HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Town of Deering New Hampshire
Contoocook River Flooding of Longwoods Manufactured Housing Park, 1987
Adopted by the Deering Board of Selectmen December 17, 2003 HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Town of Deering, NH
December 17, 2003
Town of Deering 762 Deering Center Road Deering, NH 03244 Phone: (603) 464-3248 Fire Department Phone: (603) 529-4303 Web: www.deering.nh.us
Central NH Regional Planning Commission 28 Commercial Street Concord, NH 03301 Phone: (603) 226-6020 Web: www.cnhrpc.org
NH Office of Emergency Management 107 Pleasant Street Concord, NH 03301 Phone: (800) 852-3792 Web: www.nhoem.state.nh.us
Federal Emergency Management Agency 442 J.W. McCormack POCH Boston, Massachusetts 02109 Phone: (617) 223-9540 Web: www.fema.gov Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan December 2003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Certificate of Adoption...... iv
Acknowledgements...... v
Chapter 1. Introduction ...... 1 Background ...... 1 Goals...... 1 Methodology...... 2
Chapter 2. Hazard Identification ...... 3 Definition of Hazards ...... 3 Map 1: Potential Hazards...... 7
Chapter 3. Profile of Hazard Events in Deering ...... 8 Past and Potential Hazard Events in Deering ...... 8 Past Hazard Events That Have Impacted Deering ...... 17 Map 2: Past Hazards...... 26
Chapter 4. Asset Identification ...... 27 Critical Facilities ...... 27 Vulnerable Populations ...... 29 Economic Assets ...... 30 Special Considerations...... 30 Historic/Other Considerations...... 32 Homes within the Floodplain ...... 33 Evacuation Routes...... 33 Map 3: Critical Facilities ...... 34
Chapter 5. Potential Losses ...... 35 Flooding ...... 35 Dam Breach and Failure ...... 37 Hurricane ...... 37 Tornado ...... 37 Wildfire ...... 37 Nor’easter and Heavy Snow Storms ...... 38 Ice Storms ...... 38 Earthquake ...... 38 Severe Lightning ...... 38 Downbursts, Hailstorms, Landslides, Radon, Drought ...... 38 Map 4: Potential Hazards and Losses...... 39
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Chapter 6. Development Trends ...... 40 Population and Housing Growth...... 40 Land Use ...... 41 Relation to Natural Hazards ...... 42
Chapter 7. Floodplain Management...... 43 Flooding in Deering...... 43 National Flood Insurance Program ...... 43 Repetitive Loss Properties ...... 44 Floodplain Management Goals/Reducing Flood Risks...... 45
Chapter 8. Local Hazard Mitigation Objectives ...... 46 Objectives ...... 46
Chapter 9. Existing Mitigation Strategies ...... 47 Description of Existing Programs and Activities ...... 47
Chapter 10. Newly Identified Mitigation Strategies ...... 50
Chapter 11. Evaluation and Implementation of Actions...... 53 Deering’s Mitigation Action Plan ...... 53 Cost to Benefit Analysis ...... 58
Chapter 12. Plan Monitoring, Evaluating, and Updating ...... 60 Maintenance and Update Schedule of the Hazard Mitigation Plan ...... 60 Implementation of the Plan Through Existing Programs ...... 61 Continued Public Involvement...... 62
Chapter 13. Appendix ...... 63 Process for Disaster Declaration in Deering ...... 63 Grant Programs for Disaster Relief ...... 66 Action Evaluation and Prioritization Matrix of the Hazard Mitigation Committee ...... 67 Publicity and Meeting Information for the Deering 2003 Hazard Mitigation Plan ...... 68
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List of Tables and Maps:
Table 1 - Deering Hazard Events 1727-Present ...... 17 Table 2 – Essential Facilities...... 27 Table 3 – Utilities...... 28 Table 4 – Dams ...... 28 Table 5 – Bridges...... 29 Table 6 - Schools ...... 29 Table 7 – Vulnerable Populations ...... 29 Table 8 – Economic Assets ...... 30 Table 9 – Cemeteries & Churches...... 31 Table 10 – Hazardous Materials Facilities...... 31 Table 11 – Historic Sites & Buildings ...... 32 Table 12 – Recreational or Gathering Sites...... 33 Table 13 – Overall Population and Housing Growth Trends in Deering, 1970-2000 ...... 40 Table 14 – Population Density in Deering, 1970-2000 ...... 40 Table 15 – Residential Building Permits Issued by Housing Type, April 1998 – September 2003.. 41 Table 16 – Land Use in Deering, 2003 ...... 42 Table 17 - Deering Policy and Loss Statistics, December 2002...... 44 Table 18 - Existing Mitigation Strategies ...... 47 Table 19 – Potential Mitigation Strategies...... 50 Table 20 – Deering’s Mitigation Action Plan 2003 ...... 54 Table 21 - Hazard Mitigation Committee Annual Future Meeting Schedule...... 60
Map 1: Potential Hazards Map 2: Past Hazards Map 3: Critical Facilities Map 4: Potential Hazards and Losses
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CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION
Town of Deering, New Hampshire Board of Selectmen A Resolution Adopting the Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan December 17, 2003
WHEREAS, the Town of Deering received funding from the NH Office of Emergency Management under a Flood Mitigation Assistance Project Grant to assist in the preparation of the Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan; and
WHEREAS, several public planning meetings were held between August and November 2003 regarding the development and review of the Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan contains several potential future projects to mitigate hazard damage in the Town of Deering; and
WHEREAS, a duly-noticed public hearing was held by the Deering Board of Selectmen on December 17, 2003 to formally approve and adopt the Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Deering Board of Selectmen adopts the Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan.
ADOPTED AND SIGNED this 17th day of December 2003.
______Beth Kelly, Chair Deering Board of Selectmen
______ATTEST Daniel Donovan
______Nancy Cowan, Town Clerk Michelle Johnson
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Deering Hazard Mitigation Committee was comprised of the following individuals who met from August through November 2003 to develop this Plan:
• Andy Anderson, Fire and Rescue Chief • Peter Beard, Road Agent • Bryan “Ace” Card, Emergency Management Director • Dan Donovan, Board of Selectmen • Donald Johnson, Friends of the Library, Town Historian • Keith Johnson, Planning Board • Michelle Johnson, Board of Selectmen • Beth Kelly, Board of Selectmen • Craig Olson, Code Enforcement • James Pushee, Police Chief • Hazel Vogelien, Planning Board
The following Central NH Regional Planning Commission staff contributed to the development of the Hazard Mitigation Plan:
• Stephanie Alexander, Principal Planner • Catherine Coletti, Assistant Planner • Stephen Lopez, GIS Technician
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CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
Background The Hazard Mitigation Plan for Deering is intended to provide information in the event of a natural disaster, to raise awareness of the vulnerability of facilities and structures of Deering to such disasters, and to provide measures to help offset the damages of a future disaster.
In 2000, the President enacted the Disaster Mitigation Act which requires states and municipalities to have local natural hazard mitigation plans in place in order to be eligible for disaster funding programs such as Community Development Block Grant, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Flood Mitigation Assistance Program, Mitigation Assistance Program, and Project Impact. NH is awarded funds based upon the completeness of its State Plan and upon the number of local plans in place.
As a result of the DMA, funding is being provided to state offices of emergency management to produce local hazard mitigation plans. The NH Office of Emergency Management provided funding to the nine regional planning commissions in NH in 2002 to work with three municipalities in their respective regions to produce such a plan. The Town of Deering approached the Central NH Regional Planning in fall, 2002, and both parties agreed to jointly complete a Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan in summer, 2003. Fully federally funded, there is no cost to the Town to produce this Plan.
A Local Hazard Advisory Committee was established which guided the development of the Plan. The Town Fire Department, Police Department, Building Inspector, Planning Board, Road Agent, and Town Administrator were invited to participate. Other interested residents were also invited.
Goals The overall goal of this Plan is to reduce future life and property losses caused by natural hazard events before they occur.
The general goals of the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Deering are:
• To identify natural hazards that may impact the Town; (such as floods, hurricanes, nor’easters, earthquakes, wildfire, and drought)
• To identify risks from these hazards; and (such as where the events are likely to occur and what the damage might be)
• To identify resources or techniques available to help lessen the impact of hazard events. (such as critical facilities protection and ordinance / regulation revision)
A number of objectives have been stated, similar to the State of NH’s hazard mitigation goals, which further specify the aims of Deering’s Hazard Mitigation Plan.
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Methodology The Hazard Mitigation Committee met on August 4, August 25, September 8, October 6, October 20, and November 3, 2003. For each meeting, CNHRPC staff created agendas and meeting summaries for the Hazard Mitigation Committee. The agendas, attendance sheets, and meeting summaries are included in the APPENDIX of the Plan.
The first Press Release about the Hazard Mitigation Plan and its process was sent to the Messenger, the Villager, and the Concord Monitor and was posted in the Town Office. A Press Release about the Hazard Mitigation Plan, its process, and future meeting dates was posted in the Town Office on August 21 and appeared in the Concord Monitor on August 24. Colorful flyers inviting people attend and notifying them of the scheduled meeting dates were posted at the Town Offices and the Fire Department on August 25. Copies of publicity for the Plan are included in the APPENDIX.
In between meetings, CNHRPC staff interviewed the local historians about what hazard events occurred in Deering and conducted research on the internet and at the State Library for information on hazards specific to Deering. CNHRPC staff collected information on the critical and at-risk facilities in Town, most of which were located by global positioning system, and produced the associated four maps for this Plan. CNHRPC staff researched structures within the floodplain through Town Office and FEMA sources and wrote this Hazard Mitigation Plan.
On November 19, the Committee made a final draft of this Plan available to Town Departments for review and comment. Included with the draft was a sign-off sheet, which was signed by Department heads to acknowledge that they have read and understood the document. The sign- off sheets are included in the APPENDIX.
On December 3, the Committee held a public input meeting. The purpose of the meeting was to obtain review and comment from the public for the Plan. The meeting was advertised by the Messenger on November 28, and flyers were posted at the Town Office, Deering General Store, Deering Center Church, and Donovan Station. Copies of this Plan were made available for review at the Town Office, Deering General Store, Deering Center Church, and Donovan Station on November 19. Copies of publicity for the Plan and flyers are included in the APPENDIX.
On December 17, 2003, the Deering Board of Selectmen held a duly-noticed public hearing to adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Deering. Copies were made available at the Town Office, Deering General Store, Deering Center Church, and Donovan Station for public review on December 5. Copies of the public notice and flyers are included in the APPENDIX.
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CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
The State of NH’s Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan recommends that municipalities examine the following natural hazards. The Deering Hazard Mitigation Plan incorporates the majority of the natural hazards listed within the State Plan; hazards such as tsunamis and phragmites australis were not deemed applicable to Deering.
Definitions of Hazards The following are definitions used within the State of New Hampshire Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Flooding Floods are defined as a temporary overflow of water onto lands that are not normally covered by water. Flooding results from the overflow of major rivers and tributaries, storm surges, and/or inadequate local drainage. Floods can cause loss of life, property damage, crop/livestock damage, and water supply contamination. Floods can also disrupt travel routes on roads and bridges.
Inland floods are most likely to occur in the spring due to the increase in rainfall and melting of snow; however, floods can occur at any time of year. A sudden thaw in the winter or a major downpour in the summer can cause flooding because there is suddenly a lot of water in one place with nowhere to go.
Hurricanes A hurricane is a tropical cyclone in which winds reach speeds of 74 miles per hour or more and blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center. Flooding is often caused from the coastal storm surge of the ocean and torrential rains, both of which accompany the storm. These floods can result in loss of lives and property.
100-year Floodplain Events Floodplains are usually located in lowlands near rivers, and flood on a regular basis. The term 100-year flood does not mean that a flood will occur once every 100 years. It is a statement of probability that scientists and engineers use to describe how one flood compares to others that are likely to occur. It is more accurate to use the phrase “1% annual chance flood”. What it means is that there is a 1% chance of a flood of that size happening in any year.
Erosion and Mudslides Erosion is the process of wind and water wearing away soil. Typically in NH, the land along rivers is relatively heavily developed. Mudslides may be formed when a layer of soil atop a slope becomes saturated by significant precipitation and slides along a more cohesive layer of soil or rock.
Erosion and mudslides become significant threats to development during floods. Floods speed up the process of erosion and increase the risk of mudslides.
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Rapid Snow Pack Melt Warm temperatures and heavy rains cause rapid snowmelt. Quickly melting snow coupled with moderate to heavy rains are prime conditions for flooding.
River Ice Jams Rising waters in early spring often breaks ice into chunks, which float downstream and often pile up, causing flooding. Small rivers and streams pose special flooding risks because they are easily blocked by jams. Ice in riverbeds and against structures presents significant flooding threats to bridges, roads, and the surrounding lands.
Dam Breach and Failure Dam failure results in rapid loss of water that is normally held by the dam. These kinds of floods are extremely dangerous and pose a significant threat to both life and property.
Severe Storms Flooding associated with severe storms can inflict heavy damage to property. Heavy rains during severe storms are a common cause of inland flooding.
Wind Significantly high winds occur especially during hurricanes, tornadoes, winter storms, and thunderstorms. Falling objects and downed power lines are dangerous risks associated with high winds. In addition, property damage and downed trees are common during high wind occurrences.
Hurricanes A hurricane is a tropical cyclone in which winds reach speeds of 74 miles per hour or more and blow in a large spiral around a relatively calm center. The eye of the storm is usually 20-30 miles wide and may extend over 400 miles. High winds are a primary cause of hurricane-inflicted loss of life and property damage.
Tornadoes A tornado is a violent windstorm characterized by a twisting, funnel shaped cloud. They develop when cool air overrides a layer of warm air, causing the warm air to rise rapidly. The atmospheric conditions required for the formation of a tornado include great thermal instability, high humidity, and the convergence of warm, moist air at low levels with cooler, drier air aloft. Most tornadoes remain suspended in the atmosphere, but if they touch down they become a force of destruction.
Tornadoes produce the most violent winds on earth, at speeds of 280 mph or more. In addition, tornadoes can travel at a forward speed of up to 70 mph. Damage paths can be in excess of one mile wide and 50 miles long. Violent winds and debris slamming into buildings cause the most structural damage.
The Fujita Scale is the standard scale for rating the severity of a tornado as measured by the damage it causes. A tornado is usually accompanied by thunder, lightning, heavy rain, and a loud "freight train" noise. In comparison with a hurricane, a tornado covers a much smaller area but can be more violent and destructive.
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Nor’easters A Nor’easter is defined as a large weather system traveling from south to north, passing along or near the seacoast. As the storm approaches New England and its intensity becomes increasingly apparent, the resulting counterclockwise cyclonic winds impact the coast and inland areas from a northeasterly direction. The sustained winds may meet or exceed hurricane force with larger bursts, and may exceed hurricane events by many hours (even days) in terms of duration.
Downbursts A downburst is a severe localized wind blasting down from a thunderstorm. These "straight line" winds are distinguishable from tornadic activity by the pattern of destruction and debris. Downbursts fall into two categories: • microburst, which covers an area less than 2.5 miles in diameter and • macroburst, which covers an area at least 2.5 miles in diameter.
Severe Thunderstorms All thunderstorms contain lightning. During a lightning discharge, the sudden heating of the air causes it to expand rapidly. After the discharge, the air contracts quickly as it cools back to ambient temperatures. This rapid expansion and contraction of the air causes a shock wave that we hear as thunder, a shock wave that can damage building walls and break glass.
Lightning Lightning is a giant spark of electricity that occurs within the atmosphere or between the atmosphere and the ground. As lightning passes through the air, it heats the air to a temperature of about 50,000 degrees Fahrenheit, considerably hotter than the surface of the Sun. Lightning strikes can cause death, injury, and property damage.
Hail Hailstones are balls of ice that grow as they're held up by winds, known as updrafts, that blow upwards in thunderstorms. The updrafts carry droplets of supercooled water - water at a below freezing temperature - but not yet ice. The supercooled water droplets hit the balls of ice and freeze instantly, making the hailstones grow. The faster the updraft, the bigger the stones can grow. Most hailstones are smaller in diameter than a dime, but stones weighing more than a pound have been recorded. Details of how hailstones grow are complicated, but the results are irregular balls of ice that can be as large as baseballs, sometimes even bigger. While crops are the major victims, hail is also a hazard to vehicles and windows.
Wildfire Wildfire is defined as an uncontrolled and rapidly spreading fire.
Forest Fires and Grass Fires A forest fire is an uncontrolled fire in a woody area. They often occur during drought and when woody debris on the forest floor is readily available to fuel the fire. Grass fires are uncontrolled fires in grassy areas.
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Ice & Snow Events Ice and snow events typically occur during the winter months and can cause loss of life, property damage, and tree damage.
Heavy Snow Storms A winter storm can range from moderate snow to blizzard conditions. Blizzard conditions are considered blinding wind-driven snow over 35 mph that lasts several days. A severe winter storm deposits four or more inches of snow during a 12-hour period or six inches of snow during a 24-hour period.
Ice Storms An ice storm involves rain, which freezes upon impact. Ice coating at least one-fourth inch in thickness is heavy enough to damage trees, overhead wires, and similar objects. Ice storms also often produce widespread power outages.
Nor’easters A Nor’easter is defined as a large weather system traveling from South to North, passing along, or near the seacoast. As the storm approaches New England, and its intensity becomes increasingly apparent, the resulting counterclockwise cyclonic winds impact the coast and inland areas form a Northeasterly direction. In the winter months, oftentimes blizzard conditions accompany these events. The added impact of the masses of snow and/or ice upon infrastructure often affects transportation and the delivery of goods and services for extended periods.
Earthquakes/Landslides Geologic events are often associated with California, but New England is considered a moderate risk earthquake zone.
Earthquake An earthquake is a rapid shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth's surface. Earthquakes can cause buildings and bridges to collapse, disrupt gas, electric and phone lines, and often cause landslides, flash floods, fires, and avalanches. Larger earthquakes usually begin with slight tremors but rapidly take the form of one or more violent shocks, and end in vibrations of gradually diminishing force called aftershocks. The underground point of origin of an earthquake is called its focus; the point on the surface directly above the focus is the epicenter. The magnitude and intensity of an earthquake is determined by the use of scales such as the Richter scale and Mercalli scale.
Landslide A landslide is the downward or outward movement of slope forming materials reacting under the force of gravity including: mudflows, mudslides, debris flows, rockslides, debris avalanches, debris slides and earth flows. Landslides have damaged or destroyed roads, railroads, pipelines, electrical and telephone lines, mines, oil wells buildings, canals, sewers, bridges, dams, seaports, airports, forests, parks and farms.
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Drought A drought is defined as a long period of abnormally low precipitation, especially one that adversely affects growing or living conditions. Droughts are rare in NH. They generally are not as damaging and disruptive as floods and are more difficult to define. The effect of droughts is indicated through measurements of soil moisture, groundwater levels, and streamflow. However, not all of these indicators will be minimal during a drought. For example, frequent minor rainstorms can replenish the soil moisture without raising ground-water levels or increasing streamflow. Low streamflow also correlates with low ground-water levels because ground water discharge to streams and rivers maintains streamflow during extended dry periods. Low streamflow and low ground-water levels commonly cause diminished water supply.
Radon Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas with carcinogenic properties. The gas is a common problem in many states, including NH. Data collected by the NH Office of Community and Public Health’s Bureau of Radiological Health indicates that one third of the houses in NH have indoor radon levels that exceed the US Environmental Protection Agency’s "action level" of four picocuries per liter for at least some portion of the year.
Radon may also enter homes dissolved in drinking water from drilled wells. High levels of radon in water from individual drilled wells is a common occurrence in NH.
Map 1: Potential Hazards The first map in this four-part series depicts where hazards are likely to occur in Deering. Map 1: Potential Hazards is featured at the back of this Plan. Areas where flooding regularly occurs and the floodplains are shown with wetlands and the Town’s water features. Areas identified as icy are noted in addition to Deering’s steep slopes (>15%). Lightning strikes and evacuation routes out of Town are also shown. The intent of this map is to portray a picture of which areas of town may be more vulnerable to certain types of hazards.
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CHAPTER 3. PROFILE OF HAZARD EVENTS IN DEERING
This Chapter seeks to identify hazard events that have occurred within Deering. Narrative descriptions are provided, and additional research has uncovered historical data and data which may indirectly refer to Deering from a county- or state-wide context; all of the findings are then summarized in tabular form.
Past and Potential Hazard Events in Deering Hazard events were researched using a wide variety of sources. Sources and techniques included interviewing local townspeople, information from the State of NH Hazard Mitigation Plan, and information from governmental or non-profit web sites.
A compilation of hazards that have impacted Deering in the past appears in a chart form at the end of this section. For those hazards with more information available, a detailed description is also provided in Table 1. Within Deering, the risk of each main hazard has been identified as a high (H), medium (M), or low (L) possibility for future occurrence based on past and potential events as indicated in the following chapters and as mapped on Map 1: Potential Hazards and Map 2: Past Hazards.
Flooding Second only to winter storms, riverine flooding is the most common natural disaster to impact NH. Floods are a common and costly hazard. They are most likely to occur in the spring due to the increase in rainfall and melting of snow. However, they can occur anytime of year as a result of heavy rains, hurricane, or Nor’easter.
The likelihood of another flood in Deering seems high. The Town is susceptible to flooding because of the close proximity of the Contoocook and Piscataquog Rivers to population centers.
Hurricanes (Flooding) Hurricane season begins on June 1 and continues through the end of November. August and September are the most active hurricane months. It is not uncommon for New England to be impacted by a hurricane more than once in a season. River flooding due to heavy rains is a risk to Deering during hurricanes.
Hurricane of 1938 One of the worst natural disasters to hit Deering was the Hurricane of 1938; the Deering Town History describes the town as a disaster area. According to one town historian, it rained heavily for days preceding the hurricane. The Deering Dam went out. Town History states that the “damage was unbelievable”. It was as if a tidal wave was roaring down the Piscataquog River, flooding fields, roads, taking out bridges, and tearing down trees and buildings. The volume of water washed out the Weare Dam. Roads were flooded, preventing access to the outside world, and shutting down the schools. The extensive flooding in Deering became vital factors in the future flood control measures taken in the State.
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The hurricane was catastrophic throughout the state. Thirteen people died in New Hampshire; no deaths occurred in Deering. This was also the worst hurricane to ever strike New England, resulting in 564 deaths and over 1700 injuries (Northeast States Emergency Consortium).
Other Hurricanes Hurricane Carol (1954) did not cause nearly as much damage as the Hurricane of 1938, however some damage was done to roads. Several other hurricanes have impacted NH and may have impacted Deering, including Donna (September 1960), Gloria (September 1985), and Bob (August 1991), but their impact was not severe. Some heavy rains most likely occurred during these events.
100-year Floodplain Events No specific records to report; however homes in the floodplain would be at risk during these types of events. Currently, there are 161 manufactured homes and 66 single family dwellings (total of 227) located within the 100-year and 500-year floodplain in Deering in addition to one (1) non-residential structures. While living in a 100-year floodplain, there is a 26% chance of flood loss (Northeast States Emergency Consortium).
Erosion and Mudslides No records of mudslides have been found to occur in Deering.
Ice Jams and Rapid Snow Pack Melt (Flooding) Historically, hundreds of ice jams have occurred in NH. Warm temperatures and heavy rains cause rapid snowmelt. Rising water breaks ice into chunks, floats downstream and piles up, causing floods. There are currently no records of ice jams in Deering. Due to Deering’s close proximity to the Contoocook and Piscataquog Rivers, it seems probable that an ice jam could occur. However, flooding caused by rapid snowmelt has occurred.
Flood, 1936 Caused by heavy snowfall totals, heavy rains, and warm weather all at the same time, run-off from melting snow with rain overflowed many rivers in NH. The Contoocook River flooded an extensive area in West Deering.
April 16, 1987 Heavy rain combined with snowmelt caused flooding in seven NH counties, including Hillsborough County. This event resulted in a disaster declaration that totaled $4,888,889 in damage.
Dam Breach and Failure (Flooding) There are currently seven (7) active dams in Deering in the New Hampshire Dam database maintained by the Department of Environmental Services Dam Bureau. According to RSA 482:2 II, a dam is any artificial barrier which impounds or diverts water, has a height of four feet or more or has a storage capacity of two acre-feet or more, or is located at the outlet of a great pond. Inactive dams are defined as dams that do not meet the legal definition of a dam.
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There are five (5) inactive dams listed in Deering that do not meet the above definition and may be in ruins, breached, removed, or never built.
Every dam is categorized into one of four classifications, which are differentiated by the degree of potential damages that a failure of the dam is expected to cause. The classifications are designated as AA, A, B, and C. The AA rating signifies a non-hazardous structure while the C rating reflects a high hazard dam. Deering has three (3) Class AA, three (3) Class A, one (1) Class B, and no Class C dams.
Hurricane of 1938 The Deering Dam went out, and with 325 acres of water behind it, acted like a tidal wave roaring down the Piscataquog River, flooding fields, roads, taking down bridges, and tearing down trees and buildings.
Severe Storms (Flooding) The likelihood of severe storms impacting Deering with flooding seems high. Again, the close proximity to the Contoocook makes the town susceptible to flooding.
Great Freshet of 1852 In 1852, a great freshet damaged mills, roads, and bridges.
Flood, 1921 On July 4, 1921 an unusually cold day for summer was also the day of heavy flooding in West Deering. There was a frost in the morning and the temperature did not reach above forty degrees.
July/August 1986 Severe summer storms with heavy rains, tornadoes, flash floods and severe winds occurred in July/August 1986. These storms were a detriment to the road network statewide (Office of Emergency Management).
August 27, 1986 Severe storms caused heavy flooding in Cheshire and Hillsborough counties, and resulted In a disaster declaration, totaling $1,005,000 for both counties.
August 7-11, 1990 A series of storm events with moderate to heavy rains on August 7-11, caused flooding in eight counties, including Hillsborough County, and resulted in a disaster declaration. Damage totaled $2,297,777 for all counties (Office of Emergency Management).
October, 1996 In October 1996, heavy rains caused flooding in six counties, including Merrimack County. A disaster was declared and damage totaled $2,341,273 for all counties (Office of Emergency Management).
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Wind Numerous recorded wind events have occurred within Deering over the last 250 years. The likelihood of future wind events in Town seems high.
Hurricanes (Wind) Hurricane season begins on June 1 and continues through the end of November. August and September are the most active hurricane months. It is not uncommon for New England to be impacted by a hurricane more than once in a season. It seems probable that Deering will be impacted by heavy winds as a result of a hurricane again in the future.
Hurricane of October 18-19, 1778 Portions of NH experienced 40-75 mph winds. It is unknown if Deering was one of those areas (Office of Emergency Management).
Hurricane of October 9, 1804 Portions of NH experienced winds over 50 mph. It is unknown if Deering was among those areas (Office of Emergency Management).
Hurricane of September 21, 1938 High winds and heavy flooding made this hurricane particularly severe. As reported in the Concord Monitor in September 1938, the hurricane was “the sharpest setback the state has ever experienced.” Thirteen deaths and 1,363 families received assistance as a result of the hurricane. Other loses included smashed homes, crippled communications lines, blocked roads, and a total direct loses of $12,337,643 (1938 dollars). The timber industry was hit hard with the loss of trees. Damage to trees in NH was between $2,000,000 and $3,000,000. This was also the worst hurricane to ever strike New England, resulting in 564 deaths and over 1700 injuries.
In Deering, wind had a particularly devastating impact to farms. Damage to specific farms was listed in the Town History. Many farmers were destroyed by the hurricane, including the farm of one of the town historians’ father. All of their chicken coops and chickens were blown away, and the roof of their barn was lifted off. Other farmers also lost their hen houses, including Stuart Michie, who according to the Town History, saw the hurricane pick up his henhouse and the hens sucked up into the trees. In addition, the barn opposite disintegrated; boards, shingles, and all kinds of debris were flying through the air. Ebenezer Locke’s pigpen was carried away, but fortunately the pigs remained. There was also a devastating impact to trees in Deering. Most of the pines in Town were torn down. The Town History states, “Arthur Ellsworth wept bitter tears, realizing his great loss; he had counted on these prize trees, some virgin, to be his life’s savings.”
Other Hurricanes Deering has been impacted by several other hurricanes, including Hurricanes Carol (September 31, 1954), Donna (September 12, 1960), Gloria (September 27, 1985), and Bob (August 19, 1991). Damage caused by these hurricanes was minimal.
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Tornadoes (Wind) Tornadoes can occur at anytime of the year, although they are rare outside of the warm season. The peak months of tornado occurrence in the Northeast are June through August, with August being the most frequent month. Thunderstorms have been responsible for spawning tornadoes in many parts of New England. On average six tornadoes per year touchdown somewhere in New England. Damage from tornadoes is caused as a result of high wind velocity and wind blown debris.
Between 1791 and 1821, six tornadoes rated F2 or higher on the Fujita Tornado Damage Scale (winds between 113-157 mph causing considerable damage) have occurred in Hillsborough County (Office of Emergency Management). The worst tornado to strike Deering was rated an F3 (winds between 158-206 mph causing severe damage, which includes roofs and some walls torn off well constructed homes, and heavy cars lifted and thrown) and occurred on August 20, 1968. The worst tornado ever to strike New England was the Worcester Tornado of July 9, 1953. Within one minute 90 people were killed and over 1,300 injured. Damage was estimated to exceed $52 million.
June 23, 1892 According to the Deering Town History, a cyclone-like wind blew in the end of one resident’s barn and part of the roof.
December 13,1900 According to the Deering Town History, a cyclone tore off the top of one resident’s chimney, damaging a large part of the house.
February, 1920 Large trees were blown down on the crossroad between the Deering Conference Center and East Deering.
August 20, 1968 The Deering Town History describes this tornado as “a freak twister, lasting only several minutes, ripped a crazy course through Deering with nightmarish terror and damage.” This tornado inflicted severe tree damage in its path from Bear Hill to the Sodom area in Deering to Weare. It also lifted the roof off of a building where 17 girls were camping on East Deering Road. At the Peter Wood Farm, maples planted during the Civil War were uprooted and some automobiles had been picked up. The barn also went down and debris was scattered all over. A section of the barn was found later near the Weare Reservoir, a mile and a half away.
Nor’easters (Wind) Unlike the relatively infrequent hurricane, New Hampshire generally experiences at least one or two Nor’easters each year with varying degrees of severity. These storms have the potential to inflict more damage than many hurricanes because the high storm surge (in primarily coastal locations) and the high winds which can last from 12 hours to three days, while the duration of hurricanes ranges from six to 12 hours.
Damage caused by high winds during a Nor’easter is a likely future event to occur in Deering due to the commonality of these types of storms.
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Downbursts (Wind)
July 6, 1999 A downburst impacted three counties in NH, including Hillsborough County. It resulted in 2 deaths. Also, two roofs were blown off and widespread power outages occurred. The downburst was designated a macroburst (at least 2.5 miles in diameter) (Office of Emergency Management).
High Winds
January 19, 1810 According to the Deering Town History, there were gale force winds, but no snow.
Ice & Snow Events Winter snow events are as common in Deering as they are in the entire western half of New Hampshire. Deering’s steep slopes and hills, numerous Class VI and gravel roads, Route 149, and its magnitude of water features suggest a high potential for icing, damage, power outages, and impassibility when ice and storm events hit. The likelihood of future ice and snow events in Deering is high.
Heavy Snow Storms There are numerous heavy snowstorms that have impacted the central NH region in the past. Many of these do not include detailed information on the impacts, however usually infrastructure, including critical facilities, are impacted by heavy snow. The added impact of the masses of snow and/or ice upon infrastructure often affects transportation and the delivery of goods and services for extended periods. Power outages are also a common impact during snowstorms. For a complete list of heavy snows and snowfall accumulations, see the table at the end of this chapter. The following descriptions are of heavy snowstorms that have additional detail.
March 11-14, 1888 Snow accumulations were between 36-40 inches. The Deering Town Meeting was canceled, there was no mail for 5 days, and trains were delayed for 2 days. Drifts were gigantic and sometimes covered small buildings. Deering was paralyzed.
Winter, 1943 Many residents were snowed in during a heavy snow storm in 1943. One town historian remembers school being canceled for one month. There were 20 foot high drifts on the dam by the reservoir.
February/March, 1969 Snow accumulations between 24-98 inches throughout the state with higher totals in western NH, according to the American Meteorological Society. According to the Deering Town History, winter storms during these two months rivaled the 1888 blizzard.
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Snowstorms are a commonality for people living in New England during the winter. New England usually experiences at least one or two Nor’easters with varying degrees of severity each year. Severe winter storms, including Nor’easters, typically occur during January and February. However, winter storms can occur from late September through late May.
All winter storms make walking and driving extremely dangerous. The elderly and very young are at high risk during winter storms and may be affected by hypothermia and isolation. During winter storms, there is an increased risk of fire because people may lose electricity and use candles, portable gas stoves, and other flammable sources of heat and light (Northeast States Emergency Consortium).
The likelihood of Deering experiencing another severe winter storm is high due to weather conditions in New England during the winter.
Ice Storms It seems likely that Deering could be impacted by an ice storm in the future. Powerlines and trees would be susceptible to damage during ice storms.
December 17-20, 1929 On December 17-20, 1929, an ice storm caused unprecedented disruption and damage to telephone, telegraph and power systems throughout the State. It is unknown how severe the storm was in Deering (Office of Emergency Management).
December 29-30, 1942 On December 29-30, 1942, a severe ice storm impacted the entire State. It is unknown what impacts this storm had on Deering (Office of Emergency Management).
December 22, 1969-January 17, 1970 Many communities experienced power disruption during this span of time; it is unknown if Deering was among them (Office of Emergency Management).
January 8-25, 1979 Impacts from this ice storm were felt throughout the state of NH. There were major disruptions to power and transportation in many communities. It is unknown what effects were felt in Deering (Office of Emergency Management).
April, Mid-1980s An ice storm damaged powerlines. Power was lost in outlying areas, such as Newmarket Road, for up to three days (anecdotal evidence from Town Librarian).
March 3-6, 1991 This storm impacted the entire state of NH. Numerous outages from ice-laden power lines in southern NH occurred (Office of Emergency Management).
January 7, 1998 This ice storm had severe impacts throughout most of the state. Six injuries and one death resulted. Damage totaled $12,446,202. In addition, there were 20 major road closures, 67,586 people left without electricity, and 2,310 people without phone service (Office of Emergency Management).
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In Deering, the ice storm took out powerlines, causing power outages that lasted ten days in northern Deering. Heavy tree damage was also inflicted by the storm.
Cold Events
Poverty Year, 1816 This was a remarkably cold year and late frosts in spring and early frosts in the fall made the corn crop a total failure. In some parts of NH, snow fell several inches in June and in September corn froze to the center of the cob. The next year, 1817, is referred to as the Mackerel year, because no farm animals for meat were able to be raised during the previous year, and people depended on mackerel for animal food for themselves (Remarkable Natural Events, History of Sutton). This was considered the year without a summer.
Severe Thunderstorms Although few records or accounts of thunderstorms are provided, they are generally common occurrences. With much of the Town’s elevation over 800’, the likelihood of damage from severe thunderstorms seems high.
Lightning Strike, Clement Hill Road, 1996 Lightning struck a pine tree on Clement Hill Road and a pulse of light traveled from the tree to the barn.
Wildfire According to the Deering Town History, there have been a few severe wildfires that have occurred in the past. Hedgehog Mountain, the highest point and one of the most forested in Town, is inaccessible by large vehicles. The likelihood of wildfire striking Deering in the future, particularly in remote areas, seems high.
Summer and Fall, 1908 Four forest fires burned a total of four hundred acres of woodland, causing $1,200 in damage and costing $450 to suppress. In October several forest fires burned around the reservoir and Hedgehog Mountain.
Sodom Fire, 1911 This fire covered five hundred acres and caused $24,000 in damage, destroying one home and endangering many others, causing some residents to pack up their belongings in case they had to flee their homes. Residents fought this fire for 3 or 4 weeks before a light rain finally helped to put it out. The Town History states, “James Locke, Deering Fire Warden, was praised for the masterly manner in which he organized the plans, especially with the backfire by Dudley Pond, that culminated in stopping this fire that had seemed beyond all human control.” The Deering Town History also describes this as an extremely dry year.
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Earthquakes Between 1728-1989, there have been 270 earthquakes in NH (Northeast Emergency Consortium). Four of these earthquakes were of a Richter Magnitude scale of 4.2 or more (Northeast Emergency Consortium). Two of these occurred in Ossipee, one west of Laconia, and one near the Quebec border.
Historically, New England has experienced some earthquakes. For instance, an earthquake on November 18, 1755 caused damage to the New England coastline. New England experiences an average of 30-40 earthquakes per year, but most are not felt.
There have been a few earthquakes that have occurred in Deering, according to the Town History (1790, September 5, 1944, and 1957). The damage caused by these earthquakes is unknown. In addition, one town historian remembers a small tremor in the north Deering area that cracked some cement. A few small seismic lines are found throughout Town. The likelihood of a future earthquake striking Deering is perhaps a medium possibility.
Drought Periods of drought have occurred historically in NH. The longest recorded continuous spell of less than normal precipitation occurred between 1960-69. In 1999, a drought warning was issued by the Governor’s Office. In March 2002, all counties in NH with the exception of Coos County were declared in Drought Emergency. This was the first time that low-water conditions had progressed beyond the Level Two, Drought Warning, stage. In March 2002, some residents of town had their wells go dry. The likelihood of another drought affecting Deering in the future is a medium possibility.
Radon In NH, radon gas is a common problem. However, homes with high levels of airborne radon are most prevalent in the north, east and southeast portions of the State, making Deering at a relatively low risk for contamination in homes/buildings. Also, people with drilled wells are at risk for contamination of radon in their drinking water. Because of the likelihood of the presence of radon in Deering, this hazard is rated a medium.
Other Numerous other hazards, some of which are human-made, have affected Deering. The likelihood of these and other unlisted hazards of recurring in the future is of a medium possibility.
Plane Crash, June 1981 A Hawthorne College DC-3 1936 plane overladen with supplies attempted to take off at the Deering Airport but crash landed before it flew too far from the ground. The pilot and copilot were not injured, but the plane was destroyed by the impact and by fire. It was the most severe plane crash in Deering’s history. A picture board in the Fire Department depicts the take off and subsequent crash chronology.
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Past Hazard Events That Have Impacted Deering Within the past 275 years, a number of moderate and severe natural disasters have impacted Deering and the surrounding region. While most of the data within the following table has been recorded within the 20th century, some of the disasters were recorded between 1635 and 1892.
Table 1 Deering Hazard Events 1635-Present Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Flood 1852 Deering, NH A great freshet damaged mills, Deering Town highways, and bridges. History
Flood July 4, 1921 Deering, NH A flood did great damage in West Deering Town Deering. There was a frost in the History morning, and the temperature did not reach above forty degrees all day.
Flood March 11-21, Throughout Contoocook River flooded an Caused by heavy Northeast States 1936 state of NH extensive area in West Deering. snowfall totals, heavy Emergency rains and warm Consortium, Office weather at the same of Emergency time, Run-off from Management, melting snow with rain Deering Town overflowed the rivers. History
Flood September NH and The Deering Dam went out. Town Associated with Concord Monitor 21, 1938 Southern New History states that the “damage was Hurricane. September 22, England unbelievable”. It was as if a tidal 1938, Town wave was roaring down the Historians Piscataquog River, flooding fields, roads, taking out bridges, and tearing down trees and buildings. The volume of water of water washed out the Weare Dam. Roads were flooded, preventing access to the outside world and schools were shut down.
Flood July, 1986- Throughout Road network impacted statewide. Severe summer storms Office of August 10, state of NH with heavy rains, Emergency 1986 tornadoes, flash flood Management and severe winds.
Flood August 27, Cheshire & FEMA Disaster Declaration # 771, Severe storms and Office of 1986 Hillsborough $1,005,000. flooding. Emergency Counties Management
Flood April 16, Cheshire, FEMA Disaster Declaration # 789 Caused by snowmelt Office of 1987 Carroll, $4,888,889 in damage. and intense rain. Emergency Grafton, Management Hillsborough Merrimack, Rockingham & Sullivan Counties
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Flood August 7-11, Belknap, FEMA Disaster Declaration #-876, A series of storm Office of 1990 Carroll, $2,297,777 in damage. events with moderate Emergency Cheshire, to heavy rains. Management Coos, Grafton, Hillsborough Merrimack & Sullivan Counties
Flood October Grafton, FEMA Disaster Declaration #-1144. Heavy rains. Office of 1996 Hillsborough $2,341,273 in damage. Emergency Merrimack, Management Rockingham, Strafford & Sullivan Counties
Hurricane August, 1635 Unknown Unknown. Office of Emergency Management
Hurricane October 18- Portions of NH Unknown. 40-75 mph winds. Office of 19, 1778 Emergency Management
Hurricane October 9, Portions of NH Extreme cold and gale force winds. Referred to as “a snow Office of 1804 hurricane”. Emergency Management, Deering Town History
Hurricane September Portions of NH In Deering, timber was felled like Also referred to as Deering Town 15, 1815 matchsticks with great loss to many “the big wind”. History Deering farmers.
Hurricane September Portions of NH Unknown. >50 mph winds. Office of 8, 1869 Emergency Management
Hurricane September All of 13 dead of 494 injured in NH (none in Office of 21, 1938 Southern New Deering). Emergency England $12,337,643 total storm losses (1938 Management, dollars) statewide, state damage to Concord Monitor trees was between $2,000,000 and September 1938, $3,000,000, electric and telephone Town Historian, service disrupted, structures Deering Town damaged, and heavy flooding, History Deering experienced heavy wind damage throughout town, many farms never recovered from their losses, and their was heavy tree loss. Town Historian’s farm had 1,000 chickens blown away and a barn roof lifted.
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Hurricane August 31, Southern New Extensive tree and crop damage in Office of (Carol) 1954 England NH. In Deering, roads were damaged. Emergency Management, Deering Town History
Hurricane September Southern and Heavy flooding in some parts of the Office of (Donna) 12, 1960 Central NH state. Emergency Management
Hurricane September Southern New Unknown Office of (Gloria) 27, 1985 England Emergency Management
Hurricane (Bob) August 19, Southern New Unknown. Office of 1991 England Emergency Management
Downburst July 6, 1999 Merrimack, Two fatalities and two roofs blown off Macroburst (areas at Office of Grafton and with widespread power outages least 2.5 miles in Emergency Hillsborough throughout these counties. diameter). Management Counties, NH
Tornado July 28, 1748 Hillsborough Unknown. Office of County Emergency Management
Tornado May 21, 1814 Hillsborough Unknown. Office of County Emergency Management
Tornado June 23, Deering, NH Cyclone-like wind and hailstorms- Deering Town 1892 blew in the end of one resident’s History barn and part of the roof.
Tornado December Deering, NH Cyclone tore off the top of one Deering Town 13, 1900 resident’s chimney in large part of History the house.
Tornado September Hillsborough Unknown. Rated F2. Office of 15, 1922 County Emergency Management
Tornado February, Deering, NH Large trees were blown down on the Deering Town 1920 Crossroad between the Deering History Conference Center and East Deering.
Tornado July 2, 1961 Hillsborough Unknown. Rated F2. Office of County Emergency Management
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Tornado June 9, 1963 Hillsborough Unknown. Rated F2. Office of County Emergency Management
Tornado July 19, 1966 Hillsborough Unknown. Rated F2. Office of County Emergency Management
Tornado July 17, 1968 Hillsborough Unknown. Rated F2. Office of County Emergency Management
Tornado August 20, Hillsborough Tornado from Bear Hill to Sodom area Rated F3. Deering Town 1968 County, to Weare, destroyed many trees, and Historian, Deering Deering, NH lifted off the roof where 17 girls were Town History camping at a camp on East Deering Road.
Heavy Wind January 19, Deering, NH Gale force winds, but no snow. Deering Town 1810 History
Snowstorm April 1, 1807 NH Greatest springtime snowstorm in the Deering Town history of NH. History
Snowstorm January, Deering, NH A snowstorm accompanied by rain, Deering Town 1817 lightning, and thunder also caused History fence posts, logs, and bushes to appear luminous and glowing.
Snowstorm September Deering, NH Earliest recorded snowstorm. Deering Town 30, 1844 History
Snowstorm 1859 Deering, NH Severe blizzard. Deering Town History
Snowstorm March 11-14, All of New The Deering Town Meeting was Snow accumulations Deering Town 1888 England canceled, there was no mail for five 36-40 inches, one of History days, and trains were delayed for 2 the most severe winter days. Drifts were gigantic and described “as the sometimes covered small buildings. biggest blizzard ever Deering was paralyzed. to be known in these parts” in Deering Town History.
Snowstorm Winter, 1920 Deering, NH Severe snowstorm. Deering Town History
Snowstorm May 8, 1921 Deering, NH Almost one foot of snow fell. Deering Town History
Snowstorm 1939 Deering, NH Annual Town Meeting postponed. Deering Town History
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Snowstorm Winter, 1943 Deering, NH Heavy storm snowed in many Town Historian residents, school was canceled for one month, 20 foot high drifts on the dam by the Reservoir.
Snowstorm May 10, 1945 Deering, NH An eight inch snowfall covered lilac Deering Town and apple trees which were in full History blossom.
Snowstorm March, 1959 Deering, NH Blizzard conditions. Deering Town History
Snowstorm May, 1966 Deering, NH Unknown. Deering Town History
Snowstorm February, State of NH According to the Deering Town Snow accumulations American March 1969 History, winter storms during between 24-98 inches Meteorological February and March rivaled the 1888 (higher totals in Society, Deering blizzard. western NH), slow Town History moving storm with long duration.
Snowstorm December State of NH Unknown. Snow accumulations American 25-28, 1969 12-18 inches in most Meteorological areas. Society
Snowstorm February, State of NH Heavy snow accumulations. Town Historian 1978
Snowstorm March, 1993 New England Unknown. Northeast States Emergency Consortium
Snowstorm February, New England Unknown. Snow, ice, bitter Suncook-Hooksett 1996 temperatures Banner, March 7, throughout central NH. 1996, Northeast States Emergency Consortium
Snowstorm March, 2001 New England Unknown Northeast States Emergency Consortium
Ice Storm December State of NH Disruption to telephone, telegraph, U.S. Army Corps of 17-20, 1929 and power systems. Engineers NH Ice Storms
Ice Storm December State of NH Unknown Glaze storm of severe U.S. Army Corps of 29-30, 1942 intensity. Engineers NH Ice Storms
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Ice Storm December State of NH Power disruption to many U.S. Army Corps of 22, 1969- communities. Engineers NH Ice January Storms 17,1970
Ice storm January 8- State of NH Major disruptions to power and U.S. Army Corps of 25, 1979 transportation. Engineers NH Ice Storms
Ice storm March 3-6, State of NH Numerous outages from ice-laden U.S. Army Corps of 1991 power lines in southern NH. Engineers NH Ice Storms
Ice storm January 7, State of NH, FEMA Disaster Declaration-1199. Six U.S. Army Corps of 1998 52 injuries and one fatality, 20 major Engineers NH Ice communities road closures, 67,586 without Storms, Office of in nine electricity, 2,310 without phone Emergency counties service, $12,446,202 in damages, In Management, Town impacted northern Deering the power was out Historian for 10 days, and there was extensive tree damage throughout Town.
Extreme Cold January 18, Deering, NH Cattle perished in the extreme cold, Known as “Cold 1816 birds were killed. Friday”.
Extreme Cold 1816 Deering, and This was a very cold year with snow The following year was Remarkable Sutton NH falling in June and late frosts in the called the Mackerel Natural Events, spring as well as early frosts in the year because people History of Sutton, fall, crops were badly damaged. It depended on mackerel Town Historian, was considered the year without a for animal food. Deering Town summer. History, Deering Town Historian
Extreme Cold December, Deering, NH The coldest December on record. 1831
Extreme Cold January 5, Deering, NH The temperature reached the lowest Known as “The Cold Deering Town 1835 readings ever recorded for an entire Week” History week, the most frigid Arctic blast to penetrate the southern New England countryside.
Extreme Cold February, Deering, NH Extreme temperature drop. Deering Town 1861 History
Extreme Cold Fall, 1919 Deering, NH Fall was very cold, snow started Deering Town early. History
Extreme Cold February, Deering, NH It was below zero for several days, Deering Town 1920 finally dropping to fifty degrees History below.
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Extreme Cold February, Deering, NH Coldest month in forty-nine yeas- Deering Town 1934 some days it was forty degrees below History zero.
Extreme Cold February 28, Deering, NH Temperature plummeted to fifty Deering Town 1943 degrees below zero. History
Extreme Cold August 31, Deering, NH Coldest August day on record, Deering Town 1965 twenty-nine degrees in Concord. History
Severe Winter 1779-80 Deering, NH A most rigorous winter. No roads, 1780 was known as the Deering Town making it necessary to travel on “Hard Winter” History frozen rivers. Snow terribly deep, making it necessary to chop and burn nearby fruit trees.
Severe Winter 1811-12 Deering, NH The dreaded spotted fever appeared Deering Town and was prevalent in Deering and History Antrim.
Severe Winter 1820-1821 Deering, NH Winter lasted five months into April. Deering Town History
Severe Winter 1976-77 Deering, NH Three consecutive blizzards in less Deering Town than a month totaled thirty-eight History inches of snow, in addition to ice and rain conditions
Severe Winter Winter State of NH One of the worst winters on record. Town Historian 2002/2003
Wildfire 1852-54 Deering, NH Many brush and forest fires Deering Town “The Dry History Years”
Wildfire Summer and Deering, NH The town reported four forest fires Deering Town Fall, 1908 burning four hundred acres of History woodland, causing $1,200 in damage and costing $450 to suppress.
Wildfire (this 1911 Deering, NH This fire covered five hundred acres Started by a lightning Deering Town was called the and caused $24,000 in damage, strike. History Sodom fire) destroying one home and endangering others.
Wildfire April 29, Marlow, Fires in Marlow and Stoddard caused Was put out by a Deering Town 1941 Stoddard, and dense smoke with cinders falling in snowstorm a few days History Deering Deering. later.
Earthquake October 29, New England Damage throughout New England. Northeast States 1727 Emergency Consortium
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Earthquake November New England Damage to New England Coast. Northeast States 18, 1755 Emergency Consortium
Earthquake 1790 Deering and Unknown. Deering Town surrounding History areas
Earthquake November Grand Banks All of NH felt minor effects. Richter Magnitude National 18, 1929 Newfoundland Scale: 7.2 Earthquake Information Center
Earthquake December Ossipee, NH Ground cracks in the region in two Richter Magnitude National 20, 1940 towns and damage over a broad area. Scale: 5.5 Earthquake Information Center, Northeast States Emergency Consortium
Earthquake December Ossipee, NH Ground cracks in the region in two Richter Magnitude National 24, 1940 towns and damage over a broad area. Scale: 5.5 Earthquake Information Center, Northeast States Emergency Consortium, Deering Town History
Earthquake September Deering, NH Unknown. Deering Town 5, 1944 History
Earthquake 1957 Deering, NH Unknown. Deering Town History
Earthquake January West of Unknown. Richter Magnitude Northeast States 19,1982 Laconia Scale: 4.5 Emergency Consortium
Earthquake June, 1989 Deering, NH Small tremor in the north Deering Town Historian area, cracked cement.
Drought 1800 Deering, NH A great deal of sickness due to an Deering Town extended heat wave and drought. History
Drought 1911 Deering, NH Very dry year with extreme heat and Deering Town continued drought, discouraging History farmers.
Drought 1929-36 State of NH Unknown. Regional Office of Emergency Management
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Continued Hazard Date Location Critical Facility or Impacted Remarks Source Area
Drought 1939-44 State of NH Unknown. Severe in southeast Office of and moderate Emergency elsewhere. Management
Drought 1947-50 State of NH Unknown. Moderate Office of Emergency Management, Town Historians
Drought 1960-69 State of NH Unknown. Longest recorded Office of continuous spell of less Emergency than normal Management precipitation
Drought 1999 State of NH Unknown. Drought warning was Office of Warning issued by governor’s Emergency office on 06/29/99 Management
Dry Summer 2001 Deering, NH Very dry summer. Town Historian
Drought March, 2002 All counties in Unknown. This is the first time NH Department of Emergency the State of low-water conditions Environmental NH except have progressed Services Coos County beyond the Level Two, Drought Warning, stage.
Severe 1881 Deering, NH Lighting strike started a fire that Deering Town Thunderstorm destroyed one resident’s home and History adjacent buildings.
Severe 1891 Deering, NH Extreme thunder and lightning Deering Town Thunderstorm storms- many fires and flooding. History
Severe 1996 Deering, NH Lighting struck a pine tree on Town Historian Thunderstorm Clement Hill Road and town historian saw a pulse of light travel from the tree to the barn.
Severe Summer, Deering, NH Lightening strike on Bartlett Hill Subcommittee Thunderstorm 2001 caused a fire that burned 1 acre.
Other Early 1980s Deering, NH Airplane crash. Subcommittee
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Map 2: Past Hazards The Past Hazards Map at the back of this Plan identifies the locations where known natural disasters have occurred in town. In Deering, areas of fire damage, floods, frequent accident locations, and lighting strikes were noted on the map. The past hazard locations were primarily identified by the Hazard Mitigation Committee or through research into the hazards listed within Table 1.
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CHAPTER 4. ASSET IDENTIFICATION
The identification of assets within a community is integral to determining what may be at risk from a natural disaster. This section examines the assets in five categories: Critical Facilities, Vulnerable Populations, Economic Assets, Special Considerations, and Historic/Other Considerations.
Not only are the address and phone number, where applicable, supplied for each identified asset, the hazards to which the asset is most susceptible are listed. Hazards are primarily natural disasters, but can also include secondary disasters (such a sewer or water line rupture) or human-made disasters or emergencies (such as a vehicular accident).
In Deering, each asset can be damaged by all of the hazards listed in the PROFILE OF HAZARD EVENTS section. The majority of the assets appear on Map 3: Critical Facilities at the end of this section. They include numerous flooding hazards throughout Town along rivers, streams and wetlands, hazards from landslide due to steep slopes, and vehicular accidents along several stretches of roadway. Also, fire and lightning events were identified as having particular significance in certain areas of Deering based on past events or potential events. When the asset was not specifically vulnerable to one or more particular hazards, the term “All” was used to signify the asset’s vulnerability to all possible hazards.
Critical Facilities Critical facilities are categorized as those town or state buildings or services that are first- responders in a disaster. Fire Departments, Police Departments, and Highway Departments as well as the Town Office are crucial in providing and coordinating the emergency services. Other critical facilities would include hospitals and shelters. Utilities or utility features are also included because of communication and power/water service.
Table 2 Essential Facilities Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Deering Town Hall 762 Deering Center Road 464-3248 Ice, All
Police Department 762 Deering Center Road 464-3127 Ice, All
Highway Department Fisher Road 464-5740 Ice, All
Murdough Fire Station 120 Old County Road 464-5255 Ice, All
Donovan Fire Station 890 Deering Center Road 529-4303 Ice, All
McAllister Fire Station 2173 2nd NH Turnpike 464-5255 Flooding
Deering Airport 2300 2nd NH Turnpike 588-6868 Flooding
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Table 3 Utilities Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
His Mansion Public Water Supplies Wolf Hill Road 464-5555 Ice, All
Longwood’s Public Water Supply Wyman Road 224-1942 Flooding
Johnson City Public Water Supply Johnson Road 428-7037 Flooding
Clifton’s Camp Public Water Supply 2607 2nd NH Turnpike Not available Flooding
Hydrant (Oxbow Road) – not in service Hillsborough Water Not available All
Hydrant (Reservoir Road) – not in service Reservoir Road Not available Ice, All
Hydrant (Gregg Hill Road) - in service 7 Gregg Hill Road 529-4303 Ice, All
Table 4 Dams Facility Type Status Class Location Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Dudley Pond Dam Active A Dudley Brook Flooding, Wind
Wildlife Pond Dam Active AA Johnson Brook Ice, All
Dudley Brook/Chase Dam Ruins --- Dudley Brook Flooding, Wind
Dudley Brook Lodge Dam Ruins --- Dudley Brook Flooding, Wind
Black Fox Pond Dam Active A Smith Brook Ice, All
Dudley Brook Boulder Dam Ruins --- Dudley Brook Flooding, Wind
Chamberlain Fire Pond Dam Not Built --- Natural Swale Not applicable
Wildlife Pond Dam Active AA Natural Swale All
Branch Piscataquog River Dam Active AA Piscataquog River Flooding, Ice
Deering Reservoir Dam Active B Piscataquog River Flooding, Ice
Buchar Dam Not Built --- Contoocook River Not applicable
Kelley Recreation Pond Dam Active A Gerini Brook All
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Table 5 Bridges Facility Type Location Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Bridge # 032/101 (Town) West Deering Road over Contoocook River 464-5740 Flooding
Bridge # 103/053 (Town) Reservoir Road over Piscataquog River 464-5740 Flooding
Bridge # 124/044 (Town) Pleasant Pond Road over Piscataquog River 464-5740 Flooding
Bridge # 142/117 (Town) North Deering Road over Dudley Brook 464-5740 Flooding, Ice
Bridge # 147/057 (Town) Bartlett Hill Road over Piscataquog River 464-5740 Flooding
Bridge # 150/062 (State) NH 149 over Piscataquog River 271-3667 Flooding
Table 6 Schools Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
SAU Offices & Alternative Classroom 2300 2nd NH Turnpike Not available Flooding
Vulnerable Populations Areas or neighborhoods that are densely populated, buildings that house people who may not be self-sufficient in a disaster, or areas that include homes which are not very resistant to natural disasters are considered vulnerable. Vulnerable populations include manufactured housing parks (MHP), elderly housing developments or care facilities, and day care centers.
Table 7 Vulnerable Populations Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Longwoods MHP Wyman Road 224-1942 Flooding
Johnson City MHP Johnson Road 428-7037 Flooding
Story Time Day Care Manselville Road 464-3985 All
Tot’s Town Child Care 2063 2nd NH Turnpike 464-2578 Flooding
His Mansion Wolf Hill Road 464-5555 Ice
Robin Hill Farm Facility Donovan Road 464-3841 All
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Economic Assets Although a town normally contains dozens of small businesses, typically several businesses stand out prominently in town. These businesses employ the most people in a town (both from Deering and from outside) and are places where large numbers of people are located and may need to evacuate from in the event of a disaster. In other cases, some large businesses can provide critical services or products to residents in need or may be able to sustain their employees for a duration of time.
Table 8 Economic Assets Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Deering General Store 1223 Deering Center Road 529-9924 Flooding
Maine Line Graphics 118 Deering Center Road 464-5725 All
Robin Hill Farm Donovan Road 464-3841 All
Deering Airport 2300 2nd NH Turnpike 588-6868 Flooding
Special Considerations Churches and cemeteries are special considerations for their unique contributions to society. Churches are often natural gathering places for people in disasters and can temporarily provide shelter and accommodation. Cemeteries, both public and small privately owned lots, are recognized for their historical and logistical importance. In addition, businesses that potentially store or use hazardous materials are listed as special considerations due to the potential for leaking or combustion in the event of a disaster.
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Table 9 Cemeteries & Churches Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Deering Center (Community) Church 763 Deering Center Road 464-5643 Ice, All
Old Methodist (East Deering) Church 261 East Deering Road Not available All
Appleton Cemetery Deering Center Road Not applicable All
Butler Cemetery Deering Center Road Not applicable All
East Deering Cemetery East Deering Road Not applicable All
Goodale Cemetery Driscoll Road Not applicable Ice, All
Bartlett Cemetery East Deering Road Not applicable Ice, Wind
Cemetery Reservoir Road Not applicable Ice, All
Wilkins Cemetery Old County Road Not applicable Ice, All
West Deering Cemetery 2nd NH Turnpike Not applicable Flooding
Family Cemetery County Road Extension Not applicable Ice
Patten/Potter Cemetery Clement Hill Not applicable Flooding, Ice
Gove Cemetery Wolf Hill Road Not applicable Ice, All
Poling Family Cemetery Wolf Hill Road Not applicable Ice, All
Table 10 Hazardous Materials Facilities Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Tom’s Auto Sales Route 149 464-3746 Flooding
Gerini’s Auto Old County Road Not available Ice, All
Johnson’s Facility (tanks and shed) Route 149 529-9924 Flooding
Airport Hangar 2300 2nd NH Turnpike 588-6868 Flooding
Airport Runway 2300 2nd NH Turnpike Not applicable All
Elliott’s Junkyard 118 Bennington Depot Road Not available Flooding
Green’s Junkyard 2nd NH Turnpike 464-3608 Flooding
Charlie Kelley’s Junkyard Route 149 464-3619 All
Deering General Store (tanks) Deering Center Road Not available Flooding
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Historic/Other Considerations Historic resources and structures provide that link to the cultural history of a town. They may also be more vulnerable to certain hazards since they often have fewer safety devices installed or have limited access. Recreational facilities are places where large groups of people can and do gather. Campgrounds in particular may be more vulnerable to natural disasters because the shelters are light and temporary.
Table 11 Historic Sites & Buildings Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
East Deering School House 263 East Deering Road Not available All
Old Bowen School House Old County Road Not available Ice, All
Long House at His Mansion Wolf Hill Road Not available Ice, All
Old Colonial House (Craven) 6 Reservoir Road Not available Ice, All
Old Colonial House (Huggard) 9 Reservoir Road Not available Ice, All
Old Colonial House (Dawson) 293 Clement Hill Road Not available Ice, All
Old Brick House (Hagstrom) 7 Clement Hill Road Not available Ice, All
First House in Deering (Vogelien) 749 Clement Hill Road Not available Ice, Flooding
Old House (Copadis) 99 Peter Woods Hill Road Not available Ice, Wind
Old Kilbin House (Kilbin) 2251 Second NH Turnpike Not available Flooding
Old House (Phinney) 257 Sky Farm Road Not available Ice, All
House of One of First Settlers (Spragg) 71 Wolf Hill Road Not available Ice, All
House of First Selectman (Young) 41 Clement Hill Road Not available Ice, All
Old House (Winokur) 128 Dickey Hill Road Not available Ice, All
Old House (Waters) 189 Clement Hill Road Not available Ice, All
One of the Oldest Homes (Manson) 656 Reservoir Road Not available Ice, Flooding
Old House (Mooney) 54 Mountain View Road Not available Ice, All
Old House – Builder of 2 Churches (David) 671 East Deering Road Not available All
Old House (Walmsley) 64 Old County Road Not available Ice, All
Deering Historic Society (E Deering Church) East Deering Road Not available All
Deering Library (Old Schoolhouse) 2 Fisher Road Not available Ice, All
Deering Center (Community) Church 763 Deering Center Road 464-5643 Ice, All
Deering Conference Center 1137 Deering Center Road Not available Ice, All
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Table 12 Recreational or Gathering Sites Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Oxbow Campground Deering Center Road 464-5952 All
Deering Library (Old Schoolhouse) Deering Center Road Not Applicable Ice, All
The Deering Center 1181 Deering Center Road 529-0001 All
Boat Launch at Deering Lake Reservoir Road Not Applicable Flooding, Ice
Tuckernut Camp Wolf Hill Road 464-5077 Ice, All
Fish and Game Club Fish and Game Road 464-5138 Flooding
Sherwood Hall Deering Center Road 465-5643 All
Boat Launch Lake Shore Drive Not Applicable Ice, All
Homes within the Floodplain Floodplains are located along the Contoocook River spanning the length of Longwoods Road and the northern half of Second NH Turnpike. Over 20% of homes, out of 933, within Deering are located in this floodplain. Of the nearly 200 homes, 161 are manufactured homes located at Longwoods and Johnson City Manufactured Housing Parks.
Smaller floodplain areas span along the Piscataquog River from Deering Reservoir east to the Weare town line, crossing Pleasant Pond Road and Deering Center Road (Route 149). Only a few single family homes were built within the floodplain in this area.
The third section of floodplain is located along Dudley Brook and Smith Brook, spanning from Dudley Pond and flowing east to the Weare town line. A few single family homes are located in this smaller floodplain, which encompasses primarily forested land.
Evacuation Routes Route 149, a narrow, hilly and shoulderless road, serves as the principal thoroughfare of the Town. Road obstructions to Route 149 will cause confusion and traffic backups and there are few places to turn around during its length, excluding the occasional driveway. Alternate north- south routes are available along Second NH Turnpike, Old County Road, and North Road. Mountainous Class VI roads provide the majority of west-east travel.
The population of Deering is spread out throughout Town, although concentrations are found along Longwoods Road and Second NH Turnpike at the manufactured housing parks and seasonally around Deering Reservoir. With all of these considerations in mind, including the floodplain limitations, the Hazard Mitigation Committee determined that the following roads be considered as evacuation routes out of Town:
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• Route 149 (Deering Center Road) from Hillsborough to Weare • Old County Road from Deering Center Road to Francestown • Mill Street to the raised Railroad Bed into Bennington • Second NH Turnpike from Falls Road to Francestown • Clement Hill Road from Deering Center Road to Henniker • East Deering Road from Deering Center Road to Weare
These evacuation routes out of Deering are depicted on Map 1: Potential Hazards. In the event of an emergency, there should be a plan to coordinate evacuation traffic in the appropriate directions.
Map 3: Critical Facilities The Critical Facilities Map at the back of this Plan illustrates the sites inventoried within this section. They are categorized into Emergency Response and Town Facilities, Schools, Water Supplies, Bridges, Dams, Cemeteries, Churches, Communications Towers, Daycare Facilities, Elderly Housing, Entertainment and Recreation, Hazardous Material Facilities, Large Employers, Manufactured Housing Parks, and Unique/Historic Resources. Each facility is referenced by a keyed and numbered legend.
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CHAPTER 5. POTENTIAL LOSSES
The Town of Deering has been impacted in the past by natural disasters, including flooding, river ice jams, severe winter storms, and hurricanes. This section identifies areas in town that are most vulnerable to these events and estimates their potential loss. It is difficult to ascertain the amount of damage caused by a natural hazard because the damage will depend on the hazard’s extent and severity, making each hazard event somewhat unique. In addition, human loss of life was not included in the potential loss estimates, but could be expected to occur, depending on the severity of the hazard.
Flooding Flooding is often associated with hurricanes, ice-jams, rapid snow melt in the spring, and heavy rains.
In the following calculations, the average replacement value was calculated by adding up the assessed values of all structures in the 100- and 500-year floodplains and then dividing by the number of structures. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has developed a process to calculate potential loss for structures during flooding. The potential loss was calculated by multiplying the average replacement value by the percent of damage expected from the hazard event, and then by multiplying that figure by the number of structures. Manufactured homes, other residential, and non-residential structures were separated. The costs for repairing or replacing bridges, railroads, power lines, telephone lines, natural gas pipelines, and the contents of structures has not been included in this estimate.
The following calculation is based on eight-foot flooding and assumes that, on average, a manufactured home receives 82% damage (Understanding Your Risks, Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses, FEMA page 4-13).
Manufactured Home Damage: 161 structures x ($17,692.857 avg. replacement value x 0.82) = $2,335,811
The following calculation is based on eight-foot flooding and assumes that, on average, one or two story buildings with basements receive 49% damage (Understanding Your Risks, Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses, FEMA page 4-13).
Residential Damage: 66 structures x ($39,170.818 avg. replacement value x 0.49) = $1,266,784
Non-Residential Damage: 1 Structure x ($ 36,500 avg. replacement value x 0.49) = $17,885
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The following calculation is based on 4-foot flooding and assumes that, on average, a manufactured home receives 78% damage (Understanding Your Risks, Identifying Hazards and Estimating Losses, FEMA page 4-13).
Manufactured Home Damage: 161 structures x ($17,692.857 avg. replacement value x 0.78) = $2,221,869
The following calculation is based on 4-foot flooding and assumes that, on average, a one or two story building with basement receives 28% damage.
Residential Damage: 66 structures x ($39,170.818 avg. replacement value x 0.28) = $723,877
Non-Residential Damage: 1 structures x ($36,500 avg. replacement value x 0.28) = $10,220
The following calculation is based on 2-foot flooding and assumes that, on average, a manufactured home receives 63% damage.
Manufactured Home Damage: 161 structures x ($17,692.857 avg. replacement value x 0.63) = $1,794,586
The following calculation is based on 2-foot flooding and assumes that, on average, a one or two story building with basement receives 20% damage.
Residential Damage: 66 structures x ($39,170.818 avg. replacement value x 0.20) = $517,055
Non-Residential Damage: 1 structure x ($36,500 avg. replacement value x 0.20) = $7,300
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The following areas have flooded in the past and are likely to flood in the future:
• Clement Hill Road • Longwoods Manufactured Housing Park • Longwoods Road
West Deering is particularly susceptible to flooding because of its close proximity to the Contoocook River. Also, the Longwoods and Johnson City Manufactured Housing Parks are both in the 100 year and 500 year floodplains, making them very susceptible to flooding.
Dam Breach and Failure According to the NH Department of Environmental Services, there are seven active dams within Deering. Three are classified as AA, which means dam failure would not threaten life or property, and three are classified as A, which means low hazard potential. One, at Deering Lake, is classified as B, which means it has a significant hazard potential if the dam should fail. Classified as C means a high hazard potential with possible loss of life and damage to major highways. The amount of dollar damage in the event of a dam breach will vary according to the extent and severity of the breach as well as the classification of the dam.
Hurricane Damage caused by hurricanes can be both severe and expensive. In the past, Deering has been impacted by wind and flooding damage as a result of hurricanes. The assessed value of all residential and commercial structures in Deering, is $50,400,954. Assuming 1% to 5% town-wide damage, a hurricane could result in $504,010 to $2,520,048 in damage.
Tornado Tornadoes are relatively uncommon natural hazards in NH. On average about six touch down each year. However, damage largely depends on where a tornado strikes. If it strikes an inhabited area, the impacts could be severe. In the State of NH, the total cost of tornadoes between 1950 and 1995 was $9,071,389 (The Disaster Center). The cost of a tornado in Deering would not be town-wide because tornadoes strike in smaller areas. Dollar amounts would depend on if the tornado hit an area with a high density of buildings.
Wildfire The risk of fire is difficult to predict based on location. Forest fires are more likely to occur during years of drought. In addition, areas and structures that are surrounded by dry vegetation that has not been suitably cleared are at high risk. However, fire danger is generally universal and can occur practically at any time. Historically, fires in Deering have destroyed many acres of woodlands and have occurred during dry years. There are no records of wildfires in Deering after 1941. Dollar damage would depend on the extent of the fire, the number and type of buildings burned, and the amount of contents destroyed within the buildings.
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Nor’easter and Heavy Snow Storms Heavy snowstorms typically occur during January and February. New England usually experiences at least one or two Nor’easters with varying degrees of severity each year. Power outages, extreme cold, and impacts to infrastructure are all effects of winter storms that have been felt in Deering in the past. All of these impacts are a risk to the community, including isolation, especially of the elderly, and increased traffic accidents. Damage caused as a result of this type of hazard varies according to wind velocity, snow accumulation, and duration. The assessed value of all residential and commercial structures in Deering is $50,400,954. Assuming 1% to 5% town-wide damage, an extreme winter storm could in $504,010 to $2,520,048 in damage.
Ice Storms Ice storms often cause widespread power outages by downing power lines, making power lines at risk in Deering. They can also cause severe damage to trees. In 1998, an ice storm inflicted $12,446,202 worth of damage to NH as a whole. Ice storms in Deering could be expected to cause damage ranging from a few thousand dollars to several million, depending on the severity of the storm. The assessed value of all residential and commercial structures in Deering, is $50,400,954. Assuming 1% to 5% town-wide damage, an ice storm could result in $504,010 to $2,520,048 in damage.
Earthquake Earthquakes can cause buildings and bridges to collapse, disrupt gas, electric, and phone lines and are often associated with landslides and flash floods. Four earthquakes in NH between 1924-1989 had a magnitude of 4.2 or more. Two of these occurred in Ossipee, one west of Laconia, and one near the Quebec border.
Seismic lines are indicated on Map 1: Potential Hazards. If an earthquake were to impact Deering, underground lines would be susceptible. In addition, buildings that are not built to a high seismic design level would be susceptible to structural damage. The assessed value of all residential and commercial structures in Deering is $50,400,954. Assuming 1% to 5% town-wide damage, an earthquake could result in $504,010 to $2,520,048 in damage.
Severe Lightning In the past, severe lightning has caused damage to individual residences in Deering on Clement Hill Road and on Bartlett Hill. In the future, damages will vary according to the value of the home and the contents inside.
Downbursts, Hailstorms, Landslides, Radon, Drought Similarly to tornados, damage caused by a downburst would not be town-wide because downbursts strike in smaller areas. Dollar amounts would depend on if the downburst hit an area with a high density of buildings.
No major hazard events have occurred related to the other events in Deering, although damage would depend on the location, extent, and severity of the hazard.
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Map 4: Potential Hazards and Losses The Potential Hazards and Losses Map at the back of this Plan illustrates where the community facilities and vulnerable populations are located as well as the locations of potential and future hazards. The map shows those areas where the buildings are most susceptible to flooding, icy roads, landslides, and lightning strikes as well as the locations of bridges, dams, wetlands, the municipal water lines and the recommended evacuation routes.
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CHAPTER 6. DEVELOPMENT TRENDS
A brief description of how the Town has grown in terms of both population and housing within the last three decades follows. In terms of the development of land, land use in acres for 2002 was taken directly from the tax assessor’s database. Examination of this information will allow the Town to better understand the trends within its borders and how emergency and preventative services can best serve the growing and changing population and landscape.
Population and Housing Growth Deering is currently working to develop a new Master Plan, which should be completed in late 2004. Chapters include detailed information and maps (where feasible) on History, Population and Economics, Housing, Community Facilities, Transportation, Natural Resources, Existing Land Use, and Future Land Use.
Table 13 Overall Population and Housing Growth Trends in Deering, 1970-2000 Growth Population Net Change Housing Net Change # % Units # %
1970 (US Census) 578 NA NA 195 NA NA
1980 (US Census) 1,041 463 80.1% 461 266 136.4%
1990 (US Census) 1,707 666 64.0% 757 357 64.2%
2000 (US Census) 1,875 168 9.8% 933 176 23.2%
Total Change from -- 1,297 224.4% --- 738 378.5% 1970 – 2000 Sources: 1970-1990 US Census CPH-2-31 Table 9 Population and Housing Unit Counts; US Census 2000 Data
In Table 13, population growth in Deering has grown 9.8% over the last decade while housing growth has increased 23.2%. In 2000, there was an average of 2.0 people in each housing unit, down significantly from 3.0 in 1970. Deering’s overall growth since 1970 has increased respectively by nearly 225% in population and nearly 380% in housing units.
As displayed in Table 14, the population density has effectively tripled in terms of persons per square mile, from 19 in 1970 to 56 in 2000. Although these numbers are reasonable for a small, rural town in NH, the fact that the population has more than tripled within thirty years is notable.
Table 14 Population Density in Deering, 1970-2000 2000 Area in Square Miles Persons per square mile Community Population (excluding water) 1970 1980 1990 2000
Deering 1,875 32.1 19 33 55 60 Sources: 1970-1990 US Census CPH-2-31 Table 9 Population and Housing Unit Counts; US Census 2000 Data; NH Office of State Planning’s GIS acreage calculations
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Deering tracks its building permits on an April 1 – March 31 basis. In Table 15, the Town has had a slow but steady increase in the number of residential building permits issued for new construction since 1998. In the year 2003, the number (12) seems to have declined from the previous year’s total of 24, but there are seven more months to be tracked before the final numbers are available. Manufactured and multi-family permits account for roughly 14% of the total permits issued over the last eleven years.
Table 15 Residential Building Permits Issued by Housing Type, April 1998 – September 2003 Six-Year Housing Type 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 * Total*
Single Family 6 5 13 16 22 12 74
Multi-Family 001 00 0 1
Manufactured15302 0 11
Total Permits Issued7101716241286 Source: Deering Town Office *through September 2003
Land Use According to NH Office of State Planning geographic information system (GIS) calculations, Deering has a total land area of 19,571 acres, or 30.58 square miles. Deering is slightly larger than the average town in Hillsborough County, which is 28.8 square miles. The acreage figure is similar to the Town Tax Assessment Cards, which yielded a total acreage of 19,831.
As depicted in Table 16, in terms of land use, 19.3% of the Town, according to the 2002 tax assessor’s records, is taxed exclusively for residential use. An additional 0.6% is taxed for commercial or industrial use. Five point one percent (5.1%) of the land is tax-exempt, implying that the parcels are considered town-owned, state-owned, religious, school, or non-profit lands. Nearly 75% of the land in Deering is in current use (undeveloped), although this figure will also accommodate the residential structures on current use land.
When the Land Use Chapter of the Deering Master Plan is completed in mid-2004, a more comprehensive examination of the land uses in Town will be possible. Because of the varied topography, numerous hills and mountains, large amounts of vacant land, and concentrations of populations along the floodplain (Contoocook River) and the Deering Reservoir, the population is particularly vulnerable to flooding, isolated fires, power outages, and road obstructions.
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Table 16 Land Use in Deering, 2003 Land Use Acres % of Town
Residential 3,825.0 19.3% (Single, Multi, and Manufactured)
Commercial/Industrial 127.5 0.6%
Non-Taxable Land (Town, State, Non-Profit, Religious, Schools) 1,019.7 5.1%
Land in Current Use (Undeveloped, with some 14,859.0 74.9% Residential)
Total 19,831.1 100.0% Source: October 2003 Assessor’s Database
Relation to Natural Hazards The population of Deering is scattered throughout Town. There is no village area, but the Town Center consists of the Town Hall and Deering Church where few residences are situated. Concentrations of population can be found within the floodplain in Longwoods Manufactured Housing Park in the northwestern corner and in Johnson City Manufactured Housing Park along the Contoocook River; around Deering Reservoir; and in north Deering in a mile radius of where Route 149 enters Deering.
The residents of Longwoods and Johnson City Manufactured Housing Parks comprise about 1/3 of the total population of Deering. Both of these concentrations are located within the floodplain. Longwoods, in particular, is prone to recurrent flooding (see the cover of the Plan for a picture of damage). Access routes (Longwoods Road and Second NH Turnpike) out of the Parks are also prone to flooding. The alternative egress is the high and dry former railroad bed, which can safely accommodate vehicles traveling in one direction.
New homes may be built in many areas of Town, although about 75% of the entire Town has an elevation over 800’, and many areas are covered in steep slopes. Higher elevations are more prone to ice, wind, and snow damage. Large undeveloped parcels are found along Old County Road, Sky Farm Road, and along the flood-prone Piscataquog River.
Hedgehog Mountain, west of Old County Road and east of Second NH Turnpike, is particularly susceptible to wildfire which would be difficult to extinguish as the entrances to the mountain are via Class VI roads. Large undeveloped parcels are found along these roads and could in the future be targeted for residential subdivision.
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CHAPTER 7. FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
Second only to winter storms, flooding is the most common natural disaster to impact New Hampshire. Floods are most likely to occur in the spring due to the increase in rainfall and melting of snow. However, they can occur anytime of year as a result of heavy rains, hurricane, or Nor’easter.
Flood mitigation is an essential step in preventing flood damage. This section provides an overview of past and potential flooding risks in Deering and discusses Deering’s participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Flooding in Deering The likelihood of another flood in Deering seems high. The Town is highly susceptible to flooding because of the close proximity of the Contoocook River. Homes near the Contoocook River, especially in low-lying areas, are at risk. In addition, 66 single family dwellings and 161 manufactured homes were counted within the 100-year and 500-year floodplain, to total 227 homes. As the 2000 Census counted 933 housing units, it can be calculated that 24.3% of homes in Deering are situated in the floodplain.
The following areas have flooded in the past and are likely to flood in the future:
• Clement Hill Road • Longwoods Manufactured Housing Park and Longwoods Road • West Deering is particularly susceptible to flooding because of its close proximity to the Contoocook River. The Longwoods Manufactured Housing Park and Johnson Manufactured Housing Park are both in the 100-year and 500-year floodplains, making them very susceptible to flooding.
National Flood Insurance Program In 1968, Congress created the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in response to the rising cost of taxpayer funded disaster relief for flood victims and the increasing amount of damage caused by floods. The Federal Insurance and Mitigation Administration (FIMA) a component of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) manages the NFIP, and oversees the floodplain management and mapping components of the Program.
Communities participate in the NFIP by adopting and enforcing floodplain management ordinances to reduce future flood damage. In exchange, the NFIP makes Federally subsidized flood insurance available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in these communities. Flood insurance, Federal grants and loans, Federal disaster assistance, and Federal mortgage insurance is unavailable for the acquisition or construction of structures located in the floodplain shown on the NFIP maps for those communities that do not participate in the program.
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To get secured financing to buy, build, or improve structures in Special Flood Hazard Areas, it is legally required by federal law to purchase flood insurance. Lending institutions that are federally regulated or federally insured must determine if the structure is located in a SFHA and must provide written notice requiring flood insurance. Flood insurance is available to any property owner located in a community participating in the NFIP.
Flood damage is reduced by nearly $1 billion a year through partnerships with communities, the insurance industry, and the lending industry. Further, buildings constructed in compliance with NFIP building standards suffer approximately 80 percent less damage annually than those not built in compliance. Additionally, every $3 paid in flood insurance claims saves $1 in disaster assistance payments.
The NFIP is self-supporting for the average historical loss year, which means that operating expenses and flood insurance claims are not paid for by the taxpayer, but through premiums collected for flood insurance policies. The Program has borrowing authority from the U.S. Treasury for times when losses are heavy, however, these loans are paid back with interest.
Deering has been a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program since February, 1979. Only 12 policies are in force (of the 227 residential units), yet only 6 losses have been paid since 1978 (Table 17).
Table 17 Deering Policy and Loss Statistics, December 2002 Policies in Insurance in Number of Total Losses Force Force Paid Losses Paid (since 1978) (since 1978)
12 $1,220,900 6 $10,591.61
Source: December 2002 FEMA database
Repetitive Loss Properties A specific target group of repetitive loss properties is identified and serviced separately from other NFIP policies by the Special Direct Facility (SDF). The target group includes every NFIP- insured property that, since 1978 and regardless of any change(s) of ownership during that period, has experienced four or more paid flood losses, two paid flood losses within a 10-year period that equal or exceed the current value of the insured property, or three or more paid losses that equal or exceed the current value of the insured property. The loss history includes all flood claims paid on an insured property, regardless of any changes of ownership, since the building's construction or back to 1978. Target group policies are afforded coverage, whether new or renewal, only through the SDF.
The FEMA Regional Office provides information about repetitive loss properties to state and local floodplain management officials. The FEMA Regional Office may also offer property owners building inspection and financial incentives for undertaking measures to mitigate future flood losses. These measures include elevating buildings above the level of the base flood, demolishing buildings, removing buildings from the flood area, and in some cases drainage improvement projects. If the property owners agree to mitigation measures, their property may be removed from the target list and would no longer be serviced by the SDF. As of March 2002, Deering had a total of 0 repetitive loss properties.
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Floodplain Management Goals/Reducing Flood Risks A major objective for floodplain management is to continue participation in the National Flood Insurance Program.
Communities that agree to manage Special Flood Hazard Areas shown on NFIP maps participate in the NFIP by adopting minimum standards. The minimum requirements are the adoption of the Floodplain Ordinance and Subdivision/Site Plan Review requirements for land designated as Special Flood Hazard Areas. Deering has a Floodplain Ordinance that was adopted as part of the Zoning Ordinance. The ordinance is considered a type D ordinance by the NFIP because maps are available for both the floodplain and the floodway. A floodway is the channel of a river or other watercourse that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood. According to NFIP, a type D Ordinance must restrict all activities, including filling, mining, improvements, and new construction in the floodway unless a hydrological study is completed. Deering’s Floodplain Ordinance meets this requirement. In 2003, Deering adopted some minor amendments to the Zoning Ordinance to better comply with the federal NFIP floodplain regulations.
Under federal law, any structure located in the floodplain is required to have flood insurance. Federally subsidized flood insurance is available to any property owner located in a community participating in the NFIP. Communities that fail to comply with NFIP will be put on probation and/or suspended. Probation is a first warning where all policyholders receive a letter notifying them of a $50 increase in their insurance. In the event of suspension, the policyholders lose their NFIP insurance and are left to purchase insurance in the private sector, which is of significantly higher cost. If a community is having difficulty complying with NFIP policies, FEMA is available to meet with staff and volunteers to work through the difficulties and clear up any confusion before placing the community on probation or suspension.
On October 2, 2002, a Community Assistance Visit (CAV) was held in Deering to review compliance with NFIP policies and educate staff on the policies. As indicated above, in 2003 Deering adopted minor amendments to the Zoning Ordinance in accordance with NFIP policy. Minor problems with the Town’s administrative and enforcement procedures were explained to the Building Inspector. One programmatic issue is that the FIRM and Floodway maps are too vague to locate specific properties. No violations were identified.
According to NFIP policies, when an applicant files a request for a building permit in the floodplain, the applicant must include an elevation certificate in order to be in compliance. In addition, if an applicant intends to fill onsite, a letter of map of revision must be submitted along with the application. According to NFIP requirements in the Floodplain Ordinance, building permits should be reviewed to assure sites are reasonably safe from flooding and require anchoring to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral movement and construction out of flood resistant materials.
In order to reduce flood risks, the Code Enforcement Officer/Building Inspector should be familiar with the Floodplain Ordinance and the NFIP. In addition, the Planning Board should be familiar with NFIP policies, especially those regulations that are required to be incorporated into the Subdivision/Site Plan Review regulations. A workshop sponsored by the NH Office of Emergency Management or the NH Office of State Planning would be appropriate to educate current staff and volunteers.
An essential step in mitigating flood damage is participation in the NFIP. Deering should work to consistently enforce NFIP compliant policies to continue its participation in this program.
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CHAPTER 8. LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
The following objectives were adopted by the Local Hazard Mitigation Committee to represent Deering’s commitment to reduce the damages caused by natural hazards. The objectives were excerpted from the State Hazard Mitigation Plan and amended as needed to reflect Deering’s community needs.
Objectives
1. To improve upon the protection of the general population, the citizens of Deering and guests, from all natural and human-made hazards.
2. To reduce the potential impact of natural and human-made disasters on Deering’s critical support services, critical facilities, and infrastructure.
3. To improve emergency preparedness.
4. To improve Deering’s disaster response and recovery capability.
5. To reduce the potential impact of natural and human-made disasters on private property in Deering, the economy, and the natural environment.
6. To reduce Deering’s liability with respect to natural and human-made hazards generally.
7. To reduce the potential impact of natural and human-made disasters on Deering’s specific historic treasures and interests as well as other tangible and intangible characteristics which add to the quality of life of the citizens and guests of the Town.
8. To identify, introduce and implement cost effective Hazard Mitigation measures so as to accomplish Deering’s Goals and Objectives and to raise the awareness of, and acceptance of Hazard Mitigation opportunities among the Town’s citizens.
9. To coordinate with the State and local neighboring towns to pool resources and knowledge.
10. To enhance public information and communication to residents in all sections of Deering.
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CHAPTER 9. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
The Local Hazard Mitigation Committee identified a number of pro-active protection mechanisms that are currently in place in Deering which could reduce the damages and losses in the event of a natural disaster or secondary disaster.
Description of Existing Programs and Activities Each program or activity was identified by the Hazard Mitigation Committee. The Committee discussed the effectiveness of each strategy and recommended changes or improvements to their existing programs.
Table 18 Existing Mitigation Strategies Existing Description Area of Enforcement Effective- Improvements Program or Town ness or Changes Activity Covered
Floodplain Floodplain ordinance. Floodplains Code High None Ordinance Enforcement Officer / Board of Selectmen
50’ Setback from For all structures, 50’ buffer Wetlands Code High Potentially Wetlands zone, no more than 50% cut of Enforcement increase buffer basal area. Officer / Board of zone. Selectmen
50’ Setback from 125’ maintenance buffer, Residential Code High None Septic Systems exceeds state standards. areas Enforcement Officer / Board of Selectmen
Aquifer Adopted 1990. Aquifers Code High None Protection Enforcement Overlay Zone Officer / Board of Selectmen
Shoreland Same as state standards. Shorelands Code High None Protection Enforcement Officer / Board of Selectmen
Fire and Rescue Do not belong to a compact. All Fire and Rescue High Change dispatch Mutual Aid Henniker, Have agreement with Chief center to Concord Agreement Weare, Hillsborough, Antrim, Fire Alarm. Add a Francestown, Bennington, compact to Hancock, Stoddard, agreement. Washington.
Hazard Materials 75% of members trained at All Fire and Rescue High Keep membership Training operations level, will have 100% Chief training level at by end of 2004. Received 100%. Upgrade to DCON materials. DCON level 2.
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Continued Existing Description Area of Enforcement Effective- Improvements Program or Town ness or Changes Activity Covered
Fire Fighter 75% certified to level 1. All Fire and Rescue Medium Maintain level of Training Chief certification.
EMT Training Currently have 12 EMTs. All Fire and Rescue Medium Increase to 18. Chief
Portable 3,000Kw and 1,500Kw used for All Fire and Rescue High Purchase a Generators on M1 scene lighting. A third will be Chief / Road generator for the & M2; Highway on the new truck to be Agent Police Department Department purchased. Highway and Town Hall. Generator Department has 4,500Kw generator.
EMD New Obtained through grant for All Emergency Not Continue to work Computer System upcoming Command Center. Management applicable with the State to EMD currently has no computer. Director obtain appropriate software and the correct computer set up.
Police Mutual Aid Renewed yearly, all towns as All Police Chief High None noted above except Stoddard and Hancock.
Hazard Suits (3) Encapsulated level B suits for All Police Chief High Obtain at least two and Air Purifying hazard materials / biological more suits. Respirators terrorism protection, one time use only. Purchased by grant.
AED Defibrillators Have one in each cruiser. All Police Chief High None (2)
Advanced Life Have three intermediates, two All Fire and Rescue High Keep adding Support paramedics (for personnel to Chief personnel. Ambulance staff ambulance).
Highway Unofficial and informal All Road Agent High Pursue written Department agreements. Phone call basis. agreement. Mutual Aid Work most closely with Antrim, Francestown, Hillsborough and Washington.
T2 Educational Personnel have taken courses All Road Agent High None Program on road maintenance and safety.
Radio Currently have different All Board of Low Obtain new radios Communications frequencies, different radios. Selectmen / All for all No way to communicate with Departments departments. all Departments and Town Hall.
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Continued Existing Description Area of Enforcement Effective- Improvements Program or Town ness or Changes Activity Covered
Road Maintenance Have 40 miles of gravel roads in All Road Agent High More money Program Town and 20 miles of paved. No needed for road road complaints from residents. improvements.
Standard Last updated in 1997. All Fire and Rescue High Need to update. Operating Chief Guidelines for Emergencies
Fire Prevention With Hillsborough, held at All Fire and Rescue Medium Involve the public, Program school throughout the year. Chief more advertising. Hold adult open houses, but no one shows up.
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CHAPTER 10. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
In addition to the programs and activities that Deering is currently undertaking to protect its residents and property from a natural disaster, a number of additional strategies were identified by the Hazard Mitigation Committee for consideration. Many of these newly identified mitigation strategies will be considered for further action in the Mitigation Action Plan in the EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS chapter. Some of them are the result of improvements to the existing strategies identified in Table 18.
These types of activities were considered when determining new programs and activities which Deering can develop: • Prevention • Property Protection • Structural Protection • Emergency Services • Public Information and Involvement
Table 19 Potential Mitigation Strategies Hazard Potential Description of Potential Affected Type of Type Program or Strategy(ies) Location Activity Activity
Flooding Increase Wetlands Increase the wetlands setback from 50’ to 75’ Wetlands Prevention, Setback or greater. Structural Protection, Property Protection
Flooding, Fire Building Codes Adopt UBC Residential Building Codes. All Structural Protection, Property Protection
Fire Fire Proof Storage of Acquire fire proof cabinets for official off-site Town Hall Property Town Records storage of Town documents. Protection
Fire Sprinkler System for Install a sprinkler system in the Town Hall. Town Hall Prevention, the Town Hall Structural Protection
Fire Fire Prevention in Develop ordinances regulating the proximity of All Prevention, Ordinances structures to water, installing cisterns, Property residential sprinkler installation, etc. Protection
Hazardous Hazardous Materials Obtain and retain Hazardous materials All Emergency Materials Training Levels and membership training level at 100% and Services DCON upgrade DCON materials to level 2.
Hazardous Encapsulated B Level Obtain at least two more B-Level hazardous All Emergency Materials Hazardous Materials materials suits for the Police Department. Services Suits
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Continued Hazard Potential Description of Potential Affected Type of Type Program or Strategy(ies) Location Activity Activity
All Programmable Radios Purchase programmable radios for all All Emergency Purchase Departments to communicate locally and with Services neighboring towns.
All Generator for Town Obtain a generator for the Town Hall and Town Hall Emergency Hall Police Department. Services
All Identification of Identify and promote locations of emergency Deering Emergency Shelters in Deering shelters, possibly in the SAU airport hangar, Shelters Services Town Hall, and at the Deering Conference Center.
All Identification of Establish a relationship with area towns to use Adjoining Emergency Shelters in Area Towns the school facilities as shelters for Deering Towns Services residents.
All Public Education and Establish a public education program and All Public Information disseminate information about emergencies, Information and such as articles in the newspapers, potluck Involvement suppers, pamphlets, incorporating into the Fire Prevention Program.
All Change Fire and Increase the effectiveness of the Fire and All Emergency Rescue Dispatch Rescue Mutual Aid by changing the dispatch Services Center to Concord Fire center to the Concord Fire Alarm and securing Alarm a written compact with neighboring communities.
All Fire Fighter Training Achieve 100% of Fire and Rescue members All Emergency Improvements certified to level 1. Services
All First Responder Level Train as many members as possible to first All Emergency Training responder level. Services
All EMD New Computer Work with appropriate agencies to ensure that All Emergency System an adequate computer and software are Services purchased, with grant money already obtained, for the new EMD command center.
All Personnel for Continue adding personnel to staff the All Emergency Advanced Life Support advanced life support ambulance. Services Ambulance
All Highway Department Pursue a written Highway Department mutual All Emergency Mutual Aid aid agreement with Antrim, Francestown, Services Improvements Hillsborough, and Washington.
All Update of Emergency Update the Emergency Standard Operating All Emergency Standard Operating Guidelines with the assistance of NH OEM. Services Guidelines
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Continued Hazard Potential Description of Potential Affected Type of Type Program or Strategy(ies) Location Activity Activity
All Fire Prevention Advertise widely to invite the public to Fire All Prevention, Program Improvements Prevention Program events. Property Protection
All Road Maintenance Acquire additional money for gravel and paved All Emergency Program Improvements road improvements, including culverts, Services, bridges, and hazardous trees. Structural Protection
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CHAPTER 11. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
The Hazard Mitigation Committee ranked each of the new or improved mitigation strategies by utilizing the following criteria. The Committee asked and then answered such questions as “Does the action reduce damage?”, “Does the action contribute to Town objectives?”, “Is the action socially acceptable”, and “Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost in implementing?”
The following list documents the questions (criteria) that were posed to the Committee. The Committee responded to these and other questions, with a numeric score of “1” (indicating poor), a “2” (indicating average), and a “3” (indicating good).
• Does the action reduce damage? • Does the action contribute to community objectives> • Does the action meet existing regulations? • Does the action protect historic structures? • Can the action be implemented quickly? • Is the action socially acceptable? • Is the action technically feasible? • Is the action administratively possible? • Is the action politically acceptable? • Is the action legal? • Does the action offer reasonable benefits compared to its cost in implementing? • Is the action environmentally sound?
The numeric answers were totaled to give a final score for each of the criteria. Those answers which totaled higher were given the higher priority. A score of 36 would indicate that the mitigation strategy, or action, received the highest possible score. The scores ranged from a high of 36 to a low of 26. The full scoring matrix is located in the APPENDIX. The rankings are indicated in the Priority Score column on the Mitigation Action Plan chart on the following page.
Deering’s Mitigation Action Plan The ranking in the Priority Score column in Table 20 is merely a guideline for when the Town should begin acting on the identified strategies, or Actions. The Committee then determined who would be responsible for ensuring that each action would be completed, the recommended completion date, the approximate cost for completing the action, and how the action would be funded. The Mitigation Action Plan is a comprehensive strategy designed to help the Town of Deering prepare in advance for the impacts of natural disasters. Combined with the maps of this Hazard Mitigation Plan, the Action Plan should guide future hazard mitigation efforts.
A total of 22 Actions that Deering can undertake were identified and prioritized. Those Actions which are listed first were given the highest priority by the Hazard Mitigation Committee:
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Table 20 Deering’s Mitigation Action Plan 2003 Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost*
36 Update the Emergency Standard Board of Selectmen June 2005 $750 NH OEM, FEMA grants Operating Guidelines / Emergency Management Plan with the assistance of NH OEM.
Project Rationale: Currently in the process of working with FEMA to update the ESOG. Will produce 10 copies for Town Departments, Boards, and the State.
Cost Rationale: Costs will include administrative word processing and reproduction.
36 Establish a public education program Board of Selectmen, Begin in $500 Volunteers, and disseminate information about Fire & Rescue October 2003 donations, and emergencies, such as articles in the Department, Police fundraisers newspapers, potluck suppers, Department, pamphlets, incorporating into the Emergency Fire Prevention Program, and placing Management information on the website. Director
Project Rationale: The Town is currently involved in doing all of these activities and it would be easy to incorporate information about emergencies.
Cost Rationale: Costs will include paper and reproduction. Volunteer and in-kind work will be undertaken by Board of Selectmen, Fire Dept, Police Dept, and EMD.
36 Obtain and retain Hazardous Fire & Rescue 2010 $7,500 Town budget, grants materials membership training level Department, Police (training) at 50% and upgrade DCON materials Department, Board + $2,275 to level 2. of Selectmen (suits)
Project Rationale: Classes cost between $400-$500 per person, which are taken on volunteer’s personal time. The Chief is always in training. The DCON materials decontaminate the suits. Of the 26 volunteers, 3 are trained now, with a target of 3-4 trained each year until 50% is reached.
Cost Rationale: Costs are for training ($500 per person) and for suits for 13 people ($175 per suit).
36 Work with appropriate agencies to Emergency December Not Not applicable ensure that an adequate computer Management 2003 applicable (already funded) and software are purchased, with Director, with grant money already obtained, for volunteer assistance the new EMD command center.
Project Rationale: Now that grant money has been received, the best possible equipment and software need to be purchased and set up.
Cost Rationale: Cost for hardware and software has already been borne by the grant, and staff time will be in-kind by EMD.
36 Advertise widely to invite the public Fire & Rescue Ongoing $500 Town Budget, Fire to Fire Prevention Program events. Department Auxiliary
Project Rationale: In October 2003 (and yearly), Fire Stations open to the public for open houses. They currently handout materials at the Hillsborough-Deering Elementary School and are setting up for next year.
Cost Rationale: Costs will include paper and reproduction for new materials. Volunteer and in-kind work will be undertaken by the Fire Department.
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Continued Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost*
34 Develop ordinances regulating the Planning Board January 2005 $1,000 Town Budget proximity of structures to water, installing cisterns, residential sprinkler installation, etc.
Project Rationale: Ordinances and regulations will be written after the Master Plan is completed in late 2004.
Cost Rationale: Costs include legal fees to review language, paper, and reproduction, and staff time will be by volunteers of the Planning Board.
34 Identify and promote locations of Board of Selectmen June 2004 $0 Not applicable emergency shelters, possibly in the SAU airport hangar, Town Hall, and at the Deering Conference Center.
Project Rationale: The project will consist of placing news articles in local papers after coordinating the locations with site owners.
Cost Rationale: Costs will be volunteer staff time by the Board of Selectmen for both tasks.
34 Establish a relationship with area Board of Selectmen June 2004 $0 Not applicable towns to use the school facilities as shelters for Deering residents.
Project Rationale: The project will require Board of Selectmen outreach and coordination with area towns.
Cost Rationale: Costs will be volunteer staff time by the Board of Selectmen.
34 Adopt UBC Residential Building Planning Board, March 2004 $1,000 Town Budget Codes. Code Enforcement Officer
Project Rationale: This zoning change will require a warrant article, which will be developed this fall.
Cost Rationale: Costs will be for legal review, advertising, and reproduction of new ordinances. Costs for writing the article will be in-kind by the Code Enforcement Officer.
33 Increase the wetlands setback from Planning Board March 2004 $500 Town Budget 50’ to 75’ or greater.
Project Rationale: This zoning change will require a warrant article, which will be developed this fall.
Cost Rationale: Costs will be for legal review, advertising, and reproduction of new ordinances. Costs for writing the article will be in-kind volunteer work by the Planning Board.
32 Acquire fire proof cabinets for official Board of Selectmen March 2005 $9,000 Warrant Article off-site storage of Town documents.
Project Rationale: The six cabinets will be placed in the basement in an existing enclosed 10x10 space. A town vote will be required to raise the money.
Cost Rationale: Costs are estimated for 6 cabinets at $1,500 each.
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Continued Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost*
32 Obtain at least two more B-Level Police Department June 2004 $350 Matching Grants, hazardous materials suits for the Town Budget Police Department.
Project Rationale: There are currently not enough suits for the Police Department. These one-time use suits will be kept in police cruisers.
Cost Rationale: Costs are for the purchase of 2 suits at approximately $175 each.
32 Achieve 75% of Fire and Rescue Fire & Rescue Ongoing $5,000 Town Budget members certified to level 1. Department
Project Rationale: It requires 140 hours to train to EMT level 1, and 125 hours for fire fighting level 1, all of which are done by volunteers on their own time. Of the 26 current Fire and Rescue staff/volunteers, nearly 75% should be trained in both.
Cost Rationale: Costs are for training 5 people at $1,000 each for both courses. Training is done on volunteer donated time.
32 Train as many members as possible to Fire & Rescue Ongoing $2,000 Town Budget first responder level. Department
Project Rationale: By training more Fire Department volunteers to respond to emergency calls, the likelihood of serious injury or property damage will be lessened. The NH DOS’s Emergency Management Bureau teaches classes on the tasks first responders.
Cost Rationale: Costs for training will run about $100 per class. An estimated 20 people will be trained to the first responder level. Training is done on volunteer donated time.
31 Obtain a generator for the Town Hall Board of Selectmen March 2005 $10,000 Possible Homeland and Police Department. Security Grant, Town Budget
Project Rationale: The Town Hall will house the Emergency Operations Center for the Town and will be the primary shelter for residents. After anticipated renovations to Town Hall are completed, a 25,000Kw generator should be purchased.
Cost Rationale: Costs includes the purchase and installation of a 25,000Kw generator.
31 Install a sprinkler system in the Town Board of Selectmen March 2005 $20,000 Town Budget Hall.
Project Rationale: The Town Hall is expected to be renovated within the next year. During the renovations, the building will be retrofitted with sprinkler system to enhance public and structural safety.
Cost Rationale: Costs include installation, plumbing, reservoir tanks, and pipes for the new sprinkler system.
31 Increase the effectiveness of the Fire Fire & Rescue July 2005 $10,000 Possible NH OEM and Rescue Mutual Aid by changing Department and Grant, Town Budget the dispatch center to the Concord Board of Selectmen Fire Alarm and securing a written compact with neighboring communities.
Project Rationale: Deering is not currently part of the Hazardous Response Team network. If the Town joins Concord, it would have access to this resource. A written agreement with neighboring towns would provide further assistance and equipment for emergencies that occur in Deering.
Cost Rationale: Costs include changing over frequencies to Concord and an increased fee for access to the Concord Hazardous Response Team.
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Continued Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost*
29 Upgrade fire fighting capabilities to Fire and Rescue July 2004 $1,500 Possible Homeland Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting (ARFF) Department Security Grant, to provide emergency service to the Airport Owner Deering Airport.
Project Rationale: A plane the size of a DC-10 can land at Deering Airport, but there is no foam or an inductor to fight aircraft fires. Since the airport is used frequently, emergency fire fighting materials must be made available.
Cost Rationale: Costs include $500 for ARFF foam, $1,000 for an inductor. Additional monies may be necessary for clean up from a hazardous waste disposal company such as Clean Harbors. The airport owner may be asked to contribute.
29 Acquire additional money for gravel Highway Begin March Unknown NH DOT, Town and paved road improvements, Department 2004, finish Budget including culverts, bridges, and March 2005 hazardous trees.
Project Rationale: West Deering Bridge is being renovated next year, and the East Deering Bridge needs repair. Culverts throughout Town need replacing and have required attention for the last several years. Several problem trees pose a danger to passing motorists and need to be trimmed or removed.
Cost Rationale: A discussion must ensue with the Road Agent to ascertain costs for the 2004 budget season. Funds are expected to be allocated at Town Meeting 2004.
29 Continue adding personnel to staff Fire and Rescue Ongoing $1,000 Town Budget the advanced life support ambulance. Department
Project Rationale: The more advanced life support (ALS) personnel are available in the ambulance, the better care can be provided to patients.
Cost Rationale: Costs are for training two intermediate level personnel at $500 per person. Training is done on volunteer donated time.
26 Purchase programmable radios for all Emergency March 2005 $22,800 Grants Departments to communicate locally Management and with neighboring towns. Director
Project Rationale: At this time, Deering can only communicate with Henniker and no other neighboring Towns. Departments in Deering currently cannot communicate with each other with their current radios. Radios need to be purchased for the Police Department, Fire Department, and Highway Department with a base station at the Town Hall (Emergency Operations Center). Not all employees have radios within their vehicles and few have portable radios (such as the Fire Department volunteers) to take into the field when responding to emergencies. The Fire & Rescue personnel in particular are not in communication during fires because of the lack of radios.
Cost Rationale: Costs include 7 mobile radios for the Highway Department, 2 for the Police Department, and 7 for the Fire Department to be placed in the vehicles at $450 each. Costs will also include the purchase of 20 portable radios at $750 each and one base station at $600 for the Emergency Operations Center. Miscellaneous grants will be sought to help pay for these radios.
26 Pursue a written Highway Department Highway March 2005 $500 Town Budget mutual aid agreement with Antrim, Department, Board Francestown, Hillsborough, and of Selectmen Washington.
Project Rationale: A verbal agreement is currently in place. A written agreement for highway mutual aid is a new concept in New Hampshire, and Deering will seek to locate a model to base their agreement upon.
Cost Rationale: Costs include legal review, postage and mailing expenses. Labor will be provided in-kind by staff and volunteers.
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* The Approximate Cost for each project was a rough estimate agreed upon by the Hazard Mitigation Committee utilizing their various fields of expertise. The costs are total approximate costs for the entire project. In-kind staff time is not considered as part of out-of-pocket expense.
The prioritization exercise helped the Committee seriously evaluate the new hazard mitigation strategies that they had brainstormed throughout the Hazard Mitigation Planning process. While the actions would all help improve the Town’s disaster responsiveness capability, funding availability will be a driving factor in determining what and when new mitigation strategies are implemented. Several of the Actions, such as adopting residential UBC building codes, increasing the wetlands setback, obtaining hazardous materials suits, and road/bridge/culvert improvements should obtain funding from the 2004 Town Meeting, thus requiring support of residents. Other early Actions will require volunteer time and effort for completion, such as public education, shelter identification, and ongoing emergency training.
Cost to Benefit Analysis There are 22 Actions within the Mitigation Action Plan. As indicated in Table 20, those Actions which cost the least or seem to impart the highest benefit to residents and structures are not necessarily the first Actions to be completed. Some Actions that can be accomplished with little time or money (public information activities or regulation changes) were given a higher priority not necessarily because of the lower cost but because they are considered more important than several of the other Actions according to the ranking method described on page 53.
Less than $500 Eight of the 22 Actions are expected to cost less than $500 out of pocket. These Actions are: establishing a public information program ($500) and publicizing informational events ($500); purchasing adequate computer hardware and software for the Emergency Operations Center ($0); identifying and promoting shelters ($0); increasing the wetlands setback ($500); and obtaining hazardous materials suits for the Police Department ($175). Many of the low costs are attributable to the strong volunteer base in Town of the Board of Selectmen, the Planning Board, and Fire & Rescue.
The highest benefit gained for each Action is dependent on the chances of a hazard event, the type of hazard, and its severity. However, the following may provide the best cost to benefit relationship:
• Set up the Emergency Operations Center with a new computer and software [grant already received for this task](December 2003).
• Identify and promote the locations of emergency shelters and establish relationships with area towns to use their school facilities for shelters (June 2004).
• Establish a public information program, disseminate information about emergencies, and publicize informational events (Begin in October 2003 – ongoing).
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$501 to $10,000 Eleven of the 22 Actions are expected to cost between $501 and $10,000 out of pocket to the Town. Those Actions are: updating the Emergency Standard Operating Guidelines ($750); hazardous materials training ($7,500) and purchasing suits ($2,275); developing residential safety ordinances ($1,000); adopting residential building codes ($1,000); acquiring fire proof filing cabinets ($9,000); training certifications to fire fighting level 1 ($5,000), first responder level ($2,000), and advanced life support ($1,000); obtaining a generator for the Town Hall ($10,000); joining the Concord Fire Alarm ($10,000); and obtaining Aircraft Rescue Fire Fighting materials for the airport ($1,500).
The highest cost to benefit gained for each Action is again dependent on the chances of a hazard event, the type of hazard, and its severity. Potential loss of life and property are extremely difficult to predict or place a dollar figure on. However, the following may provide the best cost to benefit relationship within this monetary category based on their capability to positively affect a large number of people:
• Adopt residential building codes (March 2004).
• Update the Emergency Standard Operating Guidelines (June 2005).
• Develop ordinances regulating the proximity of structures to water, installing cisterns, residential sprinkler systems, etc (January 2005).
• Continue training to fire fighting level 1 and first responder level (ongoing).
Over $10,000 Three of the 22 Actions are expected to cost over $10,000 in Town funds. These Actions are: installing a sprinkler system in the Town Hall ($20,000); performing road, bridge, culvert improvements and tree removal ($unknown); and purchasing programmable radios for all Departments ($22,800).
The highest cost to benefit for these Actions is difficult to anticipate as most of these expenditures are required to keep the town operating in a safe manner. Nonetheless, the following may provide the highest cost to benefit based on their capability to positively affect a large number of people:
• Perform necessary road, bridge, and culvert improvements and remove hazardous trees or limbs (begin March 2004, finish March 2005).
• Purchase programmable radios for all Departments (March 2005).
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CHAPTER 12. PLAN MONITORING, EVALUATING, AND UPDATING
The completion of a planning document is merely the first step in its life as an evolving tool. The Hazard Mitigation Plan is a dynamic document which should be reviewed on a regular basis as to its relevancy and usefulness and to add new tasks as old tasks are completed. This Chapter will discuss the methods by which the Town of Deering will review, monitor, and update its 2003 Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Maintenance and Update Schedule of the Hazard Mitigation Plan The Deering Emergency Management Director will formulate a permanent Local Hazard Mitigation Committee with assistance from the Board of Selectmen. Existing Hazard Mitigation Committee members have expressed a desire to join the new permanent Committee. This Committee will meet quarterly according to the following schedule:
Table 21 Hazard Mitigation Committee Annual Future Meeting Schedule Month Preliminary Agenda
January Department reports on Action Items status, Finalize warrant articles and budget requests for first Implementation Action items
April Department reports on Action Items status, Evaluation of Existing Hazard Mitigation Plan
July Begin to update the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Status of Implementation Action items
October Update the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Begin writing warrant articles and budget requests for Implementation Action Items
For each of these meetings, the Emergency Management Director will invite Department Heads, Board Chairs, and administrative staff to participate in the meetings as well as coordinating with the permanent Hazard Mitigation Committee. Public notice will be given as press releases in local papers, will be posted in the public places in Deering, and will be posted on the Town of Deering website.
The Hazard Mitigation Plan will be updated annually according to the schedule in Table 21. Funds will be placed into the annual budget for the administrative costs associated with updating the plan such as word processing and map generation, and for printing costs.
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The Emergency Management Director will work with the Board of Selectmen to schedule a series of meetings to update the Hazard Mitigation Plan as part of the budget process cycle in the fall of each year. Strategies, actions, or items identified will be placed into the following fiscal year’s budget request.
The Emergency Management Director will invite Department Heads, Board Chairs, and administrative staff to participate in the annual meetings to update the Hazard Mitigation Plan and will place notices in local papers, post in public places, and will place on the local cable television channel.
Implementation of the Plan Through Existing Programs In addition to work by the Hazard Mitigation Committee and Town Departments, several other mechanisms exist which will ensure that the Hazard Mitigation Plan receives the attention it requires for satisfactory use.
Master Plan The Deering Master Plan is currently being developed by the Planning Board and should be adopted in late 2004. Implementation of the Master Plan will be undertaken after its adoption. Recommendations from the Hazard Mitigation Plan will be considered for insertion into the new Master Plan.
The Planning Board will consider the Hazard Mitigation Plan as an amendment to its Master Plan. It will be presented to the Planning Board in late 2004 for consideration and adoption after a duly noticed public hearing, just as any typical Chapter of a Master Plan. The Local Hazard Mitigation Committee will oversee the process to begin working with the Planning Board to ensure that the Hazard Mitigation Plan is adopted as a Chapter of the Master Plan.
Capital Improvements Program After the Master Plan is adopted in late 2004, a Capital Improvements Program (CIP) will be developed and adopted by the Planning Board, and then updated on a yearly basis. A $10,000 threshold is expected to be set for projects to placed within the CIP. Strategies or purchases requiring capital improvements from the Hazard Mitigation Plan will be inserted into the Capital Improvements Program. Depending on the Town’s funding needs, a Capital Reserve Fund for Hazard Mitigation Program Projects may be established to set aside funding for the many projects identified in the Hazard Mitigation Plan. The Local Hazard Mitigation Committee will oversee the process to begin working with the Planning Board to incorporate the various projects into the yearly CIP.
Zoning Ordinance and Regulations Several of the implementation strategies proposed involve revisions to the Subdivision Regulations and/or the Site Plan Review Regulations. The Local Hazard Mitigation Committee will oversee the process to begin working with the Planning Board to develop appropriate language for the modifications.
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Continued Public Involvement On behalf of the Hazard Mitigation Committee, the Emergency Management Director (EMD), under direction of the Board of Selectmen, will be responsible for ensuring that Town Departments and the public have adequate opportunity to participate in the planning process. Administrative staff may be utilized to assist with the public involvement process.
For each quarterly meeting (see Table 21) and for the yearly update process, techniques that will be utilized for public involvement include:
• Provide personal invitations to Budget Committee members; • Provide personal invitations to Town Department heads; • Post notices of meetings at the Town Office, Fire Department, and Library; • Post flyers of the project at the Town Office, Fire Department, and Library; and • Submit newspaper articles for publication to the Concord Monitor, Union Leader, and the Messenger.
The Local Hazard Mitigation Committee will ensure that the Town website is updated with the Hazard Mitigation meeting notices. A two-page summary of the Hazard Mitigation Plan and its process will be posted on the Deering Town website which is accessible to residents and visitors at all times. All public meetings of the Hazard Mitigation Committee will be posted on the website. A number of Implementation Action items which will be undertaken relate to public education and involvement.
These outreach activities will be undertaken during the Plan’s annual review and during any Hazard Mitigation Committee meetings the Board of Selectmen calls to order.
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CHAPTER 13. APPENDIX
The Appendix contains supplemental information to this Hazard Mitigation Plan. The intent of this Plan is to provide information about potential disasters, assets at risk, and a means of implementing the actions to help minimize loss to life and property. In addition, the process by which grant and relief money can be obtained and what programs are available to assist the Town and its residents are equally important. When the Hazard Mitigation Plan process is repeated in 2004 and subsequent years, materials used for publicity and meetings are exhibited to lay out the process for future Hazard Mitigation Committees.
Process for Disaster Declaration in Deering There are two phases to a disaster – first response and recovery. The recovery phase, or clean- up efforts, is where the majority of grant funds could be applied for. Having a Hazard Mitigation Plan in place before a disaster occurs, according to the US Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 and its amendments, is required after November 2004 in order to be eligible to apply for these recovery funds. These grant programs are briefly explained later in this chapter under the Grant Programs for Disaster Relief section.
FEMA Information The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has extensive resources related to disaster prevention and disaster recovery on its website at www.fema.gov. The following is an excerpt from their on-line library:
The first response to a disaster is the job of local government's emergency services with help from nearby municipalities, the state and volunteer agencies. In a catastrophic disaster, and if the governor requests, federal resources can be mobilized through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for search and rescue, electrical power, food, water, shelter and other basic human needs.
It is the long-term recovery phase of disaster which places the most severe financial strain on a local or state government. Damage to public facilities and infrastructure, often not insured, can overwhelm even a large city.
A governor's request for a major disaster declaration could mean an infusion of federal funds, but the governor must also commit significant state funds and resources for recovery efforts. A Major Disaster could result from a hurricane, earthquake, flood, tornado or major fire which the President determines warrants supplemental federal aid. The event must be clearly more than state or local governments can handle alone. If declared, funding comes from the President's Disaster Relief Fund, which is managed by FEMA, and disaster aid programs of other participating federal agencies.
A Presidential Major Disaster Declaration puts into motion long-term federal recovery programs, some of which are matched by state programs, and designed to help disaster victims, businesses and public entities.
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An Emergency Declaration is more limited in scope and without the long-term federal recovery programs of a Major Disaster Declaration. Generally, federal assistance and funding are provided to meet a specific emergency need or to help prevent a major disaster from occurring.
The Major Disaster Process A Major Disaster Declaration usually follows these steps: • The Local government responds, supplemented by neighboring communities and volunteer agencies. If overwhelmed, turn to the state for assistance;
• The State responds with state resources, such as the National Guard and state agencies;
• Damage assessment by local, state, federal, and volunteer organizations determines losses and recovery needs;
• A Major Disaster Declaration is requested by the governor, based on the damage assessment, and an agreement to commit state funds and resources to the long-term recovery;
• FEMA evaluates the request and recommends action to the White House based on the disaster, the local community and the state's ability to recover;
• The President approves the request or FEMA informs the governor it has been denied. This decision process could take a few hours or several weeks depending on the nature of the disaster.
Disaster Aid Programs There are two major categories of disaster aid: Individual Assistance is for damage to residences and businesses or personal property losses, and Public Assistance is for repair of infrastructure, public facilities and debris removal.
Individual Assistance Immediately after the declaration, disaster workers arrive and set up a central field office to coordinate the recovery effort. A toll-free telephone number is published for use by affected residents and business owners in registering for assistance. Disaster Recovery Centers also are opened where disaster victims can meet with program representatives and obtain information about available aid and the recovery process.
Disaster aid to individuals generally falls into the following categories: Disaster Housing may be available for up to 18 months, using local resources, for displaced persons whose residences were heavily damaged or destroyed. Funding also can be provided for housing repairs and replacement of damaged items to make homes habitable.
Disaster Grants are available to help meet other serious disaster related needs and necessary expenses not covered by insurance and other aid programs. These may include replacement of personal property, and transportation, medical, dental and funeral expenses.
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Low-Interest Disaster Loans are available after a disaster for homeowners and renters from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to cover uninsured property losses. Loans may be for repair or replacement of homes, automobiles, clothing or other damaged personal property. Loans are also available to businesses for property loss and economic injury.
Other Disaster Aid Programs include crisis counseling, disaster-related unemployment assistance, legal aid and assistance with income tax, Social Security and Veteran's benefits. Other state or local help may also be available.
Assistance Process -- After the application is taken, the damaged property is inspected to verify the loss. If approved, an applicant will soon receive a check for rental assistance or a grant. Loan applications require more information and approval may take several weeks after application. The deadline for most individual assistance programs is 60 days following the President's major disaster declaration.
Audits are done later to ensure that aid went to only those who were eligible and that disaster aid funds were used only for their intended purposes. These federal program funds cannot duplicate assistance provided by other sources such as insurance.
After a major disaster, FEMA tries to notify all disaster victims about the available aid programs and urge them to apply. The news media are encouraged to visit a Disaster Recovery Center, meet with disaster officials, and help publicize the disaster aid programs and the toll-free teleregistration number.
Public Assistance Public Assistance is aid to state or local governments to pay part of the costs of rebuilding a community's damaged infrastructure. Generally, public assistance programs pay for 75 per cent of the approved project costs. Public Assistance may include debris removal, emergency protective measures and public services, repair of damaged public property, loans needed by communities for essential government functions and grants for public schools.
Hazard Mitigation Disaster victims and public entities are encouraged to avoid the life and property risks of future disasters. Examples include the elevation or relocation of chronically flood- damaged homes away from flood hazard areas, retrofitting buildings to make them resistant to earthquakes or strong winds, and adoption and enforcement of adequate codes and standards by local, state and federal government. FEMA encourages and helps fund damage mitigation measures when repairing disaster damaged structures.
For more information, FEMA should be contacted at (617) 223-9540 or at www.fema.gov, or contact the NH Office of Emergency Management at (800) 852-3792 or at www.nhoem.state.nh.us.
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Grant Programs for Disaster Relief Through the NH Office of Emergency Management (NH OEM), the Federal Emergency Management Agency provides funds for assistance to municipalities in the event of a disaster. The programs are described briefly here; some of them may not be currently active. For more details about these funding sources, contact the NH OEM.
Emergency Management Assistance (EMA) This proactive funding program requires a 50% match from communities. It supports projects that will improve local emergency management preparedness and response in the following areas: planning, training, drills and exercise, and administration. It is designed to fund projects such as Hazard Mitigation Plans, Emergency Management/Action Plans, and other administrative projects.
Mitigation Assistance Program (MAP) This program requires a 25% match (in-kind or cash) and supports planning and implementation activities that reduce long-term hazard vulnerability and risk under the following categories: public awareness and education; mitigation planning and implementation; and preparedness and response planning.
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Program (PDM) The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program provides technical and financial assistance to States and local governments for cost-effective pre-disaster hazard mitigation activities that complement a comprehensive mitigation program, and reduce injuries, loss of life, and damage and destruction of property. FEMA provides grants to States and Federally recognized Indian tribal governments that, in turn, provide sub-grants to local governments (to include Indian Tribal governments) for mitigation activities such as planning and the implementation of projects identified through the evaluation of natural hazards.
Flood Mitigation Assistance Program (FMA) This program requires a 25% match (half in-kind and half local cash) and awards funds for Planning Grants, Technical Assistance Grants, and Project Grants. A Flood Mitigation Plan must be in place before funds can be sought for Technical Assistance or Projects. This program awards funding for Flood Mitigation Plans, structural enhancements, acquisition of buildings or land, and relocation projects.
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) A disaster must be declared to take advantage of this program, which awards emergency funds to cover unmet needs in a community. At least one of three national objectives must be met: the funds must have a direct benefit to low and moderate income persons; or must prevent or eliminate slums and blight in neighborhoods; or must eliminate conditions which threaten the public health and welfare. The NH Office of State Planning administers this program.
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Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) A disaster must be declared to take advantage of this program, which is designed to protect public and private property from future disasters. This program typically awards funding for projects that are structural in nature or for the acquisition of buildings or land.
For more information, for a listing of criteria, or to request an application to these or any other grant programs, please contact the NH Office of Emergency Management at (800) 852-3792 or at www.nhoem.state.nh.us.
Action Evaluation and Prioritization Matrix of the Hazard Mitigation Committee
Hazard Mitigation Plan: Action Evaluation, Prioritization, and Implementation
Vote of Committee required to accept the following Ranking Criteria As a group, rank each of the following Actions according to the following criteria: 3 = Good 2 = Average 1 = Poor Contribute Meet Protect Administrati Politically Reasonable Environ- Reduce to Town Regulations sensitive Implemente Socially Technically vely Acceptable Cost to mentally Action damage? objectives? ? structures? d quickly? Acceptable Feasible? Realistic? ? Legal? Benefits? Sound? Total Score
Increase the wetlands setback from 50’ to 75’ or greater. 23313333333333 Acquire fire proof cabinets for official off-site storage of Town documents. 33331332233332 Install a sprinkler system in the Town Hall. 33331232233331 Develop ordinances regulating the proximity of structures to water, installing cisterns, residential 33333233233334 Obtain and retain Hazardous materials membership training level at 100% and upgrade DCON materials to 33333333333336 Obtain at least two more B-Level hazardous materials suits for the Police Department. 33333233132332 Purchase programmable radios for all Departments to communicate locally and with neighboring towns. 33231221132326 Obtain a generator for the Town Hall and Police Department. 33331232233331 Identify and promote locations of emergency shelters, possibly in the SAU airport hangar, Town 33313333333334 Establish a relationship with area towns to use the school facilities as shelters for Deering residents. 33313333333334 Establish a public education program and disseminate information about emergencies, such as articles in 33333333333336 Increase the effectiveness of the Fire and Rescue Mutual Aid by changing the dispatch center to the 33332232232331 Achieve 100% of Fire and Rescue members certified to level 1. 33332322233332 Train as many members as possible to first responder level. 33332322233332 Work with appropriate agencies to ensure that an adequate computer and software are purchased, with 33333333333336 Pursue a written Highway Department mutual aid agreement with Antrim, Francestown, Hillsborough, 33331111133326 Update the Emergency Standard Operating Guidelines with the assistance of NH OEM. 33333333333336 Advertise widely to invite the public to Fire Prevention Program events. 33333333333336 Acquire additional money for gravel and paved road improvements, including culverts, bridges, and 33331232132329 Continue adding personnel to staff the advanced life support ambulance. 33311322332329
Adopt UBC Residential Building Codes. 33332333233334 Secure Aircraft Resuce Fire Fighting materials for the Airport. 33331322233129
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Publicity and Meeting Information for the Deering 2003 Hazard Mitigation Plan To better assist future Hazard Mitigation Committee updates of this Plan, exhibited are the Agendas from each of the six Committee meetings and one public information meeting, their attendance sheets, and their meeting summaries. Also included are press releases, published public notices, and flyers which were posted around the Town to encourage all interested people to attend the meetings.
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