Hazard Mitigation Planning

Hazard mitigation is the effort to reduce loss of life and property by lessening the impact of disasters. It is most effective when implemented under a comprehensive, long-term mitigation plan. The county engages in hazard mitigation planning to identify risks and vulnerabilities associated with natural disasters, and develop long-term strategies for protecting people and property from future hazard events. Mitigation plans are key to breaking the cycle of disaster damage, reconstruction, and repeated damage.

Perks of a Plan

Developing hazard mitigation plans enables the county to:

• Increase education and awareness around threats, hazards, and vulnerabilities
• Build partnerships for risk reduction involving government, organizations, businesses, and the public
• Identify long-term, broadly-supported strategies for risk reduction
• Align risk reduction with other community objectives
• Identify implementation approaches that focus resources on the greatest risks and vulnerabilities
• Communicate priorities to potential sources of funding

Moreover, a FEMA-approved hazard mitigation plan is a condition for receiving certain types of non-emergency disaster assistance, including funding for mitigation projects. Ultimately, hazard mitigation planning enables action to reduce loss of life and property, lessening the impact of disasters.