Montana State Hazard Mitigation
Mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters. This is achieved through risk analysis, which results in information that provides a foundation for mitigation activities that reduce risk, and flood insurance that protects financial investment.
Following a disaster, the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA’s) mitigation programs play a critical role developing and integrating disaster operations policies, procedures, and training under the National Response Plan. The Regional and Disaster Support Branch within the Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA), acts as the coordination point for mitigation disaster operations and activities.
What types of projects can be funded by the HMGP?
HMGP funds may be used to fund projects that will reduce or eliminate the losses from future disasters. Projects must provide a long-term solution to a problem, for example, elevation of a home to reduce the risk of flood damages as opposed to buying sandbags and pumps to fight the flood. In addition, a project's potential savings must be more than the cost of implementing the project. Funds may be used to protect either public or private property or to purchase property that has been subjected to, or is in danger of, repetitive damage. Examples of projects include, but are not limited to:
- Acquisition of real property for willing sellers and demolition or relocation of buildings to convert the property to open space use
- Retrofitting structures and facilities to minimize damages from high winds, earthquake, flood, wildfire, or other natural hazards
- Elevation of flood prone structures
- Development and initial implementation of vegetative management programs
- Minor flood control projects that do not duplicate the flood prevention activities of other Federal agencies
- Localized flood control projects, such as certain ring levees and floodwall systems, that are designed specifically to protect critical facilities
- Post-disaster building code related activities that support building code officials during the reconstruction process
- Who is eligible to apply?
Hazard Mitigation Grant Program funding is only available to applicants that reside within a presidentially declared disaster area and must have a FEMA approved Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan in effect.. Eligible applicants are
· State and local governments
· Indian tribes or other tribal organizations
· Certain non-profit organizations
Individual homeowners and businesses may not apply directly to the program; however a community may apply on their behalf.
FEMA E-Grants Web Site to apply for HMGP grants
