The Oregon Office of Emergency Management recently became eligible for increased mitigation funds that will help better prepare Oregon for future disasters. As of M arch 2, 2015, 12 states have FEMA approved Enhanced State Mitigation Plans. States with Enhanced Mitigation Plans have demonstrated a comprehensive mitigation program, and are eligible for an increased amount of mitigation funding following a disaster declaration. “An enhanced State Mitigation Plan signifies that a state has been proactive and comprehensive in hazard mitigation program implementation,” Hazard Mitigation Officer Dennis Sigrist explained. “We are proud of this recognition because not only is it a goal we wanted to achieve, but we also know increased mitigation funds will ultimately reduce the amount of damage from disasters, making Oregon safer and more resilient.” Sigrist said a recent study by FEMA’s Multi-hazard Mitigation Council shows that each dollar spent on mitigation saves society an average of four dollars. For more information about Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan Status go to: https://www.fema.gov/multi-hazard-mitigation-plan-status.
