Federal Disaster Funds Authorized For Nevada To Aid State And Local Government Wildfire Recovery 

Release Date: August 27, 2004
Release Number: HQ-04-136

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WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today designated the Nevada county of Carson City eligible for federal disaster funds to help state and local governments recover from the effects of the Waterfall wildfire that broke out last month.

Michael D. Brown, Under Secretary of Homeland Security for Emergency Preparedness and Response, took the action under a major disaster declaration issued by President Bush following a review of the agency's analysis of the state's request for federal aid. The declaration covers damage to public property from the fire that occurred over the period of July 14-27.

Under the declaration, Brown said the state and affected local governments and certain private non-profit organizations in Carson City County are eligible to apply for federal funding to pay 75 percent of the approved costs for the repair or replacement of damaged facilities. The funding also covers eligible state and local government costs for emergency services related to the fire.

In addition, Brown said federal funds will be provided for the county on a cost-shared basis for approved projects that reduce future disaster risks. He indicated that additional designations may be made later if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.

Michael Karl of FEMA was named by Brown to coordinate the federal relief effort. Karl said that procedures for requesting assistance will be explained at a series of applicant briefings at locations to be announced shortly in the affected area.

On March 1, 2003, FEMA became part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. FEMA's continuing mission within the new department is to lead the effort to prepare the nation for all hazards and effectively manage federal response and recovery efforts following any national incident. FEMA also initiates proactive mitigation activities, trains first responders, and manages the National Flood Insurance Program and the U.S. Fire Administration.

Last Modified: Friday, 27-Aug-2004 12:11:59