Hazard Mitigation Grant Program  

As a result of federally declared disasters, Idaho receives grant monies to fund projects that reduce the potential for future losses. The last three flooding and winter storm disasters have resulted in the ability to fund about $8 million in projects. Projects are awarded on a competitive basis and require a 25% nonfederal cost-share.

Who can apply for an HMGP grant?

Local governments, Tribes, special districts (school, fire, drainage, for example) and certain nonprofit organizations (hospitals, emergency response, for example) are eligible to apply. When individuals are affected (such as in elevating homes) the local government must be the sponsor.

What requirements are there for eligibility?

HMGP supports communities that show a commitment to mitigation. Therefore, the community must participate in the National Flood Insurance Program, enforce the 1991 or later edition of the Uniform Building Code, and regulate development in hazardous areas. The community must also agree to develop a plan for evaluating hazards that its citizens are at risk from and identifying ways to reduce the impacts of those hazards.

What kind of projects are typical?

• Elevation of homes above the floodplain
• Debris basins, retention ponds
• Streambank stabilization
• Pumps, floodgates, floodwalls
• Strengthening old masonry buildings against earthquakes
• Securing light fixtures and HVAC in schools

Projects 
To see a list of current Hazard Mitigation Grant Program projects and their status, click here

How can a community apply?

If a community believes it has an eligible project, it can submit a pre-application form that outlines the problem, what kinds of solutions it has looked at, and estimates how much the project would cost. Contact the Hazard Mitigation Officer, Bureau of Homeland Security, 4040 Guard Street, Boise, Idaho 83705-5004