Category: News & Updates
FY 24/25 BRIC NOFO Announced
The Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) grant program is now open for fiscal years (FY) 2024 & 2025. The application period is open from Mar. 25, 2026 – July 23, 2026. Subapplicants are encouraged to contact IOEMmitigation@imd.idaho.gov.
FEMA’s competitive mitigation grant program provides states, local communities, Tribal Nations and territories funding to address high-level future risks to natural disasters such as wildfires, drought, hurricanes, earthquakes, extreme heat and increased flooding to foster greater community resilience and reduce disaster suffering.
The FY 2024 & 2025 BRIC Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) is available in full on Grants.gov.
Notices of Funding Opportunity Resources
BRIC Resources
- FY 2024/25 BRIC Notice of Funding Opportunity
- FY 2024/25 BRIC Notice of Funding Opportunity Fact Sheet
BRIC Program Support Materials
Find information about various activities under the BRIC program to support building codes, partnerships, project scoping and more.
Governor Brad Little Issues a Disaster Declaration to Support Severe Flooding in Northern Idaho
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
APRIL 3, 2026
Contact: Delanie Edmunds
Office: 208-258-6585
Governor Brad Little Issues a Disaster Declaration to Support Severe Flooding in Northern Idaho
BOISE, ID – Governor Brad Little issued a state disaster declaration to support emergency efforts aimed at stabilizing infrastructure and preventing catastrophic washouts in Clearwater, Idaho, and Nez Perce Counties.
Intense rainfall from an atmospheric river in March caused flooding, landsides, and debris runoff. While the threat of flooding has subsided, local and state teams are continuing to assess damage caused by the event.
“While the immediate threat of flooding has diminished, risks to infrastructure and communities remain,” said Governor Little. “This declaration allows us to support local response efforts to protect Idahoans as we enter spring.”
Local, state and federal agencies, including the Idaho Office of Emergency Management, Idaho Transportation Department, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Idaho Department of Water Resources, and the Local Highway Technical Assistance Council have mobilized personnel and equipment to support response efforts. The state disaster declaration allows for more funding and resources to reinforce affected sites and mitigate further damage.
Residents of these areas are encouraged to stay alert, monitor local emergency communications, and report damages to the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. Idahoans can visit ioem.idaho.gov/report-damages to report damage caused by the weather event to help determine future support opportunities.
###
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is part of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.
SBA Relief Still Available to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought
OFFICE OF DISASTER RECOVERY & RESILIENCE
Release Date: April 3, 2026 | Media Contact: Corey.Williams@sba.gov |
Release Number: ID-20021-02 |
SBA Relief Still Available to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by Drought
Deadline to apply for economic injury loans approaching
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding eligible small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Idaho of the May 4 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by drought beginning July 8, 2025.
The disaster declaration covers the Idaho counties of Bingham, Blaine, Bonneville, Butte, Camas, Cassia, Clark, Custer, Elmore, Fremont, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lemhi, Lincoln, Madison, Minidoka, Power, Teton and Twin Falls as well as the Montana counties of Beaverhead, Gallatin and Madison, and the Wyoming county of Teton.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs including faith-based organizations impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business or PNP did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“Through a declaration by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, SBA provides critical financial assistance to help communities recover,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “We’re pleased to offer loans to small businesses and private nonprofits impacted by these disasters.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.625% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. 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. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than May 4. However, after the deadline has passed, there is a 60-day grace period in which SBA will accept applications.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Governor Brad Little Recognizes March 15 – 21 as Flood Awareness Week
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MARCH 16, 2026
Contact: Delanie Edmunds
(208) 258-6585
Governor Brad Little Recognizes March 15 – 21 as Flood Awareness Week
Idaho Office of Emergency Management urges Idahoans to take proactive steps, including flood insurance, to mitigate the dangers of annual flooding.
BOISE, ID – As warming temperatures signal the arrival of spring, Governor Brad Little has proclaimed March 15 – 21, 2025, as Flood Awareness Week in Idaho. The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is joining the annual observance to remind Idahoans of the importance of flood preparedness and awareness, especially as spring snowmelt and seasonal rains increase the risk of flooding across the state.
“Flooding can happen faster than people expect,” said IOEM Bureau Chief Ben Roeber. “It’s an annual risk and already occurring this season. Taking steps now helps Idahoans stay safe when conditions change.”
Major floods have historically occurred in Idaho every one to two years and are considered the most serious and costly natural hazard affecting the state. Since 2018, Idaho has experienced 16 significant flood events, and two federal declarations related to floods – 2025 saw two flooding events which led to state disaster declarations for Kootenai, Bonner and Shoshone Counties. The damages for these events total more than $904,000.
With flooding posing a consistent threat across the state, IOEM plays an important role in addressing these risks by collaborating with local, county, state, and federal partners to implement effective flood mitigation strategies. These efforts focus on reducing the impacts of flooding through proactive planning, infrastructure improvements, and public education.
A key part of IOEM’s efforts is educating the public on how to stay safe during flood events. Flooding is the leading cause of severe weather-related deaths each year in the United States. To stay safe during flood events, IOEM urges Idahoans to follow these basic safety guidelines:
- Never drive through flooded roadways, even if it looks shallow. Just a few inches of fast-moving water can wash away a heavy truck. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Stay informed by monitoring local officials’ websites and social media pages, such as the National Weather Service or National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, for up-to-date weather information.
- If flooding happens, get to higher ground fast.
- Respect and adhere to any barriers or warnings issued by law enforcement.
- Always have an emergency kit in your home and your vehicle in case you need to evacuate to higher ground quickly.
IOEM has created a list of tips and resources about flood preparedness and safety.
In addition to providing resources and safety tips, IOEM continues its partnership with the Idaho Silver Jackets, an interagency flood risk management team, to educate the public on ways to reduce the impacts of flooding. The Idaho Silver Jackets focus on developing comprehensive solutions to flood hazard challenges while promoting flood risk communication.
“With Idaho’s growing population, many residents may not be aware of their flood risk,” said Idaho Silver Jackets Coordinator Russel Lodge. “I encourage everyone to explore floodplain maps, develop emergency plans, and always consider flood risks, especially when traveling or in unfamiliar areas.”
Given the recurring threat of flooding and its potential for loss of life and significant economic impact, Flood Awareness Week also aims to raise awareness of securing flood insurance for properties. FEMA ranks flooding among the most common and costly natural disasters, with just one inch of water capable of inflicting up to $25,000 in damage to a home.
Whether flooding is from the flowing waters of rivers, rainfall, or snowmelt, understanding your flood risk is important. IOEM encourages homeowners, renters, and business owners to consider flood insurance as protection against potential damage.
For more information and flood preparation resources, please visit www.floodsmart.gov.
###
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management is a Division of the Idaho Military Division. The services we provide are to facilitate emergency management in Idaho, and to assist neighboring states. The women and men of this Division are dedicated to their mission of protecting the lives and property of the people of Idaho, as well as preserving the environmental and the economic health of Idaho.
IOEM Assists Oneida County with Active Shooter Exercise
Earlier this month, the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) supported a large-scale active shooter exercise at Malad High School in Oneida County, bringing together 145 participants, including school staff and representatives from multiple local agencies. This full-scale exercise was designed to test and strengthen emergency response capabilities in the community.
Planning for the event began back in March, with four planning meetings involving representatives from each participating organization. Agencies included Oneida County Ambulance, Oneida County Sheriff and Search & Rescue, Oneida County School District, Oneida County Emergency Management, Oneida County Hospital, Portneuf Air Rescue, and the Idaho School Safety and the Healthcare Coalition.
What made this exercise stand out was the community’s leadership throughout the process. Local representatives drove the objectives and planning, demonstrating how this type of event can be successfully and affordably replicated in other rural Idaho communities.
The scenario took place during lunchtime, when an assailant entered the cafeteria and began to claim victims. The active shooter then moved through the gym and hallways before being taken down by law enforcement. Blank rounds were used to simulate gunfire.
IOEM’s Area Field Officer Darin Letzring served as Exercise Director, with Training and Exercise Section Chief Levi Orr as Lead Controller and Emergency Planner Christina Lazar as Lead Evaluator. IOEM’s involvement was important to guiding the exercise planning efforts and evaluations that included other state and regional agencies. Orr and Lazar also led the post-exercise hotwash to gather feedback and identify areas for improvement.
The exercise was a success in enhancing pre-event planning, with benefits that extend beyond this specific active shooter scenario to strengthen overall preparedness for a wide range of potential threats. It also improved organizational integration and teamwork among responders, including communications and law enforcement tactics. School staff increased their readiness for active shooter and lockdown situations, while future exercises could expand to cover reunification, behavioral health resources, public information operations, and more.
These efforts demonstrate how IOEM, through collaboration, planning, and hands-on training, is helping make Idaho’s rural communities stronger and better prepared for whatever emergencies come their way.
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Sunset Fire in Idaho
August 15, 2025
NR-R10-25-009
FEMA News Desk: (425) 487-4610
FEMA Authorizes Funds to Fight Sunset Fire in Idaho
BOTHELL, Wash. – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) authorized the use of federal funds to help with firefighting costs for the Sunset Fire burning in Bonner County, Idaho.
The state of Idaho’s request for a declaration under FEMA’s Fire Management Assistance Grant (FMAG) program was approved by FEMA Region 10 Acting Administrator Vincent J. Maykovich on Thursday, August 14, 2025, at 11:52 p.m. PT. He determined that the Sunset Fire threatened to cause such destruction as would constitute a major disaster. This is the first FMAG declaration in 2025 to help fight Idaho wildfires.
At the time of the state’s request, the wildfire threatened homes in and around the communities of Sagle and Careywood. The fire also threatened Blacktail Peak Communication Site and Facility, Little Blacktail Ranch Water District, a Timberlake Fire Protection District fire station, and the U.S. Navy’s Acoustic Research Detachment facility in Bayview.
FMAGs make funding available to pay up to 75 percent of a state’s eligible firefighting costs for fires that threaten to become major disasters. Eligible items can include expenses for field camps, equipment use, materials, supplies and mobilization and demobilization activities attributed to fighting the fire. These grants do not provide assistance to individual home or business owners and do not cover other infrastructure damage caused by the fire.
###
Follow FEMA Region 10 on X and LinkedIn for the latest updates and visit FEMA.gov for more information.
FEMA’s mission is helping people before, during, and after disasters.
Moon Pass Road Open and Repaired Through Federal Funds Coordinated by IOEM
Moon Pass Road in Shoshone County is once again open to the public, following long-term repairs made possible by federal funding secured after an April 2024 rockslide.
The road, a Forest Service route maintained by Shoshone County, was buried after a major weather system triggered a significant slide. That event contributed to the federal disaster declaration and Idaho’s State Disaster Declaration, both of which unlocked federal support to assist with debris removal and repair efforts.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) worked closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to secure Public Assistance funds that supported emergency debris removal. IOEM engaged with the Shoshone County, Local Highway Technical Assistance Council (LHTAC) and Federal Highway Administration through their coordination of additional funding for long-term slope stabilization and roadbed repairs.
Crews began clearing the slide as soon as conditions allowed, working through unpredictable spring weather and unstable terrain to reopen the route for emergency access and then the public.
“These repairs do not just fix the damage, they make Shoshone County stronger,” said Ben Roeber, Bureau Chief at the Idaho Office of Emergency Management. “Thanks to support from our partners, these programs were able to help the county restore access and make improvements that help protect this critical route from future events.”
Behind the scenes, it took exceptional coordination among local, tribal, state, and federal partners to make the project a success. Key partners included: Shoshone County Public Works Department, Shoshone County Emergency Management, LHTAC, Coeur d’Alene Tribal Historic Preservation Office, Idaho Geological Survey, Idaho Transportation Department, FEMA, FHWA, and the U.S. Forest Service.
“Shoshone County is extremely grateful for the partnerships we have built with all the agencies involved,” said Shoshone County Public Works Director, Jessica Stutzke. “Without their coordination and assistance, we would not have had the resources to tackle this disaster, and most likely would have no choice but to leave the road closed. It was truly a pleasure to work with each one of them.”
The roadway is now fully open with no travel restrictions in place.
Idaho FY25 FEMA Notice of Funding Opportunity Update
On July 28, 2025, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) released the Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for several grant programs. These funds will help states, such as Idaho, prepare for, and manage their response to disasters like fires, floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, and terrorist attacks.
Details:
- Emergency Management Performance Grant (EMPG) Program – Provides federal grants to states to assist state, local and tribal governments in preparing for all hazards. In years past, recipients have used the funds to hire and train more staff, conduct exercises to test plans, buy critical equipment like generators and mobile command vehicles, and establish interoperable communications systems to help first responders connect during disasters.
- Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) – Helps faith-based institutions and nonprofit organizations strengthen security against threats, including targeted attacks and acts of terrorism. Eligible projects include installing security cameras, alert and warning systems, gates and lighting, access control systems, and staff training programs.
- State Homeland Security Program (SHSP) – Supports state, local, and tribal efforts to prepare for, prevent, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism and other disasters. Funding is based on statewide risk assessments and can be used for planning, training, equipment, and exercises that strengthen security, improve coordination among agencies, and build the capabilities needed to address high-priority threats.
- State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP) – Supports state, local, tribal, and territorial (SLTT) governments to strengthen their cybersecurity posture. IOEM leads the implementation of this program for local governments, offering cybersecurity services to enhance resilience and reduce the impact of cyber threats.
The State Administrative Agency (SAA), which is IOEM, submission deadline for all FY25 programs is August 11, 2025. Because of the shortened application period, IOEM will submit placeholder Investment Justifications for each grant by the deadline to ensure FEMA can obligate funds before the end of the federal fiscal year on September 30, 2025. Once fully developed projects are ready and approved through grant amendments, those funds will be released.
This is a common FEMA practice to secure funding while project planning continues.
A detailed notice outlining funding amounts, eligibility requirements, and program changes has been shared with Idaho counties, tribes, and eligible organizations. Local jurisdictions with questions or in need of more information are encouraged to reach out to their Area Field Officer, IOEM Finance or Logistics.
Idaho PSAP Conference Coming to Boise
The Idaho Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) Conference returns to Boise this fall, bringing dispatch professionals together from across the state for training, networking, and hands-on learning. Scheduled for October 6 – 8, 2025, the conference will be held at The Riverside Hotel and is free to attend.
This year’s keynote speakers include Kris Inman from The Healthy Dispatcher, presenting “Be Who You Need,” and Danny Ziem with Echelon Front, delivering his presentation on “Extreme Ownership.” Breakout sessions will cover timely and critical topics such as internet crimes against children, discipline and communication in the communications center, crisis negotiation for Emergency Communications Officers, and more.
Those interested in attending can register now. POST credits will be available for attendees.
This year marks the 12th annual event, hosted by the Idaho PSAP Standards & Training Committee and the Idaho Public Safety Communications Commission.
For questions or for more information, please contact Marci Williams at MWilliams@latahcountyid.gov.
SBA Relief Still Available to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Gwen Fire
Release Date: July 22, 2025 | Media Contact: Susheel.Kumar@sba.gov |
Release Number: ID 20641-04 |
SBA Relief Still Available to Idaho Small Businesses and Private Nonprofits Affected by the Gwen Fire
Deadline to apply for economic injury loans approaching
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is reminding small businesses and private nonprofit (PNP) organizations in Idaho of the Aug. 22, 2025 deadline to apply for low interest federal disaster loans to offset economic losses caused by the Gwen Fire occurring July 24‑Aug. 9, 2024.
The disaster declaration covers the Idaho counties of Clearwater, Idaho, Latah, Lewis and Nez Perce as well as the Oregon county of Wallowa, and the Washington counties of Asotin and Whitman.
Under this declaration, SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program is available to small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, nurseries, and PNPs impacted by financial losses directly related to the disaster. The SBA is unable to provide disaster loans to agricultural producers, farmers, or ranchers, except for small aquaculture enterprises.
EIDLs are available for working capital needs caused by the disaster and are available even if the small business did not suffer any physical damage. The loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable, and other bills not paid due to the disaster.
“SBA loans help eligible small businesses and private nonprofits cover operating expenses after a disaster, which is crucial for their recovery,” said Chris Stallings, associate administrator of the Office of Disaster Recovery and Resilience at the SBA. “These loans not only help business owners get back on their feet but also play a key role in sustaining local economies in the aftermath of a disaster.”
The loan amount can be up to $2 million with interest rates as low as 4% for small businesses and 3.25% for PNPs with terms up to 30 years. Interest does not accrue, and payments are not due until 12 months from the date of the first loan disbursement. The SBA sets loan amounts and terms based on each applicant’s financial condition.
To apply online, visit sba.gov/disaster. 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. For people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, please dial 7-1-1 to access telecommunications relay services.
Submit completed loan applications to the SBA no later than Aug. 22.
###
About the U.S. Small Business Administration
The U.S. Small Business Administration helps power the American dream of business ownership. As the only go-to resource and voice for small businesses backed by the strength of the federal government, the SBA empowers entrepreneurs and small business owners with the resources and support they need to start, grow, expand their businesses, or recover from a declared disaster. It delivers services through an extensive network of SBA field offices and partnerships with public and private organizations. To learn more, visit www.sba.gov.
Fecha: 22 de julio de 2025 | Contacto para la Prensa: Susheel.Kumar@sba.gov |
Número: ID 20641-04 |
La Ayuda de la SBA sigue Disponible para los Pequeños Negocios y Organizaciones Privadas sin Fines de Lucro de Idaho Afectados por el Incendio de Gwen
Se acerca la fecha límite para solicitar préstamos por daños económicos
SACRAMENTO, Calif. – La Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios (SBA, por sus siglas en inglés) les recuerda a los pequeños negocios y a la mayoría de las organizaciones privadas sin fines de lucro (PNP, por sus siglas en inglés) de Idaho la fecha límite del 22 de agosto de 2025 para solicitar préstamos federales para desastres a bajo interés para cubrir las pérdidas económicas causadas por el incendio de Gwen ocurrido del 24 de julio al 9 de agosto de 2024.
La declaración cubre los condados de Clearwater, Idaho, Latah, Lewis y Nez Perce así como el condado de Wallowa en Oregon, y los condados de Asotin y Whitman en Washington.
Esta declaración permite que el programa de Préstamos de Desastre por Daños Económicos (EIDL, por sus siglas en inglés) de la SBA esté a disposición para pequeños negocios, pequeñas cooperativas agrícolas, pequeños negocios involucrados en acuacultura y la mayoría de las organizaciones privadas sin fines de lucro elegibles que hayan sufrido pérdidas financieras como consecuencia directa de este desastre. Las SBA no ofrece préstamos para desastre a productores agrícolas, granjeros o ganaderos a excepción de los negocios de acuacultura.
Los EIDL son para cubrir necesidades de capital circulante causadas por el desastre y están disponibles incluso si el negocio no sufrió ningún daño físico a la propiedad. Los préstamos pueden utilizarse para pagar deudas existentes, nóminas, cuentas por pagar y otras facturas que podrían haberse pagado de no haber ocurrido el desastre.
“Los préstamos de la SBA ayudan a los pequeños negocios y organizaciones sin fines de lucro elegibles a cubrir los gastos operativos después de un desastre, lo que es crucial para su recuperación,” dijo Chris Stallings, administrador asociado de la Oficina de Recuperación y Resiliencia ante Desastres (ODR&R, por sus siglas en inglés) de la SBA. “Estos préstamos no sólo ayudan a los propietarios de negocios a volver a ponerse en pie, sino que también desempeñan un papel clave en el sostén de las economías locales después de un desastre.”
Los prestamos pueden ser hasta de $2 millones de dólares con tasas de interés de 4% para pequeños negocios y 3.25% para las PNPs por plazos hasta de 30 años. Los intereses no comienzan a acumularse, y los pagos mensuales no comienzan hasta 12 meses después de la fecha del desembolso inicial. Los montos y términos de los préstamos los establece la SBA y se basan en las condiciones financieras de cada solicitante.
Para llenar su solicitud en línea, visite sba.gov/desastre. También pueden comunicarse al Centro de Servicio a Clientes para Asistencia de Desastres de la SBA marcando (800) 659-2955 o enviando un correo electrónico a disastercustomerservice@sba.gov para obtener más información. Las personas con discapacidades auditivas o del habla, favor de marcar 7-1-1 para tener acceso al servicio de retransmisión de telecomunicaciones.
Envíe las solicitudes de préstamos completadas no más tarde el 22 de agosto.
###
Acerca de la Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios
La Agencia Federal de Pequeños Negocios hace realidad el sueño americano de ser propietario de un negocio. Como único recurso y voz para las pequeñas empresas y con el respaldo de la fortaleza del gobierno federal, la SBA permite a los empresarios y propietarios de pequeños negocios contar con los recursos y el apoyo que necesitan para crear, desarrollar o ampliar sus negocios o recuperarse de un desastre declarado. Ofrece servicios a través de su amplia red de oficinas de campo y asociaciones con organizaciones públicas y privadas. Para obtener más información, visite www.sba.gov o www.sba.gov/espanol.