Hazard mitigation is any action taken to reduce long-term risk to people, property, and the environment as a result of disasters. Hazard mitigation works by identifying, characterizing, and analyzing hazards and finding ways to reduce the effects of that hazard. Mitigation may involve elevating a house above a floodplain, building retaining walls, or other structural measures. In the state, we actively plan for hazard mitigation efforts and assist with hazard mitigation projects statewide.
The Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA) grant program provides funds from the federal government to assist in hazard mitigation planning, projects, and other activities to reduce the vulnerability of our communities to hazards.
The State Interagency Hazard Mitigation Team (IHMT) coordinates recommended strategies to lessen loss of life, property, economic and natural resources by maintaining the FEMA-approved and Governor-adopted Oregon Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan.