Official Government Website
Category: Press Releases
Hazard Mitigation Grants Available
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release September 5, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Idaho Communities Encouraged to Apply for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grants
BOISE, Idaho – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM), in partnership with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), will be offering grants for projects aimed at building stronger, safer communities.
As a result of an August 27 presidential disaster declaration resulting from flooding, landslides and mudslides in May and June, funds will be available to local governments and other jurisdictions through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP).
As the program administrator, IOEM says projects in the disaster-designated counties – Blaine, Camas, Custer, Elmore and Gooding – will be considered first. If available funds from those counties are not committed, IOEM will extend grant opportunities to entities throughout the state. IOEM will evaluate applications and then work with FEMA to award grants on a cost-sharing basis. FEMA provides 75 percent of the total costs, while the remaining 25 percent is the nonfederal share. FEMA obligates its share of the funds directly to the state, which awards the money to successful applicants.
Some examples of HMGP projects include elevating roads, bridges and other structures; adopting and developing standards and enforcing building codes; upsizing culverts to prevent clogging; and using geosynthetic materials to repair road sections to prevent washouts and increase durability.
Counties and jurisdictions that have identified projects and adopted mitigation plans are encouraged to review and identify potential hazard mitigation sites in communities and apply for funds under the HMGP grant program.
Interested applicants must file a Letter of Intent with IOEM by October 11 to Mitigation2017@imd.idaho.gov if they are planning to request funds for HMGP projects. Applications are due to IOEM by Jan. 11, 2018.
IOEM will provide an overview of the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program at Applicant Briefings scheduled for the week of September 11 in the five designated counties.
Information about FEMA’s program is available at www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigation-grant-program.
###
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 men and women 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.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Idaho Granted 3rd Presidential Declaration
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release August 29, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Presidential Disaster Declaration Signed For Five Idaho Counties
Third major disaster declaration for Idaho in connection with this year’s especially severe weather
BOISE – President Donald J. Trump signed a Presidential Disaster Declaration August 27, 2017 for five Idaho counties that suffered unprecedented losses due to spring flooding. The declaration allows the federal government to help communities recover from flooding related destruction that occurred May 6 through June 16, 2017.
The declaration provides assistance under FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) program for eligible local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofits in Blaine, Camas, Custer, Elmore and Gooding counties. Elmore and Gooding counties now are designated for assistance under two disaster declarations.
“As our prayers and thoughts are with residents of Texas affected by Hurricane Harvey, we know all too well in Idaho that flooding can cause untold destruction and havoc,” Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter said. “I’m grateful for the President’s decision to provide support for these five counties and for the ongoing assistance being provided to counties that are part of Idaho’s first two disaster declarations.”
IOEM and FEMA are already working together closely to help reimburse applicants in 11 counties for their costs resulting from flooding that occurred in February. Those counties are Bingham, Cassia, Elmore, Franklin, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls and Washington. Additionally, IOEM and FEMA are working to help reimburse applicants in nine counties for their costs resulting from the severe weather in March. Those counties are Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Shoshone and Valley.
“This has been a challenging year for Idaho,” said Brad Richy of IOEM. “Thankfully IOEM and FEMA have already built a strong partnership and stand ready to provide swift assistance to all eligible applicants.”
Application procedures for the designated state and local governments will be explained at a series of state-led applicant briefings. Recovery officials will announce the dates and locations of the briefings in the affected areas.
Under the Public Assistance program, FEMA reimburses applicants for at least 75 percent of their eligible expenses, while the other 25 percent is the nonfederal share. The federal portion is paid directly to the state, which then makes disbursements to the local and tribal jurisdictions and organizations that incurred costs. More information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
# # #
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 men and women 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.
August 21st Total Solar Eclipse
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release July 21, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Total Solar Eclipse Expected To Draw Unprecedented Numbers of Visitors
Individuals Urged to Plan Ahead and Prepare for Delays
BOISE – In one month Idahoans and visitors to the Gem State will witness a once-in-a-lifetime event. The August 21, 2017 total solar eclipse will cross 19 Idaho counties. Due to the unprecedented number of visitors expected to come to Idaho to view the event, individuals and families are being urged to plan ahead, prepare for traffic delays and have a family communications plan.
“Idaho is considered one of the best places to view this event,” said Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter. “While we want Idahoans and visitors to our state to enjoy this event, we want to make sure everyone stays safe and has a plan, including being prepared for traffic delays and crowds. I can’t encourage folks enough to stay informed. That’s why we have resources available so you can do that now.”
To view and print out an Idaho Eclipse Family Checklist, and view an eclipse public service announcement, go to the Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) webpage https://ioem.idaho.gov/
“The eclipse will happen at the peak of fire season in Idaho,” said Brad Richy, who leads IOEM. “We cannot stress enough the importance of motorists not pulling off to the side of the road to watch the eclipse. Vehicles can easily ignite grass fires, creating a hazard for emergency responders and other motorists.”
In planning and preparing for this event, IOEM conducted workshops this spring in multiple counties along the eclipse path. They were focused on transportation and emergency routes, statewide interoperability, emergency services and public messaging. IOEM continues facilitating weekly Idaho Eclipse Working Group meetings with State and federal partners.
In the path of totality the moon completely covers the sun and the sky darkens dramatically, making it appear to be nightfall. Idaho is considered a prime viewing area because skies are generally clear throughout the state this time of year.
With a path of totality of more than 300 miles, Idaho is one of 14 U.S. states over which the eclipse will cross. The total solar eclipse begins in Oregon and exits the continent in South Carolina.
# # #
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 men and women 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.
Joint Blaine County News Release Regarding Damage Assessments
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 24, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Preliminary Damage Assessment
Residents and businesses in Blaine County affected by flooding Encouraged to document damages
Blaine County Disaster Services is collecting countywide information on the economic and structural impact to the community caused by ongoing flooding. This applies to all residents and businesses of Blaine County, regardless of location.
The Preliminary Damage Assessment process helps to identify the overall impact to the whole community. It does not guarantee any types of assistance, but it will be used to review all opportunities for assistance.
Damage Assessments are used to determine how much damage individuals and business have sustained. Forms can be found on the Idaho Office of Emergency Management website: www.ioem.idaho.gov (fill in pertinent fields for your particular damages and include photos if possible).
We highly encourage you to start documenting and reporting any flood damages as soon as possible.
Email your completed forms with photo attachments to ccorwin@co.blaine.id.us or mail to
Blaine County Disaster Services
1650 Aviation Dr.
Hailey, Id. 83333
(208)788-5508
City of Sun ValleyNancy Flannigan, City Clerk nflannigan@svidaho.org (208) 622-4438
| Organization: | Contact: | Email: | Phone: |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blaine County Government | Mandy Pomeroy, Administrative Services | mpomeroy@co.blaine.id.us | (208) 788-5547 |
| Blaine County Sheriff’s Office | Holly Carter Public Information Officer | hcarter@co.blaine.id.us | (208) 788-5536 |
| City of Bellevue | Diane Shay, Community Development Director | dshay@bellevueidaho.us | (208) 788-2128 |
| City of Carey | Tess Cennarusa, City Clerk | careycityclerk@frontier.com | (208) 309-1445 |
| City of Hailey | Carol Brown, Public Information Officer | pio@haileycityhall.org | (208) 481-4920 |
| Anne Jeffery, Public Information Officer | pio@haileycityhall.org | (208) 921-3968 | |
| City of Ketchum | Lisa Enourato, Asst. City Administrator | lenourato@ketchumidaho.org | (208) 726-7803 |
| Organization: | Facebook: | Website: | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blaine County | @BlaineCountyID | www.blainecounty.org | |
| Blaine Co. Sheriff | @BlaineCountySheriff | www.blainesheriff.com | |
| City of Bellevue | @BellevueIdaho83313 | www.bellevueidaho.us | |
| City of Carey | @cityofcarey | www.cityofcarey.org | |
| City of Hailey | @haileycityflood | www.haileycityhall.org | |
| City of Ketchum | @CityofKetchum | www.ketchumidaho.org | |
| City of Sun Valley | @sunvalley | sunvalleyidaho.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 men and women 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.
Flooding May ID-04 Level 1 State Declaration
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 9, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
IDEOC Activated To Level 1 Due to Snowmelt Flooding
State Disaster Declarations Now in Effect for 26 Idaho Counties
BOISE – The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) is activated to Level I to address spring flooding concerns throughout the state. Blaine, Boise, Butte, Custer, Elmore, Gooding and Lemhi counties are experiencing flooding along the Salmon, Big Lost and Big Wood Rivers, including streams and tributaries. 31 of Idaho’s 44 counties have local disaster declarations. 26 counties are part of State Disaster Declarations. Blaine County was added to a State Disaster Declaration for this most recent flooding signed Monday by Acting Governor Brad Little.
“When you have well above normal snowpack in the higher elevations, you can anticipate we will continue to face flooding in the weeks ahead,” said IOEM Deputy Chief Brad Richy. “Our primary concern continues to be safety, awareness and preparedness. We want all Idahoans and visitors to understand that flooded roadways can be treacherous. People who choose to cross flooded roadways, or recreate on fast moving flood waters, are putting not only themselves, but emergency responders at risk.” The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) continues to work closely with counties throughout the state to provide necessary resources. Sandbags have been pre-positioned around the state to assist counties with flood protection.
Idaho continues to face the residual effects of record snow that began in December 2016. Lower elevation areas of southern Idaho began dealing with catastrophic flooding in January. In March areas of north central and northern Idaho began experiencing flooding-related landslides and avalanches. This latest flooding in the Wood River Valley is a direct result of warming temperatures melting the snow pack in higher elevations. As temperatures continue to warm, experts predict the flooding will continue. Rain in areas could increase the severity of flooding.
# # #
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 men and women 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.
6 Inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over and adult
12 inches of rushing water can carry away a small car
2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles
It is never safe to drive or walk or boat through flood waters
TURN AROUND DON’T DROWN
EHRF Application Information on IOEM Website
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 3, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Idaho State, Local, and Private Nonprofits Can Apply for Emergency Relief Funding For Road Repair
BOISE – The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) is accepting applications for the competitive funding of projects through the Emergency Relief Fund.
The eligible projects that will be considered must exist within a county that suffered road and bridge damage as a result of extreme weather, including heavy snow, flooding and landslides that began in December 2016 and continue. Those eligible projects include roads, bridges, surfaces, bases, shoulders, ditches, drainage structures like culverts, low water crossings, decking, guard rails, girders, pavement, abutments, piers, slope protection, approaches, lighting, sidewalks and signs.
Information on how to apply, including deadlines, eligible projects, and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS) can be found on the IOEM website www.IOEM.Idaho.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 men and women 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.
Applicant Briefings Scheduled
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release May 1, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
IOEM to Hold Applicant Briefings in 11 Counties Designated for FEMA Public Assistance Grants
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) and Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) are working together to expedite Public Assistance grants to eligible public entities and certain private nonprofit organizations affected by severe storms and flooding Feb. 5-27, 2017.
IOEM emergency management specialists, with support from FEMA, will begin holding Applicant Briefings this week as a first step in getting assistance dollars to eligible applicants in the 11 counties designated for assistance in President Trump’s April 21 disaster declaration. The Applicant Briefings will include an overview of FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP), since additional grants will be available to Idaho under that program as a result of the disaster declaration.
Applicant Briefings are scheduled as follows:
- May 3: Elmore County, 1 p.m., 2255 East 8th North, Mountain Home
- May 4: Washington County, 10 a.m., 256 East Court St., Weiser
- May 9: Gooding County, 9 a.m., 624 Main St., Gooding
- May 9: Lincoln County, 1 p.m., Lincoln County Community Center, 201 South Beverly St., Shoshone
- May 10: Minidoka County, 9 a.m., Wilson Theatre, 610 Fremont St., Rupert
- May 10: Cassia County, 1 p.m., Location TBD
- May 11: Jerome County, 9 a.m., 2151 South Tiger Drive, Jerome
- May 11: Twin Falls County, 1 p.m., Twin Falls Highway District Conference Room, 2620 Kimberly Rd., Twin Falls
- May 17: Franklin County, 1 p.m., Location TBD
- May 18: Jefferson County, 3 p.m., 206 N. Yellowstone Hwy, Rigby
- May 18: Bingham County, 9 a.m., 501 N. Maple, Sheriff’s Conference Room, Blackfoot
Potential applicants have until May 21, 2017, to file a Request for Public Assistance (RPA) with IOEM to initiate a claim under the disaster declaration.
Under the PA and HMGP programs, FEMA reimburses applicants for at least 75 percent of their eligible expenses, while the other 25 percent is the nonfederal share. The federal portion is paid directly to the state, which then makes disbursements to the local and tribal jurisdictions and organizations that incurred costs.
Under the HMGP program, FEMA and the state of Idaho may provide supplemental financial assistance to state agencies, local and tribal governments and certain private nonprofit organizations to reduce vulnerability to future disasters and promote community resilience.
State disaster recovery information is available on the IOEM website at https://ioem.idaho.gov. More information about FEMA’s Public Assistance program can be found at www.fema.gov/public-assistance-local-state-tribal-and-non-profit.
More information about hazard mitigation is available at www.fema.gov/hazard-mitigationgrant-program.
Additional information on the federal role in this disaster recovery mission is available at the FEMA disaster-specific website at www.fema.gov/disaster/4310.
# # #
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 men and women 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.
FEMA’s mission is to support our citizens and first responders to ensure that as a nation we work together to build, sustain, and improve our capability to prepare for, protect against, respond to, recover from, and mitigate all hazards.
Counties Added To State Declaration
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 31, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Additional Counties Added to State Declaration for Flooding, Landslides, Avalanches
BOISE – Ada, Idaho, Lewis and Valley Counties have all been recently added to a state declaration signed by Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter. Eleven Idaho counties are now included in the declaration: Ada, Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Idaho, Kootenai, Latah, Lewis, Shoshone, and Valley Counties. These counties, as well as others around the state, continue to combat flooding caused by snowmelt and ongoing precipitation. Landslides, avalanches, and mudslides also continue to cause extensive damage as soils become more saturated.
A total of 28 Idaho counties currently have local declarations related to either snowfall or flooding-related events.
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Heightened Awareness due to widespread destruction from spring flooding and landslides. For a daily statewide synopsis of issues relating to current state declarations, please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov/WebFiles/SituationReports/websitrep.pdf
# # #
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 men and women 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.
High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads.
“Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.”
SBA Loans News Release
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 28, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Businesses Encouraged to Report Impacts of Winter Flooding
BOISE – The State of Idaho is seeking information from small, non-agricultural businesses in Bingham, Cassia, Elmore, Franklin, Gooding, Jefferson, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, Twin Falls, and Washington Counties whose operations and ability to conduct business were disrupted by the extraordinary flooding beginning February 5, 2017 through March 3, 2017. This information will determine whether impacted businesses would be eligible for disaster assistance in the form of low interest loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).
The unprecedented flooding that occurred caused widespread destruction including severe damage to local and state infrastructure creating treacherous travel conditions and disruption to ordinary business functions throughout the area. The flood event led to a State Disaster Declaration signed by Idaho Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter February 10, 2017.
The State of Idaho is requesting small businesses located in the eleven counties to complete the SBA Economic Injury Worksheet. Businesses impacted by the flooding who may not elect to receive the low interest loans are still encouraged to submit worksheets so the full impact of the disaster to the area can be determined.
The worksheet may be found on the Idaho Commerce website at https://commerce.idaho.gov (Scroll to Popular Downloads). Forms can be downloaded and sent by fax to 208.422.3044, by email to jdick@imd.idaho.gov or mailed directly to:
Jarod Dick
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
4040 W. Guard St.; Bldg 600
Boise, ID 83705
If approved, the assistance will be in the form of direct low interest loans from the SBA. Businesses located in contiguous counties, or counties within the region that provide goods and services to businesses in the eleven counties may have experienced significant economic impact and are also encouraged to submit worksheets as soon as possible.
# # #
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 men and women 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.
State Disaster Declaration for Seven Idaho counties
NEWS RELEASE
Idaho Office of Emergency Management
For immediate release March 21, 2017
Contact: Elizabeth Duncan
(208) 258-6595 eduncan@imd.idaho.gov
Flooding, Landslides, Avalanches Leads to State Disaster Declarations for Seven Idaho Counties
BOISE – Idaho Governor C. L. “Butch” Otter has signed State Disaster Declarations for seven north central and northern Idaho counties currently managing flooding-related issues associated with snowmelt and ongoing precipitation. Residents in Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Clearwater, Kootenai, Latah and Shoshone counties are preparing for, or responding to, flooding, landslides and avalanches.
Water levels along the Coeur d’ Alene River, the St. Joe River, and numerous other bodies of water within each of the counties in the state declaration, have risen dramatically, causing widespread flooding, mudslides, water over roads, damaged levees and flooding of homes and basements. Two homes have received significant damage due to mudslides.
The Idaho Office of Emergency Management (IOEM) continues working with the US Army Corp of Engineers (USACE) and our state agency partners to ensure that requests for assistance from the counties affected are met quickly and efficiently.
A total of 25 Idaho counties currently have local declarations related to either snowfall or flooding-related events.
The Idaho Emergency Operations Center (IDEOC) remains activated at Heightened Awareness due to widespread spring flooding destruction. For a daily statewide synopsis of issues relating to this latest state declaration, please visit the IOEM website. https://ioem.idaho.gov/WebFiles/SituationReports/websitrep.pdf
# # #
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 men and women 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.
High water can cause significant hazards. Residents are reminded to avoid low-water crossings and not attempt to cross water-covered roads.
“Turn Around Don’t’ Drown.”