus/
FEMA Publications
Rapid Visual Screening of Buildings for Potential Seismic Hazards: A Handbook. FEMA-154.
Supporting documentation. FEMA-155.
NEHRP Handbook for the Seismic Evaluation of Existing Buildings: A Pre-Standard. FEMA310.
GIS data available on earthquakes- http://geohazards.cr.usgs.gov/eq/html/genmap.html
USGS Earthquake homepage - http://quake.wr.usgs.gov/
USGS National and regional custom earthquake risk maps
http://geohazards.cr.usgs.gov/eq
http://eqint.cr.usgs.gov/eq/html/custom.shtml
United States Geological Survey 888-ASK-USGS
Tornadoes
ASCE Wind Speed Maps - http://www.ascepub.infor.com/windload.html
General Tornado Information
http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/
Talking_About_Disaster/Tornado/tornado.html
Tornado Project Online - http://www.tornadoproject.com
Tornado Safe Room Program - http://www.fema.gov/mit/saferoom/
Landslides
American Planning Association – Landslide Hazards and Planning
http://www.planning.org/Landslides
General Landslide Information
http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/Talking_Abo
ut_Disaster Landslide_and_Debris_Flow__Mudlandslide_and_debris_flow__mud.html
How to do landslide hazard analysis - http://www.itc.nl/ilwis/
Landslide and Mudflow Fact Sheet - http://www.fema.gov/library/landslif.htm
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Landslide hazard maps (San Francisco Bay Area)
http://wrgis.wr.usgs.gov/open-file/of97-745
Landslide overview map of US
http://landslide.usgs.gov/html_files/landslides/nationalmap/national.html
http://landslides.usgs.gov/html_files/nlic/maporder.html
Wildfires
Firewise - http://www.firewise.org
General Wildfire Information
http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/Talking_Abo
ut_Disaster/Wildfire/wildfire.html
Local wildfire observations and trend forecasts for fire weather forecasts zones.
http://www.fs.fed.us/land/wfas/fd_class.gif
NOAA Fire Event Satellite Photos - http://www.osei.noaa.gov/Events/Fires/
Resolution Fire Danger Rating Fuel Model Map
http://www.fs.fed.us/land/wfas/nfdr_map.htm
U. S. Forest Service, USDA - http://www.fs.fed.us/land/wfas/welcome.htm
USGS Topographic Maps - http://mcmcweb.er.usgs.gov/topomaps/
Wildland Fire Assessment System - http://www.fs.fed.us/land/wfas/
Wildland Fire Updates - http://www.nifc.gov/fireinfo/nfn.html
Other Hazards
Avalanches - http://www.avalanche.org
Dam Safety - http://www.usbr.gov/laws/damguide.html
Dam Safety Program – FEMA - http://www.fema.gov/mit/damsafe/
Drought – USDA - http://enso.unl.edu/monitor/monitor.html
Drought – USGS - http://www.usgs.gov
Extreme Heat Fact Sheet - http://www.fema.gov/library/heat.htm
General Heat Wave Information
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http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/Talking_Abo
ut_Disaster/Heat__Heat_Wave_/heat__ heat_wave_.html
General Severe Thunderstorm Information
http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/Talking_Abo
ut_Disaster/Severe_Thunderstorm/severe_ thunderstorm.html
General Winter Storm Information
http://www.nfpa.org/Education/Consumers_and_Families/Fire_Safety_Information/Talking_Abo
ut_Disaster/Winter_Storm/winter_storm.html
National Severe Weather Laboratory estimates the likelihood of severe thunderstorm hazards in
the United States. - http://www.nssl.noaa.gov/hazard
Snow and Ice – National Snow and Ice Data Center, University of Colorado
http://www-nsidc.colorado.edu
Miscellaneous Risk Assessment Information
Association of Dam Safety Officials - http://crunch.tec.army.mil/nid/webpages/nid.cfm
Multi-hazard map production with GIS emphasis - http://www.esri.com/hazards
National Institute of Standards and Technology - http://www.nist.gov
National Science Foundation - http://www.nsf.gov
Natural Hazards Research and Applications Information Center, University of Colorado
http://www.colorado.edu/hazards
New Hanover County, NC Hazard Identification/Risk Assessment
http://www.csc.noaa.gov/products/nchaz/htm/case1.htm
USDA, Natural Resources Conservation Service
http://www.nhq.nrcs.usda.gov/RID/RID.html
Vulnerability Assessment Techniques and Applications - http://www.csc.noaa.gov/vata/
State Resources: Coastal Zone Management, Emergency Management, Environmental
Protection, Health, Labor, Natural Resources Management, Planning, Transportation
Local Resources: Emergency Management, Environmental Management, Fire Department,
Floodplain Management, Historical Society, Planning, Public Works Department
Non-Governmental Resources: American Red Cross, Salvation Army
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ACRONYMS & ABBREVIATIONS
A:
AAP
AFB
AMP
AMS
ANSIR
ARAC
ARC
ARES
ARG
ARS
ARRL
ATC
ATSD(CS)
Acceptable Agricultural Practices
Air Force Base
Acceptable Management Practices
Aerial Measuring System
Awareness of National Security Issues and Response Program
Atmospheric Release Advisory Capability
American Red Cross
Amateur Radio Emergency Services
Accident Response Group
Agriculture/Research Service
American Radio Relay League
Air Traffic Control
Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Civil Support
B:
BDC
BIA
BMP
Bomb Data Center
Bureau of Indian Affairs
Best Management Practices
C:
CBIAC
CBRNE
CDBG
CDC
CDC
CDRG
CDRG
CEPPO
CERCLA
CFR
CHEMTREC
CHPPM
CIRG
CJCS
CM
CMU
CRU
CSREES
Chemical and Biological Defense Information and Analysis Center
Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Material, or High- Yield Explosive
Community Development Block Grant
Centers for Disease Control, U.S. Public Health Service
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Catastrophic Disaster Response Group
Catastrophic Disaster Response Group
Chemical Emergency Preparedness and Prevention Office
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
Code of Federal Regulations
Chemical Transportation Emergency Center
Center for Health Promotion and Preventive Medicine
Crisis Incident Response Group
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
Consequence Management
Crisis Management Unit (CIRG)
Crisis Response Unit
Cooperative State Research, Education and Extension Service
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CST
CW/CBD
Civil Support Teams
Chemical Warfare/Contraband Detection
D:
DOC
DEST
DFO
DMAT
DMCR
DMORT
DOD
DOE
DOEd
DOI
DOJ
DOL
DOS
DOT
DPP
DTCTPS
DTIC
Department of Commerce
Domestic Emergency Support Team
Disaster Field Office
Disaster Medical Assistance Team
Disaster Management Central Resource
Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team
Department of Defense
Department of Energy
Department of Education
Department of the Interior
Department of Justice
Department of Labor
Department of State
Department of Transportation
Domestic Preparedness Program
Domestic Terrorism/Counter Terrorism Planning Section (FBI HQ)
Defense Technical Information Center
E:
EM
EMI
EMS
EOC
EOP
EPA
EPCRA
ERT
ERT-A
ERTU
ESF
EST
EU
Emergency Management
Emergency Management Institute
Emergency Medical Services
Emergency Operations Center
Emergency Operations Plan
Environmental Protection Agency
Emergency Planning and Community Right-to Know Act
Emergency Response Team (FBI)
Emergency Response Team – Advance Element
Evidence Response Team Unit
Emergency Support Function
Emergency Support Team
Explosives Unit
F:
FAA
FBI
FCC
FEMA
Federal Aviation Administration
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Federal Communications Commission
Federal Emergency Management Agency
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FEST
FNS
FRERP
FRMAC
FRP
FS
Foreign Emergency Support Team
Food and Nutrition Service
Federal Radiological Emergency Response Plan
Federal Radiological Monitoring and Assessment Center
Federal Response Plan
Forest Service
G:
GSA
General Services Administration
H:
HazMat
HHS
HMRU
HQ
HRT
HTIS
HUD
Hazardous Materials
Department of Health and Human Services
Hazardous Materials Response Unit
Headquarters
Hostage Rescue Team (CIRG)
Hazardous Technical Information Services (DoD)
Department of Housing and Urban Development
I:
IC
ICC
ICS
IND
Incident Commander
Interstate Commerce Commission
Incident Command System
Improvised Nuclear Device
J:
JIC
JOC
JTF-CS
Joint Information Center
Joint Operations Center
Joint Task Force for Civil Support
K:
L:
LEPC
LFA
LLNL
Local Emergency Planning Committee
Lead Federal Agency
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
M:
MEDCOM
MMRS
MOA
MOU
MSCA
Medical Command
Metropolitan Medical Response System
Memorandum of Agreement
Memorandum of Understanding
Military Support to Civil Authorities
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N:
NAP
NBC
NCP
NDMS
NDPO
NEST
NETC
NFA
NMRT
NRC
NRT
NSC
NTIS
NWS
Nuclear Assessment Program
Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical
National Oil and Hazardous Substances Pollution Contingency Plan
National Disaster Medical System
National Domestic Preparedness Office
Nuclear Emergency Search Team
National Emergency Training Center
National Fire Academy
National Medical Response Team
Nuclear Regulatory Commission
National Response Team
National Security Council
National Technical Information Service
National Weather Service
O:
OEP
OFCM
OIG
OSC
OSHA
OSLDPS
Office of Emergency Preparedness
Office of the Federal Coordinator for Meteorology
Office of the Inspector General (USDA)
On-Scene Commander
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
Office for State and Local Domestic Preparedness Support
P:
PA
PAO
PDD
PHS
POC
PT
PUD
Public Affairs or Public Assistance
Public Affairs Officer
Presidential Decision Directive
U.S. Public Health Service, Department of Health and Human Services
Point of Contact
Preparedness, Training, and Exercises Directorate (FEMA)
Planned Unit Development
Q:
R:
R&D
RACES
RAP
RCRA
RDD
REAC/TS
ROC
Research and Development
Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services
Radiological Assistance Program
Research Conservation and Recovery Act
Radiological Dispersal Device
Radiation Emergency Assistance Center/Training Site
Regional Operations Center
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RRIS
RRT
Rapid Response Information System (FEMA)
Regional Response Team
S:
SAC
SARA
SBCCOM
SCBA
SEB
SERC
SIOC
SLG
SOP
Special Agent in Charge (FBI)
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act
Soldier and Biological Chemical Command (U.S. Army)
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus
State Emergency Board
State Emergency Response Commission
Strategic Information and Operations Center (FBI HQ)
State and Local Guide
Standard Operating Procedure
T:
TERC
TIA
TRIS
Tribal Emergency Response Commission
Terrorist Incident Appendix
Toxic Release Inventory System
U:
UC
UCS
USC
USDA
USFA
USGS
USPHS
USPS
Unified Command
Unified Command System
U.S. Code
United States Department of Agriculture
U.S. Fire Administration
United States Geological Survey
United States Public Health Service
United States Postal Service
V:
VA
Department of Veterans Affairs
W:
WMD
WMD-CST
Weapons of Mass Destruction
WMD Civil Support Team
X:
Y:
Z:
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