FEMA Ice Disposition Update 

Release Date: August 28, 2007
Release Number: FNF-07-051

Based on preliminary predictions of an active 2006 hurricane season, FEMA decided to retain and store ice remaining from the 2005 season in preparation for the 2006 hurricane season and for possible future responses.  However, the predicted hurricane activity for 2006 did not materialize, so the ice was not used and remained in storage.  While there is no official published shelf-life for ice, the industry standard assumes a shelf life of up to one year.  After two years, the agency had to consider the health risks that might evolve from use of the stored ice.  The agency was unable to confirm that the ice was safe for human consumption and didn't want to risk distribution that could potentially cause health issues.

FEMA was unsuccessful in its original attempt to donate ice through various national channels.  However, since FEMA's announcement of its intent to dispose of ice remaining in its inventory from the 2005 hurricane season, a number of organizations have expressed an interest in obtaining the ice for non-potable uses.  The overwhelming interest from organizations requesting the ice, prompted FEMA to work with its contracted vendor, Americold, Inc. to allow donations to continue, where available, while disposing of the ice.

Organizations interested in obtaining ice will be required to sign a release outlining the terms and conditions of the donation, this includes acknowledgement that the ice is not considered safe for human consumption. This release can be obtained from Americold, Inc.  Organizations interested in acquiring the ice, must do so by the pallet and will be responsible for transportation and associated costs.

FEMA had been storing ice at the following Americold facilities:  Allentown, PA; Fremont, NE; Atlanta, GA; Augusta, GA; Fort Smith, AR; Gloucester, MA; Memphis, TN; Montgomery, AL; Birmingham, AL; Boston, MA; Nampa, ID; Clearfield, UT; Phoenix, AZ; Carthage, MO; Charlotte, NC; Columbia, SC; Dallas, TX; Russellville and El Mira, AR; Salem, OR; Strasburg, VA; Syracuse, NY and Thomasville, GA.

Organizations interested in obtaining the ice should contact Americold directly to determine availability.

FEMA will no longer purchase and store ice in preparation for disaster support.  FEMA will instead, rely on local purchase or vendor managed arrangements through the United States Army Corps of Engineers who has the mission lead for ice support under the National Response Plan.  Their advanced contract initiatives and predictive model forecasts for commodities is a robust and reliable capability that makes them the source of choice for ice support.

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, 28-Aug-2007 16:51:57