The mitigation plans identify steps that can be taken to eliminate or minimize the threat to persons and property posed by potential disasters, such as windstorms, fires, floods and earthquakes. Local officials will use the mitigation plans will identify specific steps or mitigation strategies that can be taken to minimize the impacts of natural disasters. Such steps could include zoning changes, revisions to building codes and disaster-response training for local citizens.

The planning process for the county, led by Benton County Emergency Management (BCEM), began in late 2002. The county forwarded its plan to the state in April 2004. The state and FEMA have approved the plan. The city kicked off its planning process in April 2003. Richland's plan has also been approved by both the state of Washington and FEMA.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Hazard Mitigation Plan?
A Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) is created to protect the health, safety and economic interests of residents by reducing the impacts of natural hazards through mitigation planning, awareness and implementation of mitigation alternatives. Hazard mitigation is any action taken to permanently eliminate or reduce the long-term risk to human life and property from natural hazards. It is an essential element of emergency management along with preparedness, response and recovery. These plans will serve as a foundation for hazard mitigation activities within the City of Richland and Benton County.

Why were two plans developed?
Washington State Emergency Management Division administers FEMA grant money.  Benton County and Richland both applied for and then received grants for development of Hazard Mitigation Plans. The county plan meets the needs of the municipalities within Benton County, while the city of Richland plan is focused solely on the needs of the city. Ultimately, the county plan will focus on both natural and technological hazards while the Richland plan will be focused on natural hazards.

What is the difference between a natural hazard and a technological hazard?
Technological hazards result from actions or facilities created by people, while natural hazards exist because of the natural environment in which a community is located. Technological hazards typically include civil disturbances, dam failure, hazardous materials, pipelines, radiological, terrorism, and transportation. Natural hazards typically include floods, landslides, wildfires, severe winter storms, windstorms, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Why is it important to develop a Hazard Mitigation Plan?
The federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 requires the development of a Hazard Mitigation Plan as a condition of receiving mitigation funds should a disaster occur. If a community identifies projects that can be implemented prior to a disaster and that can mitigate the potential impacts of a hazard, the community may apply for funding to implement the proposed mitigation alternative. To be eligible for implementation funding, Washington state communities must have Hazard Mitigation Plans approved by both the state and FEMA.

How can I get additional information?  The Hazard Mitigation Plan for the Benton County Plan is available on line.
 

For the Benton County, contact:

Ryan Krueger

Benton County Emergency Services

651 Truman Ave.

Richland, WA 99352

Phone (509) 628-2600 or (800) 841-7953

For the City of Richland, contact: 
Nancy Aldrich, Project Manager
City of Richland 
P.O. Box 190 
Richland, WA 99352 
Phone (509) 942-7508