Shawano and Menominee counties, like the rest of the state of Wisconsin, are vulnerable to a variety of disasters. Wisconsin has incurred disaster-related damages totaling $3 billion in the last three decades, but future losses can be reduced through mitigation activities.
To better prepare Shawano and Menominee counties to manage their vulnerability to disasters, Shawano and Menominee County Emergency Management jointly applied for, received and has completed a pre-disaster mitigation (PDM) update planning grant.
“This plan update will serve as a roadmap that outlines potential cost-effective hazard mitigation activities, some of which might be available for future grant funding,” said Lt. Chris Madle, emergency management director. “The updated plan outlines the risks and vulnerabilities that the counties face from natural disasters and highlights mitigation strategies that might reduce future losses.”
A recent study by the Multi-hazard Mitigation Council shows that each average dollar spent on mitigation saves society more than $6.
Since 1993, more than 400 disasters have occurred in the United States, affecting communities in all 50 states, costing the country more $500 million per week and killing more 24,000 people.
Mitigation actions reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property from hazards. These preventative actions can be as simple as elevating a furnace in a basement that sometimes has water on the floor. Mitigation can also have a comprehensive approach, such as relocating buildings out of the floodplain or strengthening critical facilities to prevent wind damage and provide stronger shelter.
The completed draft hazard mitigation plan update is available during business hours at the Shawano County Clerk’s Office, 311 N. Main St., Shawano, and the Menominee County Clerk’s Office at W3269 Courthouse Lane, Keshena, for review and public comment until Aug. 4.
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