FEMA Authorizes Dead Tree Removal From Storm Surge Area
Release Date: October 4, 2006
Release Number: 1604-452
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BILOXI, Miss. -- Owners of improved property within the storm-inundated areas in the three Mississippi Gulf Coast counties can get assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in removing dead but standing trees between Oct. 2 and Dec. 1, 2006.
"Salt water from Katrina's storm surge killed pine and other tree species," said Mississippi Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) Interim Director Mike Womack. "This program does not include all trees damaged during Hurricane Katrina, but only those trees that pose a safety hazard and are within the specific guidelines that have been set for tree removal."
Requests for Right of Entry (ROE) by property owners in Hancock, Jackson and Harrison counties must be submitted to local city or county governments. Eligibility for removal of dead-standing trees is being based on the trees threatening improved property or limiting access for emergency vehicles in the inundation zone. A comprehensive list of addresses within the surge areas is available from zoning and planning departments.
Only dead-standing trees, more than 12 inches in diameter, are eligible for removal. The effort is limited to standing trees and does not include downed trees, stumps or other debris.
An application for a ROE must be made even though previous requests have been accepted by FEMA. The debris removal applications must be made in writing to local building or planning officials.
All requests for tree removal will be evaluated and approved on a case-by-case basis by federal and state officials. Applicants will be required to provide strict documentation to establish that any requested tree removal poses an immediate threat to their property and safety. Questions should be directed to local government officials.
"Eliminating this debris is another step in helping the Coast recover," said Nick Russo, federal coordinating officer for the Mississippi disaster recovery.
The funding for the tree removal extension will continue at a 90/10 percent cost share with FEMA paying 90 percent. The state and local governments will share the remaining 10 percent.
FEMA and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency jointly orchestrate and monitor debris removal operations while ensuring appropriate guidelines are followed for the removal of debris from public and private lands.
FEMA manages federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates mitigation activities, works with state and local emergency managers, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program. FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security on March 1, 2003.
Last Modified: Wednesday, 04-Oct-2006 11:08:57