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FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Bear Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Bear Fire burning in Butte, Plumas and Yuba counties.
On Sept. 9, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Bear Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 2,000 homes in and around Oroville, Feather Falls, Forbestown, Clipper Mills, LaPorte, Little Grass Valley, Cascade, Strawberry Valley and Rackerby. The fire also threatened the Oroville Dam and associated power lines, multiple fire stations and schools, radio and emergency communications towers, and the Plumas National Forest.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 9, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Wed, 09/09/2020 - 10:48FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Slater Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Slater Fire burning in Siskiyou County.
On Sept. 8, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Slater Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 500 homes in and around Happy Camp, CA. The fire also threatened a local water treatment facility, telephone service provider, and California Highway Patrol, sheriff, and U.S. Forest Service stations in the area.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 8, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Wed, 09/09/2020 - 10:45FEMA Obligates Millions for Repairs to Universities in Puerto Rico
GUAYNABO, Puerto Rico — FEMA has obligated nearly $152 million over the past three years for a total of 116 projects at 15 higher education institutions in Puerto Rico, such as the University of Puerto Rico (UPR), American University and the Pontifical Catholic University, among others. Funding includes $47 million for 21 permanent work projects that will benefit thousands of students around the Island.
“Education is one of the most important and valuable resources that any country can produce. These obligations will help these institutions build stronger as part of their recovery, and most importantly, it’s a solid investment in the future of Puerto Rico,” said Federal Disaster Recovery Coordinator for Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Alex Amparo.
To date, the UPR has been awarded $130.6 million for 53 projects to help repair and strengthen the first and largest higher education system in Puerto Rico. For example, the Humacao campus, where around 3,144 students are enrolled, was obligated $23.3 million to restore the buildings that are home to their Social Work, Aviary, Graphic Arts departments, among others. This includes $1.5 million to reinforce the roof as well as weatherproofing to provide a watertight seal to the structures.
“The UPR community is pleased to receive this grant. It represents a step forward in developing our infrastructure, with the well-being of our students and community as our main goal,” said Dr. Aida I. Rodríguez Roig, Chancellor of University of Puerto Rico at Humacao.
Likewise, the American University of Puerto Rico (AU) was obligated $8.8 million for five permanent work projects that will benefit its 681 students. For its Bayamón Campus, $3.7 million are destined to repair its Eugenio Guerra Sports Complex, replace equipment and other repairs at several buildings. Around $700,000 of those funds will be used to strengthen the facilities with projects such as soil stabilization, adding waterproof sealer and other mitigation measures for this institution with 57 years of experience on the Island.
“The economic impact of the grants to our University will be very significant during the difficult times in which we find ourselves. We are very pleased with the collaboration and we hope to have all the projects obligated in the next few weeks,” said the American University’s president, Juan Carlos Nazario-Torres.
Meanwhile, the Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico, which serves 6,562 students in its Ponce Campus, was obligated around $70,000. This grant will cover expenses for the architectural and engineering design to repair the Sports and Cultural Complex, the institution’s main sports and training venue where graduations, assemblies and other activities are held. For his part, the Vice President of Finance and Administration of this university, Jose A. Frontera Agenjo, expressed that being able to make these repairs guarantees that a complete service can continue to be provided to the university community.
“These institutions generate an impact on both the groups they serve and the communities around them. To the extent that these obligations help to strengthen these structures, they also generate changes in the areas where they are located. Both FEMA and the Government of Puerto Rico will continue to work together to achieve the reconstruction of our Island,” said COR3 Executive Director Ottmar Chavez.
To date, FEMA has obligated over $7.3 billion for costs related to hurricanes Irma and Maria, including projects to help rebuild infrastructure throughout Puerto Rico. Roughly 1,060 local staff are leading the efforts and play a key role in moving recovery forward. Despite unprecedented challenges, our resolve remains undeterred as we continue this banner year of recovery. The Agency is part of the transformation and the revival of the island, a process that is becoming more evident every day and that will benefit the island's residents and its future generations.
For more information on Puerto Rico's recovery from Hurricane María, visit fema.gov/disaster/4339 and recuperacion.pr. Follow us on our social networks at Facebook.com/FEMAPuertoRico, Facebook.com/COR3pr and on Twitter @COR3pr.
San Juan, Puerto Rico (May 19, 2020) – To date, the University of Puerto Rico has been awarded $130.6 million for 53 projects to help repair and strengthen the first and largest higher education system in Puerto Rico. Obligations for the UPR system include funds for the university’s Central Administration and eleven campuses.
frances.acevedo-pico Wed, 09/09/2020 - 08:20FEMA Authorizes Federal Funds to Help Fight Oregon’s Beachie Creek Lionshead Complex Fire
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Beachie Creek Lionshead Complex Fire burning in Oregon’s Marion, Clackamas, Linn and Jefferson counties, and on the Warm Springs Reservation.
FEMA Region 10 Administrator Mike O’Hare determined that the Beachie Creek Lionshead Complex Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. He approved the state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) today at 1:22 p.m. PT.
The Beachie Creek Lionshead Complex Fire includes the Mad Hatter and Wilhort Fires, along with several unnamed fires at this time. This fire complex started on August 16, 2020, and had burned in excess of 107,175 acres of federal, state, private, and tribal land at the time of the state’s request. The fire was threatening in excess of 3,000 homes in and around the communities of Detroit, Mill City, Gates, Sublimity, Stayton, and Idanha. The fire was also threatening critical infrastructure, including Detroit Lake, which is the water source for the city of Salem.
Level Two and Three evacuations were issued for people throughout the affected area. Due to road closures resulting from this fire complex, residents of the city of Detroit were advised to shelter in place. At the time of the request, this fire complex was zero percent contained, and there were at least 15 other large fires burning uncontrolled within the state.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.
In addition to reimbursement funding for fighting the fire, $629,681 in mitigation assistance will be available to Oregon. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
FEMA encourages HMGP Post-Fire funds be used for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood or erosion. However, HMGP is available for risk reduction of any hazard.
hannah.weinstein Tue, 09/08/2020 - 21:27FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Guam
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Guam for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Guam to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Guam Governor Lou Leon Guerrero to implement a system to make this funding available to Guam residents.
On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the territory of Guam agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states and territories who agree to administer a lost wages program to bring financial relief to unemployed Americans.
zella.campbell Tue, 09/08/2020 - 21:26FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Washington, D.C.
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Washington D.C. for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow the District of Columbia to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with District of Columbia Mayor Muriel Bowser to implement a system to make this funding available to residents.
On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the District of Columbia agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states who agree to administer a lost wages program to bring financial relief to unemployed Americans.
zella.campbell Tue, 09/08/2020 - 21:12Drive-Thru Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Ouachita Parish with Safety Protocols
BATON ROUGE, La. – A drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Ouachita Parish on Thursday, Sept. 10 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.
A new feature of centers is an easy and COVID-safe way for Hurricane Laura survivors to have documents scanned into their case file.
The drive-thru center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.
No appointments are necessary. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
The drive-thru center is located at:
Monroe Civic Center
401 Lea Joyner Memorial Expressway
Monroe, LA 71201
Additional centers are open in Louisiana. Survivors may visit any open center. To locate the closest center, call the FEMA Helpline, visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov or by download the FEMA app.
Survivors do not need to visit a drive thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585.
- Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA app.
Low-interest disaster loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration are available to homeowners, renters and businesses. Disaster loans up to $200,000 are available to homeowners to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate. Homeowners and renters are eligible for up to $40,000 to repair or replace damaged or destroyed personal property.
Businesses of all sizes and private nonprofit organizations may borrow up to $2 million to repair or replace damaged or destroyed real estate, machinery and equipment, inventory and other business assets. SBA can also lend additional funds to businesses and homeowners to help with the cost of improvements to protect, prevent or minimize the same type of disaster damage from occurring in the future.
Applicants may apply online, receive additional disaster assistance information and download applications at disasterloanassistance.sba.gov. Applicants may also call SBA’s Customer Service Center at (800) 659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov for more information on SBA disaster assistance. Individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing may call 800-877-8339. Completed applications should be mailed to U.S. Small Business Administration, Processing and Disbursement Center, 14925 Kingsport Road, Fort Worth, TX 76155.
In consideration of the public health concerns due to the Coronavirus pandemic, SBA has established a Virtual Business Recovery Center to provide personalized assistance to business owners. In addition, SBA has also opened a Virtual Disaster Loan Outreach Center to help homeowners and renters. Email FOCWAssistance@sba.gov or call 800-659-659-2955. Lines are open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST.
For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
christopher.teed Tue, 09/08/2020 - 16:49FEMA and RedLine Contemporary Art Center Announce New Public Art Project
DENVER – FEMA and the RedLine Contemporary Art Center have selected a proposal from artist Matt Barton as part of a project to raise risk awareness and promote disaster risk reduction activities through art. This will be the first work created under the innovative public-private partnership.
“Natural disasters take a toll across the country every day,” said FEMA Region 8 Mitigation Director Jeanine Petterson. “Using the power of art, we can bridge barriers and connect with communities in new ways to create a shared experience and inspire actions that make our communities safer.”
FEMA Region 8, based in Denver, contributed $34,000 for the initial Arts in Mitigation Fund. In collaboration with RedLine, artists were invited to submit proposals that communicated our relationships with natural hazards, along with potential impacts across all segments of the community. The intended outcome was to inspire thought on how individuals can mitigate risk. The selected project will be led by Black Cube Nomadic Museum in partnership with artist Matt Barton in collaboration with The Birdseed Collective.
“Through this unique partnership, RedLine is thrilled to support our local Denver communities in understanding how preparedness to a natural disaster is essential,” said Robin Gallite, Redline Deputy Director. “We believe that social change (big and small) is possible when artists engage in and with local communities around a social issue.”
Barton, Black Cube’s 2021 Artist Fellow, proposed an outdoor sculptural installation titled Community Forms. This concrete earthwork is designed for flood areas located within the Globeville and Elyria-Swansea neighborhoods north of Denver. This sculptural art intervention functions as both a visually compelling community space and an infrastructural support system that helps model stormwater mitigation. Barton’s sculpture will produce an inviting gathering place for recreation and creative play, while serving a utilitarian purpose.
Inspired by creative problem solving, urban landscape, architecture, and the movement water, "Community Forms" seeks to inspire and fortify the city by acting as a model for future integration between infrastructure and community engagement. The Birdseed Collective is an integral part in the connectivity of the project to the surrounding community and will participate as community liaison for the project through its completion.
Brian.Hvinden Tue, 09/08/2020 - 16:47FEMA Awards Mount Juliet Nearly $1.2 Million for Tornado Debris Removal
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – FEMA has approved a grant of $1,199,686 for the State of Tennessee to help Mount Juliet recover the cost of removing debris after the March tornadoes.
FEMA Public Assistance funds will reimburse the city for the cost of removing more than 114,000 cubic yards of debris from public roads, property and rights-of-way after the storm.
“The debris created by the devastating March 3, 2020 tornadoes hampered access for responders and made recovery operations and resumption of life for Wilson Countians difficult for several weeks,” said TEMA Director Patrick Sheehan. “We are thankful that FEMA is providing this grant to help support these Tennesseans and provide monetary relief for debris cleanup to Wilson County.”
The Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of private nonprofit organizations, including some houses of worship, so that communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency works with FEMA during all phases of the program and conducts final reviews of FEMA-approved projects.
The federal share for Public Assistance projects is not less than 75 percent of the eligible cost. The state determines how the non-federal share of the cost of a project (up to 25 percent) is split with the sub-recipients like local and county governments.
mayshaunt.gary Tue, 09/08/2020 - 16:39FEMA approves $4.5 million for Hurricane Michael Public Assistance grants
PANAMA CITY, Fla. — FEMA has approved more than $4.5 million for the State of Florida to reimburse three applicants for Hurricane Michael recovery work.
These grants include:
- Mexico Beach – $2,212,978 for repairs to the city marina, including repairs to the water and power station, seawall, pavement and supporting posts
- Springfield – $1,035,378 for repairs to five city facilities, including warehouses, maintenance and waterworks buildings
- Talquin Electric Cooperative, Inc. – $1,273,545 for management costs of tracking, charging and accounting for emergency and permanent work after the storm
These grants are funded by FEMA’s Public Assistance program, an essential source of funding for communities recovering from a federally declared disaster or emergency. The Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) works with FEMA during all phases of the program and reviews projects prior to FEMA final approval.
Applicants work directly with FEMA to develop projects and scopes of work. FEMA obligates funding for projects to FDEM after final approval.
Once a project is obligated, FDEM works closely with applicants to finalize grants and begin making payments. FDEM has implemented new procedures designed to ensure grant funding is provided to local communities as quickly as possible.
FEMA’s Public Assistance program provides grants to state, tribal and local governments, and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, so communities can quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies.
mayshaunt.gary Tue, 09/08/2020 - 16:35FEMA Authorizes Federal Funds to Help Fight the Two Four Two Fire in Oregon
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Two Four Two Fire burning in Oregon’s Klamath County, outside the town of Chiloquin.
FEMA Region 10 Administrator Mike O’Hare determined that the fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. He approved the state of Oregon’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) at 11:34 p.m. PDT on Monday.
The fire started on Monday and had burned approximately 1,000 acres of federal, state and private land at the time of the state’s request. Evacuation orders were in place for more than 100 homes in the area, and the fire was about two miles away from Chiloquin, threatening an additional 700-2000 people. The fire also threatened Chiloquin Airport, power transmission lines for local utility, and Collier Museum and State Park. At the time of the request, the fire was zero percent contained and rapidly developing under hazardous fire conditions.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.
In addition to reimbursement funding for fighting the fire, $629,681 in mitigation assistance will be available to Oregon. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
FEMA encourages HMGP Post-Fire funds be used for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood or erosion. However, HMGP is available for risk reduction of any hazard.
hannah.weinstein Tue, 09/08/2020 - 16:00FEMA Authorizes Federal Funds to Help Fight Three Fires in Washington
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for three fires in Washington: the Cold Springs/Pearl Hill Fire impacting the Colville Reservation and Douglas and Okanogan counties, the Apple Acres Fire burning in Chelan County, and the Babb Fire in Spokane and Whitman counties.
FEMA Region 10 Administrator Mike O’Hare determined that the fires threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute major disasters. He approved the state of Washington’s requests for federal Fire Management Assistance Grants (FMAG) for all three fires. The state’s requests for the Cold Springs/Pearl Hill Fire and Apple Acres Fire were approved on Monday at 12:33 p.m. PDT and 7:32 p.m. PDT, respectively. The state’s request for the Babb Fire was approved this morning at 1:03 a.m. PDT.
The Cold Springs/Pearl Hill Fire started on Sunday and had burned in excess of 100,000 acres of federal, state, and tribal land at the time of the state’s request. Evacuation orders were in place for 350-500 homes in and around the communities of Mansfield and Bridgeport. At time of request, the fire was zero percent contained.
The Apple Acres Fire started on Monday and had burned approximately 2,500-3,000 acres of federal, state, and private land at the time of the request. The fire was zero percent contained, and evacuation orders were in place for 307 homes in the area.
The Babb Fire started on Monday and had burned approximately 5,000-10,000 acres of federal, state, and private land. At the time of the request, evacuation orders were in place for 225 homes in the towns of Malden and Pine City. Most residences and structures in Malden and Pine City were destroyed by the fire. The fire chief reported that Search and Rescue teams will be deployed in both towns today. The fire was zero percent contained, and there were 17 other large fires burning uncontrolled within the state.
FMAGs are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.
In addition to reimbursement funding for fighting each fire, a total of $1,889,043 in mitigation assistance will be available to Washington. The Disaster Recovery Reform Act of 2018 authorizes FEMA to provide Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post-Fire funds to eligible states and territories that receive Fire Management Assistance declarations and federally recognized tribes that have land burned within a designated area.
FEMA encourages HMGP Post-Fire funds be used for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood or erosion. However, HMGP is available for risk reduction of any hazard.
hannah.weinstein Tue, 09/08/2020 - 15:53FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the El Dorado Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the El Dorado Fire burning in San Bernardino County.
On Sept. 6, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the El Dorado Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,700 homes around Yucaipa, Oak Glen, Mountain Home and Forest Falls, with mandatory evacuations in place for more than 1,600 people. The fire also threatened a power plant and associated transmission lines.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 6, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Tue, 09/08/2020 - 11:14FEMA Fire Management Assistance Granted for the Creek Fire
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has authorized the use of federal funds to assist the state of California in combating the Creek Fire burning in Fresno and Madera counties.
On Sept. 6, 2020, the state of California submitted a request for a Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) for the Creek Fire. At the time of the request, the fire threatened approximately 3,500 homes around Camp Sierra, Big Creek, Shaver Lake, Huntington Lake, Auberry, Meadow Lakes, Mammoth Pools, Cascadel Woods, North Fork, Arnold Meadows, Bass Lake, Kinsman Flat and Beasore Meadows. The fire also threatened high-voltage power lines, telephone lines, the San Joaquin River watershed, and historic and prehistoric cultural sites of the Mono Indian Tribe.
The FEMA regional administrator approved the state’s request on Sept. 6, 2020, as the fire threatened to become a major incident.
FMAGs provide federal funding for up to 75 percent of eligible firefighting costs. The Disaster Relief Fund provides allowances for FMAGs through FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause major disasters. Eligible costs covered by FMAGs can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization, and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire.
For more information on FMAGs, visit fema.gov/assistance/public/fire-management-assistance.
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FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters. Follow FEMA Region 9 online at twitter.com/femaregion9 or view more news releases at fema.gov/fema-regions/region-ix.
robert.barker Tue, 09/08/2020 - 11:10FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Utah's Ether Hollow Fire
DENVER – This evening, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Ether Hollow Fire burning in Utah County, Utah.
FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.
At the time of the request, the Ether Hollow Fire was threatening 500 primary homes in the Hobble Creek Community, which 150 were evacuated. The fire is also threatening a community center, communication towers, phone lines, a watershed, and irrigation and flood control resources in the area. Mandatory evacuations are taking place for approximately 500 people. The fire started on September 7, 2020, and has burned in excess of 1,000 acres of state, federal and private land.
The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.
With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.
For more information on FMAGs, visit https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.
Brian.Hvinden Mon, 09/07/2020 - 23:45Six Counties Receive Federal Help with Wildfire Debris Removal
Sacramento, Ca.-The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced today that Lake, Monterey, Napa, Santa Cruz, Solano, and Sonoma counties have been designated to receive federal assistance for debris removal under FEMA’s Public Assistance Program.
On August 22, 2020, President Donald J. Trump granted a Major Disaster Declaration for the State of California triggering the release of federal funds to help people and communities recovering from wildfires that occurred August 14, 2020, and continuing. That disaster declaration was amended today to add the six counties for assistance with debris removal.
Those six counties plus San Mateo and Yolo counties were previously designated for FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program and for Public Assistance with emergency protective measures.
Eligible applicants for Public Assistance funds include state, county and local governments, federally recognized tribal governments, and some private non-profits such as educational and medical facilities. FEMA provides 75 percent of the cost of eligible projects.
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bree-constance… Mon, 09/07/2020 - 22:33FEMA Announces Lost Wages Grant for Kansas
WASHINGTON -- FEMA Administrator Pete Gaynor approved Kansas for a FEMA grant under the Lost Wages Assistance program. FEMA’s grant funding will allow Kansas to provide $300 per week -- on top of their regular unemployment benefit -- to those unemployed due to COVID-19. FEMA will work with Kansas Governor Laura Kelly to implement a system to make this funding available to residents.
On Aug. 8, 2020, President Trump made available up to $44 billion from FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund to provide financial assistance to Americans who have lost wages due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Today, the state of Kansas agreed to administer a lost wages program for its citizens who are unemployed due to COVID-19.
FEMA looks forward to working with the governors of additional states who agree to administer a lost wages program to bring financial relief to unemployed Americans.
luther.wills-dudich Mon, 09/07/2020 - 16:43FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Colorado's Cameron Peak Fire
DENVER – This evening, FEMA authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Cameron Peak Fire burning in Larimer County, Colorado.
FEMA Regional Administrator Lee dePalo approved the state’s request for a federal Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) after receiving the request and determining that the fire threatened such destruction as would constitute a major disaster.
At the time of the request, the Cameron Peak Fire was threatening 4,000 primary homes and 1,000 secondary homes 20 miles west of Fort Collins, population 167,830. The fire is also threatening buildings, infrastructure and multiple watersheds in the area. Mandatory evacuations are taking place for approximately 5,500 people. The fire started on August 13, 2020, and has burned in excess of 40,000 acres of state and private land.
The authorization makes FEMA funding available to pay 75 percent of the state’s eligible firefighting costs under an approved grant for managing, mitigating and controlling designated fires. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
Fire Management Assistance Grants are provided through the President's Disaster Relief Fund and are made available by FEMA to assist in fighting fires that threaten to cause a major disaster. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps; equipment use, repair and replacement; mobilization and demobilization activities; and tools, materials and supplies.
With the FMAG authorization, additional funding is made available through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) Post Fire for the mitigation of wildfire and related hazards, such as flood after fire or erosion. Some eligible wildfire project types include defensible space measures, ignition-resistant construction, and hazardous fuels reduction.
For more information on FMAGs, visit https://www.fema.gov/fire-management-assistance-grants-program-details. For HMGP Post Fire, visit https://www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program-post-fire.
Brian.Hvinden Sun, 09/06/2020 - 21:58Keep in Touch—Update Information with FEMA to Avoid Delays
BATON ROUGE, La.— Louisiana homeowners and renters who registered for FEMA disaster assistance after Hurricane Laura should stay in touch with FEMA to ensure the disaster assistance process stays on track.
Survivors should update contact information as soon as possible because FEMA may need to reach them to perform virtual home inspections or get additional information.
Survivors who registered with FEMA may update contact information the following ways:
- Going online at DisasterAssistance.gov
- Downloading the FEMA app
- Calling 800-621-3362. People who use TTY may call 800-462-7585. Multilingual operators are available 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week.
Those who use a relay service such as a videophone, Innocaption or CapTel should update FEMA with their specific number assigned to that service.
FEMA encourages survivors to request direct deposits of disaster assistance to their financial institution. Survivors should let FEMA know as soon as possible of any changes to their banking information.
It’s important to note that FEMA disaster assistance checks cannot be forwarded. If you cannot access your home address, you can request the postal service to hold your mail.
For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
scott.reuter Sun, 09/06/2020 - 18:50Drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center Opens in Jefferson Davis Parish with Safety Protocols
BATON ROUGE, La. – A drive-thru Disaster Recovery Center will open in Jefferson Davis Parish on Monday, Sept. 7 to help Hurricane Laura survivors.
Different from the standard in-person facility, the new feature of the centers is an easy and COVID-safe way for Hurricane Laura survivors to have documents scanned into their case file.
The drive-thru is staffed with FEMA personnel who are available to scan documents, assist with registration, and answer questions about disaster assistance programs.
The center operates under strict COVID-19 protocols to ensure visitors are safe. Masks or face coverings are required for entry and service. Survivors remain in their cars. A specialist wearing a face mask will receive documents through the window and return them.
No appointments are necessary. Hours of operation are 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week.
The drive-thru center is located at:
Lacassine High School
409 Algonia Ave.
Lacassine, LA 70650
Another drive-thru center is also operating 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. It’s located at:
Calcasieu Parish School Board
3310 Broad St.
Lake Charles, LA 70615
Survivors do not need to visit a drive-thru center to apply or update their application. To ask individual questions or submit information:
- Call the FEMA Helpline at 800-621-3362 or TTY 800-462-7585.
- Visit www.DisasterAssistance.gov
- Download the FEMA app.
For the latest information on Hurricane Laura, visit www.fema.gov/disaster/4559 or follow the FEMA Region 6 Twitter account at twitter.com/FEMARegion6.
scott.reuter Sun, 09/06/2020 - 16:45Pages
