Statewide Hazard Mitigation Approved 

Release Date: August 25, 2008
Release Number: 1783-004

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Ruidoso, NM. -- All counties throughout the State of New Mexico may now be eligible to apply for assistance under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).

"The major disaster declaration initially included Public Assistance for Lincoln and Otero Counties and designated Lincoln eligible for Hazard Mitigation. Now the declaration has been amended to include all counties in the State for the Hazard Mitigation Program," said Nancy Casper, Federal Coordinating Officer.

FEMA coordinates the Federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, and mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from, all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terrorism.

FEMA's Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) provides grants to States, local governments, and tribal governments, for long-term hazard mitigation projects following a major disaster declaration.  The purpose of the program is to reduce the loss of life and property in future disasters by funding eligible mitigation measures during the recovery phase of a natural disaster.  The HMGP is authorized under Section 404 of the Stafford Act.  HMGP funds can be used to make improvements to public or private property.  To be eligible, a project must provide a long-term solution to a specific risk.

The State administers the HMGP program.  They establish mitigation priorities for the State, facilitate the development of applications, and submit applications to FEMA based on State criteria and available funding.  FEMA funds up to 75% of the project cost.  

Federal law requires States and local jurisdictions to have a FEMA approved hazard mitigation plan prior to receipt of HMGP funds.  The plan identifies hazards, assesses community needs, and describes a community-wide strategy for reducing risks associated with natural disasters.

FEMA coordinates the federal government's role in preparing for, preventing, mitigating the effects of, responding to, and recovering from all domestic disasters, whether natural or man-made, including acts of terror.

Last Modified: Tuesday, 26-Aug-2008 13:19:57