HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Town of Webster New Hampshire
Adopted by the Webster Board of Selectmen July 16, 2007
HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
Town of Webster, NH
July 16, 2007
Town of Webster 945 Battle Street Webster, NH 03303 Phone: (603) 648-2272 Police Department Phone: (603) 648-2200
Central NH Regional Planning Commission 28 Commercial Street Concord, NH 03301 Phone: (603) 226-6020 Web: www.cnhrpc.org
NH Bureau of Emergency Management 107 Pleasant Street Concord, NH 03301 Phone: (800) 852-3792 Web: www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/emergservices/bem
US Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency 99 High Street, Sixth Floor Boston, Massachusetts 02110 Phone: (617) 223-9540 Web: www.fema.gov
Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Certificate of Adoption ...... vi
Acknowledgements ...... vii
Chapter 1. Introduction ...... 1 Goals ...... 2 Methodology ...... 3
Chapter 2. Hazard Identification ...... 4 Natural Hazard Events in Webster ...... 4 Technological Hazard Events in Webster...... 31 Human Hazard Events in Webster ...... 44 Evacuation Routes ...... 55 Map 1: Potential Hazards ...... 55 Map 2: Past Hazards ...... 55
Chapter 3. Asset and Risk Identification ...... 56 Critical Facilities...... 56 Vulnerable Populations ...... 59 Economic Assets...... 60 Special Considerations ...... 61 Historic/Other Considerations ...... 62 Future Development...... 63 Homes within the Potential Flood Hazard Areas...... 63 Map 3: Assets and Risks ...... 63
Chapter 4. Potential Losses...... 64 Loss Estimation...... 64 Losses by Flooding ...... 65 Losses by Other Natural Hazards ...... 67 Losses by Technological Hazards ...... 72 Losses by Human Hazards ...... 78 Map 4: Potential Hazards and Losses ...... 80
Chapter 5. Development Trends...... 81 Population and Housing Growth ...... 81 Land Use...... 83 Relation to Natural Hazards...... 84
Page ii ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chapter 6. Floodplain Management ...... 86 Flooding in Webster...... 86 National Flood Insurance Program ...... 87 Repetitive Loss Properties...... 88 Floodplain Management Goals/Reducing Flood Risks ...... 88
Chapter 7. Local Hazard Mitigation Objectives ...... 90 General Objectives ...... 90 Hazard Specific Objectives...... 91
Chapter 8. Existing Mitigation Strategies ...... 92 Description of Existing Projects, Programs, and Activities...... 92
Chapter 9. Newly Identified Mitigation Strategies ...... 99 Description of Potential Mitigation Projects and Strategies ...... 99
Chapter 10. Evaluation and Implementation of Actions ...... 106 Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan...... 107 Cost to Benefit Analysis...... 116
Chapter 11. Plan Monitoring, Evaluating, and Updating ...... 117 Maintenance and Update Schedule of the Hazard Mitigation Plan...... 117 Implementation of the Plan Through Existing Programs...... 120 Continued Public Involvement ...... 121
Chapter 12. Appendix...... 122 Process for Disaster Declaration in Webster...... 122 Grant Programs for Disaster Relief...... 125 Action Evaluation and Prioritization Matrix of the Hazard Mitigation Committee ...... 127 Glossary of Terms...... 128 Publicity and Meeting Information for Webster 2007 Hazard Mitigation Plan ...... 131
Page iii ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan TABLE OF CONTENTS
List of Tables, Figures, and Maps:
Table 1 – Significant Area Annual Events...... 53 Table 1A – Significant Local Annual Events ...... 54 Table 2 – Essential Facilities ...... 56 Table 3 – Utilities ...... 57 Table 4 – Dams ...... 57 Table 5 – Bridges ...... 58 Table 6 – Vulnerable Populations...... 59 Table 7 – Economic Assets...... 60 Table 8 – Cemeteries and Churches...... 61 Table 9 – Hazardous Materials Facilities ...... 61 Table 10 – Historic Sites and Buildings ...... 62 Table 11 – Recreational and Gathering Sites ...... 62 Table 12 – Future Development ...... 63 Table 13 – Building Value in Potential Flood Hazard Areas ...... 65 Table 14 – Overall Population and Housing Growth Trends in Webster, 1970-2000...... 81 Table 15 – Population Density in Webster, 1970-2000 ...... 82 Table 16 – Population Projections...... 82 Table 17 – Residential Building Permits Issued by Housing Type, 1998 – 2003 ...... 82 Table 18 – Land Use in Webster, 2004...... 83 Table 19 - Webster Policy and Loss Statistics, February 2006...... 87 Table 20A - Existing Mitigation Strategies: Police Department...... 92 Table 20B - Existing Mitigation Strategies: Fire Department ...... 94 Table 20C - Existing Mitigation Strategies: Highway Department...... 95 Table 20D - Existing Mitigation Strategies: Army Corps of Engineers...... 96 Table 20E - Existing Mitigation Strategies: Planning Board/Code Enforcement Officer...... 98 Table 21A – Potential Mitigation Actions: Flood/Rapid Snow Pack Melt ...... 100 Table 21B – Potential Mitigation Actions: River Ice Jams/Dam Breach & Failure ...... 101 Table 21C – Potential Mitigation Actions: Stream Bank Eros & Scour/Debris Imp Infra ...... 102 Table 21D – Potential Mitigation Actions: Hurricanes and Severe Storms ...... 102 Table 21E – Potential Mitigation Actions: Wildfire/Lightning...... 103 Table 21F – Potential Mitigation Actions: Severe Winter Weather...... 103 Table 21G – Potential Mitigation Actions: Tornadoes/Downbursts & High Winds...... 104 Table 21H – Potential Mitigation Actions: Drought/Radon ...... 104 Table 21I – Potential Mitigation Actions: Human/Technological ...... 104 Table 21J – Potential Mitigation Actions: Multiple Hazards ...... 105 Table 22A – Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Life and Property Protection ...... 107 Table 22B – Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Emergency Services ...... 110 Table 22C – Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Public Information and Involvement...... 112 Table 22D – Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Training and Preparation ...... 113 Table 22E – Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Planning and Implementation...... 114 Table 23 - Hazard Mitigation Committee Annual Future Meeting Schedule ...... 117
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Figure 1 – Eight-Foot Flooding: Residential and Non-Residential Potential Damage...... 66 Figure 2 – Four-Foot Flooding: Residential and Non-Residential Potential Damage...... 66 Figure 3 – Two-Foot Flooding: Residential and Non-Residential Potential Damage ...... 67 Figure 4 – Action Plan Evaluation and Prioritization ...... 127
Map 1: Potential Hazards Map 2: Past Hazards Map 3: Assets and Risks Map 4: Potential Hazards and Losses
Page v ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION
CERTIFICATE OF ADOPTION
TOWN OF WEBSTER, NEW HAMPSHIRE BOARD OF SELECTMEN A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE WEBSTER HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN July 16, 2007
WHEREAS, the Town of Webster received funding, administered by the Central NH Regional Planning Commission, from the NH Bureau of Emergency Management to prepare the Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan; and
WHEREAS, several public planning meetings were held between January and August 2006 regarding the development and review of the Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan; and
WHEREAS, the Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan contains several potential future projects to mitigate hazard damage in the Town of Webster; and
WHEREAS, a duly noticed public hearing was held by the Webster Board of Selectmen on July 16, 2007 to formally approve and adopt the Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the Webster Board of Selectmen adopts the Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan.
ADOPTED AND SIGNED this sixteenth day of July 2007.
______George Hashem, Chair Webster Board of Selectmen
______ATTEST Thomas Mullins, Selectman
______Barbara Hochrein, Town Clerk David Klumb, Selectmen
Page vi ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee was comprised of the following individuals who met from January through August 2006 to develop this Plan:
• David Buttrick, Board of Selectmen • Dave Kratz, US Army Corps of Engineers • Brian Milano, Police Department • Philip Mitchell, Police Department • Adam Mock, Road Agent
The following Central NH Regional Planning Commission staff contributed to the development of the Hazard Mitigation Plan:
• Stephanie Alexander, Principal Planner • Jill Cunningham, Planning Intern • Stephen Lopez, Regional Planner (former) • Ethan Parsons, Planning Intern • Craig Tufts, Assistant Planner
Other individuals contributed to the development of this Plan:
• Kris Blanchette, Police Department • Bill Frank, Resident • Michael Hayward, US Army Corps of Engineers • Jason Killary, Police Department • Lyn Lehmann, Board of Selectmen (former) • Joe Mahoney, US Army Corps of Engineers • Shawn Mitchell, Fire Department (former) • Richard Riley, US Army Corps of Engineers
Page vii ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
The Hazard Mitigation Plan for Webster is intended to provide information in the event of a natural disaster, to raise awareness of the vulnerability of facilities and structures of Webster 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 (DMA) which requires states and municipalities to adopt local natural hazard mitigation plans in order to be eligible for disaster funding programs such as Community Development Block Grant, Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, Flood Mitigation Assistance Program, and Mitigation Assistance Program. New Hampshire 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. Now in its fifth round of funding, the NH Bureau of Emergency Management (formerly Bureau of Emergency Management, or BEM) provided funding to the nine regional planning commissions in New Hampshire in 2006 to work with five municipalities in their respective regions to produce such a plan. The Town of Webster expressed interest in working with the Central NH Regional Planning to produce their Plan. The CNHRPC was able to accommodate the request in Federal Fiscal Year 2006. Fully federally funded, there is no cost to the Town to produce this Plan.
A Town Hazard Advisory Committee was established which guided the development of the Plan. The Town Fire Department, Police Department, Planning Board, Highway Department, Board of Selectmen, and the Webster historians were invited to participate. Other interested residents were also invited. By advertising the public process for this plan via news press releases and colorful, detailed flyers posted around the community, all interests had an opportunity to be present and participate in the meetings.
Page 1 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
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 Webster are:
• To identify natural hazards that may impact the Town; (such as floods, hurricanes, Nor’easters, earthquakes, wildfire, and drought)
• To identify technological hazards that may impact the Town; (such as fires and explosions, business interruption, transportation accidents, etc.)
• To identify human hazards that may impact the Town; (such as sabotage, hostage situations, enemy attack, special events, etc.)
• 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 Webster’s Hazard Mitigation Plan. They are located within CHAPTER 7. LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION OBJECTIVES.
Page 2 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 1. INTRODUCTION
METHODOLOGY
The Hazard Mitigation Committee met on January 23, March 20, April 17, June 12, July 10, August 21, 2006. 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 CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX of the Plan.
News articles about the Hazard Mitigation Plan and its process were provided to the Concord Monitor and Union Leader. Articles and announcements were found to be printed in the February 27, 2006 and May 15 issues of the Concord Monitor. Poster flyers were posted around the Town. Copies of publicity for the Plan are included in CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX.
In between meetings, CNHRPC staff interviewed the local historians about what hazard events occurred in Webster and conducted research on the Internet and at the State Library for information on hazards specific to Webster. CNHRPC staff collected information on the critical and at-risk facilities in Town, most of which were located by global positioning system by the Army Corps of Engineers, 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 September 6, 2006, the Committee made a final draft of this Plan available to Town Departments for review and comment. Included with the draft was a support letter which was signed by Department heads to acknowledge that they have read and support the document. The support letters are included in CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX.
On October 2, 2006, 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 announcement was sent to the Concord Monitor. Flyers were posted at around the community. Copies of this Plan were made available for review at the Town Office. Copies of publicity for the Plan and flyers are included in CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX.
On November 27, 2006, copies of this Plan were submitted to the NH Bureau of Emergency Management and FEMA for FEMA’s approval of the Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan. Between December 2006 and March 2007, the Town added additional detail and actions per NHBEM's suggestion. On May 25, 2007 this revised Plan was resubmitted to NHBEM and FEMA. On June 7, 2007, Webster received a letter of conditional approval from FEMA, contingent up on adoption by the local governing body.
On July 16, 2007, the Webster Board of Selectmen held a duly noticed public hearing to adopt the Hazard Mitigation Plan for Webster. Copies were made available at the Town Offices or the Police Department for public review on July 3, 2007. Copies of the public notice and flyers are included in CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX.
Page 3 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
The State of New Hampshire’s 2004 Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan recommends that municipalities examine the following natural hazards. Two hazards, coastal flooding and snow avalanche, are not discussed in Webster’s Plan. Other natural hazards, which are not a part of the State Plan, include tsunami, windstorm, biological, volcanic eruption, and dust storm.
Technological hazards including hazardous materials spills, transportation accidents, and power utility failure have the ability to impact Webster. Other technological hazards considered include explosion, building collapse, communication systems interruption, and more. Human hazard events in Webster could be sabotage, terrorism, hostage situations, civil disturbance, etc, and have also been addressed.
This Chapter seeks to identify hazard events of all three types (natural, technological, and human) that have occurred within the Town and the surrounding area. Narrative descriptions are provided, and additional research has uncovered historical data and data which may indirectly refer to Webster from a county- or state-wide context; all of the findings are then summarized in tabular form. The potential for such hazards to recur in Webster is offered as well as their likely severity.
NATURAL HAZARD EVENTS IN WEBSTER
Hazard events were researched using a wide variety of sources. Sources and techniques included interviewing local townspeople, researching Town Histories and related documents, and collecting information from the State of New Hampshire Hazard Mitigation Plan and from governmental or non-profit websites.
A compilation of hazards that have impacted Concord in the past appears in the following section. Within Webster, the risk of each hazard has been identified as a High, Moderate, or Low frequency of 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. Potential severity of each hazard based upon the same assumptions through the research and indicated by the High, Moderate, and Low scale is also provided.
Page 4 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Flooding Floods are defined as a temporary overflow of water onto lands that are not normally covered by water. Flooding WEBSTER FLOODING EVENTS results from the overflow of major rivers and tributaries, Frequency - High storm surges, and/or inadequate local drainage. Floods can cause loss of life, property damage, crop/livestock damage, Potential Severity - High and water supply contamination. Floods can also disrupt travel routes on roads and bridges.
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.
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.
Second only to winter storms, riverine flooding is the most common natural disaster to impact New Hampshire. Floods are a common and costly hazard. They are most likely to occur in the spring due to the increase in rainfall and the melting of snow. However, they can occur anytime of the year as a result of heavy rains, hurricane, or a Nor’easter.
Area Events Numerous flooding events in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• March 11-21, 1936 In March, 1936, heavy snowfall totals, heavy rains, and warm weather all at the same time combined to impact Webster and all of New England. These floods killed 24 people, caused $133,000,000 in damage, and made 77,000 people homeless throughout New England.
The New Hampshire State Board of Health requested health officers throughout New Hampshire to issue warnings that all water should be boiled before it was used (The Union Leader, March 16, 1936). Many private wells throughout the state were flooded; possibly, some residents of Webster had to boil their water before use.
• September 21, 1938 New Hampshire and Southern New England were affected by the hurricane, including experiencing flooding events. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• Spring, 1976 The entire region experienced spring flooding. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
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• July 1986 – August 10, 1986 During severe summer storms with heavy rains, tornadoes, flash floods, and severe winds, the road network was impacted statewide. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• April 16, 1987 Flooding caused by snowmelt and intense rain was felt in seven counties, including Merrimack County. Declared FEMA Disaster #789, nearly $5 million in damage occurred. It is unknown how Webster was affected. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• August 7-11, 1990 (see also Hurricanes and Severe Storms) Flooding caused by a series of storm events with moderate to heavy rains impacted eight counties, including Merrimack County. Declared FEMA Disaster #876, over $2 million in damage occurred. It is unknown how Webster was affected. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• October 1996 (see also Hurricanes and Severe Storms) Six counties experienced flooding due to heavy rains in FEMA Disaster Declaration #1144, causing $2.3 million dollars in damage. It is unknown how Webster was affected. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• July 1998 (see also Hurricanes and Severe Storms) Flooding from severe storms in six counties, including Merrimack County, resulted in $3.4 million in damages in FEMA Disaster #1231. It is unknown how Webster was affected. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• October 7-18, 2005 Extensive flooding caused by severe storms impacted five counties in FEMA Disaster Declaration #1610. See below for the impacts to Webster. NH Bureau of Emergency Management and FEMA
Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• 1936 Flood Roads washed out (Clothespin Bridge Road) and flooded (Route 127) during this storm which took out five covered bridges and the steel bridge at Sweatt’s Mills. Only Snyder’s covered bridge remained in Town. The State paid $1,965 for road repairs in Webster. Webster NH 1933-1983 History
• Various Dates, Road Flooding Local roads have flooded or washed out in the past, including on White Plains Road at Schoodac Brook, on Long Street north of Couch Pond, Corn Hill Road at Pond Brook, on Deer Meadow Road, and along Little Hill Road. A low spot on Deer Meadow Road often contains standing water, washing out ditches and crossing over the road during heavy rain. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Page 6 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
• October 15-16, 2005 Sandbagging occurred at Pillsbury Lake. Battle Street, Roby Road, White Plains Road, Deer Meadow Road, Corn Hill Road at the Town line, and Mutton Road all had areas of wash out. The Town was reimbursed for $13,800 in state aid. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
• May 14-16, 2006 Heavy rain caused the washing out of numerous roads and culverts closing several roadways for several days. At least one house was damaged by water. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Potential Future Hazards Because of the Blackwater River Flood Control Area, areas likely to flood are located in areas surround the River. Currently, there are 64 homes and one (1) non-residential building located within floodplains in Webster. While living in a 100-year floodplain, there is a 26% chance of flood loss during a typical 30-year mortgage span (Northeast States Emergency Consortium).
Poor drainage exists along Mutton Road and numerous culverts should be replaced and the road repaired. The potential for flooding from the dam and rain exists along Little Hill Road. Long Street at Beaver Dam Brook has the potential to be flooded. Various key bridges on Battle Street at the Blackwater River, on Clothespin Bridge Road at the River, and on Tyler Road at the River. Deer Meadow Road at Deer Meadow Brook could also be subject to flooding; culverts could also be replaced and the road fixed to alleviate some of the problems. Other roads that are considered susceptible to flooding or damage are White Plains Road and Detour Road. Parts of White Plain Road are located downstream from a large beaver pond, and should the beaver pond let go, the results could be disastrous. Detour Road needs ditching, and needs to be paved, which will help with the flooding problem. The Schoodac Road Bridge, which has addressed as a potential threat and problem, the Town has begun the process of addressing the bridge with the State, no further information has become available during the research for this report.
Page 7 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Hurricanes and Severe Storms A hurricane is a tropical cyclone in which winds reach WEBSTER HURRICANE/STORM speeds of 74 miles per hour or more and blow in a large EVENTS spiral around a relatively calm center. Flooding is often Frequency - Moderate caused from the coastal storm surge of the ocean and torrential rains, both of which accompany the storm. These Potential Severity - High floods can result in loss of lives and property.
Area Events 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 and flooding due to heavy rains is a risk to Webster during hurricanes. Numerous hurricane events in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• August, 1635 A hurricane struck portions of New Hampshire in 1635. It is unknown if Webster was one of those areas. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• October 18-19, 1778 Portions of New Hampshire experienced 40-75 mph winds. It is unknown if Webster was one of those areas. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• October 9, 1804 A hurricane struck portions of New Hampshire in 1635. It is unknown if Webster was one of those areas. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• September 23, 1815 Portions of New Hampshire experienced the effects of a hurricane in 1815. It is unknown if Webster was affected.
• September 8, 1869 Portions of New Hampshire experienced winds over 50 mph. It is unknown if Webster was one of those areas. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• 1954 – 1991 Hurricanes Carol, Donna, Gloria, and Bob Hurricanes on August 31, 1954 (Carol – tree and crop damage), April 12, 1960 (Donna – heavy flooding), September 27, 1985 (Gloria), and 1991 (Bob) impacted New Hampshire and southern New England. It is unknown how the events affected Webster. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• 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. The impact in Webster is unknown. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
Page 8 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
• August 7-11, 1990 (see also Flooding) A series of storm events with moderate to heavy rains occurred on August 7-11, caused flooding in eight counties, including Merrimack County, and resulted in a disaster declaration. The damage totaled $2,297,777 for all counties. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• October 1996 (see also Flooding) 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. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• July 1998 (see also Flooding) Severe storms in July 1998 caused heavy flooding in six counties, including Merrimack County. Damages of $3.4 million were incurred for all counties. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• 1938 Hurricane Residents reported watching trees fall and landing like matchsticks or pick-up sticks on the ground. Trees fell on houses and dropped 4” of pine needles into homes. Apples fell from the trees over a foot deep. Logs were dumped into Lake Winnepocket, which were bought by the government and buried in a nearby field. Roofs were blown off, ad electrical service was disrupted for a week. No buildings were completely destroyed, and there was no loss of life. Webster NH 1933-1983 History
• February 24, 2006 Very windy conditions caused numerous trees to fall down in Town, along Clough and Sanborn Hill Rods, Route 127/Battle Street, on Cloverdale Road, Roby Road, Pleasant Street, Gerrish Road, Clothespin Bridge/Chadwick Hill Road, and Tyler Road. PSNH electric customers had to wait days to have their service restored. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Potential Future Hazards It is likely that hurricanes will impact Webster in the future. Particularly vulnerable areas include the dam and the surrounding area. The entire town, covered by Unitil and PSNH, is prone to power outages. PSNH’s response time to power outages is often long.
Page 9 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Rapid Snow Pack Melt Warm temperatures and heavy rains cause rapid snowmelt. WEBSTER RAPID PACK SNOW MELT The water cannot yet percolate into the frozen ground and EVENTS runs off into streets and waterways. Quickly melting snow coupled with moderate to heavy rains are prime conditions Frequency - Low for flooding. Potential Severity - Moderate
Area Events Numerous rapid snow pack melt events in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• Spring, 1976 The entire region experienced spring flooding. It is unknown how Webster was affected. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• April 16, 1987 (see also Flooding) Caused by rapid snowmelt and intense rain, statewide the damage totaled nearly $5 million. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• March 14, 1977 With the peak record of the Soucook River, areas experienced flooding in area communities. It is unknown how Webster was affected. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
Events in Webster No rapid snow pack melt has been reported as a significant cause of flooding in Webster.
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards There is a possibility of damage through rapid snow pack melt because of the flooding potential of the Blackwater River and Reservoir. Deer Meadow Road, the back side of New Hampshire Drive, and all roads in the floodplain are particularly susceptible.
Page 10 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
River Ice Jams Rising waters in early spring often break ice into chunks, WEBSTER RIVER ICE JAM EVENTS which float downstream and often pile up, causing flooding. Small rivers and streams pose special flooding Frequency - Moderate risks because they are easily blocked by jams. Ice in riverbeds and against structures presents significant Potential Severity - Moderate flooding threats to bridges, roads, and the surrounding lands.
Area Events Numerous ice jam events in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• March 14, 1977 In the State, an ice jam caused major disruption to the road network as a result of road washouts. The specific location is unknown. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• Various Dates, Ice Jams Ice jams along the Blackwater River have occurred along Bridge Road and in an area south of the Battle Street/Tyler Road fork.
Potential Future Hazards Because ice jams have occurred in the past, it is likely they will occur again. Areas of future consideration include along Bridge Road, Battle Street/Tyler Road, along the span of Clothespin Bridge Road, and east of Tyler Road.
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Dam Breach and Failure Dam failure results in rapid loss of water that is normally WEBSTER DAM BREACH EVENTS held by the dam. These kinds of floods are extremely dangerous and pose a significant threat to both life and Frequency - Low property. Potential Severity - High Area Events Numerous dam breaches in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• No details on specific events were found during area research.
Events in Webster There are currently 10 active dams in Webster 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. There are five (5) inactive dams listed in Webster 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. Webster has six (6) Class AA, three (3) Class A, no Class B, and one (1) Class C dam, which is the Blackwater Dam.
The government purchased land in Webster in 1940 and completed the Blackwater Dam in 1941 at a cost of $1,320,000. It was 1,150’ long, 75’ high at an elevation of 548’. Two dikes, Dodge Dike (420’ long) and Little Hill Dike (1,230’) were constructed. Between the two towns of Salisbury and Webster, the reservoir is 3,140 acres, with a drainage area of 128 square miles. • March 1953 and April 1987 High Water Levels The highest levels of water in the Blackwater Dam were measured in these years, with the capacity at 93% for both years. No flooding occurred. US Army Corps of Engineers
• May 15, 2006 The Pillsbury Lake Dam in Webster, holding back an artificial lake of about 70 acres, was breached by flooding due to heavy rains. The earth and concrete dam, which blocks the Dear Meadow Brook, was built in the 1960s, creating the Pillsbury Lake District with about 180 households. Floodwaters punched out a 20-foot breach in the dam. The Lake’s level fell several feet. Concord Monitor, 5/18/06
Potential Future Hazards The Blackwater River Dam is of the highest concern for dam breaches. The US Army Corps of Engineers has a facility onsite that monitors all conditions relating to the operation and capacity of the dam. Failure of the Pillsbury Lake Dam could result in blocked access from the private roads on the east side of the lake as well as the flooding of Deer Meadow Road. A breach from the Walker Pond dam, although on the Boscawen side, is of moderate concern.
Page 12 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Stream Bank Erosion and Scouring Watercourses which are particularly prone to flash-flooding WEBSTER BANK EROSION EVENTS conditions are most vulnerable to erosion and scouring. These types of rivers are primarily found at higher elevations. Frequency - Low
Area Events Potential Severity - Low Bank erosion events in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster.
• May 14 – 17, 2006 The Suncook River through Epsom changed its course during this heavy rain event and its resultant flooding. The River shifted hundreds of meters, flowing around two dams, creating about a mile of new river through a sand pit a half mile from its original course, and leaving a similar length of dry riverbed. The water carved through peat bogs and tore away a corner of a sand excavation pit. Pittsfield experienced bank erosion as their floodgates failed, and Epsom, Allenstown, and Pembroke later dealt with siltation issues from the new river course. Concord Monitor, 5/18 – 5/23/06.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Bank erosion and scouring, while any appearance should be monitored, is not considered a particular hazard of concern in Webster. Clothespin Bridge Road south of Detour Street is most likely to be affected.
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Debris Impacted Infrastructure Debris carried by floodwaters can compromise the WEBSTER DEBRIS IMPACTION EVENTS effectiveness of bridges, dams, culverts, diverting structures, etc. This debris may compound a flooding Frequency - Low hazard by becoming obstructions to normal floodwater flow. Potential Severity - Low Area Events Debris impaction events in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• No details on specific events were found during area research.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Traveling debris is not considered a particular hazard of concern in Webster, although bridges vulnerable to such a hazard would be on Battle Street at the Blackwater River, on Clothespin Road at the Blackwater River, and the two bridges on Tyler Road at the Blackwater. If the log boom, which holds back the logs, breaks, debris could clog the Blackwater Dam.
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Tornadoes Significantly high winds occur especially during hurricanes, WEBSTER TORNADO EVENTS tornadoes, winter storms, and thunderstorms. Falling objects and downed power lines are dangerous risks Frequency - Low associated with high winds. In addition, property damage and downed trees are common during high wind Potential Severity - Moderate occurrences.
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 to a hurricane, a tornado covers a much smaller area but can be more violent and destructive.
Area Events Numerous tornadoes in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
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 touch down somewhere in New England. Damage from tornadoes is caused as a result of high wind velocity and wind blown debris. Although there is no evidence a tornado has occurred directly in Webster, it is a likely possibility for a tornado to touch down in Merrimack County again and even in Webster.
• Early Tornadoes, 1791-1821 Four tornadoes rated F2 or higher on the Fujita Tornado Damage Scale (winds between 113-157 mph causing considerable damage) occurred in Merrimack County on July 14, 1791, September 5, 1792, July 1793, and on September 9, 1821. The impact to Webster from these events is unknown. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• July 9, 1953 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. The impact to Webster is unknown. Source undetermined
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• Tornadoes, 1962 – 1976 Three separate tornadoes, all of an F1 intensity, touched down in Merrimack County. The March 31, 1962 tornado had caused no injuries, but in the July 12, 1967 and August 15, 1976 tornadoes, five people were injured during each event. The impact to Webster from these events is unknown. The Tornado Project
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Particularly vulnerable sites would be the Blackwater Dam and its reservoir, the bridges in Town, the high population area of Pillsbury Lake, Cold Brook Campground, and the Austin Home.
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Downbursts A downburst is a severe localized wind blasting down from a WEBSTER DOWNBURST EVENTS thunderstorm. These "straight line" winds are distinguishable from tornadic activity by the pattern of Frequency - Low destruction and debris. Downbursts fall into two categories: • microburst, which covers an area less than 2.5 miles Potential Severity - Moderate in diameter and • macroburst, which covers an area at least 2.5 miles in diameter.
Area Events Numerous downburst in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• July 6, 1999 A downburst impacted three counties in New Hampshire, including Merrimack 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). Source undetermined
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Particularly vulnerable sites would be the Blackwater Dam and its reservoir, the bridges in Town, the high population area of Pillsbury Lake, Cold Brook Campground, and the Austin Home.
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Lightning All thunderstorms contain lightning. During a lightning WEBSTER LIGHTNING EVENTS discharge, the sudden heating of the air causes it to expand rapidly. After the discharge, the air contracts quickly as it Frequency - Moderate cools back to ambient temperatures. This rapid expansion and contraction of the air causes a shock wave that we hear Potential Severity - Low as thunder, a shock wave that can damage building walls and break glass. Lightning strikes can cause death, injury, and property damage.
Area Events Localized lightning strikes in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster.
• June 12, 2005 During a thunderstorm, lightning struck and severely damaged the historic Loudon Town Hall on Clough Hill Road. Loudon Hazard Mitigation Committee, 2005
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Lightning can strike at any given location. Particularly vulnerable sites would be remote areas that cannot be easily accessed by emergency vehicles.
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Wildfire Wildfire is defined as an uncontrolled and rapidly spreading WEBSTER WILDFIRE EVENTS fire. A forest fire is an uncontrolled fire in a woody area. They often occur during drought and when woody debris on Frequency - Low the forest floor is readily available to fuel the fire. Grass fires are uncontrolled fires in grassy areas. Potential Severity - Low
Area Events Wildfire events in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town.
• No details on specific events were found during area research.
Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• 2005 Brushfire on Lake Winnepocket This was a 2 alarm stump dump fire. Several stumps were several feet in diameter and required an excavator to dig up the pile of burning stumps so it could be completely extinguished. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
• April 2006 A wildfire burned throughout a night in April over a 5 acre area. Fire crews had to dig embers out of the soil that were 4 to 5 inches deep. The Forest Ranger commented that embers embedded that deep in the soil at that time of year was very unusual. WMUR 4/20/06
Potential Future Hazards The potential for fire was identified along a stretch of the Blackwater River spanning from Route 127 to Bridge Road.
The high tension power lines that run through the Deer Meadow Road area are also of concern. The dense scrub brush and juniper that is found under the power lines dries rapidly in the spring and summer. The significant amount of fuel, from the adjacent auto repair shop and salvage yard, the rough terrain, and lack of access for safety vehicles, would allow brush fires under the lines to spread quickly.
Recently a property owner off of Little Hill Road, has clear cut nearly 450 acres of land at the end of the town maintained section of road. The amount of “slash” left behind from this type of logging operation is significant, and does create a potential hazardous situation. In some areas the amount of “slash” is waist deep. Most of this clear cut land is on a south facing hillside therefore it is exposed to the sun for a large part of the day. The “slash” with quickly dry and provide a large amount of fuel for any fire that might start.
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Severe Winter Weather Ice and snow events typically occur during the winter WEBSTER SEVERE WINTER WEATHER months and can cause loss of life, property damage, and EVENTS tree damage. Frequency - High
A winter storm can range from moderate snow to blizzard Potential Severity - High 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.
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.
A Nor’easter is 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. 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.
Extreme cold temperatures are associated with continental Arctic air masses. The actual temperatures reached depend specifically on the nature of the cold air mass and where it originated. In general, those from the Arctic regions are the coldest. Though cold temperatures are dangerous in their own right, they become more so in conjunction with strong winds. The combination produces a wind-chill factor – heat loss measured in Watts per meter squared (Wm-2). A wind-chill factor of 1400 Wm-2 is equivalent to a temperature of - 40 degrees F. At 2700 Wm-2, exposed flesh freezes within a half minute.
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).
Area Events Numerous severe winter events in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town. 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 and high winds can last from 12 hours to 3 days, while the duration of hurricanes ranges from 6 to 12 hours. Severe winter storms, including Nor’easters, typically occur during January and February. However, winter storms can occur from late September through late May.
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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. The following descriptions are of heavy snowstorms that have additional detail.
• January 11, 1810 Portions of New Hampshire were affected by a severe cold snap. It is unknown what impacts this event had on Webster. Pembroke Town History
• Year of 1816 Portions of New Hampshire experienced a very cold year. Little corn was raised during the year because of the cold weather. In some places there was a frost throughout the year. It is unknown what impacts this event had on Webster. Pembroke Town History
• March 11-14, 1888 All of New England experienced a major snowstorm with snow accumulations of 30-50 inches, one of the most severe winter storms to ever hit New England. It is unknown how Webster was affected. Northeast States Emergency Consortium
• 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 Webster. US Army Corps of Engineers NH Storms database
• December 29-30, 1942 On December 29-30, 1942, a severe glaze ice storm impacted the entire State. It is unknown what impacts this storm had on Webster. US Army Corps of Engineers NH Storms database
• Snowstorms, 1940-1978 Ten severe snowstorms are documented in south-central New Hampshire during this time span, February 14-15, 1940 (depths over 30” and high winds), February 14-17, 1958 (20-33”), March 18-21, 1958 (22-24”), March 2-5, 1960 (up to 25”), January 18- 20, 1961 (up to 25”, blizzard conditions), January 11-14, 1964 (up to 12”), January 29- 31, 1966 (up to 10”), February 22-28, 1969 (24-98”, slow-moving storm), December 25- 28, 1969 (12-18”), January 19-21, 1978 (up to 16”). Accumulations ranged from 10-33 inches in the area and even to 98 inches in the western portion of the State. It is unknown how Webster was affected. American Meteorological Society
• December 22, 1969-January 17, 1970 Many communities experienced power disruption during long ice storm period; it is unknown if Webster was among them. US Army Corps of Engineers NH Storms database
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• February 5-7, 1978 This snowstorm is described as “a natural disaster of major proportions” and stunned all of New England. The storm was caused by an intense coastal Nor’easter that produced winds in excess of hurricane force and very high snow totals. Most of southern New England received more than three feet of snow, 25-33” in NH and higher throughout New England. Abandoned cars along roadways immobilized infrastructure and blocked major interstates. For over a week, New England remained paralyzed by the storm. All of New Hampshire was impacted by the storm. Governor Meldrim Thomson Jr. declared a state of emergency. American Meteorological Society, Northeast States Emergency Consortium
• January 8-25, 1979 Impacts from this ice storm were felt throughout the State of New Hampshire. There were major disruptions to power and transportation in many communities. It is unknown what effects were felt in Webster. US Army Corps of Engineers NH Storms database
• Snowstorms, 1982-2001 Four major snowstorms impacted New England, on April 5-7, 1982 (18-22”), in March 1993, in February 1996 (snow, ice and bitter temperatures), and in March 2001It is unknown how Webster was affected. American Meteorological Society, Northeast States Emergency Consortium, Suncook-Hooksett Banner March 7, 1996
• March 3-6, 1991 This ice storm impacted the entire State of New Hampshire. Numerous outages from ice-laden power lines in southern New Hampshire occurred. It is unknown what impacts this storm had on Webster. US Army Corps of Engineers NH Storms database, NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• December 1996 Heavy snowfall hit the State of New Hampshire December, 1996. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• January 7, 1998 This ice storm had severe impacts throughout most of the State, with 52 communities impacted. FEMA Disaster Declaration #1199, 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. US Army Corps of Engineers NH Storms database, NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• March 23, 1999 This storm hit New Hampshire with snow and wind. Two feet of snow fell overnight on Mt. Washington and at approximately 18,000 New Hampshire residents lost electricity. It is unknown how Webster was affected.
• January 16, 2004 Bitter cold and blustery winds made temperatures feel as cold as -40 degrees. Outdoor exposure in the State was deadly and lead to six deaths. It is unknown what impacts this event had on Webster. Associated Press
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Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• January 7, 1998 Little Hill was hit with ice, and residents were without power for a couple days. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
• Two days in January, 2005 A severe winter storm dropped a lot of snow and the Town received $4,400 in reimbursement for snow clearing. Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Potential Future Hazards It is highly likely that Webster will be impacted by severe winter weather in the future. Damage and serious conditions can result in any location of the community. Areas that are particularly vulnerable would be the northern elevations and remote locations, where alternate access may not be possible.
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Earthquake An earthquake is a rapid shaking of the earth caused by the WEBSTER EARTHQUAKE EVENTS breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth's surface. Earthquakes can cause buildings and bridges to collapse, Frequency - Low disrupt gas, electric and phone lines, and often cause landslides, flash floods, fires, and avalanches. Larger Potential Severity - Low 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. Geologic events are often associated with California, but New England is considered a moderate risk earthquake zone.
Area Events Numerous earthquake events in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town. No earthquakes have been documented in Webster. Between 1728 and 1989, there have been 270 earthquakes in New Hampshire (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. The likelihood of a future earthquake affecting Webster is perhaps a medium possibility.
Historically, New England has experienced some earthquakes. New England experiences an average of 30-40 earthquakes per year, but most are not felt.
• Early Earthquakes, 1727 and 1755 Both earthquakes, October 29, 1727 and November 18, 1755, caused damage to the New England coastline and throughout New England. The impact to Webster from these events is unknown. Northeast States Emergency Consortium
• March 28, 1890 In New Hampshire, an earthquake produced 30 seconds of rumbling. History of Concord, NH (J Lyford)
• November 18, 1929 An earthquake originating at the Grand Banks in Newfoundland at a scale of 7.2 was felt by all of New Hampshire. It is unknown what impacts this event had on Webster. National Earthquake Information Center
• December 20 and 24, 1940 In late December, New Hampshire felt the shock of two earthquakes, both at 5.5 on the Richter scale. The earthquakes originated near Tamworth in Ossipee. The impacts to Webster are below. National Earthquake Information Center, Northeast States Emergency Consortium
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• June 15, 1973 An earthquake originating near the Quebec border at a scale of 4.8 was felt in various locations throughout the State. It is unknown what impacts this event had on Webster. Northeast States Emergency Consortium
• January 19, 1982 An earthquake with magnitude 4.5 originated west of Laconia on January 19, 1982. It is unknown what impacts this event had on Webster. Northeast States Emergency Consortium
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Although it is likely Webster residents may feel earthquakes it the future, it is unlikely that any damage will result. The one site which is of most concern is the Blackwater Dam.
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Landslide A landslide is the downward or outward movement of slope- WEBSTER LANDSLIDE EVENTS forming materials reacting under the force of gravity including: mudflows, mudslides, debris flows, rockslides, Frequency - Low debris avalanches, debris slides, and earth flows. Landslides have damaged or destroyed roads, railroads, pipelines, Potential Severity - Low electrical and telephone lines, mines, oil wells buildings, canals, sewers, bridges, dams, seaports, airports, forests, parks, and farms.
Area Events Localized landslides in recent history have likely occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster.
• May 10, 2006 Backyard material slid toward a home on Mother’s Day catching a family, with one young child and expecting another, by surprise. No one was injured by the mudslide but thousands of dollars of property damage were caused. The debris and mud that slid and caused the damage came from land that didn’t belong to the family. They had to move out for 10 days until a contractor deemed the property safe. WMUR News
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Development in close proximity to several areas could be at risk for these events because of their steep slopes (greater than 15%). Some areas are along White Plains Road, Detour Road by Pleasant Street, although many others exist alongside roadways.
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Drought A drought is defined as a long period of abnormally low WEBSTER DROUGHT EVENTS precipitation, especially one that adversely affects growing or living conditions. Droughts are rare in New Hampshire. Frequency - Low They generally are not as damaging and disruptive as floods and are more difficult to define. The effect of droughts is Potential Severity - Moderate 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.
Area Events Numerous drought events in recent history have occurred in the State, region, and the local area surrounding Webster that may have also had an impact on the Town. Periods of drought have occurred historically in New Hampshire. 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 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. The likelihood of another drought affecting Webster in the future is a medium possibility. • Various Droughts in the State of New Hampshire In the years 1929-1936 (regional), 1939-1944 (severe in southwest, moderate elsewhere), and 1947-1950 (moderate), the State was hit by numerous and long-lasting droughts. Between 1960-1969 was the longest recorded continuous spell of less than normal precipitation with crops affected. For two consecutive years in the mid 1960s, wells went dry. The impact of these droughts in Concord is unknown. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• April, 1999 In April 1999, due to lack of precipitation in the State, a drought warning was issued by the Governor’s Office. The impact of the warning in Concord is narrated below. NH Bureau of Emergency Management
• March, 2002 A Drought Emergency was declared by the State, marking the first time low-water conditions have progressed beyond the Level Two stage. The impact to Concord is narrated below. NH Department of Environmental Services
Events in Webster • No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Drought effects are felt throughout regions, and Webster is no more likely to experience harder conditions than another community. Water-saving measures can be taken to reduce the effects of a drought. Farms and agricultural areas have been identified on Map 1: Potential Hazards.
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Radon Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas with WEBSTER RADON EVENTS carcinogenic properties. The gas is a common problem in many states, including New Hampshire. Data collected by Frequency - Moderate the NH Office of Community and Public Health’s Bureau of Radiological Health indicates that one third of the houses in Potential Severity - Low New Hampshire 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 New Hampshire.
Area Events In New Hampshire, radon gas is a common problem, most often affecting the north, east and southeast portions of the State. The gas is colorless, tasteless, and has no odor. Radon is a radioactive gas that comes from the natural decay of uranium that is found in nearly all soils. It typically moves up through the ground to the air above and into homes through cracks and other holes in the foundation. Homes trap radon inside, regardless of age or how they are built. Radon from soil gas is the main cause of radon problems, although sometimes radon enters the home through well water. The gas is the second highest cause of lung cancer, behind smoking (Environmental Protection Agency).
• 1986-1987 In Dunbarton, a citizen initiative of well water testing, primarily around the Town Center, found that the radon levels in the community exceeded all levels in the country. The Elementary School well tested fine, but the church had a very high concentration, as well as the rest of the area at the top of the hill around the Town Offices. Residents and placed filtration systems in their homes and public buildings.
The information garnered interviews with WMUR Channel 9 and a series of public meetings to raise the awareness of Town residents. Although there is no specific Town program in place, residents can test their wells using kits available at the NH Department of Environmental Services. Dunbarton Hazard Mitigation Committee, 2005
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards The potential for the presence of radon in the Town is at high and moderate levels according to bedrock geology data. As radon is addressed on an individual basis, long-term conditions and consequences are unknown.
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Biological WEBSTER BIOLOGICAL EVENTS Biological hazards are natural hazards that can be potentially catastrophic to ecosystem functioning and Frequency - Low human and wildlife well-being. They can include medical wastes, microorganisms, viruses or toxins. Examples of Potential Severity - Moderate biological hazards include invasive species and/or wildlife diseases such as West Nile Virus, Chronic Wasting Disease, Lyme Disease, Avian Influenza (Bird Flu), Dengue Fever, viral meningitis, red tides and algal blooms. Biological hazards are spread through animals, reptiles, fowl, bacteria, insects and spiders, plants, molds and fungus. In recent years, Avian Influenza has become a highly-discussed biological hazard because of its potential to annihilate large numbers of fowl, and particularly, domesticated birds such as chickens, ducks and turkeys. Humans are susceptible to Avian Flu through contact with infected birds. Human-induced biological hazards are possible but not consensually considered natural; they are often referred to as biological terror, where a biological hazard is manipulated in such a way to cause harm to others.
Area Events In New Hampshire, the biological events most likely to affect a large population include health outbreaks such as flu, meningitis and conjunctivitis. Diseases such as West Nile Virus and EEE have found its way to the State, and although deaths have resulted from EEE, no humans have tested positive for West Nile.
• 1996 Milfoil was discovered on the north end of Lake Massasecum in Bradford. A 10 to 11 acre portion of the lake was closed. Several chemical treatments were tried but failed to eradicate the milfoil. Eventually, the weed was harvested. Blaisdell Lake Property Owners Association, Inc. August 3, 2002
• February 1 - 14, 2002 In a two week period at a New Hampshire College, nearly 500 of the schools 5,060 students were affected by an outbreak of bacterial conjunctivitis. Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report; 3/15/2002
• December 27, 2003 Three teenagers from southwestern New Hampshire were hospitalized for bacterial meningitis and a fourth from Concord was suspected of having the potentially fatal illness. An 18 year old girl from Bennington died from the illness. Two of the victims were from Monadnock Regional High School. NY Times, December 27, 2003
• 2005 Seven people were tested in New Hampshire for EEE, Eastern Equine Encephalitis and two died. Forty-six (46) birds and a mosquito pool were tested for West Nile Virus. NH Center for Disease Control
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Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• Summer 2005 One horse had to be put down on Mutton Road after being infected with EEE.
Potential Future Hazards Pillsbury Lake dried up, creating small puddles and swampy areas that are prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Students are quite vulnerable to health outbreaks as they tend to congregate in large numbers and in shared environments where physical contact is common. If Avian Influenza was present in New Hampshire, people coming in contact with infected birds would be at greatest risk of contracting the virus. It is otherwise difficult to predict where a biological hazard would be potentially dangerous because of human and wildlife mobility.
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TECHNOLOGICAL HAZARD EVENTS IN WEBSTER
Events of this nature include hazardous material release, explosion/fire, transportation accident, building/structure collapse, power/utility failure, extreme air pollution, radiological event, fuel/resource shortage, strike, business interruption, financial collapse, and communication collapse. Dam failure is being treated as a natural hazard due to its flooding consequence and is located in the Natural Hazards section.
Hazardous Materials Hazardous materials and hazardous wastes contain WEBSTER HAZARDOUS MATERIALS properties that make them potentially dangerous or harmful EVENTS to humans. They can be liquids, solids, contained gases or Frequency - Low sludge. Hazardous wastes can be the by-product of manufacturing, as well as discarded commercial products. Potential Severity - Low Most households contain cleaning agents that become hazardous waste when disposed of improperly. Chemicals have numerous benefits but can also cause hazards during their production, storage, transportation, use or disposal. Hazardous materials can have adverse health related effects and may even cause death in certain cases. In addition, hazardous materials may damage homes, businesses and other property, as well as natural ecosystems. Chemical accidents in plants or chemical spills during transportation may often release hazardous chemicals.
Area Events The risk from hazardous materials spills or releases into groundwater is always present as long as consumers and homeowners make irresponsible decisions regarding the disposal of household chemicals. American families improperly dispose of, on average, 15 pounds of hazardous household chemicals in a year. These household chemicals can contaminate drinking water in wells and cause damage to various ecosystems. Most people contaminate without being aware that they are doing so. Further education is needed in order to reduce hazardous waste contamination.
• May 27, 2004 Fifty-three businesses were forced to close at the Concord Center on Ferry Street in Concord when state officials discovered more than 70 buckets of formaldehyde, motor oil, roofing tar and cleaning solvents in the flooded basement. There were no reported injuries but some workers complained of headaches and dizziness. Concord Monitor
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Transport to and storage of chemicals at White Mountain Imaging and pesticides at Cloverdale Feeds and Roberts Greenhouse would be a concern. As Route 127/Battle Street is the main highway through Town, any hazardous materials spills would likely occur on this road. A listing of facilities which store or use hazardous materials is found in Table 9.
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Explosion/Fire Explosions are violent releases of energy due to a sudden WEBSTER EXPLOSION/FIRE EVENTS increase in volume within a given space. Explosions produce extremely high temperatures and release gases. Urban fires Frequency - Low in large, unoccupied buildings have occurred around the world. They are sometimes deliberate and sometimes Potential Severity - Low accidental. They have the potential to cause widespread property damage and place both occupants and neighbors in danger.
Area Events There is a risk of explosion in households that use gas or oil burners or who store such gases or chemicals in an unsafe manner. Business and industrial sites would also be at potential risk of explosion if there existed flammable materials and especially gases and/or other chemicals.
• January 23, 2005 A near-fatal explosion occurred at the Gold Star sod farm in Canterbury. Gasoline fumes ignited a propane heater, triggering a fiery explosion and fire that consumed a large workshop and part of the main storage building. Fire crews from several departments battled the fire and laid sand down as a buffer between a nearby river in order to prevent contamination as pesticides and other chemicals burned. Concord Monitor
Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• September 1, 2004 A four alarm fire destroyed a 3 story barn that was built in 1790. Seventy-five firefighters from 15 departments extinguished the Webster fire. Two horses were harnessed inside the barn and were not saved. Concord Monitor
• January 21, 2006 Holes in the masonry of a farmhouse caused a fire on Battle Street. The fire spread quickly because of the cold air and strong winds. Sixty firefighters from 14 departments battled the fire in temperatures around 20 degrees. The house was completely destroyed by the fire. Concord Monitor
• January 27, 2005 Fire crews battled 3 fires in this date in Webster. The first fire of the day was an early morning fire at the Austin Home that was caused by an improperly disposed cigarette. The second fire of the day was a chimney fire on Battle Street. The 3rd fire started in a barn and spread to a house on Little Hill Road. Firefighters will remember this bitterly cold and snowy day. Concord Monitor
Potential Future Hazards An inventory of underground storage tanks in Town is provided on Map 3. A listing of facilities which store or use hazardous materials is found in Table 9. These locations may be most susceptible to explosions and the resulting fires. Several above ground fuel tanks are found on farms, including Drowm, Rose Logging, and Mock.
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Deer Meadow Road near the Concord city line is also very susceptible to fire. PSNH has high tension power lines running through the area. Adjacent to this area is a preexisting auto salvage yard and auto repair shop. The number of junk automobiles on the site varies week to week, with an estimated 100 vehicles on the site at any given time. There are a significant amount of combustible materials in the automobiles; these plastics and other synthetic materials generate intense heat when burned, and this will allow for rapid spread of fire to other cars in the yard. Combine this with the petroleum products located on the site, and in a very short time there is the potential for a significant fire requiring a large amount of water and man power.
Mutton Road is also in the area of the high tension PSNH power lines. Mutton Road is a dirt road approximately two miles long with dozens of houses and the nearest water source measuring three miles away.
Little Hill Road, located in the most remote section of town, has had three house fires in the past four years that have resulted in total destruction of the homes. This is attributed to the remote location and the nearest water sources measuring over four miles away.
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Transportation Accident Given the number of passengers, frequency of travel, WEBSTER TRANSPORTATION EVENTS distances traveled and complexity of modern transport, relatively few major accidents involving large numbers of Frequency - High people have occurred. Nevertheless, transportation infrastructure has the potential to fail and cause major Potential Severity - Low hazards; airplanes crash, trains derail, buses and other vehicles collide and boats sink.
Area Events Automobile accidents could occur on any roadway in the region. A major accident would have the greatest impact for travelers on I-89, I-93 and I-393, as these roads experience high traffic volume and vehicles travel at high speeds. In addition, several rail lines create the potential for a transportation accident. Many motor vehicle accidents occur at train crossings. Trains could potentially derail, causing injuries or fatalities and hazardous materials spills. The Concord-Lincoln Line runs 73 miles between Concord and Lincoln. It is owned by the State of New Hampshire and operated by Plymouth & Lincoln Railroad/ New England Southern. The New Hampshire Main Line runs between Concord, Nashua and Lowell, MA. This line is owned by the Boston & Maine Corporation and the New Hampshire section is operated by the Springfield Terminal Railway. The commodities most frequently transported on New Hampshire’s rail lines are pulp, paper & allied products, stone, sand, gravel and metals and clay and glass products. In 1999, 876,882 expanded tons of coal and petroleum products, 791,200 tons of chemicals and 171,700 tons of waste and scrap metals were transported on NH rail lines.
• June 24, 1973 A railroad car of grains spontaneously combusted at the railroad yard. It was determined the grain was improperly processed and stored while it was too hot. Concord Daily Monitor
Events in Webster These hazard events were found to have directly impacted Webster.
• 1999 to Present Since 1999, multiple traffic accidents have occurred along the length of Battle Street, particularly around Roby Road, along Deer Meadow Road next to Pillsbury Lake, and at the intersections of various roads with Clothespin Bridge Road.
Potential Future Hazards Traffic accidents may be the most likely types of technological hazards in Webster. The main highway through the Town is Route 127/Battle Street. Transport to and storage of chemicals at White Mountain Imaging and pesticides at Cloverdale Feeds and Roberts Greenhouse would also be a concern. A listing of facilities which store or use hazardous materials is found in Table 9.
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Building/Structure Collapse Building or structure collapse may occur as a result of fire WEBSTER BUILDING/STRUCTURE due to the age of a building or structure as well as from a COLLAPSE EVENTS significant natural disaster such as an earthquake or Frequency - Low deterioration of a foundation due to water damage. Any natural disaster that could weaken a building’s or Potential Severity - Low structure’s integrity, coupled with inadequate building conditions, could result in collapse.
Area Events Building and structure collapse, although not common, can result from flooding, heavy snow buildup on rooftops, and weakened structural integrity due to fire. Building and structure collapse are more likely to occur in older, less stable structures which are located in sensitive locations.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster This event resulted from a fire, which was also included above.
• September 1, 2004 A fire destroyed a colonial-era barn and killed two horses. The extensive fire resulted in building collapse which made it very hard for authorities to determine the cause of the fire. Concord Monitor
Potential Future Hazards Within Webster, buildings that house or contain a number of people are the Elementary School and the Austin Home. The Public Safety Building houses the Police and Fire Departments, and heavy snow load or other event could cause the roof to collapse. While the buildings themselves are not particularly vulnerable, strong natural hazard events could possibly weaken the structural integrity, triggering parts of the buildings to collapse and causing injury to occupants.
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Power/Utility Failure Utilities systems exist everywhere and are subject to WEBSTER POWER/UTILITY FAILURE damage from construction work, accidents and extreme EVENTS weather. Many utilities are protected by back-up Frequency - Low generators to prevent failure, whatever the cause may be. Nuclear power plants produce roughly 20% of the nation’s Potential Severity - Low power, they exist in nearly all states and 3 million Americans live within 10 miles of a nuclear power plant. The greatest risk to life resulting from a nuclear power plant failure is radiation contamination resulting from radiation release into the environment. People in the immediate vicinity are at greatest risk of radiation contamination. Another common source of energy, coal, can be potentially hazardous because coal power plants emit chemicals such as mercury and sulfur dioxide.
Area Events New Hampshire contains nuclear and coal power plants. There are two coal power plants in New Hampshire: Merrimack Plant in Bow and Schiller in Rockingham County. The Merrimack Station Power Plant is the largest coal-fired electrical generating station owned by PSNH. It supplies power to 189,000 residents. The greatest health concern over the Merrimack Plant in Bow is the release of mercury into air and area water bodies, such as the Merrimack River. In addition to PSNH, customers in Webster receive electricity from the Unitil Companies, which is a public holding company whose subsidiaries provide, among other services, gas and electric utility distribution operations.
In the harsh environment that New Hampshire residents are subjected to, power and utility failures on an isolated level are not uncommon. During nearly every snow storm, ice storm, or other severe weather event, power and/or other utility services are lost somewhere.
• November 9, 1965 Northeast Blackout of 1965. The New York- New England grid was not prepared to handle an overload caused by a blown relay and the entire region, from Pennsylvania to New Hampshire and Vermont, was in the dark for a short period of time. The huge effort of re-establishing energy began immediately following the event. The blackout affected the western portion of the state, while the eastern portion and Maine experienced no power failure. Central Maine Power
• February 18, 2006 55 mph wind gusts, resulting from a cold front in the region, felled trees which blocked roads and downed power lines. 80,00 homes and businesses in the state reportedly lost power. Unitil had outages in every town it serves. A reported 25,000 customers in the Concord area lost power. Concord Monitor
Events in Webster • No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards The power is disrupted on a regular basis during all seasons. All of Webster depends on PSNH and Unitil for its power needs. Power outages are more common on the PSNH lines, with a time period of sometimes days before service is restored. The isolated areas in Town are particularly vulnerable to both outages and the resulting effects.
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Extreme Air Pollution Air pollution is the release of gases, finely divided solids or WEBSTER EXTREME AIR POLLUTION finely dispersed liquid aerosols into the Earth’s atmosphere EVENTS that exceed the capacity of the atmosphere to dissipate Frequency - Moderate them or dispose of them into the biosphere. Volcanic activity is the greatest source of air pollution, however, Potential Severity - Low dust storms, wildfires and vehicle exhaust also greatly contribute to air pollution. Humans are at risk of respiratory illnesses due to increased air pollution.
Area Events The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services conducts daily air quality forecasts for the entire state. Forecasts are based on Ozone and Particle Pollution. Levels of air quality range from “Good”- no health impacts expected- to “Hazardous”- everyone should avoid all outdoor exertion. Email alerts from the NHDES are available on days when the air quality is predicted to reach unhealthy levels.
Extreme air pollution affects New Hampshire citizens 10 days during an average year. Although New Hampshire does not cause most of the pollution that affects its citizens, large urban areas to the south and large power plants in the Midwest produce the emissions that are brought to the state by atmospheric winds. New Hampshire has little control over the extreme air pollution in the state. It can be assumed that in the future air pollution in the state will worsen.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Webster residents can do little to reduce extreme air pollution. No one location in Town is more susceptible than another. Monitoring the air quality action days and staying indoors on days with a high level of pollution is the best way to protect residents.
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Radiological Accident Radiological accidents occur primarily at nuclear power WEBSTER RADIOLOGICAL EVENTS plants when radioactive gases are released. They can cause widespread contamination to people and ecosystems as Frequency - Low were the cases in Chernobyl and 3-Mile Island. Their cleanup may take centuries because of the extreme saturation of Potential Severity - High contaminants in the soil, in buildings and in water supplies.
Area Events The Central New Hampshire region is geographically located between Vermont Yankee Nuclear Power Plant in Vernon, VT and the Seabrook Nuclear Station in Seabrook, NH. These facilities present the greatest risk of radiation contamination to the region in the case of a meltdown or other catastrophic event. As more nuclear facilities are decommissioned, the mobilization of nuclear wastes will increase, augmenting the risk of exposure. Small underground shelters or concrete basements may provide a level of protection. Personal household supplies of iodide, purchased in advance, can help limit the uptake of radiation in the thyroid.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Webster is positioned between Vermont Yankee and Seabrook nuclear power plants. No one portion of the Town is more vulnerable than the next. A small shelter for employees is located in the base of the Blackwater Dam.
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Fuel/Resource Shortage Current popularly-used sources of energy, such as WEBSTER FUEL/RESOURCE petroleum, are limited and their production levels are SHORTAGE EVENTS variable, therefore they are prone to shortages and will Frequency - Moderate continue to be so in the future. Fuel and resource shortages are also due to rises in demand. As different regions of the Potential Severity - Low world develop they will need more fuel. Fuel and resource shortages are evident in the rising costs of energy.
Area Events Fuel and resource supplies are often dictated by international geopolitical events, as was the case in 1973, and weather events such as hurricanes in the Gulf of Mexico, therefore it is difficult to predict future hazards that may affect the central New Hampshire region. Nevertheless, any major weather event occurring in the south during hurricane season or a particularly cold winter in the northeast, can and will impact the fuel and resource supply in Webster and the entire region. In addition, as made evident in recent months, political instability in oil producing countries and foreign policy do affect fuel supply in the United States. • 1973 The OPEC nations halted exports of oil to the Western nations that supported Israel during a conflict known as the Yom Kippur War, which uncovered the actual power OPEC had on the world’s energy business. In the United States, a massive shortage led to high fuel prices and near chaos. The incident caused the U.S. to seriously consider its energy situation and energy independence. Canadian Economy Online
• August 31, 2005 Gasoline prices rose between 40 and 50 cents in Hurricane Katrina’s wake and there was concern that in many regions gasoline wouldn’t even be available to consumers. President Bush stated that the natural disaster “disrupted the capacity to make gasoline and distribute gasoline”. The White House Office of the Press Secretary, August 31, 2005
• April, 2006 MSNBC released the article: “Gasoline Supply Problems Hit U.S. East Coast”. The article began by stating: “Scattered gas stations from New Hampshire to Virginia are facing temporary shortages as the industry grapples with a transition to more ethanol- blended fuel.” The cause of the fuel shortage was due in large part to logistical and transitional difficulties as terminal owners were required to switch to the higher ethanol-content gas. MSNBC website, April 21, 2006
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards The nearest regular supply of gasoline for public use is in nearby Concord. While prices have been rising, people have been making choices about how to best economize their vehicle trips, particularly since most Webster residents do not live or work in Town. Webster is likely to continue to feel the effects of the national energy crisis.
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Strike A strike is the collective refusal to work under unfavorable WEBSTER STRIKE EVENTS conditions set by employers. Employees who wish to express their disdain for low wages, long hours or poor Frequency - Low working conditions will often strike as a group in order to make a greater impression on an employer, the public or the Potential Severity - Low media.
Area Events Strikes are most common of employees of public institutions and private businesses. Strikes have the potential to disrupt business, schools and/or government.
• 1922 A nine month strike occurred in Manchester, NH at the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company over wages and hours.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Few businesses or enterprises in Webster would have an effect on the Town if a strike occurred. Although illegal, strikes at the Blackwater Dam, the Elementary School, or at any Departments of the Town would have the greatest impact on residents.
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Business Interruption Business interruption may occur following a natural disaster WEBSTER BUSINESS INTERRUPTION or catastrophe, such as a hurricane, fire or flood. EVENTS Occasionally, businesses are forced to temporarily close Frequency - Low their operations in order to make necessary repairs caused by damage or to relocate. During a period when a business Potential Severity - Low is interrupted, it may lose money to competitors, causing further economic hardship.
Area Events Significant employers in the region, many of which provide crucial services or goods, have the potential to be incapable of opening for business if a disaster were to occur. In other cases, hazards have the potential to seriously affect a families’ financial stability when small, family-owned businesses are interrupted. Most recently, during the May 2006 floods in the central New Hampshire region, numerous area businesses experienced interruptions. Several businesses are highlighted below.
• May 10, 2005 A February fire at Bowie’s Market in Bradford caused a two and a half month business interruption as Bruce Bowie and family relocated their market to the town of Andover. The Bowie family was out of work during the interruption. They eventually relocated to an East Andover location where they had previously done business. Concord Monitor
• May 30, 2006 An article in the Concord Monitor, published May 30, 2006, described the business interruption experienced by some local area businesses. Pitco Frialator, Blue Seal Feeds and Grappone Auto Dealerships were affected by the high water levels. At Pitco Frialator, within a week everything was back to normal and a large contract with a restaurant chain was nearly complete. At the Concord Business Center, 45 businesses that rent space were not able to work for 2 days. Over 140 businesses reported damage to the state. Farms, orchards and greenhouses were hardest hit.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards The potential for interruption exists for all Webster businesses because of other hazards that have the potential to cause such interruptions. Any one of the other risks mentioned here has the potential to cause business interruption. Although the interruptions may be harmful to Webster business owners, none of the businesses in Town, with exception of the General Store, provide any critical services or goods.
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Financial Issues, Economic Depression, Inflation, Financial System Collapse Financial concerns such as depression, recession, inflation WEBSTER FINANCIAL COLLAPSE and financial system collapse have previously affected the EVENTS United States and most industrialized nations of the world. Both developing and industrialized nations have experienced Frequency - Low economic depression and financial system collapse due to unpredictable changes in the stock market, inflation, Potential Severity - Moderate geopolitics, energy prices, etc. The most memorable economic depression that has occurred in the United States was the Great Depression that began in 1929 and may not have ended until the U.S. entered WW II in 1941. Economic depression can also occur on a local level with the closing of a major company or manufacturer resulting in widespread layoffs.
Area Events Financial concerns mentioned above are somewhat difficult to predict, especially when considered on a localized level. Economic concerns such as layoffs are fickle and can occur on a whim. Some major employers in the region with great influence are: Shop & Save Grocers-Concord, Graphic Packaging-Concord, Precision Technology Inc.-Pembroke, CAIMS Protective Clothing-Pittsfield, Concord Hospital, Grappone Auto Dealerships-Concord and Pitco Frialator in Concord.
• April 27, 2006 In Franklin, 172 workers were laid off from Polyclad Laminates. Concord Monitor
• April 30, 2006 It was reported that China Mill in Suncook plans to lay off 58 of its 150 workers in June of 2006. Concord Monitor
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Although Webster contains few businesses, most of its residents work outside of the community and would be subject to the effects of local area economics.
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Communications Systems Interruptions Communications systems, like utilities, are found WEBSTER COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEM everywhere and are subject to damage by construction INTERRUPTION EVENTS work, severe weather and traffic accidents. Because Frequency - Low communications systems depend on electricity, any power outage may cause an interruption in a communications Potential Severity - Moderate system. In addition, many communications systems have buried cables which are particularly vulnerable to being cut. Communications systems interruptions can negatively impact a region, town, neighborhood or household in the case of a natural disaster, catastrophe or other emergency.
Area Events Communications systems are as prone to failure as power. Power lines often share cables and poles with communications systems. When power fails, cable and telephone services frequently fail as well. TDS Telecom provides the town of Webster with telephone service. The town has two cell towers and service is provided by U.S. Cellular (Dustin Road tower) and by AT&T (Pearson Hill tower). Wireless service is also available from Verizon in some areas.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards In Webster are two cell towers which provide coverage to most of the Town. Beyond that, telephone lines provide service to customers. Cable is not available. Communications failure can result as a secondary effect of a natural disaster such as severe storm or severe winter weather. Such an interruption would likely affect the majority of residents in Town. Satellite communication is available for the Army Corps of Engineers at the Blackwater Dam, so communications interruptions is not an issue for the federal government.
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HUMAN HAZARD EVENTS IN WEBSTER
Events of this nature include economic collapse, general strike, terrorism (ecological, cyber and chemical), sabotage, hostage situations, civil unrest, enemy attack, arson, mass hysteria, and special events. While relatively uncommon, they are all caused by direct human action.
Economic Threats Identity theft and crimes against financial institutions pose WEBSTER ECONOMIC THREAT an economic threat to all citizens. These threats include EVENTS bank fraud, debit and credit card fraud, telecommunications and computer crimes, fraudulent Frequency - Low identification, fraudulent government securities, counterfeiting, and electronic fund transfer fraud. These Potential Severity - Low crimes can have drastic economic impacts upon an individual, family, business or organization.
Area Events Economic threats such as those mentioned above can indeed threaten an individual, family, business or organization. Recently, identity theft and fraud have become matters of great concern for people wishing to protect their identity and investments.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards The citizens of Webster are potential victims of economic threats, but no more so than citizens of other towns and cities in New Hampshire and beyond. Personal education about options and protection measures is the key to individual financial protection.
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General Strike WEBSTER GENERAL STRIKE EVENTS A general strike is the stoppage of work by a significant proportion of workers over a broad range of industries in an Frequency - Low organized effort to achieve economic or political objectives. A general strike is a form of social revolution. Potential Severity - Low
Area Events Strikes which would affect the area could occur at public and private institutions and at those businesses which supply goods and services to consumers.
• May 1, 2006 The most recent general strike that occurred in the United States and New Hampshire was the ‘Day Without Immigrants’ strike during which both legal and illegal immigrants, in a show of solidarity, boycotted businesses and did not work or go to school in order to demonstrate the economic impact immigrants have on the United States. Events in New Hampshire were held at Dartmouth College and City Hall Plaza, Manchester.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards General strike is very unlikely to specifically affect Webster but could affect the region at one of the numerous major employees in the area.
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Terrorism The use of force or violence against people in order to WEBSTER TERRORISM EVENTS create fear, cause physical harm and/or intimidation or for reasons of ransom. Terrorists often make threats in order to Frequency - Low create fear and change public opinion. Cyber terrorism consists of hackers who threaten the economy by attacking Potential Severity - Low the intricate computer infrastructure, affecting business and communication. Biological and chemical terrorism refers to those infectious microbes or toxins used to produce illness or death in people or animals. Terrorists may contaminate food or water, thus threatening an unprotected civilian population. Eco-terrorism refers to the destruction of property by persons who are generally opposed to the destruction of the environment or to make a visible argument against forms of technology that may be destructive to the environment.
Area Events The following acts of terrorism are considered so because of their intent to create fear and also for their political motivation.
• August 1997 5 people were left dead after a series of shootings which began in Bow by a man who was angered over long simmering land disputes. The individual was eventually apprehended in Colebrook, NH. NH DOS- Bureau of Emergency Management
• October 27, 1998 The lit fuse of a bomb left in the Concord Library stacks set off smoke alarms that may have saved the lives of many people. The individual allegedly responsible for the bomb scare left notes complaining about state government. NH DOS- Bureau of Emergency Management
• October 1998 About a dozen buildings were evacuated after the New Hampshire Technical Institute in Concord received an anonymous call warning that three bombs had been placed on campus. This event followed the bomb scares at the Concord Library. AP Online, 11/01/98
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards It is extremely unlikely that Webster will be the target of any act of terrorism, but because there are many forms of terrorism and terrorists, the possibility always exists. The most likely targets in Webster would be the Blackwater Dam, the Elementary School, the Town Offices, or the Public Safety Building.
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Sabotage Sabotage is a deliberate action aimed at someone or some WEBSTER SABOTAGE EVENTS institution in order to weaken that person’s or institution’s integrity and reputation through subversion, destruction, Frequency - Low obstruction or disruption. Sabotage may occur in war, a workplace, in the natural environment, as a crime, in Potential Severity - Low politics or as a direct attack against an individual.
Area Events Sabotage is an isolated event and is nearly impossible to predict. Sabotage can infiltrate a business, organization or individual from any part of the world because of modern technology.
• Summer 2001 A former help desk worker at a Portsmouth, NH company was found guilty by federal prosecutors of network sabotage for hacking into the company’s system after being fired and deleting important documents. PC World, October 19, 2001
• November 5, 2002 A group of Republicans plotted to commit political sabotage by jamming a series of Democratic phone banks on Election Day. Two former Republican officials have been sentenced to federal prison for the crime. Concord Monitor, June 16, 2006
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Any incident of sabotage in Webster could come from within Webster or any nearby town.
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Hostage Situation A hostage situation is an incident where an innocent civilian WEBSTER HOSTAGE SITUATION is held by someone or some group of persons demanding EVENTS something from another person or group of persons not related to the person or persons being held hostage. The Frequency - Low person or persons held are done so pending the fulfillment of certain terms. Potential Severity - Low
Area Events Hostage situations can occur anywhere, including banks, schools, governmental facilities, institutions, prisons, and in other locations.
• October 15, 1971 In Nashua, a man held another man hostage at gunpoint and demanded to see the Chief of Police. The acting Chief arrived at the scene and was immediately shot by the man holding the other man hostage. The acting Chief died 12 days later. City of Nashua, NH website
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Hostage situations are isolated events and are therefore nearly impossible to predict. Due to their public nature, the Town Office and Elementary School would likely be the primary targets, if any.
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Civil Disturbance / Public Unrest This hazard refers to types of disturbances that are caused WEBSTER CIVIL DISTURBANCE / by a group of people, often in protest against major socio- PUBLIC UNREST EVENTS political problems including sit-ins or protests against wars Frequency - Low and any general and public expression of outrage against a political establishment or policy. Examples of civil Potential Severity - Low disturbance include protests of the WTO and G8 meetings and large-scale sit-ins to protest against the Iraq War. Many instances of civil disturbance and public unrest are quelled by a use of force from police. Participants may be victims of personal injury in severe cases.
Area Events The most probable locations of larger civil disturbance and/or protest in the State are at the State House in Concord and at the universities and colleges. They have also occurred at controversial locations, such as feminist health centers. The Concord Feminist Health Center was the victim of arson in 2000.
• January 1998 Between 500 to 600 University of New Hampshire students took over an intersection in Durham. The use of force by police and fire crews was required in order to dissipate the potential risk of further unrest and potential injury due to violence. Several students were treated after being sprayed with pepper spray. “Civil Unrest in Durham: Lessons Learned”, Fire Service News, NH Fire Academy, Volume XVII, Number 1
• October 2003 Anti-abortion group protests school’s sex education program in Goffstown. The anti- abortion protestors were affiliated with Hillsborough County Right to Life. The intent of the group was to express their view that the sexual education curriculum in the district was inappropriate. Siecus Public Policy Profile, State Profile of New Hampshire
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards The population of Webster is just over 1,800. Large-scale incidents of civil disturbance and public unrest are unlikely to occur in Webster. Any potential public unrest would likely occur at the Town Offices or at the Pillsbury Lake Community Center.
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Enemy Attack Enemy attack, although unlikely, has previously occurred on WEBSTER ENEMY ATTACK EVENTS American soil and may occur in the future. The most memorable enemy attack of recent years was the 9/11/2001 Frequency - Low attack against the World Trade Center in New York and against the Pentagon. Much effort is being made by the Potential Severity - High Government to prevent an enemy attack before it occurs by collecting intelligence on potential enemies of the United States.
Area Events The area does have a number of potential targets which may be attractive to enemy attack, including Vermont Yankee and Seabrook Nuclear Power Plants, the Franklin Falls, Hopkinton- Everett, and Blackwater Dams, and the State Office complexes in Concord.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Although the possibility of an enemy attack in Webster is extremely low, the most probable target would be the Blackwater Dam.
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Arson WEBSTER ARSON EVENTS The unlawful and intentional damage, or attempt to damage, any real or personal property by fire or incendiary Frequency - Low device. Arson is a crime that can have grave economic repercussions, cause great property damage and cause Potential Severity - Low personal injury or death.
Area Events Many fires are difficult to prove as cases of arson because building/structure collapse permanently conceals evidence and arson can be as simple as throwing a cigarette butt in brush from a moving car. Fire Investigators regularly determine the cause of fires, some of which are determined as arson events.
• May 29, 2000 The Feminist Health Center in Concord was the site of a fire determined to be arson because an accelerant was used. The center did not experience an interruption of operations. An open letter from the Concord Feminist Health Center
• August 8, 2005 Three Claremont teens were indicted on charges that they threw a bomb at an unoccupied house which caused major damage. Concord Monitor
• December 18, 2005 An elderly Concord man’s death was ruled a homicide after the man was pulled from a house fire. The cause of the fire was arson. Concord Monitor
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Arson is a very real and potential hazard in Webster and can occur anywhere in Town, which is heavily forested. Buildings that contain numerous people, such as the Elementary School, the Austin Home, Town Office, and Pillsbury Lake Community Center are at particular risk. Cases of wildfires started by arson in remote areas are also of particular concern because of accessibility and the potential for damaging a large area.
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Mass Hysteria The collective hysteria (shared hysterical or WEBSTER MASS HYSTERIA EVENTS sociopsychological symptoms) experienced by more than one person. Mass hysteria may occur when a group witness a Frequency - Low particular traumatic event and experience the same nauseating symptoms or react similarly. Examples of mass Potential Severity - Low hysteria include such cases as rioting and frenzy, particularly following large-scale accidents or terrorist attacks.
Area Events Mass hysteria events are more likely to occur in large population centers, which in the area includes sections of Concord, the New Hampshire International Speedway in Loudon during race events, and in gatherings of people in other locations. Significant annual events are listed in Table 1.
• No details on specific events were found during research on the region.
Events in Webster
• No details on specific events were found during research on Webster.
Potential Future Hazards Although it is extremely unlikely there would be an incident of mass hysteria in Webster, the Elementary School would be the most likely site. Another site could be Cold Brook Campground, which would be difficult to contain if there is an incident at the pavilion which hosts numerous activities, such as bands, cookouts, dancing, etc.
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Special Events Events draw large numbers of people to area hotels, stores, WEBSTER SPECIAL EVENTS restaurants and streets, generating increased revenue for local businesses. Large gatherings of people can influence Frequency - Low behaviors of groups which may result in mass hysteria, or may become a target for a form of terrorism. Potential Severity - Low
Area Events Many special events in and around Concord have a significant impact on the number of people in any given location on any particular day. Table 1 summarizes the major annual events that directly or indirectly impact the entire region, including Webster.
Table 1 Significant Area Annual Events Event Date Number of Location People Concord - State House / Annual Law Enforcement Event Unknown LOB Concord - Memorial Concord High School Graduation Middle of June Unknown Field Concord - Mall Area, Day after Thanksgiving Shopping Day after Thanksgiving Unknown Loudon Road, Downtown Third week in July (Wed, Downtown Market Days / Summer Music Festival 5,000 daily Concord – Downtown Thurs, Fri) First Fridays in May, June, First Fridays Events Unknown Concord - Main Street and July Concord - Washington Franklin Pierce Law School Graduation Middle of May Unknown Street Halloween Howl Friday before Halloween Unknown Concord - Main Street
Highland Fling September (3 days) 1,000 daily Concord - Downtown Fourth Weekend in September Hopkinton - State Highland Games 10,000 daily (Fri, Sat, Sun) Fairgrounds Holiday Magic Parade November Unknown Concord - Heights September (Labor Day 40,000 – Hopkinton - State Hopkinton State Fair weekend) 50,000 total Fairgrounds Second Weekend in May (Fri, Concord - Main Street, Kiwanis Parade & Fair Unknown Sat & Sun) Everett Arena Leaf Peeping Tourism September/October 500-800 Concord
Memorial Day Parade Memorial Day (observed) Unknown Concord - Main Street
Midnight Merriment First Friday in December Unknown Concord - Main Street 15,000 – NH International Speedway: Motorcycle Weekend June (Father’s Day week) Loudon 20,000 NH International Speedway: NASCAR Cup Race July and September weekends 110,000 Loudon
NH Technical Institute Graduation Mother’s Day Weekend 1,500 Concord - NHTI Concord - State House, Presidential Primary Election (media attention) Sept – Nov 2008 Unknown Polling Places Weekend after Memorial Day Concord - St. Paul’s St. Paul’s School Alumni Weekend 2,000 (Fri, Sat, & Sun) School Source: Greater Concord Chamber of Commerce; Concord Hazard Mitigation Task Force
Page 53 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION
Events in Webster Local special events have an immediate impact on the community as the infrastructure bends to accommodate a significant number of additional people traveling to one location, and being situated in one location, on event days. Events which take place in Webster are displayed in Table 1A.
Table 1A Significant Local Annual Events Event Date Number of Location People Town Meeting Second week in March 100 - 300 Town Hall
Blackwater Kayak Slalom Race Last weekend in April 300 from Dam to School
Blackwater Dam Visitation Yearly Unknown Blackwater Dam
Annual Town Wide Yard Sale Third weekend in September Unknown Town-wide Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Potential Future Hazards As large gatherings in Webster are uncommon, residents are more likely to be affected by those events occurring in Concord and the area. Effects could include traffic congestion, vehicular accidents, and lack of goods and services available for purchase and consumption.
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EVACUATION ROUTES
Evacuation routes out of a community generally follow along main travel ways in a north- south and/or east-west pattern to lead to other communities and state or interstate routes. In Webster, the primary evacuation route is Route 127, with secondary routes on Long Street, Corn Hill Road, White Plains Road, and Tyler Road.
MAP 1: POTENTIAL HAZARDS
The first map in this four-part series depicts where hazards are likely to occur in Webster. The intent of this map is to portray a picture of which areas of Town may be more vulnerable to certain types of hazards and how best to exit Webster in the event of an emergency.
The predominant threat is flooding due to the Blackwater River and its dam and reservoir. Areas where flooding regularly occurs along roadways are shown with wetlands and the town’s water features. Areas identified as particularly susceptible to road flooding damage are noted in addition to Webster’s steep slopes (>15%). The PSNH power lines and evacuation routes are also shown. Bridges and dams are displayed as potential hazards.
MAP 2: PAST HAZARDS
The Past Hazards Map identifies the locations where known natural disasters have occurred in town. In Webster, areas of flood damage, ice and snow damage, fire damage, and frequent accident locations were noted on the map. The past hazard locations were identified by the Hazard Mitigation Committee or through research into the hazards listed within this Chapter.
Page 55 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION
CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION
The identification of assets within a community is integral to determining what may be at risk from a natural disaster. This Chapter 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 Webster, each asset can be damaged by any or all of the dozens of hazards listed in CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION. The majority of the assets appear on Map 3: Assets and Risks at the end of this section. Because of the numerous hazards each site may be susceptible to, the main hazard categories of Natural, Human, and Technological were often used in the following tables to signify the primary type of hazard susceptibility. When these general designations are not sufficient, specific hazards are alternatively listed if they are appropriate for a given site.
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
Town Hall/Library/Grange 945 Battle Street 648-2272 Natural disaster
Public Safety Building – Police 851 Battle Street 648-2200 Flood due to Dam breach
Blackwater Dam Office 43 White Plains Road 648-6028 Fire explosion
Public Safety Building – Fire 851 Battle Street 648-2500 Flood due to Dam breach Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
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Table 3 Utilities Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to Natural disaster weather PSNH Powerlines Various locations None event Natural disaster weather Unitil Powerlines Various locations None event
TDS Phone Switching Station Deer Meadow Road 746-9911 Natural disaster
TDS Phone Switching Station Tyler Road 746-9911 Natural disaster
TDS Phone Switching Station Allen Road 746-9911 Natural disaster
TDS Phone Switching Station White Plains Road 746-9911 Natural disaster Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Table 4 Dams Facility Type Status Class Location Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Blackwater Dam Active C Blackwater River Terrorism
Knight Meadow Pond Dam Active A Knight Meadow Brook Natural disaster
Pillsbury Lake Dam Active A Deer Meadow Brook Natural disaster
Winnipocket Lake Dam Active A Tr Schoodac Brook Natural disaster
Farm Pond Dam Active AA Unnamed Stream Natural disaster
Farm Pond Dam Active AA Unnamed Stream Natural disaster
Diversion Pond Dam Active AA Blackwater River Natural disaster
McCarthy Farm Pond Dam Active AA Unnamed Stream Natural disaster
Recreation Pond Active AA Unnamed Stream Natural disaster
Janeway Dam Active AA Unnamed Stream Natural disaster
Swetts Mill Dam Ruins N/A Blackwater River Natural disaster
Snyder’s Mill Dam Ruins N/A Blackwater River Natural disaster
Burbank Mill Dam Removed N/A Blackwater River Natural disaster
Robillard Farm Pond Dam Not Built N/A Unnamed Stream Natural disaster
Wildlife Pond Dam Not Built N/A Unnamed Stream Natural disaster Source: NH Department of Environmental Services GIS dams database
Page 57 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION
Table 5 Bridges Facility Type Location Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
066/113 (Town) Schoodac Road over Meadow Brook 648-2272 Flooding
099/123 (State) NH 127 over Blackwater River 271-3667 Flooding
111/181 (State) Tyler Road over Blackwater River 271-3667 Flooding
121/103 (Town) Clothspin Br. Road over Blackwater River 648-2272 Flooding
124/131 (Town) Tyler Road over Blackwater River 648-2272 Flooding
140/070 (State) Deer Meadow Road over Deer Meadow Brook 271-3667 Flooding Source: NH Department of Transportation State Bridge List
Page 58 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION
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 schools, manufactured home parks (MHP), elderly housing developments or care facilities, and day care centers.
Table 6 Vulnerable Populations Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
K-12 Elementary School 936 Battle Street Webster, NH 03303 648-2467 Flooding
Young’s Day Care 292 Tyler Road Webster, NH 03303 746-5702 Natural Disaster
Chris’s Day Care 1369 Battle Street Webster, NH 03303 648-6641 Natural Disaster
Austin Home 532 White Plains Rd Webster, NH 03303 456-3525 Natural Disaster
Day Care Deer Meadow Road unknown Natural Disaster Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Page 59 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION
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 Webster 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 7 Economic Assets Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
General Store (Cowdry’s) 1213 Battle Street Webster, NH 03303 648-6663 Natural Disaster
Robert’s Greenhouse 1020 Long Street 648-2142 Natural Disaster
Mellen Company 1260 Battle Street 648-2121 Fire Explosion
White Mountain Imaging 1617 Battle Street 648-2124 Fire Explosion
Cloverdale Feeds 299 Battle Street 746-3234 Natural Disaster Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
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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.
Table 8 Cemeteries and Churches Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Riverdale Cemetery Tyler Road None Flooding
Beaverdam Cemetery Long Street None Flooding
First Congregational Church 1013 Long Street 648-2128 Natural Disaster Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Table 9 Hazardous Materials Facilities Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Rose’s Garage 78 Tyler Road 746-6511 Fire/explosion/ haz mat spill
Blackwater Dam Maintenance Garage 22 White Plains Road 648-6028 Fire/explosion/Haz mat spill Fire/ Explosion/Haz mat Webster Auto Recycling 109 Deer Meadow Road 746-4657 spill
See Also Table 7 Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Page 61 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION
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 10 Historic Sites and Buildings Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Webster Meeting House Battle Street None Natural Disaster
Hymar Fire Station Battle Street None Natural Disaster Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
Table 11 Recreational and Gathering Sites Facility Type Address Phone Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to
Pillsbury Lake Club House 396 Deer Meadow Road None Flooding
Pillsbury Lake Playground Franklin Pierce Drive None Flooding
Cold Brook Campground 539 Battle Street 746-2592 Wild Land Fire
Public Library 945 Battle Street 648-2706 Natural Disaster
Pearson Park 936 Battle Street None Flooding
Blackwater Reservoir Webster/Salisbury BW Basin 648-6028 Flooding
Cogswell Woods Area Battle Street 648-6028 Flooding
Burbank Mills Recreation Area Guide Board Hill Road None Flooding
White Plains Road Park White Plains Road None Wild Land Fire Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
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FUTURE DEVELOPMENT
Not only do existing sites have susceptibility to different types of hazards, consideration must be granted to new development projects in a community. Webster has two future development projects on the horizon, shown in Table 12, which have been presented to, or will soon be presented to, the Planning Board.
Table 12 Future Development Facility Name Location Type of Facility Hazard the Site is Most Susceptible to Vinewood Development Battle Street 7 lot subdivision Wildfire
Little Hill Road Development Little Hill Road 6-8 lot subdivision Wildfire Source: Webster Hazard Mitigation Committee
This information does not appear on the maps because the developments are not guaranteed to be built at this time.
HOMES WITHIN THE POTENTIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREAS
As noted in CHAPTER 4. POTENTIAL LOSSES, 64 homes appear to be located in or immediately adjacent to the floodplain as is one (1) non-residential building. With appropriate ordinances in place today, site-specific examinations would be conducted by the Building Inspector, and no new homes would be constructed without the necessary safeguards or permits.
MAP 3: ASSETS AND RISKS
The Assets and Risks Map 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. A concentration of facilities exists along Battle Street/Route 127.
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CHAPTER 4. POTENTIAL LOSSES
The Town of Webster has been impacted in the past by natural disasters, including wind events, severe winter storms, and ice storms. This Chapter 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 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.
LOSS ESTIMATION
Estimating losses from a natural disaster is difficult and often inaccurate. What type of hazard will impact what portions of Webster and how hard the hazard will impact structures, people, infrastructure, and property and what the damages will be of human, structural, property, economic, infrastructural natures is beyond most scientific measures. While this Plan is focusing on being pro-active in those geographic areas of Webster most prone to recurring hazards (like flooding), some initial estimates of measurable property damage and building damage have been discussed utilizing simple techniques such as the numbers of structures and assessed valuation. This two-dimensional approach of calculating dollar losses from tangible structures offers a basic yet insightful tool to begin further loss estimation analyses. For gauging more three-dimensional estimation of damages, FEMA has developed a software program entitled HAZUS-MH (for multi-hazard), which is a powerful risk assessment software program for analyzing potential losses from floods, hurricane winds and earthquakes. In HAZUS-MH, current scientific and engineering knowledge is coupled with the latest Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology to produce estimates of hazard related damage before, or after, a disaster occurs. HAZUS-MH takes into account various impacts of a hazard event such as:
{ Physical damage: damage to residential and commercial buildings, schools, critical facilities, and infrastructure;
{ Economic loss: lost jobs, business interruptions, repair and reconstruction costs; and
{ Social impacts: impacts to people, including requirements for shelters and medical aid. Federal, State and local government agencies and the private sector can order HAZUS-MH free-of-charge from the FEMA Distribution Center. If a GIS infrastructure is placed into service in the future, Webster should order the software to assist in estimating losses for the community on a disaster-specific basis.
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LOSSES BY FLOODING
Flooding is often associated with hurricanes, ice-jams, rapid snow melting in the spring, and heavy rains.
Parcels within the floodplain were identified using Webster’s tax maps concurrently with a printout of the Town’s floodplain. Next, parcels containing buildings were identified using the Assessor’s Database for the Town. Building type was characterized into one of three categories. The categories are single-family homes, manufactured homes, and non- residential buildings. Building value was taken from the Assessor’s Database.
Table 13 Building Value in the Potential Flood Hazard Areas Building Type Number of Value of Average Buildings Buildings Replacement Value
Single Family Homes 62 $7,304,500 $117,815
Manufactured Homes 2 $72,800 $36,400
Non-Residential Bldgs 1 $695,200 $695,200 (School)
Total 65 $8,072,500 $124,192 Sources: Town of Webster 2006 tax records
In Table 13, 62 residential, 2 manufactured homes, and 1 non-residential building were approximated to be situated within or immediately adjacent to the floodplain. The average replacement value is $117,815 for a single-family home; $36,400 for a manufactured home; and $695,200 for the one non-residential building. The assessed value of all residential and non-residential structures in Webster is $114,426,200.
Three of the 62 single-family homes are camps, which are assessed at a lower value when compared with conventional single-family homes.
Potential Building Losses Calculations for Flooding In the following calculations, the average replacement value was calculated by adding up the assessed values of all structures in the potential flood hazard areas 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.
There are two (2) known manufactured homes within the potential flood hazard areas. 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 these estimates in the following figures.
Page 65 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 4. POTENTIAL LOSSES
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).
Figure 1 Eight-Foot Flooding: Residential and Non-Residential Potential Damage
Single Family Home Damage: $3,579,220
62 structures x ($117,815 avg. replacement value x 0.49)
Manufactured Home Damage: $35,672
2 structures x ($36,400 avg. replacement value x 0.49)
Non-Residential Damage: $340,648
1 structure x ($695,200 avg. replacement value x 0.49)
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.
Figure 2 Four-Foot Flooding: Residential and Non-Residential Potential Damage
Single Family Home Damage: $2,045,268
62 structures x ($117,815 avg. replacement value x 0.28)
Manufactured Home Damage: $20,384
2 structures x ($36,400 avg. replacement value x 0.28)
Non-Residential Damage: $194,656
1 structure x ($695,200 avg. replacement value x 0.28)
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.
Page 66 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 4. POTENTIAL LOSSES
Figure 3 Two-Foot Flooding: Residential and Non-Residential Potential Damage
Single Family Home Damage: $1,460,906
62 structures x ($117,815 avg. replacement value x 0.20)
Manufactured Home Damage: $14,560
2 structures x ($36,400 avg. replacement value x 0.20)
Non-Residential Damage: $139,040
1 structure x ($695,200 avg. replacement value x 0.20)
LOSSES BY OTHER NATURAL HAZARDS
Building damage by natural disasters in New Hampshire is not limited to flooding alone, which is easier to quantify and predict. Simple calculations can be made based upon generalizations of a disaster impacting a certain percentage of the number of buildings in the Town. The assessed value of all residential, commercial, and industrial structures in Webster is $114,426,200. Disaster damages are often illustrated in the following section utilizing a percentage range of town-wide building damage. If there were now 800 housing units in Webster (672 were counted during the 2000 Census), disaster impact to 10% of them would yield 80 damaged units.
Hurricane and Severe Storms Damage caused by hurricanes can be both severe and expensive. In the past, Webster has been impacted by wind and flooding damage as a result of hurricanes. The assessed value of all residential and non-residential structures in Webster is $114,426,200.
Assuming 1% to 5% Town-wide building damage, a hurricane could result in $1,144,262 to $5,721,310 in building damage.
Rapid Snow Pack Melt Flooding caused by rapid snow pack melt is often found along roadways and from waterbodies such as rivers and streams. Those areas which are particularly susceptible would be the floodplain and along highways, but anywhere where the water cannot yet percolate into the frozen ground could be vulnerable.
Assuming 1% to 5% Town-wide building damage, rapid snow pack melt could result in $1,144,262 to $5,721,310 in building damage.
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River Ice Jams The Blackwater River is the major flowing body of water in Town and flows under four of the bridges which are identified in Table 4. The 2005-2014 State Ten Year Plan provides many examples of basic cost estimates bridge replacement and rehabilitation. Ranges can run from about $1,000,000 (Keene) to $8,300,000 (Holderness) and beyond for replacement of a bridge on a NH Route or local road over a river. The average of this range is $4,650,000.
If two (2) bridges needed to be replaced in Webster as a result of the physical damage caused by river ice jams, the cost could be $9,300,000.
In addition, if 10 homes in the floodplain were damaged as a result of flooding resulting from river ice jams, it could result in $1,178,150 in damage.
Dam Breach and Failure According to the NH Department of Environmental Services, there are ten (10) active dams within Webster. Six (6) are classified as AA, which means dam failure would not threaten life or property, and three (3) are classified as A, which means low hazard potential.
There are no class B dams, defined as a significant hazard potential if the dam should fail.
There is one class C dam, defined as a high hazard potential with possible loss of life and damage to major highways: • Blackwater Dam
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. The Town’s assessing records should be consulted to ascertain the range of possible damage to buildings in the vicinity.
In 1941, the dam was constructed at a cost of $1,320,000. For the figures of the actual replacement or repair of the dam should it breach, the Army Corps of Engineers should be contacted.
Stream Bank Erosion and Scouring The Blackwater River is the major flowing body of water in the Town would likely be prone to erosion at some locations. The amount of damage to buildings would be difficult to measure, but if 10 homes in the floodplain were damaged as a result of erosion, it could result in $1,178,150 in damage.
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Debris Impacted Infrastructure The Blackwater River is the major flowing waterbody in the Town and flow under four of the bridges which are identified in Table 5. The 2005-2014 State Ten Year Plan provides many examples of basic cost estimates bridge replacement and rehabilitation. Ranges can run from about $1,000,000 (Keene) to $8,300,000 (Holderness) and beyond for replacement of a bridge on a NH Route or local road over a river. The average of this range is $4,650,000.
If two (2) bridges needed to be replaced in Webster as a result of the physical damage caused by river ice jams, the cost could be $9,300,000.
Tornadoes Tornadoes are relatively uncommon natural hazards in the State. 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 New Hampshire, the total cost of tornadoes between 1950 and 1995 was $9,071,389 (The Disaster Center). The cost of a tornado in Webster would not be town-wide because tornadoes strike in smaller areas. Dollar amounts would depend on whether the tornado hit an area with a high density of buildings.
If a tornado impacted 1% of the Town’s buildings, it could result in $1,144,262 in building damage.
Downbursts and High Winds Damage caused by downbursts and high winds would not be Town-wide because they typically strike in smaller areas. Few places in Webster are at specific risk (see CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION and CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION). Dollar amounts would depend on if the hazard hit an area with a high density of buildings.
If high winds impacted 1% of the Town’s buildings, it could result in $1,144,262 in building damage.
Lightning Damage caused by lightning would not be Town-wide because it typically strikes in smaller areas. Few places in Webster are at specific risk (see CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION and CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION). Dollar amounts would depend on if the hazard hit an area with a high density of buildings.
If lightning impacted 1% of the Town’s buildings, it could result in $1,144,262 in building damage.
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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. 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.
If a wildfire impacted 1% of the Town’s buildings, it could result in $1,144,262 in building damage.
Severe Winter Weather 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 Webster 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 non-residential structures in Webster is $114,426,200. Assuming 1% to 5% Town-wide building damage, a severe winter storm could result in $1,144,262 to $5,721,310 in building 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 New Hampshire 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. Buildings that are not built to a high seismic design level would be susceptible to structural damage.
Assuming 1% to 5% Town-wide building damage, an earthquake could result in $1,144,262 to $5,721,310 in building damage.
Landslide Damage caused by landslides would be concentrated in those areas along embankments, either along the highways or hillsides. Few places in Webster are at specific risk (see CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION and CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION). Dollar amounts would depend on if the hazard hit an area with a high density of buildings.
If a landslide impacted 1% of the Town’s buildings, it could result in $1,144,262 in building damage.
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Drought Drought is often declared on region-wide basis, and sometimes by individual town. Damage caused by drought would be difficult to quantify, but would most likely impact the agricultural economic base of a community. Although everyone would be charged to conserve water, orchards, farms, and nurseries would be most affected. These agricultural assets are portrayed on Map 1: Potential Hazards.
As physical damage is usually isolated to specific locations, the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town’s assessor’s database for valuation on targeted land.
Radon As radon may not be noticed by the general public without education and testing, it is difficult to estimate any potential damages. Airborne radon seeping out of basements and through water vapor can be mitigated by individual property owners at an average of $1,200 for a radon reduction system (per Environmental Protection Agency) to treat the air inside a home.
If 10% of the Webster’s homes installed radon reduction systems, $96,000 would be spent.
Biological Biological hazards affect the ecosystem, humans, and wildlife. As such, a dollar value cannot be placed upon such resources. However, the population of the City, over 40,000 as of the year 2000, is living within close quarters and the social, economic, and employment opportunities are a natural draw from all over the region. The Capital Area Public Health Network’s Public Health Improvement Plan should be consulted for further information on the vulnerability of the Town. The Center for Disease Control, CDC, is a very good source of information on biological hazards and their detrimental effects.
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LOSSES BY TECHNOLOGICAL HAZARDS
Webster increasingly relies on technology to perform every day tasks more efficiently. A breakdown of this system has immeasurable damaging effects. Loss of business, productivity, routine and an impact to public health has negative consequences to individuals, families, and businesses alike. Human hazards are similar to technological hazards because they are both somewhat human-induced. Technology is designed by humans and humans are frequently partly responsible for technological disasters (transportation accidents, air pollution, strikes, financial collapse, etc.). Much of what follows in the sections on technological and human hazards is applicable to both categories. CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION identifies sites that are vulnerable to the technological disasters highlighted below, and Table 1A lists the annual events that occur within the Town.
Physical minor technological disasters such as traffic accidents are common in Webster and will continue to occur. The potential physical and human loss depends on the severity of the accident, the value of the vehicles involved and other factors such as the safety of the vehicles involved and the number of occupants in the vehicle. Because of the complex factors that determine the severity of traffic accidents, it is difficult to estimate the losses associated with them. Losses associated with larger events such as explosions and building collapses also cannot be easily measured because the loss depends on numerous unpredictable factors, such as: emergency response time, structural integrity, weather, geographic location, chemicals present at the accident site, occupants in the building or area, etc.
FEMA uses a methodology for integrating technological hazards into disaster mitigation planning. This methodology reinforces the importance of analyzing the vulnerability of assets and the hazards that threaten them. The methodology promotes the following steps prior to estimating losses: Identify Hazards, Profile Hazard Events, Inventory the Assets. These steps will heretofore be frequently referred to as steps 1,2 and 3. This plan does not attempt to carry out the loss estimation for every asset in Webster based on the vulnerability of all assets and the severity of the hazards. What ensues, however, is an explanation of the steps used to arrive at an estimation of losses so that those responsible for mitigating hazards at specific locations within the Town may best do so. Numerous hazards have been identified below and where possible, resources containing further practical information for completing the three steps mentioned above have been included. The hazards have already been identified in CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION. The criteria for consideration for the second step, Hazard Profile, is as follows:
• Application mode: Describes the action (s) necessary to cause the hazard to occur. • Duration: Length of time the hazard is present on the target. For example, length of time a hazardous material spill may affect an area. • Dynamic / static characteristic of a hazard: Describes the tendency of the hazard to expand, contract, or remain confined in time, magnitude and space. • Mitigating conditions: Characteristics of the target or its physical environment that can reduce the effects of the hazard. For instance, preventive measures are mitigating conditions when dealing with hazardous material spills. • Exacerbating conditions: Characteristics that can enhance or magnify the effects of a hazard. For example, the wood in a structure may be an exacerbating condition in the case of a fire rather than a mitigating condition.
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The third step used in estimating potential losses is the Inventory of Assets or the assessment of the vulnerability of the assets. By assessing the vulnerability it becomes easier to estimate the losses. Vulnerabilities can either be inherent or tactical. Inherent vulnerabilities exist independent of any protective or preventive measures applied to the asset. Inherent vulnerabilities to consider include:
• Visibility: Is the public aware of the target, facility, site, system or location? • Utility: What is the value of the target, facility, site, system or location? • Accessibility: Is the target, facility, site, system or location accessible to the public? • Asset mobility: Is the target or asset mobile or is it fixed? • Presence of hazardous materials: Are hazardous materials present at the target or asset? • Potential for collateral damage: What are potential consequences for neighbors and surrounding area? • Occupancy: What is the potential for loss of human life based on number of people present at the target or affected area?
Tactical vulnerability refers to the security, design and other mitigation tools used to protect a place. These measures can include site planning and landscape design, parking security, structural, electrical and fire protection engineering, architectural and interior space planning and electronic and organized security. These factors are included because when estimating potential asset losses it is necessary to first assess the vulnerability of the asset to particular threats. For example, the potential loss a structure could sustain as a result of a technological hazard will be higher if there are no preventive measures implemented in the building’s design and construction.
Because there is no formula or system for estimating potential losses by technological and human-induced hazards, a thorough inventory of assets, profile of hazards and inventory vulnerability assessment are imperative. With that established, it should be noted that the damage of technological hazards can be great to physical structures, ecosystems, computer systems, utilities and communications. Humans rely on the proper functioning of technology for their well-being and any loss or interruption to this technology could be economically debilitating. However, the most valuable asset that could be at risk of a technological hazard is human life. Hazardous materials spills, explosions, fires, transportation accidents, building and structure collapse, radiological accidents and extreme air pollution all threaten the fragile human life. Webster’s permanent population base of over 40,000 in the year 2000, in addition to temporary and transient populations, are vulnerable to technological hazards, including:
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Hazardous Materials Damage to structures is often isolated at one or two locations, so the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town Assessor’s database for valuation on specific buildings. In order to best estimate the potential losses in the case of a hazardous materials spill or contamination, one must research the hazardous waste events that could potentially occur in the Town. This step has been referred to above as ‘profiling’ the hazard. A good source of information on different types of hazardous wastes and the consequences of their spillage is the U.S. Government’s Environmental Protection Agency website: www.epa.gov. The National Response Center maintains an updated list of hazardous materials incidents that were responded to on their website: www.nrc.uscg.mil/nhcrp.html. In 2005 there were a total of 35,714 incidents responded to within the U.S. and its territories. The second factor in estimating the potential losses in the case of a hazardous waste incident is assessing the vulnerability of the asset or target in question. The Town must assess all those locations, including buildings, roads, rail corridors, rivers, lakes, streams, etc., that could be potential targets of a hazardous waste spill or contamination. When assessing the vulnerability of any site it is necessary to consider all the criteria explained above.
Explosion/Fire Damage to structures is often isolated at one or two locations, so the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town Assessor’s database for valuation on specific buildings. FEMA reports that fire annually costs the U.S. over $10 billion in damage, causes 5,000 deaths and 30,000 injuries. They also report that in a typical year, home appliance and wiring problems account for 93,500 fires, 550 deaths and $760 million in property damage. Fire is a costly hazard that causes both property damage and physical harm or death.
A good source of information on fires and fire damage is the National Fire Protection Agency. The NFPA updates a website regularly: www.nfpa.org . The website contains extensive information on different types of fires and explosions. It should be referred to when doing research on the Hazard Profile. When doing the Inventory of Assets, all of the above criteria should be considered because fires and explosions have the potential to affect many structures differently depending on the structure’s engineering and fire preventive measures. Explosions and fires also have the potential to cause physical harm and death and because of this they should be treated as very threatening hazards.
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Transportation Accident As discussed in the Introduction to Technological Hazards, the most common transportation accidents are vehicular. The same criteria for estimating potential losses resulting from the other technological hazards can be applied to transportation accidents. The Town can estimate the potential losses of different transportation accidents that may occur at different locations throughout the Town by profiling past accidents and by assessing the vulnerability of property and human life involved. Within Webster and the region, accidents of other nature have occurred, such as airplane crashes. One good source of information on all things pertaining to motor vehicle accidents is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. On their website, www.nhtsa.dot.gov , information on things such as crash tests and rollover ratings to an analysis of speeding-related fatal traffic crashes are included. This source will be useful when profiling the hazard. When assessing the vulnerability of assets, everything from high accident locations, frequency of accidents, time of accidents, weather, road conditions, vehicle type, the number of occupants and the driver should be considered in addition to the Step 3 criteria mentioned above.
Building/Structure Collapse Damage to structures is often isolated at one or two locations, so the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town Assessor’s database for valuation on specific buildings. In profiling the building/structure collapse hazard, one should consider that buildings and structures frequently collapse because of some other hazard, such as fire, wind, flood, etc. An assessment of the vulnerability must include all the criteria mentioned above. Because firefighters and construction workers are a vulnerable population in the case of building and structure collapse, researching occupational safety is advisable in order to complete Steps 2 and 3. The Center for Disease Control website, www.cdc.gov, has a link to the Electronic Library of Construction Occupational Safety and Health. This Electronic Library has relevant articles on the effects of building/structure collapse and the vulnerability of workers who often are required to work in unsafe conditions.
Power/Utility Failure The incapacity or destruction of the energy and utility systems in Webster and the region would have a debilitating effect on the physical and economic security of the Town, the public health and the general well-being of the Town’s residents. Power failure is a common occurrence when many natural hazards cause damage to critical infrastructure. The potential vulnerability of power/utility infrastructure should be assessed, in the case that damage is inflicted by another hazard on this infrastructure. Because PSNH and Unitil are the electric power providers to the Town of Webster, they are the best source of information on this particular hazard. Power and utility failure is similar to communications system failure because any interruption of service can cause lost revenues for businesses, interrupted service from organizations or agencies and even failure of emergency services by those who provide them. These consequences must be considered when estimating the losses incurred from power or utility failure.
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Extreme Air Pollution Extreme air pollution is a hazard that can adversely affect public health and productivity. On days when the air quality is very poor, an extra effort is required of emergency personnel. The best source of information on air pollution is the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services. When estimating the losses resulting from extreme air pollution, it is necessary to first profile the hazard and assess the vulnerability of those assets most threatened. The general public is most at risk during poor air quality days, and within the general public, certain groups of people are more at risk than others. Worker productivity is decreased on poor air quality days and more work is required of emergency personnel. Energy output is higher on these days as well, for many people require air conditioners and fans to remain cool.
Radiological Accident A radiological accident has the potential of causing widespread human loss of life, asset damage and environmental destruction. Cleanup of radiological accidents is painstaking. When assessing the potential losses in the case of a radiological accident, it is important to consider the potential loss of human life and the subsequent long-term loss of the utility of lands and buildings in the area contaminated by the accident. The two nuclear power plants that were highlighted above have 10-mile Emergency Planning Zones around them. Neither Webster nor any town in the region is located within the EPZ of Seabrook Station. Nevertheless, contamination is possible at least 50 miles from the site of a radiological accident. A recommended source of information on all things related to radiological accidents and nuclear power is the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
Fuel/Resource Shortage Fuel or resource shortage is a hazard that has the potential to cause an economic crisis. Most recently, New Hampshire residents witnessed the effects of the fuel shortage resulting from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. The price of gasoline increased for several weeks until finally stabilizing. Because fuel supply is fickle, it is nearly impossible to predict the occurrence of a shortage. Nearly everyone is vulnerable to the effects of fuel shortage, from consumers to businesses. A few of the many sources on energy and the potential for fuel or resource shortages can be found on the websites of the U.S. Department of Energy, Environmental Protection Agency and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
Strike Strikes are a hazard capable of interrupting services provided by businesses, government, schools, hospitals and organizations. Strikes tend to cause economic loss rather than asset loss or loss of human life. When estimating the potential loss caused by a strike, it is important to do a profile of typical area strikes and to assess the services that could be disrupted. Estimation of losses should be directed at those potential targets of strikes and the assets related to those targets.
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Business Interruption Of the technological hazards, estimating potential losses resulting from business interruption may be the easiest. Typically, the only asset threatened by business interruption is economic. Business owners have a good idea of their daily, weekly, monthly and yearly revenue. By estimating lost revenue over any period of time, a business owner can calculate his or her losses. Without complicating the estimation too much, business owners should undergo Steps 1, 2 and 3 when estimating potential business interruption losses. The reason is that businesses may be interrupted for any number of reasons and it is important to attempt to predict how each hazard could affect business. For example, a flooded basement, causing a short-term interruption resulting from a severe hurricane, although debilitating, will not cause as long a business interruption as a fire that causes complete building collapse.
Financial Issues, Economic Depression, Inflation, Financial System Collapse These hazards can threaten individuals, families, states and even the entire nation. It is difficult, at best, to foresee the occurrence of a hazard of this type. Nevertheless, it is recommended that a profile of the hazard and an assessment of the vulnerability of the assets inventoried be carried out. Not all assets are equally vulnerable to these hazards. As history has shown, such things as demographics and geography can make one population more vulnerable than another. It is also important to remember that these hazards frequently affect certain industries more than others. Financial collapse in the manufacturing sector may affect one geographic area or the entire nation, but the high tech sector may experience growth during the same period. Because of the complexity of this hazard, when estimating losses it is critical to follow Steps 1,2 and 3 for all potential assets.
Communications Systems Interruptions Communications systems interruptions can be detrimental to a business or other organization that relies on communications systems in order to conduct business. Often, communications systems interruptions or failures result in a business interruption. Therefore, the same criteria explained in the above section on Business Interruption may be applied to communication systems interruptions as well. In the case of an emergency, or during another hazard event, individuals and government agencies rely on communications for safety. If these systems were interrupted during another event, people would be at risk.
Refer to CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION for vulnerability of specific sites to these hazards.
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LOSSES BY HUMAN HAZARDS
Webster is a Town of about 1,800 people per the 2000 US Census and NH Office of Energy and Planning projections. A high rate of casualty could result in the event of a human disaster event at a public gathering place, the Elementary School, the Town Offices, or during special events. CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION identifies sites that are vulnerable to human disasters, and Table 1A lists the annual events that occur within the Town.
Damage to structures is usually isolated to one or two locations, so the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town Assessor’s database for valuation on specific buildings.
The same methodology that was explained in the previous section should be applied to human hazards when estimating losses. Human and technological hazards are more similar to each other than either is to natural hazards because they both result from human behavior or failure of human-created systems. The profile of human hazards and the vulnerability of assets from human-induced hazards are distinct from those of technological hazards because they are even harder to measure. It should be assumed, in all cases, that any hazard event will cause a worst-case scenario. As in the previous section on technological hazards, when possible, sources of further information have been referenced in order to strengthen the research for steps 2 and 3. An additional tool that FEMA recommends is the creation of a Facility Inherent Vulnerability Matrix. This tool can be used to compare the relative vulnerability of each asset based on the criteria that is used for Step 2. The x-axis should contain vulnerability point values, ranging from low to high (0 for absolutely no vulnerability to 5 for high vulnerability), and the y-axis should contain the criteria: asset visibility, target utility, asset accessibility, asset mobility, presence of hazardous materials, collateral damage potential and site population/ capacity (incrementally increasing from 0 to >5000). Because each quadrant of the matrix contains a point value, the vulnerability of each asset can be calculated by selecting the appropriate point value.
The guidelines for estimating potential losses given above and in the previous section on Technological Hazards are only suggestions. However, because there is no straightforward methodology for calculating potential losses due to technological and human-induced hazards, the most thorough evaluation of assets, hazards and asset vulnerability provides the best means for estimating losses and mitigating disasters.
General Strike Structural damage as well as disruption of services and revenue can occur. Most likely to occur as a result of general strike is a disruption of services, as strikes are most frequently aimed at providers of services such as government, schools, hospitals and corporations.
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Terrorism Acts of terrorism vary greatly from act to act but recent terrorist events have been targeted at humans. Terrorist acts that cause human casualties have drawn more attention to terrorists and their agendas. There are different acts of terrorism and each has the potential to cause damage, however, the nature of the damage depends on the act of terrorism. Eco- terrorism typically targets businesses and government facilities, political terrorism may target a landmark or government office and biological terrorism may target large groups of people. In order to estimate potential losses from acts of terrorism, each type should be considered different. In other words, the vulnerability of the potential targets should be assessed depending on the different types of acts of terrorism. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security should be the primary source of information on terrorism.
Sabotage Sabotage, like terrorism, has the potential to damage more than simply infrastructure or property. It is unknown how sabotage has the potential to cause human casualties, however, it can cause business interruption, humiliation and defamation of character, financial collapse and economic catastrophe. Businesses, organizations, government agencies, schools, individuals and anyone who could be at risk of sabotage should address their security and assess their vulnerability to the hazard. Especially vulnerable to sabotage are organizations in the industries of information and telecommunications, physical distribution, energy, banking & finance and vital human services.
Hostage Situation Hostage situations vary in time and damage. Because hostage situations involve humans, the potential for casualties is greater in hostage situations than in other human hazards such as sabotage, general strike and civil unrest. The one area hostage situation described in CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION ended with the death of a Nashua police officer. The procedure for profiling the hazard should be done as for the other human hazards, but when assessing the vulnerability of the asset it must be remembered that it is human life.
Civil Disturbance / Public Unrest Structural damage as well as disruption of services and revenue can occur.
Enemy Attack Damage to structures is often isolated at one or two locations, so the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town’s assessor’s database for valuation on specific buildings. Vulnerable targets are typically those that are the most visible and utile to the general public because enemies, like terrorists, seek those locations that offer the greatest potential for exhibition.
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Arson Damage to structures is often isolated at one or two locations, so the effects of potential disasters at certain facilities could be researched utilizing the Town’s assessor’s database for valuation on specific buildings. According to a 1998 FEMA/USFA report, arson is the leading cause of fire and direct financial loss resulting from fire. It accounts for 30% of both. For further details refer to the above reference to Explosion/Fire in the Technological Hazards section.
Mass Hysteria This condition can result at locations where large groups of people congregate in likely response to a primary hazard event. It is unknown how to calculate the potential losses resulting from an event of mass hysteria. Structural damage as well as disruption of services and revenue can occur in addition to bodily harm.
Special Events The special events in Webster are listed in Table 1A and the area special events have been listed in Table 1. Special events are unique because they are not inherently a hazard, like the natural, technological and other human hazards. In very rare cases, special events locations are the site of some property loss, injury and death in extreme cases. While researching special events in the region, no cases of death were discovered. Nevertheless, the potential exists. Because each special event is different, varying in place, time, number of people, etc., the vulnerability of the assets and potential for losses will vary. Different events draw different crowds to different venues.
MAP 4: POTENTIAL HAZARDS AND LOSSES
The Potential Hazards and Losses Map 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 population is most susceptible to flooding, wildfire, landslides, and wind damage as well as the locations of bridges, dams, wetlands, icy roads, and the recommended evacuation routes.
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CHAPTER 5. DEVELOPMENT TRENDS
A brief description of how the Town has grown in terms of both population and housing within the last three decades follows. Recent data such as land use (in acres) was taken directly from Webster’s 2005 Master Plan. 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
Webster completed a new Master Plan in 2005. Chapters include detailed information and maps (where feasible) on Current Land Use, Population and Economics, Historic and Cultural Resources, Community Facilities and Services, Natural Resources, Housing, Transportation, and Future Land Use. The following tables are excerpted from these Chapters.
Table 14 Overall Population and Housing Growth Trends in Webster, 1970-2000 Growth Population Net Change Housing Net Change Population # % Units* # % Per Unit*
1970 (US Census) 680 - - 276 - - 2.5
1980 (US Census) 1,095 +415 +61% 387 +111 +40.2% 2.8
1990 (US Census) 1,405 +310 +28.3% 577 +190 +49.1% 2.4
2000 (US Census) 1,579 +174 +12.4% 672 +95 +16.4% 2.3 Total Change from - +899 +132.2% - +396 +143.5% -0.2 1970 – 2000 Sources: 1970-1990 US Census CPH-2-31 Table 9 Population and Housing Unit Counts; US Census 2000 Data *includes all housing units, including vacant and seasonal
In Table 14, it is apparent that the Town’s population has been on the rise since 1970, growing from 680 residents in 1970 to 1,579 in 2000. Although this is relatively normal growth in a New England town, the fact that Webster has seen its population more than double in the past 30 years is notable. Housing units have also been on the rise in the last 30 years. In 1970 there were only 276 homes in Webster, growing to 672 in 2000. This increase of 396 housing units means that the number of housing units more than doubled between 1970 and 2000. The population per housing unit was 2.5 persons in 1970, rising slightly to 2.8 persons per unit in 1980. This figured dropped to 2.4 in 1990 and again to 2.3 in 2000. The population per housing unit dropped in 1990 and 2000 because the net change in housing units was higher than the net change in population.
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Table 15 Population Density in Webster, 1970-2000 2000 Area in Square Miles Persons per square mile Community Population (excluding water) 1970 1980 1990 2000 Webster 1,579 28.3 24 39 50 56 Sources: 2000 US Census; 2000 NH OSP Total Land Area Figures for NH Cities and Towns (figures are rounded)
As shown in Table 15, Webster’s population density has been steadily increasing over the past three decades. In 1970, there were approximately 24 persons living per square mile. This number increased to 39 in 1980, 50 in 1990, and 56 persons per square mile in 2000. This is more than double the population density of 1970, reflecting the Town’s growth.
Table 16 Population Projections % Increase 2000 2005 2010 2015 2020 2025 2000 actual Census Estimated Projection Projection Projection Projection to 2025 Projection 1,579 1,761 1,960 2,080 2,160 2,250 42.4% Sources: 2000 US Census; NH Office of Energy and Planning Population Estimates of NH Cities and Towns, 2004; NH OSP Municipal Population Projections 2006-2025, 2003
Population projections are one way to portray the amount of growth the Town may experience. In Table 16, the five year span from 2005-2010 is projected to yield 199 more people, while the five year span from 2010-2015 is projected to yield only 120.
Table 17 Residential Building Permits Issued by Housing Type, 1999 – 2006* Eight- Housing Type 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006* Year Total
Single Family 5 16 16 16 27 28 19 4 131
Multi-Family (2 or more) 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Manufactured 2 2 3 0 0 0 1 0 8
Total Permits Issued 7 18 19 16 27 28 20 4 139 Source: CNHRPC Development Trends Report, Residential Building Permits 1998-2003; CNHRPC Age Restricted Housing Inventory, 2006 *six months of the year, January-June
In Table 17, between 1999 and 2006, the Town of Webster had an overall marked increase in the number of residential building permits issued for new construction, to total 131 new units to be built during this period. In 2003 and 2004, the number of single-family housing permits issued was more than five times greater than in 1999, tripling between 1999 and 2000 and nearly doubling between 2002 and 2003. A decline was experienced in the first half of 2006, with only 4 permits issued through June. The number of manufactured housing permits has decreased from the earlier period of 1999 – 2001, with only one permit granted between 2002 and 2006.
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LAND USE
According to the 2005 Master Plan land use determination methodology, Webster has a total land area of 17,401 acres, or about 28.3 square miles.
As depicted in Table 18, 5.7% of the Town, according to the 2005 Master Plan, is currently in residential use and a further 20.5% is land that could potentially be subdivided as residential. Undeveloped lands, which include forested areas, fields and agricultural lands and that are neither currently developed nor protected from development, comprise 50.2% of the Town’s entire land area. Conservation land constitutes 6.6% of the Town’s land while commercial land constitutes 0.5%.
Table 18 Land Use in Webster, 2004 Land Use Area Percent of Category (Acres)* Total Land
5.7 Residential 987 Residential Land That Could be Further 3,566 20.5 Subdivided *
Commercial 86 0.5%
Mixed-Use 139 0.8%
Excavation 53 0.3%
Utility Land 318 1.8%
Conservation 1,143 6.6%
Undeveloped 8,740 50.2%
Public/Institutional 2,369 13.6%
Total 17,401 100% Source: Current Land Use Chapter of the 2005 Master Plan (total acres may differ slightly due to rounding)
* Estimates based on GIS mapping for 2004 ** A residential parcel was coded this way if it was larger than 5 acres and had more than 250’ of road frontage
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RELATION TO NATURAL HAZARDS
The locations of where people are concentrated or where new lands may be developed should be compared to the locations of potential natural hazards in order to best mitigate potential property damage, personal injury or loss of life.
Areas of Highest Densities Pillsbury Lake, in the southeast corner of Webster, is the area with the largest concentration of people (150 homes). There are many subdivisions off of Deer Meadow Road. Concord Drive and New Hampshire Drive, both east of Pillsbury Lake, provide access for many area residents to Deer Meadow Road and beyond. New Hampshire Drive has experienced rapid snow-melt flooding. The southern section of Pillsbury Lake has experienced flooding at the Pillsbury Lake Dam and will likely experience such flooding in the future. To the northwest of Pillsbury Lake, where Bridge Road intersects with Pleasant Street, there is another population cluster in an area that has experienced flooding. As of the writing of this plan the Pillsbury Lake Dam has breached and it is unknown whether the lake will refill itself in years to come.
Another area of high density is the Route 127 intersection with Long Road. This area is the Historic Center and is home to the Old Meeting House, Parish House, the First Congregational Church and other sites of cultural and historic importance. The Historic Center is not located in a particularly high-risk area, although the possibility of flooding is present to the east, south and west. Long Street near Beaver Dam Brook is located in a flood area and residents of Beaver Dam Road could be affected in the case of an evacuation.
High residential density can be found in the area surrounding Lake Winnepocket, particularly along Lakeshore Road and Westwind Village. The Lake Winnepocket area has experienced flooding and Whiteplains Road residents have been affected. Whiteplains Road is also identified as a secondary evacuation route but is a potentially hazardous area prone to flooding.
Vulnerable Populations As mentioned above, certain areas of high density are also located in areas of potential hazards. It has already been mentioned that the Pillsbury Lake area has experienced flooding and dam breach and will likely experience flooding again if the lake refills. The Blackwater River is in the 100-year Floodplain and could potentially be an area of widespread damage at some point in the future. Flooding has occurred at Walker Pond and the residents of this area have only one evacuation route to Pleasant Street. The intersections of Bridge Road and Pleasant Street and Roby Road and Battle Street are in a vulnerable area to flooding.
Two roads have been identified as secondary evacuation routes that are located in or pass through areas of higher vulnerability to flooding: Whiteplains Road and Deer Meadow Road. The Austin House, an elderly housing unit, is located on the northwest section of Lake Winnepocket, accessed by Whiteplains Road.
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Located on or near Pillsbury Lake are the Pillsbury Lake Club House and the Pillsbury Lake Playground. These two areas of entertainment and recreation draw a large number of people to an already vulnerable area. The surrounding area has experienced flooding and rapid snow melt.
Webster has experienced wildfire east of the Historic Center along Long Street and along Winnepocket Road. Wildfire has also occurred near Riverdale Cemetery in Tyler Road. Young’s Day Care is located to the south of this area, just north of the Gerrish Road intersection.
Future Development in Webster The potential for hazards and the vulnerability of the population should be considered before undergoing any future development in Webster. As depicted in Table 17 above, the number of residential housing units has increased significantly since 1999 and it can be assumed that this trend will continue. The location of building permits issued over the past few years reflects no apparent areas of concentrated development. It can also be assumed that because of the large amount of available residential land that could be further subdivided (3,566 acres), and the significantly smaller amount of commercially zoned land (86 acres), there will be more residential development than commercial.
Between 1993 and 2003, 48 subdivisions were approved in Webster and the largest was a 1998, 6-lot, subdivision on a piece of property off of Tyler Road. Webster’s Zoning Ordinance currently requires a two-acre lot size for all newly created lots. The Zoning Ordinance also stipulates that building permits for new dwelling units are limited to 4% of the number of dwelling units in the Town at the start of each calendar year.
In the 2004 Town of Webster Annual Report it was noted that the Planning Board accepted, considered and approved the following applications: a 12-lot subdivision on Call Road, a two- lot subdivision on Gerrish Road, a two-lot subdivision on Battle Street and a two-lot subdivision on Little Hill Road. In the 2005 Annual Report, approvals were granted for 5 subdivisions (12 lots). At year end, a seven-lot subdivision was under review that involves a new Class V road. Given the population and economic growth in southern New Hampshire, it is unlikely that there will be any slowing of development in Webster.
There is a potential for subdivision all around Lake Winnepocket and along nearby Whiteplains Road. Also, there is great potential for residential development along Route 127.
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CHAPTER 6. 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.
FLOODING IN WEBSTER
The likelihood of flooding in Webster is high. The Town is highly susceptible to flooding because of the close proximity of the population and roadways to tributaries of the Blackwater River, which is highly regulated by the US ACE and has never overflowed its channels. The Town is also vulnerable to numerous brooks and streams and the potential for damage from dam breaches at various dams in Town. Flooding has occurred near Pillsbury Lake and may likely occur again if the lake refills. Flooding has also occurred and may likely occur again near Beaver Dam Brook, Walker Pond, Knight’s Meadow Marsh, and Lake Winnepocket.
In addition, 64 single family and multi-family parcels and 1 non-residential parcel (school) with buildings were counted within the 100-year and 500-year floodplain. The 2000 Census counted 672 housing units, it was reported in the Webster Master Plan 2005 that from 2001 to 2003, 62 residential building permits were issued and in 2004 and 2005, 48 residential building permits were issued, bringing the total to 782. Based on the total number of housing units it can be calculated that nearly 8.2% of housing units in Webster are situated in the floodplain.
Past flood events have been recounted within CHAPTER 2. HAZARD IDENTIFICATION.
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NATIONAL FLOOD INSURANCE PROGRAM (NFIP)
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.
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.
Webster’s NFIP Statistics The Preliminary Flood Insurance Study (FIP) was completed for Webster in January 1992. Webster has been a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program since April 15, 1986 and the date of the current effective map is June 2, 1993. Twelve (12) flood insurance policies are in force, and no losses have been paid to date since Webster joined the program (Table 19).
Table 19 Webster Policy and Loss Statistics, February 2007 Policies in Insurance in Number of Paid Total Losses Force Force Losses (since Paid 1978) (since 1978)
12 $1,697,700 0 $0 Source: February 28, 2007 FEMA Policy and Claims databases
Page 87 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 6. FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
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.
Webster’s NFIP Repetitive Flooding Losses As of June 2007, Webster had a total of 0 repetitive loss properties according to FEMA. This is determined by any repetitive damage claims on those properties that hold flood insurance through the NFIP.
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.
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.
Page 88 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 6. FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT
Ordinances and Community Assistance Visits in Webster The Town of Webster approved their first Floodplain Ordinance at Town Meeting in March, 1993 and became members of the NFIP in April, 1986. A Community Assistance Visit (CAV) is a process required by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) as a way of reviewing a town’s compliance with established floodplain regulations to be sure that they meet NFIP requirements. If the Town is not in compliance with regulations in any way, OEP officials that conduct the CAV provide assistance and guidance to assist in correcting any violations. The most recent CAV was conducted on August 16, 2005. A letter was sent to Webster Selectmen on August 23, 2005 reviewing the visit and discussing the results, which are as follows.
Building Permits were reviewed, and Webster officials stated that no permits were issued in the Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) within the last two years. OEP officials recommended that the Town require an Elevation Certificate when issuing building permits within SFHAs. When reviewing Substantial Improvement Requirements, two suggestions were made to determine whether or not a building is substantially improved. First, when improvements or repairs (internal or external) are made, if the cost equals 50% or more of the market value of the structure, it is counted as new construction and is subject to insurance actuarial rates and the floodplain requirements of the NFIP. Second, a clarification of NFIP requirements regarding the cost of correcting code deficiencies was given to alleviate any confusion on the matter. Floodplain Management Regulations, Subdivision Requirements, and Mapping Issues were reviewed and determined to be in good standing and compliance. A new program called the Community Rating System was discussed. It is a new NFIP program that awards a 5%-45% discount on premiums for flood insurance policies written within the community in exchange for exemplary community floodplain management activity. In closing, it was suggested that Webster consider the development of a Hazard Mitigation Plan which should reduce the consequences of a further emergency or disaster and allow Webster to qualify for some new FEMA competitive mitigation grant programs.
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.
Potential Administrative Techniques to Minimize Flood Losses in Webster In order to reduce flood risks, the Zoning Enforcement Officer 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 New Hampshire Bureau of Emergency Management or the New Hampshire Office of Energy and Planning would be appropriate to educate current staff and volunteers on a bi-yearly basis.
An essential step in mitigating flood damage is participation in the NFIP. Webster should work to consistently enforce NFIP compliant policies to continue its participation in this program.
Page 89 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 7. LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
CHAPTER 7. LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
The following objectives were developed by the Local Hazard Mitigation Committee to represent Webster’s commitment to reduce the damages caused by natural hazards. Collectively, they will help formulate the mitigation strategies documented in the following chapters.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES The objectives were excerpted from the State Hazard Mitigation Plan and amended as needed to reflect Webster’s small community needs.
1. To improve upon the protection of the general population, the citizens, and guests of the Town, from all natural and human-made hazards.
2. To reduce the potential impact of natural and human-made disasters on the Town’s critical support services, critical facilities, and infrastructure.
3. To improve the Town’s emergency preparedness, disaster response, and recovery capability.
4. To reduce the potential impact of natural and human-made disasters on private property, the natural environment, and the Town’s historic treasures.
Page 90 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 7. LOCAL HAZARD MITIGATION OBJECTIVES
HAZARD SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES Objectives were developed to specifically address the predominant hazards that the Town is most likely to be affected by.
Flood
5. To minimize the impact a flood would have on life, property, and infrastructure on the Blackwater River, its floodplains, and on lakes, ponds and streams of the Town of Webster.
6. To minimize flood and erosion impacts from weather events on roadways and bridges.
Fire
7. To minimize fire and wildfire damage to, and reduce the risk of damage to, life, property, and infrastructure.
8. To encourage proper management of the Town’s forested lands to reduce the risk of wildfire.
Severe Winter Weather
9. To minimize the threat to life, property, and infrastructure from severe winter weather events.
10. To minimize the impact to travelers through blocked transportation systems from severe winter weather events.
Severe Storms
11. To minimize wind and lightning damage to life, property, and infrastructure throughout Webster.
Human
12. To minimize the threat of human disturbances to life, property, and infrastructure.
Technological
13. To minimize the impact to populations that would be vulnerable during hazardous materials incidents.
14. To protect and maintain the operational efficiency of, and promote the technological evolution of, all information technology and communications systems.
Multiple Hazards
15. To reduce the risk of damage by severe storms and winter weather to Webster’s infrastructure, power grid, and critical facilities.
Page 91 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
The Local Hazard Mitigation Committee identified a number of pro-active protection mechanisms that are currently place in Webster that could reduce the damages and losses in the event of a natural disaster or secondary disaster.
DESCRIPTION OF EXISTING PROJECTS, PROGRAMS, AND ACTIVITIES
Each program, policy, 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. These are displayed in Table 20A-E.
Table 20A Existing Mitigation Strategies: Police Department Hazard Existing Description Area of Respons- Effectiv Improvements Type Project, Town ibility e-ness or Changes Program or Covered Activity
Multiple Emergency Emergency Operations Plan Town Emergency Low None at this time. Operations adopted March 2006. Would Management Plan, March be helpful only for a large Director 2006 disaster. For daily events, Police Dept has own set of procedures.
Multiple Police Police Department Policies Town Police Chief High No, but they are Department which govern the day to day changed as needed. Operation operation of the department. Policies Constantly updated.
Multiple Police Police Department Mutual Town Police Chief High Should have a mutual Department Aid with Warner, Hopkinton, aid agreement with Mutual Aid Boscawen, Salisbury, the Army Corps of Merrimack County Sheriff, Engineers. Concord, State Police. All are up to date.
Multiple Police Officer Officers undergo annual Town Police Chief High None at this time. Annual police training Training
Page 92 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Hazard Existing Description Area of Respons- Effective Improvements Type Project, Town ibility -ness or Changes (continued) Program or Covered Activity
Multiple Dispatch Dispatch is through Town Merrimack Moderate Want to have a Service Merrimack County County repeater for the Sheriff police channel and the main frequency located in Webster.
Want to see Merrimack County dedicate a channel for the police.
Should have MDT mobile data availability (State Police & County).
Multiple Police Ongoing in-service training Town Police Chief High None at this time. Department and education including: In-service active shooter, incident Training command, firearms, handcuffing, pepper spray, baton, motor vehicle hazards, containment procedures.
Multiple Dam Plans Have dam plans in EOP, and Blackwater Army Corps High None at this time. the Army Corps has them. Dam, other and During the last major flood in dams Emergency 1987, they were followed Managemen and were extremely t Director effective.
Multiple Communicatio County dispatch (Police Town Police Chief High Town requires a ns Dept) is compatible with repeater (see above) Highway and Fire, as the to use the local radios are digital. Town has channel. a local channel.
Technological Capital Area Capital Area Health Plan. Town Emergency High None at this time. Health Plan, Working with Concord on all Managemen 2006 these public health issues. t Director Projected June or July 2006.
Page 93 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 20B Existing Mitigation Strategies: Fire Department Hazard Existing Description Area of Respons- Effective Improvements Type Project, Town ibility -ness or Changes Program or Covered Activity
Hazardous Member of Request would be made by Entire Fire Chief High None at this time Material CNHHT Mutual fire department for CNHHT Incident Aid to respond to incident Agreement
Fire Fully Normal response to all fire Entire Fire High None at this time Equipped and incidents, with mutual aid Department Trained Fire available. Department
Multiple Fully Normal response to all Entire Fire High None at this time Equipped rescue calls, with mutual aid Department Rescue Squad available. / Rescue Squad
Severe Downed Normal response to all wires Entire Fire High None at this time Weather Wires down road hazard calls Department Response
Flooding Water Rescue Normal response with Entire Fire High More trained Emergencies department members. Department personnel and a Mutual is automatic for / Rescue motor for the boat water rescue assistance Squad the department From Concord, Hopkinton & currently has. Penacook.
Wildfire Wildfire Have wild land fire fighting Entire Fire High Not at this time Response equipment. Normal response Department with mutual aid if needed
Page 94 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 20C Existing Mitigation Strategies: Highway Department Hazard Existing Description Area of Respons- Effective Improvements Type Project, Town ibility -ness or Changes Program or Covered Activity
Multiple Highway Highway Committee decides Roads Board of High None at this time. Committee what improvements are Selectmen made yearly to roads, follows CIP.
Severe Winter Verbal Mutual Webster has verbal mutual Roads Road Agent High Policies should be Weather, Aid aid agreements with written and made Flooding, Agreements contractors. There are no public so town Severe Storms with agreements with neighboring emergency response Contractors towns or through the state can contact them if wide mutual aid. needed.
Severe Winter Communicatio Town has an appointed road Roads Board of Moderate Road agent should Weather, n with Road agent, not a full time Selectmen/ have a portable Flooding, Agent employee, and has only Road Agent radio. Severe Storms contracted road crew members. Communication with road agent can be difficult in case of emergency since he has no radios. Cell service works periodically in town.
Page 95 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 20D Existing Mitigation Strategies: Army Corps of Engineers Hazard Existing Description Area of Responsi Effective Improvements Type Project, Town -bility -ness or Changes Program or Covered Activity
Dam Breach Blackwater Army Corps’ Blackwater Dam Blackwater Army Corps High None at this time. Dam restoration project refaced Dam Restoration, the dam, replaced concrete, 2005 repaired structural integrity of dam and gatehouse.
Dam Breach Blackwater Blackwater Dam monitored Blackwater Army Corps High None at this time. Dam by satellite imagery and by Dam Monitoring on-site gauging equipment.
Dam Breach, Radiation Have a radiation shelter for Blackwater Army Corps Unknown None at this time. Technological Protection personnel in the base of the Dam dam. Also have radiological equipment (Geiger counters).
Dam Breach Depth to In 2006, obtained automated Blackwater Army Corps High None at this time Groundwater piezometer measures the Dam Monitoring depth of groundwater in the earthen dam. Used to be manually read by a tape measure, now sent automatically by satellite transmitter.
Multiple Communicatio ACE repeater on Mount Blackwater Army Corps Medium Change the repeater ns Technology Kearsarge and a base station Dam to digital technology. radio at the dam.
Dam Breach Flood Updated yearly, it states Blackwater Army Corps High Updated yearly. Emergency how to run the dam during Dam Plan an emergency event, who to contact for various events, which structures to remove in the event of a breach, etc. Also has a flood inundation map.
Dam Breach Operation Last updated in 2001, Blackwater Army Corps High Add additional Management provides procedures for day Dam recreation facilities Plan to day operations. to the federal area.
Page 96 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Hazard Existing Description Area of Responsi Effective Improvements Type Project, Town -bility -ness or Changes (continued) Program or Covered Activity
Dam Breach Training National Response Plan (NRP) Blackwater Army Corps High Not at this time. Programs training guides how federal Dam agencies act during disaster and National Incident Management Systems (NIMS) training is undertaken.
Multiple Emergency The EOC in Massachusetts is Blackwater Army Corps High None at this time. Operations a still resource for NH. Staff Dam Center obtains instructions from them during an emergency.
Multiple Blackwater The original plan was 1997 – Blackwater Army Corps High Currently working on Master Plan 2002, but is updated Dam 2007 to 2012 update. regularly. It prescribes the overall land and water management plan, resource objectives, and associated design and management concepts that will provide the best possible combination of responses to regional needs, resource capabilities, and expressed public interest.
Page 97 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 8. EXISTING MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 20E Existing Mitigation Strategies: Planning Board / Code Enforcement Hazard Existing Description Area of Respons- Effective Improvements Type Project, Town ibility -ness or Changes Program or Covered Activity
Multiple Master Plan Planning Board developed a Town Planning Unknown Unknown 2005 new master plan. Board
Flooding Code Have a code enforcement Town Board of Low Adopt a local Enforcement officer as it pertains to Selectmen building code. CEO Officer building permits, driveways, should do all etc. enforcement activities. CEO should have written policies and procedures. CEo should be looking at structures in the floodplain.
Page 98 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
In addition to the programs and activities that Webster 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 CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS. Some of them are the result of improvements to the existing strategies identified in Tables 20A-E on the previous pages.
DESCRIPTION OF POTENTIAL MITIGATION PROJECTS AND STRATEGIES
These types of activities were considered when determining new projects, programs and activities, listed in Tables 21A-J, which Webster can develop:
• Life and Property Protection • Emergency Services • Public Information and Involvement • Training and Preparation • Planning and Implementation
The Hazard Mitigation Committee considered improvements to existing strategies, new programs or activities, and new projects that would improve the conditions in many of the assets identified in CHAPTER 3. ASSET AND RISK IDENTIFICATION.
Page 99 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 21A Potential Mitigation Actions: Flood / Rapid Snow Pack Melt Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 5 List of Floodplain Develop lists of individuals who live in the Floodplain Planning and Residents floodplain in order to assist with notification Homes Implementation and evacuation.
4, 5 Public Education about Educate town residents on the availability of Town / Public Flood Insurance low-cost flood insurance. Floodplain Information and Involvement
1, 4, 5 Local Building Code Adopt a local building code to assist with Town / Life and Adoption floodplain management. Floodplain Property Protection
1, 4, 5 Evacuation Plan for Develop a notification and evacuation plan for Cold Brook Life and Cold Brook Cold Brook Campground. Campground Property Campground Protection
1, 4, 5 Code Enforcement Require CEO to do all enforcement activities. Town / Life and Officer Policies and CEO should have written policies and Floodplain Property Duties procedures. CEO should be looking at Protection structures in the floodplain.
2, 6 Clothespin Bridge Replace Clothespin Bridge’s deteriorated Clothespin Life and Repair cement. Bridge Property Protection
1, 5, 6 Beaver Pond Address the problem of the large beaver pond White Plains Life and Maintenance and that have formed and replace any culverts Road Property Culvert Replacement that need to be updated Protection
1, 2, 5, 6 Build up of Mutton Build up Mutton Road with riprap and gravel, Mutton Road Life and Road with riprap and and replace two smaller culverts with larger Property gravel, and replace ones that will feed other Mutton Road Culverts Protection culverts
1, 2 Ditching, fixing swales Detour Road improvements should include Detour Road Life and and paving of Detour ditching, fixing swales, and paving Detour Property Road Road Protection
1, 5, 6 Installation of Box The installation of a box culvert should be Deer Meadow Life and Culvert and Build up of placed between 167 Deer Meadow Road and Road Property Deer Meadow Road Cummings Sand Pit. The area should also be Protection built up and riprap set in place.
Page 100 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 21B Potential Mitigation Actions: River Ice Jams / Dam Breach and Failure Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
3 Movement of Move emergency services vehicles and primary Floodplain / Emergency Equipment to Higher equipment to higher ground in the event of a Rivers Services Ground dam breach.
3 Mutual Aid Agreement Develop a written mutual aid agreement with Blackwater Emergency with ACE the Army Corps of Engineers. Dam / Services Floodplain
1,5, 6 Signage for Flooding Erect new permanent signage on Little Hill Little Hill Life and Conditions Road and White Plains Road to forewarn for Road / White Property road closure due to flooding. Plains Road Protection
3 Drill/Implement USACE Implement the existing USACE Flood Blackwater Training and Flood Emergency Plan Emergency Plan, with the inundation maps, Dam area and Preparation including evacuation of the school, Town south Offices, anything south of the dam in the event of a dam breach.
Page 101 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 21C Potential Mitigation Actions: Stream Bank Erosion & Scouring / Debris Impacted Infrastructure Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 6 List of Areas Subject Identify a list of areas that are susceptible to Lands along Life and to Erosion erosion (ACE). Blackwater Property River, other Protection streams
1, 6 Public Education about Provide public education to ensure that Lands along Public Shoreline Erosion homeowners do not clear to the river bank or Blackwater Information and change the channel in any way (NH DES and River, other Involvement Building Dept). streams
Table 21D Potential Mitigation Actions: Hurricanes and Severe Storms Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 4, 11 Tree Maintenance at Encourage Cold Brook Campground tree Cold Brook Life and Cold Brook trimming and removal to inhibit damage to Campground Property Campground campsites. Protection
1, 2, 4, 11, 14, Utility Company Tree Encourage PSNH and Unitil to engage in tree Along Life and 15 Trimming trimming along roadway. roadways Property Protection
3, 14, 15 Backup Power for Working on backup power for the Emergency Safety Emergency Town Services Operations Center at the Safety Building by Building, Services September. Town Office also has backup Town Office facility as the backup EOC.
Page 102 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 21E Potential Mitigation Actions: Wildfire / Lightning Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 4, 7 Cold Brook Inspect Cold Brook Campground to ensure Cold Brook Life and Campground compliance with regulations (by FD). Campground Property Inspections Protection
1, 4, 8 Fire Access Road Improve Class VI and the fire access roads to Class VI and Life and Improvement forested areas. fire access Property roads Protection
1, 4, 8 Fire Index Signage Erect a fire index danger sign in front of the Entire Town Public Safety Building. Information and Involvement
1, 2, 8 Installation of dry Construct dry hydrants/cisterns in fire prone Little Hill Life and hydrants/cisterns areas near the power lines creating more Road Property efficient retrieval, which will impact safety Protection and reduce response time
Table 21F Potential Mitigation Actions: Severe Winter Weather Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 9 Proactive Public Action Educate people about the necessity for Town Public During Storms listening for severe winter weather warnings Information and and taking appropriate action to protect Involvement themselves.
1, 9 House calls to Ensure Verify that residents are warm and have food Homes in Emergency Public Safety During and medication during storms. (Police Town Services Storms Department goes door to door checking on residents during power outages.)
10 Road Policy Reexamine the Town Policy on plowing roads, Roadways Emergency Documentation which is currently verbal, which currently is Services that roads are not plowed to bare pavement.
Page 103 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 21G Potential Mitigation Actions: Tornadoes / Downbursts & High Wind Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 11 Wind Shelter Identify shelters that can sustain high wind Town Planning and Identification events. Implementation
Table 21H Potential Mitigation Actions: Drought / Radon Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1 Public Education on Make radon possibility pamphlets available Town Public Radon when new building permits are issued. Information and Involvement
Table 21I Potential Mitigation Actions: Human / Technological Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
1, 2, 3, 4, 12 Target Identification Identify potential targets for attack: hostage Town Planning and situations, bombings, etc and limit access to Implementation the potential target.
1, 2, 3, 4, 12 Continue Incident Continue with proactive training of fire and Town Training and Training police to respond to incidents. Preparation
1, 2, 3, 4, 13 Hazardous Materials Be familiar with State Haz Mat response plan Town Training and Education and educate police and fire on hazard Preparation materials identification.
1, 2, 7 Installation of dry Construct dry hydrants/cisterns in fire prone Deer Meadow Life and hydrants/cisterns areas, creating more efficient retrieval, which Road, Mutton Property will impact safety, help with fire suppression Road Protection and reduce response time
Page 104 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 9. NEWLY IDENTIFIED MITIGATION STRATEGIES
Table 21J Potential Mitigation Actions: Multiple Hazards Meets Name of Description of Potential Action Affected Type of Objective # Potential Action Location Activity
3 Interdepartmental Hold interdepartmental training sessions with Town Training and Training Sessions the Fire Department and Police Departments. Preparation
1 List of Residents in Develop a town-wide list of residents who Select Homes Planning and Need of Special need special assistance in the event of a Implementation Assistance disaster.
1, 5, 7 Evacuation Plan for Develop an evacuation plan for flooding, Town Planning and Multiple Hazards power outages, and fire scenarios. Implementation
1 Automatic Dialing Procure and enable an automatic dialing Town Emergency System system for public notification. Services
1, 2, 3, 15 Evacuation Plan for Develop an evacuation plan for the school School Planning and School which includes transportation. Implementation
1, 2, 3, 15 Written Highway Write highway mutual aid policies and make Town Planning and Mutual Aid Policies them available to the Town so emergency Implementation response personnel can contact the contractors if needed.
1, 3 Portable Radio for Procure a portable radio for the Road Agent to Town Emergency Road Agent enable communication with the Police and Services Fire Departments.
1, 3 Police Channel Support Install a repeater for the police channel and Town Emergency have the main frequency located in Webster. Services
1, 3 Mobile Data Terminal Provide mobile data terminal (MDT) for the Town Emergency for Police Department Webster Police Department (State Police & Services Merrimack County).
Page 105 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
CHAPTER 10. 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 and human losses? • 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 that 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 10. The full scoring matrix is located in CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX.
The rankings are indicated in the Priority Score column in the Mitigation Action Plan Tables 22A – 22E on the following pages.
Page 106 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
WEBSTER’S MITIGATION ACTION PLAN
The ranking in the Priority Score column in Tables 22A – 22E 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 Webster prepare in advance for the impacts of disasters. Combined with the maps of this Hazard Mitigation Plan, the Action Plan should guide future hazard mitigation efforts.
A total of 40 Actions that Webster can undertake were identified and prioritized. Those Actions that are listed first in each table were given the highest priority by the Hazard Mitigation Committee:
Table 22A Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Life and Property Protection Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to Town*
$3,000 - 36 Signage for Flooding Conditions Road Agent July 2007 Warrant Article $5,000
Project Rationale: Keeps people from driving on roads with unsafe conditions.
Cost Rationale: $3,000-$5,000 for good road barricade signs, about $250 apiece (12-20 signs).
September 36 Utility Company Tree Trimming Board of Selectmen $0 n/a 2006
Project Rationale: To reduce the amount of time that power is lost.
Cost Rationale: Cost will be borne by utility companies (PSNH & Unitil).
32 Fire Access Road Improvement Road Agent Ongoing $20,000 Warrant Article
Project Rationale: Maintaining any of these roads would open them up as Class V roads. Keep open those leading to water supplies for reduction of wildland fires.
Cost Rationale: Cost to Town is perhaps $20,000 annually for gravel.
31 Beaver Pond Maintenance and Road Agent May 2009 $50,000 Taxation Culvert Replacement
Project Rationale: Culvert Replacement will help prevent future flood damage and road loss.
Cost Rationale: Initial cost of the culvert replacement and maintenance will be offset by long term savings.
Page 107 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to (cont) Town*
31 Installation of Box Culvert and Build Road Agent May 2009 $95,000 Taxation up of Deer Meadow Road
Project Rationale: Installation of Box Culvert Between 167 Deer Meadow and Cummings Sand Pit, and Build up of Deer Meadow Road with Riprap will prevent future road closings and damage due to flooding
Cost Rationale: Installation of a box culvert on Deer Meadow Road will prevent future loss, and the cost will be offset by the long tern savings.
31 Build up of Mutton Road with riprap Road Agent May 2009 $45,000 Taxation and gravel, and replace culverts
Project Rationale: The culvert replacement and repairs to Mutton Road will help prevent future damage and road loss.
Cost Rationale: The initial cost of the Mutton Road repairs and culvert replacements will be offset by the long term savings.
31 Ditching, fixing swales and paving of Road Agent May 2009 $100,000 Taxation Detour Road
Project Rationale: Detour Road suffers from erosion due to flooding, and repairing the road would prevent future occurrences.
Cost Rationale: The initial cost of fixing Detour Road will be offset by the long term savings
28 Installation of Dry Hydrants/Cisterns Fire Chief or his May 2009 $75,000 Taxation or impact in Areas Which are Particularly Prone designee fee’s to Fire; Deer Meadow/Mutton, and Little Hill Road
Project Rationale: Dry hydrants will aid in future fire prevention.
Cost Rationale: Future development expected to occur in the area. The initial cost of the dry hydrants will offset fire damage costs in the future.
25 List of Areas Subject to Erosion Road Agent July 2007 $0 n/a
Project Rationale: Will enable strategic plans for reducing erosion in the future and dealing with it when it occurs.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
Page 108 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to (cont) Town*
24 Tree Maintenance at Cold Brook Fire Chief May 2007 $0 n/a Campground
Project Rationale: For public safety, reduction of injury and loss of life to the general public at Campground and its pavilion, etc.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
24 Code Enforcement Officer Policies Board of Selectmen March 2007 $15,000 Admin Budget and Duties
Project Rationale: To protect the public to ensure compliance with all state and local safety codes.
Cost Rationale: Part-time position, 15 hours per week, no benefits.
24 Cold Brook Campground Inspections Fire Chief Ongoing $0 n/a
Project Rationale: The facility has public assembly permit issued yearly, and fire pits. For safety of the visitors who use the facility, identify any hazardous conditions or code violations.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
23 Local Building Code Adoption Board of Selectmen March 2007 $1,000 Admin Budget
Project Rationale: Adoption will ensure safer structures, public safety.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for review by Town Counsel.
$1.5 23 Clothespin Bridge Repair Board of Selectmen July 2010 Bond million
Project Rationale: Structurally deteriorating - deckings, footings, eroded by water.
Cost Rationale: Already have preliminary estimate at $1.2 million, for footings, deck, etc.
17 Evacuation Plan for Cold Brook Emergency March 2007 $0 n/a Campground Management Dir
Project Rationale: This project will enhance public safety at a vulnerable site.
Cost Rationale: Cost will be borne by Cold Brook Campground.
Page 109 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Table 22B Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Emergency Services Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to Town*
36 Movement of Equipment to Higher Emergency As needed $0 n/a Ground Management Dir
Project Rationale: During flooding events, will protect the emergency equipment that serves the Town.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
36 Mutual Aid Agreement with ACE Emergency September $0 n/a Management Dir 2007
Project Rationale: It would be beneficial to document the level of involvement of each entity and their responsibility.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
36 Backup Power for Town Services Police Chief September $45,000 Homeland Security 2006 grant
Project Rationale: A generator for the Public Safety Building (Fire & Police) to continue to protect the Town during an emergency.
Cost Rationale: Installation and purchase of a generator, wiring, control panel, concrete pad, electrical boxes, gas line & propane tanks already underway.
30 Automatic Dialing System Emergency March 2010 $5,000 Warrant article Management Dir
Project Rationale: It would allow for public notification in the event of an emergency.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for equipment and installation.
28 Portable Radio for Road Agent Road Agent March 2007 $2,500 Highway budget
Project Rationale: The road agent needs to be able to communicate with other department heads.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for equipment and programming.
Page 110 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to (cont) Town*
28 Police Channel Support Police Chief April 2009 $12,000 Warrant article, perhaps a grant through FEMA
Project Rationale: A dedicated Town channel would allow free communication. Needs to be allocated in conjunction with a repeater.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for equipment and installation.
20 Road Policy Documentation Board of Selectmen September $0 n/a 2008
Project Rationale: Provides a standard policy and guidelines set to follow during emergencies.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
19 House calls to Ensure Public Safety Police Chief November $0 n/a During Storms 2006
Project Rationale: To ensure that housebound residents have their basic needs met in the event of an emergency.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
19 Mobile Data Terminal for Police Police Chief September $1,500 Police budget Department 2008
Project Rationale: It allows instant access to critical information.
Cost Rationale: Most of the infrastructure is already installed. Cost is for computer hardware.
Page 111 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Table 22C Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Public Information and Involvement Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to Town*
30 Fire Index Signage Fire Chief September $2,000 Warrant article 2007
Project Rationale: To educate the public of potential fire dangers. Sign may be erected at the Fire Department.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for one sign with removable placards.
24 Public Education about Flood Emergency Ongoing $1,000 Emergency Insurance Management Dir Management budget
Project Rationale: People do not often think about flood insurance or are aware they can obtain it.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for brochures, inserts in Grapevine newsletter.
24 Public Education about Shoreline Conservation November $1,000 Conservation Comm Erosion Commission 2007 budget
Project Rationale: For erosion reduction on the shoreline, reduces risk of property damage.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for Brochures, inserts in Grapevine newsletter.
20 Public Education on Radon Board of Selectmen September $500 Administration 2008 budget
Project Rationale: People are not aware of the dangers of radon, which is prevalent in New Hampshire.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for photocopies and mailing to residents.
19 Proactive Public Action During Storms Emergency September $1,000 Emergency Management Dir 2008 Management budget
Project Rationale: Residents should be aware of how to obtain pertinent information on pending severe weather and disaster events.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for photocopies and mailing to residents.
Page 112 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Table 22D Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Training and Preparation Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to Town*
36 Drill/Implement USACE Flood US Army Corps of July 2007 $0 n/a Emergency Plan Engineers
Project Rationale: Drills will inform Town, residents, and safety agencies of the existence of and effectiveness of the flood emergency plan.
Cost Rationale: Cost will be borne by the Army Corps of Engineers.
30 Continue Incident Training Fire and Police Ongoing $6,700 Fire and Police Chiefs budgets
Project Rationale: Must maintain a level of proficiency in these emergency departments.
Cost Rationale: Cost is about $350 per person for training. Seven would be trained from PD and up to 15 for FD.
30 Hazardous Materials Education Fire Chief September $0 n/a 2007
Project Rationale: Fire Department must have the proficiency to be able to respond to these events.
Cost Rationale: Cost is free though the NH DOT or NH Fire Academy.
30 Interdepartmental Training Sessions Fire and Police Ongoing $0 n/a Chiefs
Project Rationale: Both emergency responders need to be able to work together in any given situation.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff and volunteer labor.
Page 113 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Table 22E Webster’s Mitigation Action Plan 2007: Planning and Implementation Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to Town*
30 Target Identification Police Chief October 2006 $0 n/a
Project Rationale: Proactive in target identification to develop response plans.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
30 List of Residents in Need of Special Emergency February 2007 $0 n/a Assistance Management Dir
Project Rationale: For immediate and effective response, a list of special needs residents should be generated.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
30 Evacuation Plan for Multiple Hazards Emergency September $2,000 EMD budget or Management Dir 2008 Homeland Security Grant
Project Rationale: The plan would allow the evacuation of residents during emergencies.
Cost Rationale: Cost is for two weeks salary to develop the plan.
29 List of Floodplain Residents Board of Selectmen September $0 n/a 2007
Project Rationale: Develop a rapid response list to enable quick contact.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
28 Evacuation Plan for School Emergency September $0 n/a Management Dir 2007
Project Rationale: EMD would need the support and cooperation of Merrimack Valley School Board to allow for the safe evacuation of people from the school.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
Page 114 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS
Priority Action Who is Completed Approx How Funded Score Responsible By Date Cost to (cont) Town*
20 Written Highway Mutual Aid Policies Road Agent September $0 n/a 2007
Project Rationale: Allows access to other highway equipment and personnel resources in the event of emergencies.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
10 Wind Shelter Identification Emergency September $0 n/a Management Dir 2007
Project Rationale: Identify shelters which can accommodate evacuated residents during wind events.
Cost Rationale: No cost due to in-kind staff labor.
*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 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.
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COST TO BENEFIT ANALYSIS
There are 40 Actions within the Mitigation Action Plan. As indicated in the above tables, those Actions that cost the least or impart the highest benefit to residents and businesses are not necessarily the first Actions to be completed.
Less than $100 Eighteen Action items listed cost less than $100. These all cost $0 because they are actions performed by town services such as the police, fire, and highway departments, or by organizations or companies outside not affiliated with the Town. The costs are only for labor and are in-kind to the respective departments. Any equipment needed is already owned or accessible by those departments.
• House calls to Ensure Public Safety During Storms [November 2006] • Mutual Aid Agreement with Army Corps of Engineers [September 2007] • Evacuation Plan for School [September 2007] • Written Highway Mutual Aid Policies [September 2007]
$101 to $10,000 Twelve Action items are of low to medium cost (under $10,000). 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:
• Portable Radio for Road Agent [March 2007] • Evacuation Plan for Multiple Hazards [September 2008] • Mobile Data Terminal for Police Department [September 2008]
Over $10,000 Ten Action items cost over $10,000. Most of these projects are capital improvement projects to structures or infrastructure. 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 on their capability to positively affect a large number of people:
• Backup Power for Town Services [September 2006] • Code Enforcement Officer Policies and Duties [March 2007] • Clothespin Bridge Repair [July 2010]
Page 116 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 11. PLAN MONITORING, EVALUATING, AND UPDATING
CHAPTER 11. 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 that 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 Webster will review, monitor, and update its 2007 Hazard Mitigation Plan.
MAINTENANCE AND UPDATE SCHEDULE OF THE HAZARD MITIGATION PLAN
The Webster Board of Selectmen Chair will formulate a permanent Hazard Mitigation Committee with assistance from the Emergency Management Director. The Emergency Management Director will serve as Chair of the Committee. Existing Hazard Mitigation Committee members should be invited to join the new permanent Committee. This Committee will meet semi-annually according to the following schedule:
Table 23 Hazard Mitigation Committee Annual Future Meeting Schedule Month Preliminary Agenda
October Begin writing warrant articles and budget requests for (2007) Implementation Action Items
January Department reports on Action Items status, Finalize warrant articles (each year) and budget requests for first Implementation Action items
April Department reports on Action Items status, Evaluation of Existing (each year) Hazard Mitigation Plan
July Begin to update the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Status of (each year) Implementation Action items
October Update the Hazard Mitigation Plan, Begin writing warrant articles (each year) and budget requests for Implementation Action Items
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For each of these meetings, the Board of Selectmen Chair will invite Department Heads and Board Chairs, and 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 Webster, and will be posted on the Town of Webster website.
The Hazard Mitigation Plan will be updated annually according to the schedule in Table 23. 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.
The Board of Selectmen Chair 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 Board of Selectmen Chair 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.
Tasks of the Plan Update A number of tasks will be completed for the complete update to the Hazard Mitigation Plan.
Acknowledgements. Add the new Hazard Mitigation Committee members and contributors.
Chapter 1. Revise the methodology to reflect the new meetings, tasks, and public notification.
Chapter 2. Add new disaster events that affect Webster. Add new Town special events in Table 1A.
Chapter 3. Modify the sites and hazards in Tables 2 through 11. Update the future development in Table 12.
Chapter 4. Update Table 13 with current building value information, and revise the hazard dollar and percentage calculations for all disasters.
Chapter 5. Revise Tables 14 through 16 with new demographic information as it becomes available. Update the building permit figures in Table 17. Revise land use data in Table 18 as it becomes available. The text analysis will need to be revised to reflect all changes.
Chapter 6. Update the building information. Update Table 19 with current statistics. Revise the repetitive loss discussion as well as the ordinance and community assistance visit discussion as new information becomes available.
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Chapter 7. Revise and update objectives to ensure their continued relevance to the Town.
Chapter 8. Update Table 20A through Table 20E with new existing mitigation strategies that are being undertaken. Completed actions from Chapter 10 will also be added here.
Chapter 9. Add any new potential mitigation actions in Tables 21A through 21J. Indicate those that have been completed from Chapter 10.
Chapter 10. Revise Table 22A through Table 22E. Reevaluate each action not yet completed utilizing the STAPLEE method, and add new actions utilizing the STAPLEE method. Remove completed actions from these tables, and place in a new “finished” table, and place into Chapter 8 as an existing mitigation strategy. Modify cost and project rationales as needed, as well as the approximate cost and date for completion. Rewrite the cost to benefit analysis based upon revisions.
Chapter 11. Add new information to the Chapter or revise as needed as new information becomes available or changes are warranted in procedure. Modify Table 23 if needed.
Chapter 12. Revise the processes or grant information if new information becomes available. Update the action matrix based upon the new projects and priorities in Chapter 10. Update the glossary with additional terms as needed. Provide copies of all agendas, meeting summaries, attendance sheets, department support letters, and publicity.
Maps. Update the four maps of the Plan as needed to reflect the changes in Chapters 2 and 3. If a GIS system is not available at the Town, assistance will be sought elsewhere, such as with the Central NH Regional Planning Commission.
A yearly, modified update can be undertaken by completing the Chapter 10 tasks. At least once every five years, the complete update (all 12 Chapters and the maps) will be undertaken and provided to FEMA.
Page 119 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 11. PLAN MONITORING, EVALUATING, AND UPDATING
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 Webster Master Plan was adopted in 2005, developed by the Planning Board. Implementation of the Master Plan has been occurring since its adoption.
The Planning Board should consider the Hazard Mitigation Plan as a separate Chapter to its Master Plan. The Hazard Mitigation Plan should be presented to the Planning Board in fall 2007 for consideration and adoption after a duly noticed public hearing, just as any typical Chapter of a Master Plan. The 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 Webster has current Capital Improvements Program (CIP), with the last update on 10/27/05. Strategies or purchases requiring capital improvements from the Hazard Mitigation Plan will be inserted into the Capital Improvements Program once one is adopted. 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 Hazard Mitigation Committee will oversee the process to begin working with the Planning Board’s CIP Committee to incorporate the various projects into the yearly CIP.
Zoning Ordinance and Regulations Some of the implementation strategies proposed now or in the future will involve revisions to the Subdivision Regulations and/or the Site Plan Review Regulations. The Hazard Mitigation Committee will oversee the process to begin working with the Planning Board to develop appropriate language for the modifications.
Page 120 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 11. PLAN MONITORING, EVALUATING, AND UPDATING
CONTINUED PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT
On behalf of the Hazard Mitigation Committee, the Board of Selectmen Chair, under direction of the Board of Selectmen, will be responsible for ensuring that Town Departments / Boards / Committees and the public have adequate opportunity to participate in the planning process. Other administrative staff may be utilized to assist with the public involvement process.
For each quarterly meeting (see Table 23) and for the yearly update process, techniques that will be utilized for public involvement include:
• Provide personal invitations to Town volunteer Board and Committee Chairs; • 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 and the Webster Grapevine.
Entities to invite to future Hazard Mitigation plan updates include the neighboring communities of Boscawen, Concord, Hopkinton, Warner, Salisbury, Franklin, and Northfield; local businesses; any state agencies with an interest in Webster; the Elementary School or School District representatives; and non-profits operating in Webster.
At this time, the Town maintains a website at www.webster.nh.us. The Hazard Mitigation Committee will ensure that the Town website is updated with the Hazard Mitigation meeting notices. A summary of the Hazard Mitigation Plan and its process would be posted on the Webster Town website which is accessible to residents and visitors at all times. All public meetings of the Hazard Mitigation Committee would be posted on the website. A number of Implementation Action items that 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.
Page 121 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX
CHAPTER 12. 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 2008 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 WEBSTER
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 that 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.
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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.
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:
Page 123 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX
• 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. • 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.
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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 Bureau of Emergency Management at (800) 852-3792 or at http://www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/bem/index.html.
GRANT PROGRAMS FOR DISASTER RELIEF
Through the NH Bureau of Emergency Management (NH BEM), 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 BEM.
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.
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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 Energy and Planning administers this program.
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.
Disaster Preparedness Improvement Grant (DPIG) This 50% matching grant program supports eligible projects such as: hazard mitigation activities, developing plans and plan updates, evaluation natural hazards, and creating exercise materials. Contact NH BEM to find out whether this program is still available.
For more information, for a listing of criteria, or to request an application to these or any other grant programs, please contact the NH Bureau of Emergency Management at (800) 852- 3792 or at www.nh.gov/safety/divisions/emergservices/bem.
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ACTION EVALUATION AND PRIORITIZATION MATRIX OF THE HAZARD MITIGATION COMMITTEE
Figure 4 displays the ranking to each of the potential strategies as displayed in Tables 23A – 23E in CHAPTER 10. EVALUATION AND IMPLEMENTATION OF ACTIONS.
Figure 4 Action Plan Evaluation and Prioritization 3 = Good 2 = Average 1 = Poor Contribute Protect Reasonable Environ- Reduce to Town Meet sensitive Implemente Socially Technically Administrativ Politically Cost to mentally Total Action damage? objectives? Regulations? structures? d quickly? Acceptable Feasible? ely Realistic? Acceptable? Legal? Benefits? Sound? Score
List of Floodplain Residents 33212133332329 Public Education about Flood Insurance 22222222222224 Local Building Code Adoption 22222222122223 Evacuation Plan for Cold Brook Campground 33211111111117 Code Enforcement Officer Policies and Duties 22222222222224 Clothespin Bridge Repair 22222222221223 Movement of Equipment to Higher Ground 33333333333336 Mutual Aid Agreement with ACOE 33333333333336 Signage for Flooding Conditions 33333333333336 Drill/Implement USACOE Flood Emergency Plan 33333333333336 List of Areas Subject to Erosion 32222222222225 Public Education about Shoreline Erosion 22222222222224 Tree Maintenance at Cold Brook Campground 22222222222224 Utility Company Tree Trimming 33333333333336 Backup Power for Town Services 33333333333336 Cold Brook Campground Inspections 22222222222224 Fire Access Road Improvement 33333333131332 Fire Index Signage 33333333333336 Proactive Public Action During Storms 22222222222123 Housecalls to Ensure Public Safety During Storms 22222222222123 Road Policy Documentation 22222222222224 Wind Shelter Identification 11111111111112 Public Education on Radon 22222222222224 Target Identification 33333333333336 Continue Incident Training 33333333333336 Hazardous Materials Education 33333333333336 Interdepartmental Training Sessions 33333333333336 List of Residents in Need of Special Assistance 33333333333336 Evacuation Plan for Multiple Hazards 33333333333336 Automatic Dialing System 33333333333336 Evacuation Plan for School 33333333333134 Written Highway Mutual Aid Policies 22222222222224 Portable Radio for Road Agent 33333333333134 Police Channel Support 22222222222224 Mobile Data Terminal for Police Department 222 2222 2 222123 Installation of Dry Hydrants/cisterns in areas which are prone to fire: Deer 332 2223 2 232228 Beaver Pond Maintenance and Culvert Replacement 333 2223 2 233331 Build up of Mutton Road with riprap and gravel, and replace culvert 333 2223 2 233331 Ditching, fixing swales and paving of Detour Road 333 2223 2 233331 Installation of Box Culvert and build up of Deer Meadow Road 333 2223 2 233331
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
The Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan utilizes numerous terms throughout the document to refer concepts and ideas surrounding hazards of all types. A selection of the more commonly used, or easily confused, terms and acronyms have been defined for the user of this Plan.
100 Year Flood – A flood event which has a one percent (1%) chance of occurring in a given year
Accessory Building – A structure which is detached from the principal building and located on the same lot, which is incidental to the principal building or use such as a shed, barn, garage, etc.
Action - A strategy which fulfills an objective
Central New Hampshire Regional Planning Commission (CNHRPC) - A non-profit voluntary organization of municipalities which is staffed by professional planning and support personnel. CNHRPC has 20 member communities.
Disaster Mitigation Act (DMA) – Enacted in 2000, it requires states and municipalities to have local natural hazard mitigation plans in place in order to be eligible for disaster funding programs
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) – Agency of the United States Government tasked with disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery planning
Flood – Temporary overflowing of water onto land which is usually devoid of surface water
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) – The official map on which the Federal Insurance Administration has identified both the areas of special flood hazards and the risk premium zones for a community
Floodplain – The relatively flat area adjacent to a channel of a natural stream or river which either has been or may be covered by flood water
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) – A technology that manages, analyzes and disperses geographic knowledge
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Goal – A broad statement of intent
Hazard Mitigation Planning – A collaborative process identifying hazards affecting a community, assessing vulnerability to those hazards, and reaching consensus on how to minimize or eliminate the effects of those hazards.
HAZUS-MH – Software program developed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency to be used for risk assessment and estimation of hazard related damage
Human Hazard – Hazards caused by human circumstances, such as terrorism, hostage situations, civil unrest, mass hysteria, riots, etc.
Information Technology – The use of computers in order to process, store, transmit, etc. information from anywhere at any time
Infrastructure – Facilities and services needed to sustain everyday land-use activities, such as telephone wires, roads, power lines, etc.
Manufactured Homes – Factory-built, single-family structures, commonly referred to as “mobile homes”
Manufactured Housing Parks – An area where space for two or more manufactured homes is rented
Multi-Unit Housing – Structures containing three or more housing units, such as apartment buildings and condos
New Hampshire Bureau of Emergency Management (NHBEM) – Established in order to protect the lives, property and environment of the people of New Hampshire from the threat or occurrence of emergencies resulting from any natural or man-made disaster
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) – Created in 1968, NFIP is a Federal program enabling property owners in participating communities to purchase insurance as a protection against flood losses in exchange for State and community floodplain management regulations that reduce future flood damages
Natural Hazard - Hazards caused by the natural environment such as drought, avalanche, hurricane/typhoon/cyclone, tornado, extreme heat/cold, etc.
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Objective – Specific explanation of the broad goal
Property – A collection of land, buildings and vehicles of which someone can claim ownership
Richter Magnitude Scale – A base-10 logarithmic scale which assigns a single number to quantify the size of an earthquake
Technological Hazard – Hazards caused by problems with technology such as power/utility failure, radiological accident, dam/levee failure, fuel/resource shortage, hazardous material release, etc.
USACE – United States Army Corps of Engineers
Page 130 ADOPTED JULY 17, 2007 Webster Hazard Mitigation Plan CHAPTER 12. APPENDIX
PUBLICITY AND MEETING INFORMATION FOR THE WEBSTER 2007 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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