Document Allencounty_doc_8575ba29b3

All-Hazard Mitigation Plan Allen County, Indiana 2017 Contact: Bernie Beier, Director Allen County Office of Homeland Security Edward J. Rousseau Centre 1 East Main Street, Suite 754 Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (260) 449-4663 http://www.allencounty.us/homeland/ Prepared By: The Polis Center School of Liberal Arts Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis 1200 WaterwayBoulevard Indianapolis, IN 46202 [EMAIL REDACTED] www.polis.iupui.edu (317) 274-2455 ---PAGE BREAK--- 2 Table of Contents List of Figures 4 List of Tables 5 Chapter 1 - Overview 6 Introduction 6 Hazard Mitigation Mitigation Planning Process 8 State Mitigation Planning Team 9 Chapter 2 – Public Planning Process 9 Planning 9 Review of Existing Plans 11 Planning Process Timeline and Steps 12 Chapter 3 – Community Profile 14 General County Description 14 Historical Setting 15 Physical Characteristics 16 Climate and Precipitation 16 Geology and Topography 17 Soils 17 Land Use and Ownership 18 Hydrography 20 24 Populations 25 Age and Sex Characteristics 25 Economy 26 Culture 28 Community Services & Infrastructure 30 Schools 30 Recreation 30 Public Facilities 31 Public Utilities 32 Health Care Providers 32 Public Safety Providers/Government Services 33 34 Transportation 35 Chapter 4 – Risk Assessment 36 Assessing Hazards Hazard Identification/Profile 38 Hazard Identification 38 Natural Hazards – Presented by the Physical World 38 Technological Hazards – Presented by 39 Calculated Priority Risk Index 39 Hazard Risk Assessment by Jurisdiction 43 ---PAGE BREAK--- 3 NCDC Declared Disasters 43 FEMA Declared Disasters 44 Other Disaster Relief 46 Vulnerability Assessment 47 Asset Inventory 48 Future Development 48 Hazard Profiles 49 4.1 Flash Flood and Riverine 49 4.2 Earthquake 75 4.3 Ground Failure 82 4.4 Summer Storms: Thunderstorms, Hailstorms, Lightning, Tornadoes, Windstorms 90 4.5 102 4.6 Winter Storms: Blizzards, Ice Storms, Snowstorms 107 4.7 Wildfire 110 4.8 Extreme Temperatures 111 4.9 Infectious Disease Outbreak 116 4.10 Hazardous Material Release 4.11 Dams 133 4.12 Levees 139 Chapter 5 – Goals, Objectives, Mitigation Strategies and Implementation 149 Community Capability Assessment 149 National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) 149 Plans and Ordinances 151 General Mitigation Vision Mitigation Actions and Projects 155 Hazard Mitigation Actions Mitigation Actions by 159 Chapter 6 – Plan Maintenance and Implementation 168 Implementation and Maintenance 168 ---PAGE BREAK--- 4 List of Figures Figure 1-1: An Integrated Planning 7 Figure 4-1: Disaster Declarations for 44 Figure 4-2: Indiana Disaster Assistance for Allen and Surrounding Counties 46 Figure 4-3: Areas of Vulnerability Identified by Hazards, Assets, and Trends 48 Figure 4-4: Special Flood Hazard Areas 51 Figure 4-5: Best Available Special Flood Hazard Areas 52 Figure 4-6: USGS Stream Gages and NCDC Weather Stations 54 Figure 4-7: St. Mary’s FIM at top of Flood Stage 55 Figure 4-8: Allen County Buildings in Special Flood Hazard Areas 60 Figure 4-9-10: Infastructure Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas 61 Figure 4-11-19: Damaged Building Figure 4-20: Countywide flooded intersections, roads and 70 Figure 4-21: DNR Floodplain Inquiries and FEMA Map Changes. 71 Figure 4-22: DNR Construction Requests 72 Figure 4-23: Indiana Historical Earthquake Epicenters 76 Figure 4-24: Earthquake scenarios for Allen County 81 Figure 4-25: Elevation Map – Allen County 85 Figure 4-26: USGS Landslide Overview 86 Figure 4-27: Physiographic Divisions of Indiana 86 Figure 4-28: Slope Map – Allen County 88 Figure 4-29: Slope Map – Eastern Allen County 88 Figure 4-30: NCDC-Reported Thunderstorm Events by Category (June 1995–July 2015) 94 Figure 4-31: EF4 Tornado Analysis, Using GIS Buffers 96 Figure 4-32: Modeled F4 Tornado Damage Hypothetical Path 97 Figure 4-33: Tornado Path with Damaged Buildings 97 Figure 4-34: Tornado Path: Allen County Zoomed In 98 Figure 4-35: Hypothetical Damages to Infastructure within Tornado Path Allen County 100 Figure 4-36: Sequence of Drought Occurrence and Impacts 103 Figure 4-37: NWS Wind Chill Temperature Index 112 Figure 4-38: National Weather Service Heat Index 114 Figure 4-39: Emerald Ash Borer in Allen County 123 Figure 4-40: Building Inventory by Threat Zone 130 Figure 4-41: Essential Facilities Located in Threat Zone 132 Figure 4-42: Allen County Dams 136 Figure 4-43-46: Allen County Dams 137 Figure 4-47: Non-Levee Embankment Density Indiana 141 Figure 4-48: Non-Levee Embankments: Allen County 143 Figure 4-49-56: Non-Levee Embankments, Southern Allen County 144 ---PAGE BREAK--- 5 List of Tables Table 2-1: Hazard Mitigation Planning Team 10 Table 2-2: Planning Documents Used for HMP Planning Process 11 Table 2-3: Other Meetings and their Mitigation related Topics 13 Table 4-1: Natural Hazards Idenified in Plan 39 Table 4-2: Technological Hazards Idenified in Plan 39 Table 4-3: Hazards rank in previous Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan 39 Table 4-4: Calculated Priority Risk Index for the County 40 Table 4-5: Summary of Calculated Priority Risk Index (CPRI) Categories and Risk Levels 41 Table 4-6: Localized Hazards for Incorporated Jurisdictions 43 Table 4-7: FEMA-Declared Disasters and Emergencies for Allen County (2000- 2017) 45 Table 4-8: SBA declaration reference 47 Table 4-9: NFIP Participation and Mapping Dates 57 Table 4-10: Community Loss and Payments Totals 57 Table 4-11: Repetitive Losses Non-Mitigated (Spring 2016) 58 Table 4-12: Number of Buildings Damaged by Community and Occupancy Table 4-13: Cost of Buildings Damaged by Community and Occupancy Class 60 Table 4-14: Structures in Zone A, AE, and Floodway only 64 Table 4-15: Community Structure Count and Number of Policies 64 Table 4-16: Abbreviated Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale 77 Table 4-17: Earthquake Magnitude vs. Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale 77 Table 4-18: Building Damage Summary by Earthquake Event 80 Table 4-19: Tornado Path Widths and Damage Curves Table 4-20: F4 Tornado Zones and Damage Curves 96 Table 4-21: Estimated Building Losses by Occupancy Type 98 Table 4-22: Estimated Losses by Zone 99 Table 4-23: 105 Table 4-24: Allen Buildings Contaminated by Meth per Year 120 Table 4-25: Estimated Exposure for all Threat Zones 130 Table 4-26: Estimated Exposure for Threat Zones 1, 2, & 3 Table 4-27: Essential Facilities Within Threat Zone Table 4-28: DNR Hazard Classification and In-Channel Dams 136 Table 5-1: NFIP policies and coverage 151 Table 5-2: Allen County Strategies 152 Table 5-3: STAPLE+E criteria 156 Table 5-4: Mitigation Actions 160 Table 6-1: Allen County and Jurisdictions Planning Mechanisims 170 ---PAGE BREAK--- 6 Chapter 1 - Overview Introduction The Allen County All Hazard Mitigation Plan is the guide for the county’s assessment of hazards, vulnerabilities, and risks and includes the participation of a wide range of stakeholders and the public in the planning process. This plan aids the county, cities, and towns in preventing, protecting against, responding to, and recovering from disasters that may threaten the community’s economic, social, and environmental wellbeing. This plan documents historical disasters, assesses probabilistic disasters through Hazus-MH and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) analyses, and addresses specific strategies to mitigate the potential impacts of these disasters. The Allen County Emergency planning team, The Polis Center at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) originally developed the Allen County Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP). They have again teamed up to complete the update for the 2017 plan. The Allen County All Hazard Mitigation Plan Update is developed to meet the “all hazards” mitigation approach which the Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) and the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommend as an option to single hazard mitigation planning. While the plan considered all of the potential hazards, it should be recognized that only limited mitigation actions are feasible for some of these hazards since they are neither site- specific nor repetitive in nature. Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 With the development of the federal Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000, FEMA requires counties to have a Hazard Mitigation Plan (HMP) in order to be eligible for Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) funds. The purpose of an HMP plan is, “to reduce the loss of life and property, human suffering, economic disruption, and disaster assistance costs resulting from natural disasters.” All jurisdictions must first have in place an all hazard mitigation plan and update the plan within a five-year time span. This plan update addresses changes in development, progress in local mitigation efforts, and alterations in priorities. This update will remain effective for 5 years from the community adoption. ---PAGE BREAK--- 7 The procedures outlined in the plan are based upon guidance provided by FEMA and are consistent with the requirements and procedures defined in the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000. The analysis includes three components: 1) profile and analysis of hazard events, 2) inventory of vulnerability assessment of community assets, and 3) development of hazard mitigation strategies. Hazard Mitigation Hazards are events that are potentially dangerous or harmful and are often the root causes of unwanted outcomes. Both natural and human-caused hazards threaten loss of life and property in the county and are included in the plan. Hazard mitigation is defined as any action taken to eliminate or reduce the long-term risk to human life and property from natural and technological hazards. FEMA has made reducing hazards one of its primary goals. Figure 1-1: An Integrated Planning Process Hazard mitigation planning and the subsequent implementation of the projects, measures, and policies developed as part of this plan, are the primary mechanisms in achieving FEMA’s goal. Potential types of hazard mitigation measures include the following: • Structural hazard control or protection projects, • Retrofitting of facilities, • Acquisition and relocation of structures, • Development of mitigation standards, regulations, policies, and programs, • Public awareness and education programs, • Development or improvement of warning systems. ---PAGE BREAK--- 8 Local governments have the responsibility to protect the health, safety, and welfare of their citizens. This mitigation plan considers the importance of mitigation to: • Protect public safety and prevent loss of life and injury. • Reduce harm to existing and future development. • Prevent damage to a community’s unique economic, cultural, and environmental assets. • Minimize operational downtime and accelerate recovery of government and business after disasters. • Reduce the costs of disaster response and recovery and the exposure to risk for first responders. • Help accomplish other community objectives, such as leveraging capital improvements, infrastructure protection, open space preservation, and economic resiliency. Developing and putting into place long-term strategies that reduce or alleviate loss of life, injuries and property resulting from natural or human-caused hazards accomplish this goal. These long- term strategies must incorporate a range of community resources including planning, policies, programs and other activities that can make a community more resistant to disaster. Mitigation planning efforts should both protect people and structures, while minimizing costs of disaster response and recovery. Mitigation is the cornerstone for emergency management and should be viewed as a method for decreasing demand on scarce and valuable disaster response resources. Mitigation Planning Process The process to update the HMP included a number of activities between the planning team and The Polis Center. The planning team was comprised of a representative group of the county and incorporated communities. The emergency manager coordinated the planning team and sent invitations to a wide range of potential interested parties in the county and communities, including elected and appointed officials, representatives of law enforcement, fire departments, public health, streets and highway coordinators, planners and engineers, local businesses, disaster relief, state IDHS district coordinators, and higher education officials. The team participated in a series of surveys and meetings, documented in the appendix, to complete the following 10-step process outlined by FEMA in the local hazard mitigation-planning handbook: • Organize planning process. Involve key stakeholders and the public. • Identify and screen major hazards for the county. • Analyze the risks posed by those hazards. • Review existing capabilities and resources and then identify the issues. • Prioritize the hazards. • Develop specific hazard mitigation measures. Include a timeline. • Set implementation guidelines. ---PAGE BREAK--- 9 • Draft the plan. • Adopt the plan. • Implement, evaluate success and update regularly. Each chapter was reviewed, revised, and expanded upon with current information and included new feedback from taskforce members with an emphasis on updating the goals, objectives and strategies. The mitigation planning requirements identified in 44 CFR 201.6 call for all jurisdictions participating in a multijurisdictional HMP to take part in the planning process. Examples of participation include, but are not limited to, attending planning meetings, contributing research, data or other information related to hazards and strategies, and commenting on drafts of the plan. State Mitigation Planning Team The Silver Jackets program, administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers operate in states across the United States, bring together multiple state, federal, and sometimes tribal and local agencies to learn from one another in reducing flood risk and other natural disaster. The Indiana Silver Jackets team works together toward its shared vision, to be a catalyst in developing comprehensive and sustainable solutions to natural hazard issues. The mission of the core agencies of the Silver Jackets team is to work together to: • Enable the effective and efficient sharing of information • Foster the leveraging of available agency resources • Provide improved service to our mutual customers • Promote wise stewardship of the tax-payers’ investment The Indiana Silver Jackets have led projects highlighted in this report, such as the Low Head Dam initiatives and the Fluvial Erosion & Non-Levee Embankment mapping projects. Chapter 2 – Public Planning Process This is a multijurisdictional plan that covers Allen County, its school jurisdictions, and the incorporated communities within the county, which consists of the communities of Fort Wayne, New Haven, Huntertown, Leo-Cedarville, Woodburn, Monroeville, Grabill, and Zanesville. The Allen County risks and mitigation activities identified in this plan also incorporate the concerns and needs of any other entities participating in this plan. Planning Team ---PAGE BREAK--- 10 The Allen County Emergency Management Agency Director heads the Allen County Emergency Management Agency and is charged with developing the Hazard Mitigation planning team. Members of the planning team include representatives from various partners involved in hazard mitigation activities, those with the authority to regulate government, and stakeholders throughout the region. All members of the planning committee were actively involved in attending meetings, providing available GIS data and historical hazard information, reviewing and providing comments on the draft plans, assisting in the public input process, and coordinating the county’s formal adoption of the plan. A list of which particular meetings each team member attended is located in the Appendix E. Table 2-1 identifies the planning team members who attended meetings related to the plan update. Table 2-1: Hazard Mitigation Planning Team Name Title Organization Jurisdiction Bernie Beier Director Allen County Office of Homeland Security Allen County Lori Mayers Assistant Director Allen County Office of Homeland Security Allen County Kimberly Bowman Floodplain Administrator Floodplain Administrator Fort Wayne Shawn Lawhorn Captain of Special Operations Allen County Sheriff's Department Allen County Sheriff's Department Allen County Paul VonBank Operations Allen County Allen County Rodney Renkenberger Maumee River Basin Commission (MRBC) Allen County Allen County Bill Hartman Highway Allen County Allen County Betsy Keisler Building Inspector Allen County Allen County Shan Gunawardena City Engineer City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Patrick Zaharako Assistant City Engineer Flood Control Center City of Fort Wayne Tony Burrus Allen County Safety and Environment City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Timothy L. Malaney AC Special Operations City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Bob Kennedy Director of Public Works City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Cindy Joyner Deputy Director Neighborhood Code City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Kyle Winling Traffic Engineer City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Brandi Wallace City Utilities City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Mark Long Property Claims Adjuster City of Fort Wayne Fort Wayne Greg Peck Council Leo-Cedarville Council Leo-Cedarville Randall Duhamell Chief of Police Woodburn Woodburn Joshua Hale Fire Chief/ Local Emergency Planning Committee New Haven New Haven Gary Booher Executive Director Three Rivers Ambulance Authority (TRAA) Allen County, Fort Wayne Paul B. Blisk Department of Planning Services Allen County Allen County Bruce Keller Red Cross Allen County Allen County ---PAGE BREAK--- 11 Stephen Kirby Civil Air Patrol Allen County Allen County Alysson Oliger Compliance Coordinator DNR-Water State The Indiana Public Safety Statute (IC 10-14-3-17), designates the county Emergency Management Advisory Council (EMAC) as the advisory body that provides general supervision and control over the emergency management and the disaster programs for the county. This group consists of the president of the county executive (commissioners), president of the fiscal body (county council), the mayor of each city, an individual representing the legislative bodies of all towns located in the county, representatives of private and public private agencies with an interest in emergency management, and one commander of a local civil air patrol. In Allen County, the towns have elected Paul Steffens from the Town of Leo/Cedarville as the individual representing the legislative bodies of all towns. A copy of the EMAC Roster for the county is provided in Appendix E. Chapter 6 provides more information on the EMAC meeting and purpose within the State of Indiana, and its capacity to serve as the county and partner planning, response, recovery, and mitigation team. Review of Existing Plans Allen County and the local communities utilize land use plans, emergency response plans, municipal ordinances, and building codes to direct community development. The planning process also incorporated the existing natural hazard mitigation elements from these previous planning efforts. Table 2-2 lists the plans, studies, reports, and ordinances used in the development of the plan. Table 2-2: Planning Documents Used for HMP Planning Process Author Year Title Description Where Used United States Department of Agriculture 1969 Soil Survey of Allen County, IN Soil survey describing the soil variety of Allen County Section 3 St. Joseph River Watershed Initiative 2005 Cedar Creek Watershed Management Plan Plan examining watershed that resides Section 3 Maumee River Basin Commission 2008 Maumee River Basin Commission Master Plan Used in the floodplain management plan component for participation in the Community Rating System. Section 4 Allen County & The Polis Center 2012 Allen County Multi- Hazard Mitigation Plan Hazard mitigation plan that was approved by FEMA and Section 3 ---PAGE BREAK--- 12 included the county’s mitigation strategies. Allen County and other jurisdictions 2012 Debris Management Plan Outlines jurisdiction roles for transportation and utilities Section 4 Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) 2013 Allen County Flood Insurance Study Provides flood risk data that promotes informed land use and floodplain development Section 3,4,5 Indiana Department of Homeland Security 2014 State of Indiana Multi- Hazard Mitigation Plan Statewide hazard mitigation plan Section 5 Comprehensive Plan Committee of Allen County 2006 Plan It Allen: Allen County Comprehensive Plan Guide for the growth and development of Allen County Section 3 Allen County Office of Homeland Security and The Polis Center 2015 Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (THIRA) an all-hazards planning tool that enables the county to understand the full- range of its risks and estimate capability requirements for the communities Section 3, 4, 5 Allen County Plan Commission 2016 Allen County Zoning Ordinance A tool for identifying future development areas within Allen County Section 3, 4, 5 City of Fort Wayne 2016 Fort Wayne Zoning Ordinance Planning tool for development and zoning management in Fort Wayne. Section 3, 4, 5 Huntertown Town Council 2017 Huntertown Zoning Ordinance Document containing goals, strategies, and guiding principles for development Section 3, 4 Planning Process Timeline and Steps The Allen County planning team met on October 2, 2017 for the HMP update kickoff. The team then confirmed the hazard priorities and any conflicting survey results for the county and each community. The public was invited to this meeting and the second half of the meeting is when the team reviewed a copy of the draft plan and was provided a presentation on the risk assessment and mitigation strategies. The draft plan was then revised based on the team and public’s comments following the meetings. The county invited representatives from local businesses, non-profits, disaster relief organizations, and surrounding local Emergency Managers. The public and invited representatives were encouraged to participate in the planning process. Appendix D includes meeting minutes and invitations to participate and Appendix E includes the published announcement of the meeting and the other outlets used to notify the public about the meeting. ---PAGE BREAK--- 13 Since the Indiana Public Safety Statute (IC 10-14-3-17), designates the county Emergency Management Advisory Council (EMAC) as the advisory body that provides general supervision and control over the emergency management and the disaster programs for the county, the group is involved in monitoring the progress of the teams projects and priorities and how those projects within the county and other jurisdictions are developed and pursued. Also referred to as the Homeland Security Advisory Committee, the county EMAC regularly hosts and provides public documentation on provides meeting minutes and an agenda on the following website: The meetings are held at the Citizens Square Building, 200 East Berry Street, Room B045 at 1:30 pm. Allen County follows the National Preparedness Goal format and planning architecture. This is the system which links all of our planning efforts together in each community. By first identifying our hazards (HIRA or THIRA), then measuring our capabilities across the five mission areas of Prevent, Protect, Mitigate, Respond and Recover; we can then identify goals, objectives and tasks for the “whole community” to make us a better-prepared, more-resilient community. Since the county and jurisdictions continually works to engage with the public with posts about community meetings and trainings on the county website, there are numerous other outreach efforts that assembled public input and formal mitigation processes that were integrated into the development of this plan update. A final copy of the plan will be available online through the county’s website. In addition to specific meetings related to the AHMP update, the following meetings were conducted within the recent past and the findings from these meetings have assembled the results, hazards, and strategies updates that are found within this plan. Table 2-3: Other Meetings and their Mitigation related Topics EMAC Sep 18, 2017 Topic Allen County Preparedness System Agenda Minutes EMAC Mar 20, 2017 Topic HIRA and Strategic plan are listed. Hazard and mitigation are discuss with a listed collaborative group Agenda Minutes EMAC Jan 25, 2016 Topic THIRA is discussed, it’s role and integration into the larger planning process, and lists the attendees from communities and agencies within Allen County Agenda Minutes RiskMAP Mar 22, 2016 Upper Wabash River Watershed Discovery, Phase 2 Discovery Meeting Topic Hotspot Map, road closures, warning systems, flooding and flood proofing Agenda http://www.inafsm.net/assets/Presentations/2016/b4_riskmap.pdf Minutes Appendix E ---PAGE BREAK--- 14 EMAC March 21, 2016 Agenda Minutes EMAC Sept. 19, 2016 Agenda Minutes THIRA Dec 15, 2015 Minutes Appendix E THIRA Nov 6, 2015 Minutes Appendix E EMAC May 18, 2015 Shows discussion of HIRA, Core Capabilities, POETE areas, as well as two mitigation projects listed under mitigation actions. Minutes Chapter 3 – Community Profile In order to provide a basic understanding of the characteristics of the community, this section offers a general overview of Allen County including the physical environment, population, and the location and distribution of services. General County Description Allen County is located in northeastern Indiana and is situated approximately 130 miles south of the capital city of Indianapolis. According to the US Census 2016, the county covers 563.5 square miles and had a population of 370,404. Fort Wayne is the county seat, the largest incorporated community in the county, and the second-largest city in Indiana. The county is primarily composed of undulating farmland with steeply sloping wooded areas adjacent to the major streams and wetlands. The most concentrated portion of the population is centered in the City of Fort Wayne, which contained approximately 71% of the population (264,488 people) in 2016. The remaining sections of the county are predominantly agricultural and residential. There are eight incorporated cities and towns within Allen County, which consist of Fort Wayne, Grabill, Huntertown, Leo-Cedarville, Monroeville, New Haven, Woodburn, and Zanesville. Additionally, the county hosts numerous unincorporated areas scattered throughout the county. The county contains twenty townships, including Aboite, Adams, Cedar Creek, Eel River, Jackson, Jefferson, Lafayette, Lake, Madison, Marion, Maumee, Milan, Monroe, Perry, Pleasant, Scipio, Springfield, St. Joseph, Washington, and Wayne Townships. ---PAGE BREAK--- 15 The communities and industries of Allen County have received recognition for investing in the future and supporting business and infrastructure development. Business Insider rated Fort Wayne among one of the best cities to find a job, and CBS News ranked Fort Wayne as one of the top five towns for college graduates. In October 2016, the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies honored Fort Wayne City Utilities with the Platinum Award for Excellence in Utility Management. Of the more than 150,000 water and sewer providers in the country, Fort Wayne was one of only 10 chosen for the award and the only water provider in Indiana to win the Platinum Award. Allen County endeavors to preserve the county’s historical buildings and landmarks that endow communities with a deeper sense of heritage and culture. In July 2017, the City of Fort Wayne and the Northeast Indiana Regional Development Authority was delighted to announce the restoration and expansion of Clyde Theater, an art deco building, into a 2,200-capacity multifunctional performing arts center. Committed to investing in the future and supporting business development, Allen County and its incorporated communities have had several new development projects in recent years and are forming plans for more. As part of Allen County’s recent development trend, the Fort Wayne Economic Development Commission (EDC) announced plans for a new 125-room hotel to downtown Fort Wayne. GM suppliers are investing close to 15 million dollars in order to expand operations in Allen County and are projected to create over 300 jobs by the end of 2017. In order to enhance the economic base of the city and enrich the quality of life of Allen County residents, the county and communities encourage local business growth and retention by supporting motivational programs including tax abatement and development incentives. Historical Setting Named in honor of Colonel John Allen of Kentucky, who was killed during the War of 1812, Allen County was formed by an Act of the Indiana General Assembly in 1824. The City of Fort Wayne derives its name from a U.S. military fort established by General Anthony Wayne in 1794. The fort was built where the St. Joseph and St. Mary’s rivers come together to form the Maumee. During 1824, when Fort Wayne was made the county seat, the community was platted. Fort Wayne’s city charter was later obtained in 1840. ---PAGE BREAK--- 16 Prior to the European settlement in the area, Native Americans hunted on the land that now consists of Allen County. Originally, Allen County was a forested region rich in timber with bountiful wildlife. The area near the confluence of the St. Joseph, St. Mary, and Maumee Rivers was the site of Kekionga, the capital of the Miami nation and center of trade. The three rivers enabled relatively easy transportation and trading of furs and other goods. The first European immigrants were French fur traders who established a trading post in the area during the 1680s. After U.S. General Anthony Wayne captured the Wabash-Erie portage from the Miami and built his fort, trade and commerce thrived along the river. After the Wabash and Erie Canal was constructed in the 1840s, Allen County received an influx of German and Irish immigrants, whose impact can still be observed in the diverse Roman Catholic and Lutheran churches scattered throughout the city. Built on commerce and transportation, industry and development thrived in Fort Wayne. In 1893, the city hall was constructed, and now serves as the Fort Wayne History Center. The county’s worst natural disaster struck in 1913. Heavy rains saturated the soil so when more storms rolled in the conditions compounded into unprecedented flooding during late March that raised water levels over 27 feet in Allen County. The Great Flood of 1913 left an estimated 15,000 people homeless, damaged over 5,000 buildings, and killed at least seven people. While the flood of 1913 may have been the most severe, the flood of 1982 also created devastating havoc and spurred on a visit from President Ronald Reagan and many other community figures hoping to assist in the county’s recovery. The enterprising spirit, which prompted Allen County residents to invent magnet wire for Sweetwater Sound and create famous brands like Vera Bradley and Bad Dad enabled Allen County to continue developing. Physical Characteristics Climate and Precipitation The Allen County climate is characteristic of northern Indiana. The variables of temperature, precipitation, and snowfall can vary greatly from one year to the next. Winter temperatures can fall below freezing starting as early as October and extending as late as April. Based on National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) normals from 1981 to 2010, the average winter minimum temperature is 19.9° F and the average high is 34.9° F. In summer, the average low is 60.5° F and average high is 82.5° F. Average annual precipitation is 38 inches throughout the year. The average seasonal snowfall is 34 inches. ---PAGE BREAK--- 17 Average wind speed and direction is 9.1 mph, generally from the southwest. Summer humidity is moderate, ranging from 58% for the mid-afternoon and rising during the evening to culminate with dawn humidity around 82%. Indiana is prone to strong thunderstorms that can produce strong winds, lightning, hail, and sometimes tornadoes. Historically, these storms can occur at almost any time throughout the year, but are most common in the spring and summer months. Geology and Topography The landscape of Allen County consists of flat uplands, narrow ridges, steep-sided valleys, and lower areas along streams and drainage ways. According to the United States Department of Agriculture Soil Survey of Allen County, the lowest point in Allen County is 528 feet above sea level and the highest point in the county is about 892 feet above sea level. Allen County’s topography is dominated by three topographical units: Auburn Morainal Complex, Maumee Lake Plain, and the Bluffton Till Plain. The Auburn Morainal Complex crosses the northern part of the county, the Maumee Lake Plain is in the east, and the Bluffton Till Plain intersects the southwest of the county. The Indiana Geological Survey reports that the bedrock in Allen County is primarily Mississippian and made up of shale, sandstone, siltstone, limestone, and gypsum. In southern extremity of Allen County, the bedrock is Silurin and is made up of Dolostone, limestone, siltstone, and shale. Soils Soil functions as a vital part of the natural environment and sustains life by supporting plant and animal life, helping maintain the levels of atmospheric gases, and acting as a filtration system for surface water. The Allen County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) identifies and prioritizes local soil and water resource concerns, provides information on soil, water, and related natural resource conservation, and connects land users to sources of education and technical and financial assistance to implement conservation practices and technologies. The county seeks to provide a means for all interested people in the community to work together to administer programs to preserve, protect and improve soil, water, air, plant, and animal resources for future generations. The Allen County SWCD has been the recipient of several grants in order help the community engage with educational opportunities, address environmental concerns, and to develop further knowledge of conservation. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) ---PAGE BREAK--- 18 provided the funds for the Allen County SWCD to establish the Phosphorus Reduction Reimbursement Program. The Phosphorus Reduction Reimbursement Program is designed to help farmers keep phosphorus on their fields in eligible areas of the Upper Maumee targeted watersheds: Black Creek, Marsh Ditch, Six-Mile Creek, Trier Ditch, and Bottern Ditch. The Allen County SWCD provides classroom resources and even offers a conservation video series in order help the community engage with educational opportunities, address environmental concerns, and to develop further knowledge of conservation. A quarter of Allen County’s soil is poorly drained and a third is somewhat poorly drained. The remainder of the soil varies from well drained to very poorly drained. Altogether, three quarters of the county or around 75% has soil characterized somewhat to very poorly drained. The division of these soil characteristics is listed in Appendix A. Land Use and Ownership Agricultural and residential are the predominant land uses in Allen County. Other significant land uses are commercial, industrial, and institutional. Recent or proposed development, especially in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), must be carefully evaluated to ensure that no adverse impacts occur as a result. Development, whether it is a 100‐lot subdivision or a single-lot big box commercial outlet, can result in large amounts of fill and other material being deposited in flood storage areas. The Allen County Comprehensive Plan: Plan–it Allen outlines fourteen objectives that guide the land use decisions in the county. The land use objectives consist of the following: 1. Encourage carefully planned growth by utilizing the conceptual development map as part of the community’s land use decision-making process. 2. Use land resources more efficiently by encouraging new development within the conceptual development map growth areas which are adjacent to existing development. 3. Use land resources efficiently by encouraging new development, revitalization, and redevelopment in areas already served by infrastructure. 4. Discourage unplanned growth in areas not currently served by public municipal or private corporate sanitary sewer facilities. 5. Encourage sustainable growth and quality development, revitalization, and redevelopment by increasing and enhancing connectivity. 6. Encourage carefully planned sustainable growth and coordinated development by encouraging mixed land uses. 7. Encourage sustainable growth by conserving natural features and environmentally sensitive land with significant value. ---PAGE BREAK--- 19 8. Use land resources efficiently by encouraging compact development alternatives in infill areas where utilities and other infrastructure currently exist. 9. Encourage improved community wellbeing and quality development by aligning the community’s development standards. 10. Encourage sustainable growth by promoting quality, compatible infill development, revitalization and redevelopment in the Fort Wayne urban area. 11. Maintain the quality of agricultural operations by minimizing urban, suburban and, rural conflicts. 12. Maintain the quality of significant strategic community and economic development assets by minimizing land use conflicts with those assets. 13. Improve community well-being by enhancing the vitality and identity of the community’s towns and cities. 14. Enhance the use and presence of the three rivers. Agriculture As illustrated in the map of Allen County Agricultural Areas found in Appendix A, the densely cultivated areas, which are more than 75% cultivated, are predominantly in the northern and southeastern parts of the county. The majority of farms and confined feeding operations are located in the northern part of the county. The 2012 U.S. Census of Agriculture reports that there are 1,725 farms in the county, covering 270,808 acres. Of this farming land, 89.2% and 10.8% is classified as “other uses.” In contrast, 71.5% of Indiana is harvested cropland and 45.3% of the state is woodland, but of the land on farms, 85.5% is cropland and 7.1% is woodland, meaning Allen County has a higher percentage of woodland on farms than the state as a whole. Since 270,808 acres of Allen County was actively farmed in 2012 while 254,136 acres were farmed in 2007, the number of acres farmed has diminished. Managed Lands The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains an inventory of managed properties. These natural and recreation areas are managed by either the DNR Fish & Wildlife, DNR Nature Preserves, federal, local or non-profits and is maintained by the Indiana Natural Heritage Database. Allen County is home to several parks including 126 acres of managed lands which are primarily managed by the state. By establishing conservation areas and parkland, the county is able to preserve plant and animal species and combat air, land, pollution prevention, and water quality issues. Endangered and Threatened Species ---PAGE BREAK--- 20 The Federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Act) describes two categories of declining species of plants and animals that need the Act's protections, endangered species and threatened species, and provides the following definitions: “Endangered species are those species that are in danger of extinction throughout all or a significant portion of its range. Threatened species are those species that are likely to become an endangered species within the near future throughout all or a significant portion of its range.” The table in Appendix A identifies the endangered or threatened species within the county and gives the locations of the habitat characteristics where the species are found within the county. Bald eagles are no longer protected under the federal Endangered Species Act and Section 7 consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is no longer necessary. However, the bald eagle remains protected under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. The complete Indiana Bat, Kids, and Caves - Oh My! activity book for teachers developed by the Education Department of Evansville’s Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden and was sponsored by the US Fish & Wildlife Service. This document provides students and teachers with a guidebook on the Indiana bats habitat, conservation, and numerous activities. Land Pollution The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) manages the Brownfield and Superfund programs, which provide resources to local and state partners to address a hazardous substance, pollutant, or contaminants. These programs provide increases to local tax base, facilitate job growth, utilize existing infrastructure, take development pressures off of undeveloped, open land, and improve and protect the environment. The primary difference between the programs is that Brownfields are focused on the remediation of active hazardous sites and also regulate the transportation of hazardous waste in which the property owners are known and are currently using managing, or disposing hazardous waste. A map of these features is located in Appendix A. Hydrography Water resources within the county are vital to the community because they provide recreational as well as enhanced economic opportunity. Important water resources include surface and groundwater from aquifers, watersheds, lakes, rivers and wetlands providing water for riparian habitats, fish, wildlife, household, livestock, recreation and aesthetic and industrial uses. ---PAGE BREAK--- 21 The St. Marys River and Maumee River Watersheds are located in northeastern Indiana, draining approximately 376 square miles in Adams and Allen counties. In an effort to examine water quality, a comprehensive survey of the St. Marys River and Maumee River Watersheds was initiated in the spring of 2004 and conducted by the IDEM. The IDEM identified the primary causes of water impairments as Impaired Biotic Communities due to ammonia, nutrients, and Escherichia coli coli). Allen County participated in the development of the Cedar Creek Watershed Management Plan. Cedar Creek is within the St. Joseph River watershed and converges with the St. Joseph River in northern Allen County directly north of Fort Wayne. The watershed plan incorporated research gathered by the St. Joseph River Watershed Initiative’s Bacteria Source Tracking project, which was funded by the Section 319 grant, and also includes research from the Source Water Protection Initiative project located in the Upper Cedar Creek watershed. The DNR and IDEM manage many of the water regulated state programs. The DNR administers permit programs for lakes and streams related to quantity and is the Cooperating Technical Partners for the FEMA flood-mapping program. IDEM manages the EPA related quality monitoring in coordination with the assistance of the local community officials. Watersheds Allen County is located within six major watersheds: St. Joseph, St. Marys, Upper Maumee, Auglaize, Upper Wabash, and Eel Watersheds as shown in the water resources map. The Upper Maumee and the St. Joseph Watersheds cross the north of Allen County. Auglaize Watershed lies in the west, Upper Wabash to the east, and St. Marys Watershed to the south. Rivers The National Hydrography Dataset (NHD) is the surface water component of The National Map managed by the USGS. The NHD data is a digital vector dataset used by geographic information systems (GIS). It contains features such as lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, canals, dams, and stream gages. These data are designed to be used in general mapping and in the analysis of surface-water systems. The NHD data provides a flow network that allows for tracing water or upstream. It also uses an addressing system based on reach codes and linear referencing to link specific information about the water, such as water discharge rates, water quality, and fish population. Using basic NHD features like flow network, linked information, and other ---PAGE BREAK--- 22 characteristics, is possible to study cause-and-effect relationships, such as how a source of poor water quality upstream might affect a fish population The Allen County NHD contains over 1,000 miles of streams and rivers. The City of Fort Wayne was constructed at the convergence of the St. Joseph River, St. Marys River, and Maumee River. Numerous tributaries feed into the three main rivers. The St. Joseph River flows through the Cedarville Reservoir. According to the Indiana Natural Resources Commission, Little River is navigable from its junction with the Wabash River 20.2 river miles to Ellison Road. Maumee River is navigable from the Indiana-Ohio State Line 27.05 river miles to the Hosey Dam. The IDNR declared St. Mary's River non-navigable. Lakes The Indiana General Assembly defines "lake" as designating a reasonably permanent body of water that is substantially at rest. Lakes provide a habitat for a variety of fish and wildlife and drinking water. Lakes can function as a potential source of transportation and support recreational and commercial fishing industries. The DNR Department of Fish and Wildlife maintains a list of the lakes in Indiana and the general assembly has established the listing of Public Freshwater Lakes (PFL). The DNR Division of Water regulate these lakes using the Lake Preservation Act (I.C. 14-26-2) and/or Lowering of 10 Acre Lakes Act or "Ditch Act" (I.C. 14-26-5). Public Freshwater lakes maintain the following criteria: Public Lakes are determined by the following: • existed on March 12, 1947 • is substantially at rest in a depression in the surface of the earth that is naturally created • is of natural origin or part of a watercourse, including a watercourse that has been dammed • covers an area of at least five acres within the shoreline and water line, including bays and coves The goal of the Division of Fish & Wildlife's Lake and River Enhancement (LARE) Program is to protect and enhance aquatic habitat for fish and wildlife, and to insure the continued viability of Indiana's publicly accessible lakes and streams for multiple uses, including recreational opportunities. This is accomplished through measures that reduce non-point sediment and nutrient pollution of surface waters to a level that meets or surpasses state water quality standards. ---PAGE BREAK--- 23 Example of LARE projects include matching federal funds for qualifying projects, engineering designs and construction of remedial measures, water quality monitoring of public lakes, management of invasive aquatic vegetation sediment removal from qualifying lakes, and logjam removal from qualifying rivers. LARE projects in the county include Spy Run Creek stream bank restoration and watershed projects in the St. Mary and St. Joseph and Maumee River Watershed. Lake Everett and Schoaff Lake are the two PFLs in the county. Wetlands The EPA and the IDEM have identified Indiana’s wetlands and other aquatic resources as important features to protect and wisely use for the benefit of present and future generations. Before agriculture became more widespread, Indiana was composed of numerous broad expanses of poorly drained wetlands. Broadly defined, the term "wetlands" commonly refers to low depressions in the landscape covered with shallow and intermittent water standing long enough to be capable of supporting hydrophytic vegetation. According to the EPA, wetlands differ in size, shape, and types of wet environment and derive their unique characteristics from climate, vegetation, soils and hydrologic conditions. Additionally, the IDEM identifies wetlands as possessing soils which differ from soils in dry areas, exhibiting hydric characteristics that show the soil developed in saturated conditions. Wetland communities include bogs, dunes, swales, fens, flatwoods, floodplain forests, marshes, ponds, lakes, sedge meadows, seeps, streams, creeks, rivers, and swamps. Wetlands are classified according to their depth of water, total area, and seasonal life span. The IDEM regulates the wetlands in Indiana. The county is the responsible agency for the administration of the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA). Currently, Indiana has approximately 26 NAWCA projects either completed or underway. These projects have conserved a total of 60,725 acres of wildlife habitat. Originally, wetlands were located throughout the entire state of Indiana. In southern Indiana, floodplain and swamp forests were also widespread, particularly in the southwest lowlands. In south central Indiana, counties rich in limestone frequently have areas with dissolved bedrock, creating many sinkholes, springs, and lowland swamps. With the advent of intensive agriculture practices and the application of land drainage techniques, many of the wetlands located on lands that were flat and suited to agricultural use have been drained. ---PAGE BREAK--- 24 Wetlands are vital features of the Indiana landscape that provide beneficial services for people and wildlife including: protecting and improving water quality, providing fish and wildlife habitats, storing floodwaters and maintaining surface water flow during droughts and dry periods. Forested wetlands are the most common type of wetland in the state and in all the counties including Allen County. The Allen County SWCD has received grants for a couple of projects related to wetland conservation. Water Pollution Water pollution contaminates lakes, rivers, wetlands, aquifers, and groundwater and leaches into the surrounding soil. Consisting of any contamination of water with chemicals or other foreign substances that are detrimental to human, plant, or animal health, water pollution places risks on water quality and water supply. Impaired waters containing pollutants can create a hazard affecting wildlife and plant species and can potentially poison underground streams and the wells of people living in the surrounding area, depriving communities of a reliable source of life-giving water and injuring opportunities for economic development and recreation. Sewage, wastewater, marine dumping, industrial waste, radioactive waste, oil pollution, and underground storage leaks are some of the most common forms of water pollution. Inadequately engineered hillside construction can endanger downslope development, and erosive soils have been known to generate stream siltation and compromise water quality. The Federal Clean Water Act encourages communities to reduce discharges of storm water pollutants and ensure that waters are safe for fishing, swimming, and drinking. In National Aeronautics and Space Administration’s abstract on the Clean Water Act, agricultural runoff is estimated to have resulted in the erosion of 2.25 billion tons of soil and the deposit of large amounts of phosphorus and nitrogen into many waters. The Federal Clean Water Act provides funding to states and communities to help them meet their clean water infrastructure needs and protects valuable wetlands and other aquatic habitats through a permitting process that ensures development and other activities are conducted in an environmentally sound manner. IDEM is required to assess the quality of the waters in the state of Indiana and produce a list of waters that are impaired along with the specific impairments. Impaired waters in the county are identified in Appendix A. People ---PAGE BREAK--- 25 Populations In 1980, Allen County had a population of 294,335. The population increased by 23% between 2010 and 2016. As of 2016, an estimated 370,404 people resided in Allen County with a population density of 563.5 people per square mile. A region's economy thrives or dives because of the people who choose to live there. That choice may occur by being born in the community and desiring to stay, or as a deliberate result of choosing to relocate from somewhere else. Monitoring change in the size and movement of population is an important barometer of well-being and a vital part of preparing for the future. Comparing and contrasting the data from the beginning of the century and 2016 reveals the largest percent increases in population occurring in the community of Huntertown, with 198% growth. The towns of Grabill and Woodburn experienced a slight population decrease between 2010 and 2016, but all other communities and unincorporated areas in Allen County have increased in population. Migration trends inform hazard mitigation by highlighting areas of population growth and decline, revealing immigration and emigration patterns, and informing public officials of changes in net adjusted gross income (AGI) because of migration. Age and Sex Characteristics Some populations may require special attention in mitigation planning because they may suffer more severely from the impacts of disasters. These groups, termed special needs populations, can pose an added difficulty to hazard response and recovery and public resources. It is important to identify these populations and develop mitigation strategies to help them become more disaster- resilient. Although there are numerous types of vulnerable populations, there are five focus groups, which include low-income citizens, older adults, people who do not speak English at home, people with disabilities, and people without high school diplomas highlighted in the Special Needs Ranking figure included in Appendix A. Allen County is compared to the nearby counties, as well as to Indiana, by the percent population of each special needs category within the county/state. Of the eight geographies we compared (one state and seven counties), Allen County ranks fourth, meaning it has a relatively average special needs population in the assessed area. Compared to the surrounding counties, Allen County has a relatively low percentage of people with disabilities and a lower percentage of people aged 65 and up, but Allen County has a higher ---PAGE BREAK--- 26 percentage of people living in poverty and a larger percentage of the population with a non-English primary language. The remaining factors were on average with the other county data. People living in poverty and those with a non-English primary language may experience difficulty accessing resources and may require extra assistance in order to respond to hazard warnings. In the event of a disaster, elderly and disabled citizens have particular challenges and concerns. They may require life-sustaining medication, electricity-operated medical equipment, and special mobility assistance. They may also require special temporary housing needs that can accommodate physical disabilities/limitations and varied levels of income. Examples of activities to improve emergency mitigation and preparedness for the elderly population include, but are not limited to, the following: • Evacuation exercises for communities and elderly care facilities • Fan distributions • Public materials on when and how to shelter in place • Training for emergency shelter staff • Development of resource guide for seniors with available housing, medical, and basic needs services • Development of accessible media announcements Understanding more about the community age breakdown can be helpful in developing public outreach campaigns and understating where to target emergency service needs. The figure representing the age distribution of the Allen County population can be found in Appendix A and reveals a fairly steady population with the largest percentage of the population between the ages of 25 and 44. The Allen County has a younger population than the state as a whole, with the median age in Allen County at 35.9 compared to the Indiana median age of 37.5. Economy Data on the types of housing and types of households can potentially provide insight into how to further develop mitigation strategies or align messages to particular groups of citizens. Similar to the rest of the state and the nation, the average household size is decreasing, which can primarily be attributed by the overall rise in the elderly population, the delays in beginning families, and overall smaller family sizes than in the past. In 2015, the county had an average household size of 2.62 people and average family household size of 4 people. The county ranks lower than average when compared to the US average of owner occupied housing but has a relatively high percentage of housing units for seasonal or ---PAGE BREAK--- 27 recreational use. Since the year 2000, the county has experienced a positive 3.3% increase in wage growth. Allen County’s median family income of $60,421 is lower than, but comparable to, the Indiana median family income of $61,119. Housing Approximately 65.4% of Allen County households consist of families, compared to 66.9% of people in Indiana living with families. Living within a family unit grants family members a higher degree of security and support when compared to people living alone or in a non-family household. Workforce In recent years, Allen County has experienced the highest percentage of growth in the number of large-sized business establishments with 100 plus employees, while the number of smaller business corporations with 1-9 employees has decreased. During 2010, Allen County reached its highest rate of unemployment (10.7% unemployed) in the past decade. Unemployment among the labor force has gradually diminished since reaching its peak in 2010, and in 2016, the county unemployment rate was the lowest it has been since 2007. Employment The Average Employment by Sector table reveals that from 2012-2016, Allen County has experienced the largest positive percent increase in the management of companies the health care and social assistance and construction (13.4%) sectors. In contrast, the transportation and warehousing sector and the agriculture, forestry, fishing, and hunting sector diminished by 24.4% and 22.7%, respectively. STATS Indiana reported that 90.5% of the workforce in Allen County were employed in the private sector. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, wholesale trade and finance and insurance remain the top-earning industries. The 2015 annual per capita personal income in Allen County was $ 41,528, compared to an Indiana average of $41,940. The median household income is $50,017 higher than the state). The financial crisis has had a similar impact in Allen County as it did on Indiana as a whole and the US, and in 2012, the county’s unemployment rate was greater than both the state and the nation. The County Population Unemployed and Below Poverty Level graph looks at the employment rate of ---PAGE BREAK--- 28 the county population aged 16 years and over and illustrates how the county’s unemployed population has changed over time compared to Indiana and the US. It also shows the percent of Allen County’s population below the poverty level. The Allen County Economic Development Group highlights the county’s diverse employment industry, which includes everything from small businesses to giant manufacturing corporations. Along with all the communities of Allen County, the Allen County Economic Development Group is committed to the expansion and development of business by offering low property tax rate structures, providing incentives to both new and existing businesses on an individual basis, and through offering other incentives to foster economic development. The top major employers in terms of number of employees are listed by manufacturing and non-manufacturing, along with other employment statistics on sectors, are provided in Appendix A. Education The level of education of our workforce is a critical factor for economic and community development. It often provides insight into the skill levels of a local area. The type of work (occupations) residents perform can also assist in understanding skill levels. The tables in Appendix A provide some more detail on the education attainment within the county over time and provide a comparison with the state averages. Culture The development of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 initiated the federal fostering of the partnerships between the states, local governments, and the private sector on the preservation of our cultural resources. The Act established the National Register of Historic Places, composed of buildings, sites, structures, objects and districts significant in American history, architecture, archaeology, engineering and culture. The DNR Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology (DHPA) is the state partner that manages the Indiana State Historic Architectural and Archaeological Research Database (SHAARD). Appendix A display a variety of resources within the county identified within SHAARD. SHAARD is made possible by financial support from the Federal Highway Administration, the Indiana DNR, and the Historic Preservation Fund of the U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service. Historic and cultural resources are important because they are wonderful examples of architecture or engineering. Others are important for their connection to past people or events. ---PAGE BREAK--- 29 Understanding what is important to the community can help develop better initiatives for project and strategies to accomplish the community’s goals. Allen County has 50 historic places, which appear on the National Register of Historic Places, and there are 55 established historic districts within the county. Of the historic districts, 49 are located in Fort Wayne and six are in unincorporated Allen County. The Indiana Historic Sites and Structures Inventory of historic and architectural resources seeks to compile a comprehensive inventory of Indiana’s cultural resources. Allen County has 4,550 identified historic structures. For more information on the state historical county survey program, visit: http://www.in.gov/dnr/historic/2824.htm. As part of the county cultural resources, the Allen County History Center, the African/African- American Historical Museum, the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum, the Auer Center, Castle Gallery, Chief Richardville House, Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum, Fort Wayne Museum of Art, and the Allen County- Fort Wayne Historical Society are dedicated to helping preserve local history and heritage. The Allen County Historical Society originally formed its museum and collections in 1921 with just a few collections of historic relics. Originally the 1893 City Hall Building, the museum building itself is woven into the tapestry of Allen County history. Believing that the past gives perspective on the present, the Allen County Museum has many artifacts that intertwine the county’s history and diverse peoples. The History Center also preserves the historic Barr Street Market, which is the oldest public space in Fort Wayne and dates back to 1837, along with the 1827 home of Miami Chief Jean Baptiste de Richardville. More information about the Allen County Historical Museum can be found on their website. Allen County is home to a small but significant group pf Amish people that will need to be considered during hazard mitigation planning. Allen County’s Amish population may not have access to storm weather alerts and emergency means of communication. When evacuating in the event of hazardous situation, the Amish population may require special attention. Dotted throughout the county, Allen County has 112 cemetery sites that serve in memoriam to those who have passed. The communities’ religious sites, and cemeteries are shown on the cultural resources map in Appendix A. Endowed with historic transportation structures, Allen County contains 41 historic bridges. The majority of the county’s historic bridges are in Fort Wayne and in unincorporated Allen County. Having once relied heavily on its rivers for transportation and ---PAGE BREAK--- 30 trading, Allen County still has 10 registered historic canal structures and fourteen miles of canal segments. Community Services & Infrastructure The following section provides an overview on community services and infrastructure within Allen County. Examples of community services include healthcare and public safety, while examples of community infrastructure include power utilities, water and sewer facilities, and the transportation network. The Critical Facilities Map identifies critical facilities for each community and a table of all critical facilities is provided in Appendix B. Schools Schools systems are valuable partners in All Hazard Mitigation Planning because they can provide input in helping identify the risks from natural hazards to students, teachers, and school facilities. Communities proactively facilitate and support district policies, practices, and programs that help schools raise awareness and understanding of the potential impacts of hazards. Allen County has four public school districts: East Allen County Schools, Fort Wayne Community Schools, Northwest Allen County Schools, and Southwest Allen County Schools. The county is also home to multiple private and alternative schools. Students could potentially travel outside the county to attend a private school. For higher education, the high schools in Allen County provide students with the opportunity to receive vocational training and offer adult education classes for returning students. Along with Fort Wayne Community Schools, the Department of Continuing Education and Neighborhood Connection offers educational outreach to the residents of Fort Wayne and surrounding areas. In terms of post-high school education, Allen County is home to several universities, including Indiana University-Purdue University Fort Wayne, Harrison College, Concordia Theological Seminary, Huntington University, University of Saint Francis, Manchester University, and Ivy Tech. Students attending four-year universities may commute to nearby colleges potentially increasing the traffic flow during the school year. Recreation ---PAGE BREAK--- 31 Indiana has more than 21,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers, along with 452 natural lakes and 580 impoundments. The DNR manages the “Where to Fish” guide which includes an inventory of DNR-owned access areas, as well as other access sites where you can boat- or bank-fish. Cedar Creek, Cedarville Reservoir, Everett Lake, Hurshtown Reservoir, St. Joseph River, St. Mary’s River, and Maumee River are all listed as DNR recommended fishing spots in Allen County. Allen County is home to at least 244 recreational facilities. Of the recreational facilities, 86 are municipal, 77 are part of a school corporation, two are overseen by the state, six are under the county’s jurisdiction, 13 are commercial, and three are private. Throughout Allen County, there are many campground facilities including Johnny Appleseed Park & Campground. In addition, there are a few rental cabins and RV campgrounds scattered around the county. In an ongoing effort to increase connectivity, the Fort Wayne area has developed nearly 327 miles of trails. Nature preserves and land trusts also draw visitors to Allen County. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT), the Northeast Indiana Regional Coordinating Council, the City of Fort Wayne, and Fort Wayne Trails Inc. all invested in the new trail development of the Six Mile Creek Trail. Fort Wayne's greenways and trails manager stated that Six Mile Creek Trail, which is a portion of the new trails, connects more than 22,000 residents to more than 80 businesses and the River greenway. In addition to hiking and fishing opportunities, Allen County offers recreational sports and cultural forms of arts and entertainment. Public Facilities Public facilities buildings, properties, and other areas are government or community owned, operated or funded and are central to government operations and activities. Public facilities are vital for sustaining and providing the members of the community with public services related to safety, health, and wellbeing. Supporting and working with public facilities, Allen County possesses numerous organizations dedicated to healthcare and social assistance that supplement public aid. The county has a few senior citizen service organizations that provide help and create opportunities for community engagement. The Allen County government offices has a designated Veterans Service Office to assist with veteran affairs. Public facilities for youth involvement and public service includes ---PAGE BREAK--- 32 organizations like a Youth Services Center, YMCA of Greater Fort Wayne, and 4-H. Aiding communication and outreach, post offices service Allen County. Supporting public literacy and community engagement, Allen County maintains the Allen County Public Library and its numerous branches, which, in addition to making its large book collection accessible to the public, offers both adult and youth services, public computers, and educational opportunities such as writing workshops and literacy campaigns. The Allen County Historical Society works to preserve cultural resources for the community. Public Utilities Water and Wastewater According to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Soil Survey of Allen County, Indiana, most of the water supply in Fort Wayne comes from the St. Joseph River. The remainder of the county receives their water from diverse sources including wells, cisterns, and rivers. Waterlines distribute water to small, unincorporated communities and farms throughout the county. Allen County has a sum total of 5,731,291 artificial paths, canal ditches, connectors, and streams/rivers winding through the county, transporting and supplying water. There are three types of wastewater treatment systems in Allen County, including public sewer systems operated by municipalities and sanitary districts, community systems operated by homeowner associations, and individual sewage treatment systems. Water service in Allen County is provided by municipalities, water districts, private water associations, and individual wells. Other Utilities Among its other utilities and public facilities, Allen County contains a solid waste and recycle depot that handles both recycling and household hazardous waste disposal. Allen County residents are encouraged to drop off their medical waste at the Allen County Department of Health. The county has landfills and disposal programs. Hazmat facilities seek to provide a point of control, management, and tracking of hazardous materials. Hazardous material transportation adheres to strict requirements, but in the case of a disaster, it is beneficial for planners and responders to be aware of the locations and transportation routes of hazardous materials, particularly those near or in population centers. Health Care Providers ---PAGE BREAK--- 33 An emergency disaster can impact an entire community and can involve numerous medical and public health entities, including health care provider systems, public health departments, emergency medical services, medical laboratories, individual health practitioners, and medical support services. A coordinated response is essential for effective emergency management, so being aware of the locations and resources of healthcare providers is important to preparing for and responding to disasters. Vulnerable populations, such as people within nursing homes and hospitals, frequently require a unique response during a disaster and could be at considerable risk if their care was disrupted. Allen County contains several hospitals, the largest of which are Parkview Hospital and Lutheran Hospital. Allen County also contains multiple health and welfare agencies, healthcare facilities, nursing and convalescent homes, and health services. For planning mitigation and emergency evacuation purposes, it is also important for community leaders to be aware of the locations of retirement communities and nursing and convalescent homes. Health care and social assistance providers are listed in Appendix B. In order to better enable it to meet the challenges of public health issues and to increase awareness and preventive practices within the community, The Allen County Department of Health directs risk education and public health information toward all age groups. According to the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation's County Health Rankings, Allen County ranks 53rd in Health Factors and 44th in Health Outcomes out of the 92 counties in Indiana. The Allen County Department of Health endeavors to have a model of public health infrastructure that provides professional, responsive, and cost-effective services to the community. Public Safety Providers/Government Services The Allen County Sheriff’s Department is centrally located in the city hub of Fort Wayne. The county sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer in the county, but the Indiana State Police does maintain a department in Allen County. The Allen County Sheriff’s Department is committed to the county and the core values that they hope to convey. Dedicated to community safety, Allen County has eleven police departments. Fort Wayne, Woodburn, New Haven, and Monroeville all support their own police departments. Allen County has 39 fire departments and volunteer fire department. The Appendix A has a comprehensive list of the essential facilities for the analysis in addition to tables on the additional ---PAGE BREAK--- 34 township public safety offices. Within the county seat, the Fort Wayne Fire Chief and Chief of Police are responsible for major policy decisions, budgeting, long-range planning, and the day-to- day coordination of six departments: Police, Fire, Animal Control, Weights and Measures, Police Merit Commission, and Communications. Utilities/Communications Utilities are vulnerable to a variety of hazards including natural disasters like tornadoes, earthquakes, flooding, wildfires, and storms. The impacts from hazards can damage utility equipment and cause disruptions of services and the loss of power, water, communication, and revenue. According to the EPA, communities can mitigate damage to utilities before a disaster occurs by implementing projects to better withstand a natural disaster, minimize damage, and rapidly recover from disruptions to service. While mitigating utilities frequently requires financial investment, mitigation could decrease the amount of costly future damage, improve the reliability of service during a disaster, and help people keep the amenities they desperately require. During a disaster, communications and emergency management seem to become synonymous, and reliable communication can become one of the highest assets during a disaster. Communication is both one of the key elements to secure an effective disaster response as well as one of the most difficult elements to ensure. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security reports that the Communications Sector provides an “enabling function” across all critical infrastructure sectors. The communications sector is closely linked to other sectors including the energy, information technology, financial services, transportation systems, and emergency services. Allen County is not yet a StormReady community, which is a program administered by the National Weather Service. The StormReady program helps arm America's communities with the communication and safety skills needed to save lives and property before, during and after the event. StormReady helps community leaders and emergency managers strengthen local safety programs. To be officially StormReady, a community must: • Establish a 24-hour warning point and emergency operations center • Have more than one way to receive severe weather warnings and forecasts and to alert the public • Create a system that monitors weather conditions locally • Promote the importance of public readiness through community seminars ---PAGE BREAK--- 35 • Develop a formal hazardous weather plan, which includes training severe weather spotters and holding emergency exercises. As part of working towards the StormReady certification the count host a storm spotter training each year. They had a session on Feb 16, 2016 (88 attendees (community members)); and 93 community attendees on Feb 17, 2015. Transportation Roads and Bridges The county transportation system is composed of roads, highways, airports, public transit, railroads, and trails, designed to serve all residents, businesses, industries and tourists. The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) Fort Wayne District manages the county state transportation resources. The transportation features highlighted in the appendix include bridges and roads that INDOT submits to the federal highway department to allocate future transportation funds. The county bridges are typically the responsibility of the County Highway Department where bridges are inspected on a rotating basis depending upon the type of structure. Of the 3,377 miles of road in the county, 127 are State Roads, 1,579 are county and over 1,330 are under the authority of local jurisdictions. The county contains seven miles of roads on state- managed land. Refer to the road and railroad features map, located in Appendix A, which further details the transportation features and facilities. Rail Allen County has three main rail corridors: Norfolk Southern Rail Road, Conrail Tail Road, and CSX Railroad. CSX Transportation is a Class I railroad that owns over 21,000 route miles of railroad lines. Crossing through Fort Wayne, CSX is a freight railroad running from the northern part of the county to Chicago. The railroads in Allen County stretch over a 202-mile rail length. While 42 miles of tract is abandoned, 161 miles of railroad is still active. Allen County has 413 rail crossings and active rails pass through several communities as shown in the Allen County Transportation Features Figure in Appendix A. Air ---PAGE BREAK--- 36 The largest commercial airport is the Fort Wayne International Airport, and it also provides international air transportation. Allen County has multiple small and privately owned airfields that can provide air access during a disaster. Commute County-to-county commuting patterns provide a gauge of the economical connectivity of neighboring communities. The US Census reports that over 27% of US workers travel outside their residential county to travel to work. According to Stats Indiana 2015 data, there are 237,703 people who live in Allen County and work (implied resident labor force). Of these residents, around 12,800 work outside the county. An additional 24,580 people living in other counties commute to Allen County for work. The mean travel time to work in Allen County is 20.8 minutes, compared to a 25.9-minute average in the US. Commuter safety is an important consideration in disaster mitigation and planning. Employers can help their employees prepare by encouraging the development of Commuter Emergency Plans, such as the template developed by FEMA and available for download at http://www.fema.gov/media-library/assets/documents/90370. Hoosiers by the Numbers: Indiana County Highlights captured the U.S. Census Bureau & American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates showing that the majority (93%) of Allen County residents traveling to work in 2015 went by car, truck, or van. Of those who traveled via car, truck, or van 84.5% traveled alone. Less than one percent of Allen County residents traveling to work relied on public transportation, and 2.4% used some other conveyance, such as bicycle, or walking. Chapter 4 – Risk Assessment The goal of mitigation is to reduce the future impacts of a hazard including loss of life, property damage, disruption to local and regional economies, and the expenditure of public and private funds for recovery. Sound mitigation practices must be based on sound risk assessment. A risk assessment involves quantifying the potential loss resulting from a disaster by assessing the vulnerability of buildings, infrastructure, and people. ---PAGE BREAK--- 37 Developing a priority on the hazards the community is exposed to is one of the first priorities before conducting a risk assessment. The following section will then include the descriptions of hazard, history, vulnerability & future development, relationship to other hazards, plans & programs in place and gaps & deficiencies. This risk assessment identifies the characteristics and potential consequences of a disaster, how much of the community would be affected by a disaster, and the impact on community assets. Basing risk assessments on the best information available is important in developing effective mitigation actions that benefit communities. Geographic Information System (GIS) tools are not only helpful in producing maps, but they also show structures at risk and may determine damage estimates for potential hazard scenarios. FEMA created Hazards USA Multi-Hazard (Hazus-MH), a powerful GIS-based disaster risk assessment tool. This tool enables communities to predict estimated losses from floods, hurricanes and other related phenomena and to measure the impact of various mitigation practices that might help reduce those losses. Assessing Hazards The term “natural hazards” refers to those forces extraneous to man in elements of the natural environment. They are not possible to manage, and are often interrelated. Natural hazards do not always cause damage to humans or the built environment; until a hazard and development intersect, significant damage can occurs creating the natural disaster. The term “technological hazards” refers to the origins of incidents that can arise from human activities such as the manufacture, transportation, storage, and use of hazardous materials. They can also be intentional or the result from an emergency cause by another hazard flood, storm). In addition, technological hazards, such as hazmat incidents and levee failures, provide the county the ability to quantifiable measure the potential results of an incident, and therefore ware included in depth in this plan. To capture the potential effects of these technological hazards within natural disasters, this plan identifies all technological hazards within one portion of a hazard profile. Finally, “human cause” or “adversarial” disasters can be both intentional or by accident. The term “terrorism” refers to intentional, criminal, and malicious acts. There is no single, universally accepted definition of terrorism, and it can be interpreted in many ways. For the purposes of this plan, FEMA refers to “terrorism” as the use of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), including ---PAGE BREAK--- 38 biological, chemical, nuclear, and radiological weapons; arson, incendiary, explosive, and armed attacks; industrial sabotage and intentional hazardous materials releases; and cyber terrorism. Hazard Identification/Profile Hazard Identification The cornerstone of the risk assessment is identification of hazards that affect the county and each jurisdiction. The US Department of Homeland Security developed the Threat and Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment Guide, Comprehensive Preparedness Guide (CPG) 201, which was used as a guide for the hazard identification and profile development. The process of developing a THIRA helps communities identify capability targets and resource requirements necessary to address anticipated and unanticipated risks. WebEOC is the State of Indiana’s crisis information management system, which is the communications platform for local, county and state emergency managers/homeland security partners. Partners in emergency management personnel at the local, county and state level which is where the comprehensive list of the 31 care five preparedness mission areas (preventions, protection, mitigation, response, recovery) and 31 core capabilities are listed. The county EMA coordinates the communication of the hazard rank in this portal. FEMA defines hazards as natural, technological or human caused. The CPG Threats or Hazards and the 2014 Indiana State Hazard Mitigation Plan hazard guides are both provided in the appendix B and were the initial steps in identifying the hazard. The primary focus of this mitigation plan will be on the development of analysis and strategies related to those natural and technological hazards that are managed or affect the city, town county communities. The following sections define the natural and technological that are re cognized with analysis and strategies in this plan. Since many of the hazards are often interrelated a review of the relationship to other hazards is provided within each hazard profile. Natural Hazards – Presented by the Physical World Those forces extraneous to man in elements of the natural environment, are difficult to manage, and are often interrelated. Natural hazards do not always cause damage to humans or the built environment; when a hazard and development intersect, significant damage can occur creating ---PAGE BREAK--- 39 the natural disaster. In general, there are three types of natural hazards, geologic, atmospheric, and other natural hazards that will be covered in this plan: Table 4-1: Natural Hazards Idenified in Plan Geologic Atmospheric Other Flooding Droughts Infectious Disease Outbreak Flash Flooding Extreme Temperatures Wild Fires Ground Failure • Mine • Fluvial erosion • Karst areas Summer Storms • Thunderstorms • Hail • Lightning • Wind Earthquakes Tornadoes Winter storms Technological Hazards – Presented by Man Technological hazards and human caused hazards are distinct from natural hazards primarily in that they originate from human activity. In contrast, while the risks presented by natural hazards may be increased or decreased as a result of human activity, they are not inherently human- induced. Technological hazards can be incidents that can arise from human activities such as the manufacture, transportation, storage, and use of hazardous materials. These hazards can also be intentional or the result from an emergency cause by another hazard Flood, Storm). The following table provides a summary of the technological hazards covered in depth in this plan. Table 4-2: Technological Hazards Idenified in Plan Technological Dam failure Hazardous Material Release Levee failure Calculated Priority Risk Index The Calculated Priority Rating Index (CPRI) is a process that evaluates the probability, consequence, warning time and duration in order to develop a hazard rank. A comprehensive list of all three classifications and ungrouped hazards are maintained with WebEOC. The also committee drew on the natural probability and impact ranked in the previous plan and more recent THIRA assessments when determining the final rank. The team reviewed previous plans hazard priority as shown in the following table. Table 4-3: Hazards rank in previous Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan ---PAGE BREAK--- 40 Hazard Tornado Thunderstorms/ High Winds/Hail/ Lightning Winter Storms Flooding Transportation Hazardous Material Release Earthquake Droughts/ Extreme Heat Tornado Thunderstorms/ High Winds/Hail/ Lightning Winter Storms Through the completion of previous THIRA ranks and the subsequent discussion in meeting one, the team developed a consensus on the hazard priority for the county for the purposes of this plan. The team determined the ranking to countywide natural and technological hazards and is outlined in the following table. Table 4-4: Calculated Priority Risk Index for the County Natural Hazards Probability Consequence Warning Time Duration Risk Factor Flash Flood 4 - Highly Likely 2 - Limited 4 - < 6 Hours 3 - < 1 Week 3.15 Severe Thunderstorms 4 - Highly Likely 2 - Limited 3 - 6-12 Hours 1 - < 6 Hours 2.95 Winter Storms 4 - Highly Likely 2 - Limited 1 - > 24 Hours 3 - < 1 Week 2.85 Hazardous Incident 3 - Likely 2 - Limited 4 - < 6 Hours 1 - < 6 Hours 2.65 Public Utility Failure 2 - Possible 3 - Critical 4 - < 6 Hours 2 - < 1 Day 2.6 Flood 3 - Likely 2 - Limited 1 - > 24 Hours 4 - > 1 Week 2.5 Drought 3 - Likely 2 - Limited 1 - > 24 Hours 4 - > 1 Week 2.5 Infectious Disease 3 - Likely 2 - Limited 1 - > 24 Hours 4 - > 1 Week 2.5 Tornado 2 - Possible 2 - Limited 4 - < 6 Hours 1 - < 6 Hours 2.2 Levee Failure 2 - Possible 3 - Critical 1 - < 6 Hours 2 - < 1 Day 2.15 Dam Failure 2 - Possible 3 - Critical 1 - < 6 Hours 2 - < 1 Day 2.15 Earthquake 1 - Unlikely 3 - Critical 4 - < 6 Hours 1 - < 6 Hours 2.05 Extreme Temperatures 2 - Possible 1 - Negligible 1 - > 24 Hours 4 - > 1 Week 1.75 Ground Failure 1 - Unlikely 1 - Negligible 4 - < 6 Hours 2 - < 24 hours 1.55 Wild Fires 1 - Unlikely 1 - Negligible 4 - < 6 Hours 2 - < 24 hours 1.55 The following formula provides the weighted factors described in the table and detailed below. Risk Factor = [(Probability/.45) x (Consequence/.30) x (Warning Time/.15) x (Duration/.10)] ---PAGE BREAK--- 41 Table 4-5: Summary of Calculated Priority Risk Index (CPRI) Categories and Risk Levels ---PAGE BREAK--- 42 CPRI Category DEGREE OF RISK Assigned Weighting Factor Level ID Description Index Value Probability Unlikely Extremely rare with no documented history of occurrences or events. Annual probability of less than 0.001 1 45% Possible Rare occurrences with at least one documented or anecdotal historic event. Annual probability that is between 0.01 and 0.001. 2 Likely Occasional occurrences with at least two or more documented historic events. Annual probability that is between 0.1 and 0.01. 3 Highly Likely Frequent events with a well-documented history of occurrence. Annual probability that is greater than 0.1. 4 Consequence Negligible Negligible property damages (less than 5% of critical and non-critical facilities and infrastructure). Injuries or illnesses are treatable with first aid and there are no deaths. Negligible quality of life lost. Shutdown of critical facilities for less than 24 hours. 1 30% Limited Slight property damages (greater than 5% and less than 25% of critical and non-critical facilities and infrastructure). Injuries or illnesses do not result in permanent disability and there are no deaths. Moderate quality of life lost. Shut down of critical facilities for more than 1 day and less than 1 week. 2 Critical Moderate property damages (greater than 25% and less than 50% of critical and non-critical facilities and infrastructure). Injuries or illnesses result in permanent disability and at least one death. Shut down of critical facilities for more than 1 week and less than 1 month. 3 Catastrophic Severe property damages (greater than 50% of critical and non- critical facilities and infrastructure). Injuries or illnesses result in permanent disability and multiple deaths. Shut down of critical facilities for more than 1 month. 4 Warning Time Less than 6 hours 4 15% 6 to 12 hours 3 12 to 24 hours 2 More than 24 hours 1 Duration Less than 6 hours 1 10% Less than 24 hours 2 Less than one week 3 More than one week 4 • Probability – a guide to predict how often a random event will occur. Annual probabilities are expressed between 0.001 or less (low) up to 1 (high). An annual probability of 1 predicts that a natural hazard will occur at least once per year. ---PAGE BREAK--- 43 • Consequence/Impact – indicates the impact to a community through potential fatalities, injuries, property losses, and/or losses of services. The vulnerability assessment gives information that is helpful in making this determination for each community. • Warning Time – plays a factor in the ability to prepare for a potential disaster and to warn the public. The assumption is that more warning time allows for more emergency preparations and public information. • Duration – relates to the span of time local, state, and/or federal assistance will be necessary to prepare, respond, and recover from a potential disaster event. Hazard Risk Assessment by Jurisdiction The risk assessments identify the characteristics and potential consequences of a disaster, how much of the community could be affected by a disaster, and the impact on community assets. While some hazards are widespread and will impact communities similarly, e.g. winter storms, others are localized leaving certain communities at greater risk than others, flash flooding and sewer related problems, exposure to a particular high-risk dam. The following diagrams illustrate each community’s risk to flooding, dam/levee failure, hazardous materials incidents, and ground failure and are highlighted within the risk assessment. Table 4-6: Localized Hazards for Incorporated Jurisdictions Jurisdiction Hazard Probability Flooding Flash Flooding Levee Failure Dam Failure Hazardous Incident Ground Failure Fort Wayne Unlikely Highly Likely Likely Possible Highly Likely Likely Grabill Possible Possible Unlikely Unlikely Possible Unlikely Huntertown Likely Likely Unlikely Unlikely Possible Possible Leo-Cedarville Highly Likely Highly Likely Unlikely Possible Unlikely Likely Monroeville Likely Likely Unlikely Unlikely Possible Possible New Haven Likely Likely Unlikely Possible Likely Likely Woodburn Possible Possible Unlikely Unlikely Possible Likely Zanesville Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely Unlikely NCDC Declared Disasters Historical storm event data was compiled from the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC). NCDC records are estimates of damage reported to the National Weather Service (NWS) from various local, state, and federal sources. Typically, the submissions are from law enforcement and emergency managers. It should be noted these estimates are often preliminary in nature and may not match the final assessment of economic and property losses related to given weather events. ---PAGE BREAK--- 44 The NCDC data included 607 reported events in Allen County between 1965 and December 31, 2016. A table listing all events, including; injury, death, and property loss statistics are included in Appendix C. FEMA Declared Disasters During the past decade, FEMA has declared twelve emergencies and disasters for the state of Indiana. The following map shows the number disasters by county in the state since June 2004. Figure 4-1: Disaster Declarations for Indiana The FEMA-Declared Disasters and Emergencies for Allen County (2000- 2017) table shows the details of the major disaster declarations including FEMA hazard mitigation funding and total assistance for Allen County. Allen County has received federal aid for seven declared disasters and three emergencies since 2000. ---PAGE BREAK--- 45 Table 4-7: FEMA-Declared Disasters and Emergencies for Allen County (2000- 2017) Disaster Number Date of Incident Date of Declaration Disaster Description Type of Assistance DR-4173 1/5/2014- 1/9/2014 4/22/2014 Severe Winter Storm And Snowstorm PA, HMGP DR-1832 3/8/2009- 3/14/2009 4/22/2009 Severe Storms, Tornadoes, And Flooding IA, HMGP DR-1740 1/7/2008- 3/14/2008 1/30/2008 Severe Storms And Flooding PA, IA, HMGP EM-3274 2/12/2007- 2/14/2007 3/12/2007 Snow – Snow PA EM-3238 8/29/2005- 10/1/2005 9/10/2005 Hurricane Katrina Evacuation PA DR-1573 1/1/2005- 2/11/2005 1/21/2005 Severe Winter Storms And Flooding PA, IA, HMGP DR-1520 5/25/2004- 6/25/2004 6/3/2004 Severe Storms, Tornadoes, And Flooding IA, HMGP DR-1476 7/4/2003- 8/6/2003 7/11/2003 Severe Storms, Tornadoes, And Flooding PA, IA, HMGP EM-3162 12/11/2000- 12/31/2000 1/24/2001 Snow PA PA – Public Assistance Program – IA – Individual Assistance Program – HMGP – Hazard Mitigation Grant Program In the event of a federally declared disaster, individuals, families, and businesses may apply for financial assistance to help with critical expenses. Assistance may be categorized as Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), or Hazard Mitigation Assistance (HMA). The following types of assistance may be available in the event of a disaster declaration: • Individuals & Household Program: Provides money and services to people in presidentially declared disaster areas. • Housing Assistance: Provides assistance for disaster-related housing needs. • Other Needs Assistance: Provides assistance for other disaster-related needs such as furnishings, transportation, and medical expenses. • Public Assistance: Disaster grant assistance available for communities to quickly respond to and recover from major disasters or emergencies declared by the president. • Emergency Work (Categories A-B): Work that must be performed to reduce or eliminate an immediate threat to life, to protect public health and safety, and to protect improved property that is significantly threatened due to disasters or emergencies declared by the president. • Permanent Work (Categories C-G): Work that is required to restore a damaged facility, through repair or restoration, to its pre-disaster design, function, and capacity in accordance with applicable codes and standards. • Hazard Mitigation Assistance: Provides assistance to states and local governments through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) to implement long-term hazard mitigation measures after a major disaster declaration. Highway departments claimed significant damages from flooding and fluvial erosion, and rural electrical cooperatives have historically been vulnerable to ice storms and high winds. Below the figure identifies the category funding that has happened in the county and surrounding counties. Figure 4-2 provides a breakdown of the PA in comparison to surrounding counties and the statewide averages. ---PAGE BREAK--- 46 Figure 4-2: Indiana Disaster Assistance for Allen and Surrounding Counties Other Disaster Relief In 2006, Indiana began appropriating funds to its State Disaster Relief Fund (SDRF) from the revenues it generated from firework sales to ensure the availability of a dedicated source of disaster funding. Through this program the state provides both public and individual assistance. The state established the disaster relief fund in 1999, it did not appropriate funds to the account due to fiscal constraints. In 2006, the state began dedicating funds from the sale of fireworks. Then in 2007, the state established in statute that the fund would receive an annual appropriation of $500,000 from revenues generated from the firework sales. This budgeting processes is to ensure that during for disasters was appropriated before than after a disaster occurred. In addition to potential state funding, homeowners and businesses can be eligible for low-interest and long-term loans through the US Small Business Administration (SBA). SBA was created in 1953 as an independent agency of the federal government to aid, counsel, assist, and protect the interests of small business concerns. The program also provides low-interest, long-term disaster loans to businesses of all sizes, private nonprofit organizations, homeowners and renters following a declared disaster. The loans can also provide resources for Homeowner Associations, Planned Unit Developments, co-ops, condominium and other common interest developments. SBA ---PAGE BREAK--- 47 disaster loans can be used to repair or replace the following items damaged or destroyed in a declared disaster: real estate, personal property, machinery, equipment, inventory, and business assets. Through the disaster loan program, SBA provides the on loan data, including; FEMA and SBA disaster numbers, type (business or home), year, and various reporting amounts on the verified and approved amount of real estate and contents. Table 4-8 provides a breakdown of the number of claims per year, and, when applicable, provides the SBA declaration and FEMA disaster numbers. Table 4-8: SBA declaration reference Year FEMA Declaration SBA Declaration Community Total 2005 1573 10007 Fort Wayne 3 2008 1740 11160 Fort Wayne 8 2008 1740 11160 Huntertown 1 2008 1740 11160 Spencerville 1 2009 1832 11720 Fort Wayne 3 2012 - 13174 Fort Wayne 12 2012 - 13174 Harlan 1 2012 - 13174 Huntertown 1 2012 - 13174 Spencerville 1 2015 - 14430 Fort Wayne 1 2015 - 14430 Yoder 1 Vulnerability Assessment The vulnerability assessment builds upon the previously developed hazard information by identifying the community assets and development trends. Determining the hazard rank is pertinent to determining the area of vulnerability, as displayed in the following figure. ---PAGE BREAK--- 48 Figure 4-3: Areas of Vulnerability Identified by Hazards, Assets, and Trends Asset Inventory The critical facilities features used the Department of Homeland Security in the Automated Critical Asset Management System (ACAMS) for guidance. Essential facilities are a subset of critical facilities and are considered to be vital to infrastructure. Maps, Names and locations of all critical facilities are found in Appendix C. Future Development Since Allen County is vulnerable to a variety of natural hazards, the county government—in partnership with state government—must make a commitment to prepare for the management of these events. Allen County is committed to ensuring that county elected and appointed officials become informed leaders regarding community hazards so that they are better prepared to set and direct policies for emergency management and county response. The Allen County Emergency Management Director will work to keep the jurisdictions covered by the Hazard Mitigation Plan engaged and informed during the plan’s 5-year planning cycle. By keeping jurisdictional leaders actively involved in the monitoring, evaluation and update of the HMP, they will keep their local governments aware of the hazards that face their communities and how to mitigate those hazards through planning and project implementation. Each jurisdiction has identified mitigation strategies that they will seek to implement in their communities as listed in Chapter 6. Jurisdictions will include considerations for hazard mitigation in relation to future Hazard Risk Factor Asset Inventory & Development Trends Area of Vulnerability ---PAGE BREAK--- 49 development when updating local comprehensive plans or other plans that may influence such development. Hazard Profiles The following hazard profiles outlined the hazard risk exposure for the county. The hazard is first described, and then reviewed in the historical context of the county. In many cases, an analysis subsequently follows the hazard context that analyzes the facility and building inventory risk. When appropriate, the analysis presents the mapping figures but, in some cases, if the results are helpful but not critical, they are included in Appendix B. 4.1 Flash Flood and Riverine Flood Hazard Description Flooding is a significant natural hazard throughout the US. The type, magnitude, and severity of flooding are functions of the amount and distribution of precipitation over a given area, the rate at which precipitation infiltrates the ground, the geometry of the catchment, and flow dynamics and conditions in and along the river channel. Floods in Allen County can be classified as one of two types: flash floods or riverine floods, which are both common in Indiana. Flash floods generally occur in the upper parts of drainage basins and are generally characterized by periods of intense rainfall over a short duration. These floods arise with very little warning and often result in locally intense damage, and sometimes loss of life, due to the high energy of the flowing water. Flood waters can snap trees, topple buildings, and easily move large boulders or other structures. Six inches of rushing water can upend a person; another 18 inches might carry off a car. Generally, flash floods cause damage over relatively localized areas, but they can be quite severe in the areas in which they occur. Urban flooding is a type of flash flood. Urban flooding involves the overflow of storm drain systems and can be the result of inadequate drainage combined with heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt. Flash floods can occur at any time of the year in Indiana, but they are most common in the spring and summer months. Riverine floods refer to floods on large rivers at locations with large upstream catchments. Riverine floods are typically associated with precipitation events that are of relatively long duration and occur over large areas. Flooding on small tributary streams may be limited, but the contribution of increased runoff may result in a large flood The lag time between precipitation and time of the flood peak is much longer for riverine floods than for flash floods, generally providing ---PAGE BREAK--- 50 ample warning for people to move to safe locations and, to some extent, secure some property against damage. Riverine flooding on the large rivers of Indiana generally occurs during either the spring or summer. The Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA) is defined as the area that will be inundated by the flood event having a 1% chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. The 1% annual chance flood is also referred to as the base flood or 100-year flood. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) provided the Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM) that identifies the SFHA. Flood hazard scenarios were modeled using GIS analysis and Hazus-MH. The existing DFIRM maps were used to identify the areas of study. Planning team input and a review of historical information provided additional information on specific flood events. If a structure is located in a high-risk area, the owner is required to purchase flood insurance if they have a mortgage through a federally regulated or insured lender. Flood insurance is not federally required in moderate- to low-risk areas, but it's still a good idea. In fact, people in these areas file more than 20 percent of all National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) flood insurance claims. Most homeowners in moderate- to low-risk areas can get coverage at a reduced rate. Preferred Risk Policy (PRP) premiums, the lowest premiums available through the NFIP, offer building and contents coverage for one low price. If person does not qualify for a PRP, a standard-rated policy is still available. The map displays the published FEMA FIRM, which is the reference for the NFIP. ---PAGE BREAK--- 51 Figure 4-4: Special Flood Hazard Areas Best Available Data The Indiana Floodplain Information Portal (INFIP) is a mapping application hosted by the IDNR. The website provides floodplain information to citizens and local officials, including floodplain data and flood elevation data for select streams. The portal displays the following floodplain layers: FEMA effective mapping (DFIRM), FEMA preliminary mapping and the IDNR Best Available Flood Hazards Areas. The "Effective Special Flood Hazard Area" (Effective), is the National Flood Hazard Layer (NFHL) as published by FEMA. This map data is developed from Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) and Letters of Map Revisions (LOMR). The NFHL is the layer used in the Hazus-MH analysis. The preliminary mapping layer includes proposed NFHL data by FEMA. ---PAGE BREAK--- 52 The “Best Available Flood Hazard Area" (Best Available) includes the Effective mapping, as well as additional studies that have been approved by the IDNR. While this data has not yet been submitted to FEMA for inclusion in the NFHL, this data can be used for general planning, construction, and development purposes. These maps however, are not to be used for NFIP purposes. Figure 4-5 identifies the stream reaches that have Best Available SFHA data on INFIP. Figure 4-5: Best Available Special Flood Hazard Areas Flood History in Allen County Flooding in Allen County occurs because of two reasons, either heavy winter and spring rains couple with snow melt to cause flooding or heavy summer storms bring excessive amounts of rain to the area. Allen County has 3 major rivers that intersect within the town of Fort Wayne. The St. Joseph, St. Marys, and Maumee rivers have all been responsible for flooding in the county. Allen County has two major reservoirs in the northern portions of the county, the Cedarville Reservoir and the Hurshtown Reservoir. On record Allen County has listed the following major floods over ---PAGE BREAK--- 53 the years; 1913, 1943, 1959, 1967, 1968, 1978, 1982, 2003, 2004, and 2005. The Executive Director of the Maumee River Basin Commission reported that significant flooding also occurred in 2011 and 2015. Stream gages The USGS in cooperation with many state agencies, the Maumee River Basin Commission, the City of Fort Wayne, and local utility and surveyor offices help maintain stream gages, which provide the capability to obtain estimates of the amount of water flowing in streams and rivers. Most USGS stream gages operate by measuring the elevation of the water in the river or stream and then converting the water elevation (called 'stage') to a streamflow ('discharge') by using a curve that relates the elevation to a set of actual discharge measurements. For many of the public freshwater lakes in northern Indiana, local and state partners utilize staff gages, which dictate the location of the last visit. The DNR and IDEM utilize the stream gage data for water quantity and quality measurements. Local public safety officials utilize the data at these sites, along with the resources from the NWS, to determine emergency management needs during periods of heavy rainfall. ---PAGE BREAK--- 54 Figure 4-6: USGS Stream Gages and NCDC Weather Stations All of the USGS gages are utilized by the EMA and other local officials to provide indicators and warning of approaching flood problems. A 9-mile reach of the St. Mary’s River at Ft. Wayne, Indiana, Flood Inundation Map (FIM) extends from South Anthony Boulevard to Main Street in the City. This FIM was created by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the City of Ft. Wayne. The FIMs depict estimates of the areal extent and depth of flooding corresponding to selected water levels (stages) at the USGS stream gages surrounding the county. A report and the data for this FIM is available on the USGS site: http://water.usgs.gov/osw/flood_inundation/. A map of the river at the top of the Flood Stage is capture in Figure 4-7. A reference to the St. Mary’s FIM is available under local resources in the Appendix. ---PAGE BREAK--- 55 Figure 4-7: St. Mary’s FIM at top of Flood Stage Vulnerability and Future Development Areas with recent development within the county may be more vulnerable to drainage issues. Storm drains and sewer systems are usually most susceptible. Damage to these can cause the back up of water, sewage, and debris into homes and basements, causing structural and mechanical ---PAGE BREAK--- 56 damage as well as creating public health hazards and unsanitary conditions. Controlling floodplain development is the key to reducing flood-related damages. Allen County also seeks to protect numerous areas of environmental sensitivity—for example, riparian areas, wetland areas, and woodlands. Flash flooding may affect nearly every location within the county; therefore, all buildings and infrastructure are vulnerable to flash flooding. Indiana requires all construction sites disturbing more than one acre, many industrial sites, and all designated Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems to obtain NPDES permit coverage and sites with significant risk of contaminated water may be required to obtain an individual permit. In addition, depending on a property’s location, a permit may be required from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources prior to the start of any reconstruction activity. Failure to obtain the necessary permits could result in fines. For more information on the local permitting requirements, please contact: Allen County Building Department 200 East Berry Street, Suite 180 Fort Wayne, IN 46802-1811 (260) 449-7131 The Allen County Zoning Ordinance provides guidance for the development and management of building in flood prone areas. The zoning ordinances limits future development in conservation and floodplain areas. Any building, structure, or use of land in the designated Flood Plain District that is not in conformance with the requirements of the City of Fort Wayne Zoning Ordinance constitutes a nonconforming use. All applications to repair, extend, or enlarge a nonconforming use in the Flood Plain District as identified by the zoning ordinance will be forwarded to the Indiana Department of Natural Resources for review and comment. Risk Analysis Historical Analysis Since the NFIP plays such a vital role in mitigating flood risk, understanding the status of hazard maps and reported losses occurring can provide insight on new strategies to mitigate the impacts and losses of future events. A historical analysis of the NFIP and flood history can be a tool to determine mitigation strategies. ---PAGE BREAK--- 57 The following table provide the status of the NFIP and their associated maps: Initial Flood Hazard Boundary Map (FHBM) date, Initial Flood Insurance Rate Map date, Current Effective date, and the regular entry date are provided below. The maps used in the execution of the local floodplain ordinance used the Current Effective Map Date. The following table then identifies the NFIP community reported losses, payments, and total claims that were closed without a payment. Table 4-9: NFIP Participation and Mapping Dates Community ID Community FHBM Identified Init FIRM Identified Curr Eff Map Date Reg-Emer Date 180302 Allen County (Unincorporated) 02/27/76 09/28/90 10/2/2013 09/28/90 180003 City of Fort Wayne 02/15/74 04/03/85 08/03/2009 04/03/85 180499 Town of Grabill 02/27/76 09/28/90 08/03/2009 10/17/1990 180005 Town of Huntertown 05/31/74 11/2/1983 08/03/2009 11/2/1983 180518 Town of Leo Cedarville 02/27/76 09/28/90 08/03/2009 02/09/00 180498 Town of Monroeville 09/28/90 10/2/2013 10/17/1990 180004 City of New Haven 12/14/1973 07/18/83 08/03/2009 07/18/83 180500 City of Woodburn 09/28/90 (NSFHA) 10/17/1990 180573 Town of Zanesville (Wells County) 08/03/09 10/16/2014 09/29/16 Table 4-10: Community Loss and Payments Totals NFIP Community Total Losses Closed without Payment Total Payments Allen County (Unincorporated) 180 33 $2,185,311 City of Fort Wayne 1,430 276 $13,281,737 City of New Haven 19 9 $57,097 Total 1,629 318 $15,524,145 A repetitive loss property: an NFIP insured structure that has had at least two paid flood losses of more than $1,000 each in any 10-year period since 1978. FEMA Region V was contacted to determine the type of repetitive loss structures and their location. Severe repetitive loss properties single or multifamily residential properties that are covered under an NFIP flood insurance policy and: 1. That have incurred flood-related damage for which 4 or more separate claims payments have been made, with the amount of each claim (including building and contents payments) exceeding $5,000, and with the cumulative amount of such claims payments exceeding $20,000; or 2. For which at least 2 separate claims payments (building payments only) have been made under such coverage, with cumulative amount of such claims exceeding the market value of the building. ---PAGE BREAK--- 58 3. In both instances, at least 2 of the claims must be within 10 years of each other, and claims made within 10 days of each other will be counted as 1 claim. According to the 2015 report from the, there had been 5 properties in the county that had been mitigated, and 64 within the City of Ft. Wayne, which resulted in 159 prior losses now mitigated. There are no severe-repetitive loss (SRL) properties in the county or its communities. The total number of non-mitigated repetitive losses reported as of the Spring 2016 are included in the table below. Table 4-11: Repetitive Losses Non-Mitigated (Spring 2016) Repetitive Losses Losses Payments Total Payments Allen County (unincorporated) 39 12 $1,349,540 Fort Wayne 130 47 $2,871,002 New Haven 6 3 $79,577 A list of properties mitigated by federal and non-federal funds is listed in Appendix- tables 4 and 5. These will highlight the continued efforts that the City of Ft. Wayne has towards continuing to lessen the effects of flooding through the pursuit of flood acquisitions. Combining Available Data and Methods Hazus-MH was used to estimate the damages incurred for a 1% annual chance flood event in Allen County using a Q3 and a 10-meter DEM (digital elevation model) to create a flood depth grid. Hazus- MH was used to generate a flood depth grid for a 1% annual chance food return period based upon the DFIRM boundary and a 1/3 ArcSecond DEM provided by the Indiana Geological Survey. Hazus- MH was then used to perform a user-defined facility analysis of Allen County. This was accomplished by creating points representing building locations that were generated from IDLGF- provided assessor data linked to parcel data provided by the county (through IDHS and IndianaMap). These data were then analyzed to determine the depth of water at the location of each building point and then related to depth damage curves to determine the building losses for each structure. Allen County specific building data was sourced from the parcel tax databases and building location point databases included building valuations and occupancy class. Building counts were aggregated from the individual parcel records to the relevant census administrative boundaries. There are an estimated 18,017 buildings in the region with a total replacement value (excluding ---PAGE BREAK--- 59 contents) of $1.2 billion (2016 dollars). Approximately 87.6% of the buildings (and 80.25% of the building value) are associated with residential housing. Using the Allen County general building stock, the Hazus model reported an estimated 403 buildings will be at least moderately damaged. This is over 28% of the total number of buildings in the scenario. The Hazus model found that an estimated 204 buildings that will be completely destroyed. Building losses are broken into two categories: direct building losses and business interruption losses. The direct building losses are the estimated costs to repair or replace the damage caused to the building and its contents. The business interruption losses are associated with inability to operate a business because of the damage sustained during the flood. Business interruption losses also include the temporary living expenses for those people displaced from their homes because of the flood. The total building-related losses were $72.6 million dollars. 1% of the estimated losses were related to the business interruption of the region. Residential occupancies made up 72.8% of the total loss. Hazus-MH estimates the Special Flood Hazard Areas would damage 458 buildings county-wide at a cost of $27.9 million. In the modeled scenario. The Town of Ellettsville sustained the most damage with 111 buildings damaged at a cost of $14.1 million. The total estimated numbers and cost of damaged buildings by community are given in Tables 4-12 and 4-13. Figure 4-8 depicts the Allen County buildings that fall within the SFHA. Figures in the appendix highlight damaged buildings within the floodplain areas in each flood prone community. Table 4-12: Number of Buildings Damaged by Community and Occupancy Class Community Total Buildings Damaged Building Occupancy Class Agriculture Commercial Educ. Govt. Industrial Religious Residential Allen Co. (unincorporated) 1,489 213 18 5 6 15 7 1,225 Fort Wayne 2,947 8 121 5 15 27 18 2,753 New Haven 88 0 12 0 0 0 0 190 Monroeville 8 1 0 0 1 1 0 5 Huntertown 4 0 1 0 0 0 0 3 Leo-Cedarville 32 1 0 0 1 0 0 30 Grabill 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 Zanesville 10 0 0 0 0 0 0 10 Total 4,579 223 152 10 24 43 25 4,216 ---PAGE BREAK--- 60 Table 4-13: Cost of Buildings Damaged by Community and Occupancy Class Community Cost Buildings Damaged Building Occupancy Class Agriculture Commercial Educ. Govt. Industrial Religious Residential Allen Co. (unincorp.) $137,515,821 $21,931,115 $30,011,711 $14,098,352 $1,675,819 $16,235,085 $803,975 $52,789,764 Fort Wayne $350,197,924 $624,872 $114,934,943 $8,443,798 $1,729,173 $80,789,078 $13,552,374 $130,123,686 New Haven $24,026,229 $0 $11,269,491 $0 $0 $0 $0 $12,756,738 Monroeville $1,845,451 $123,732 $0 $0 $1,186,740 $378,123 $0 $156,856 Huntertown $32,042 $0 $1,762 $0 $0 $0 $0 $30,280 Leo- Cedarville $1,573,034 $81,312 $0 $0 $167,264 $0 $0 $1,324,458 Grabilll $25,733 $0 $0 $0 $25,733 $0 $0 $0 Zanesville $526,883 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $526,883 Total $515,743,117 $22,761,031 $156,217,907 $22,542,150 $4,784,729 $97,402,286 $14,356,349 $197,708,665 Figure 4-8: Allen County Buildings in Special Flood Hazard Areas ---PAGE BREAK--- 61 Overlay Analysis of Facilities and Infrastructure A critical facility will encounter many of the same impacts as other buildings within the flood boundary. These impacts can include structural failure, extensive water damage to the facility and loss of facility functionality. As an example, a damaged waste water facility would no longer be able to serve the community. An essential facility will encounter many of the same impacts as other buildings within the flood boundary. These impacts can include structural failure, extensive water damage to the facility and loss of facility functionality (e.g. a damaged police station will no longer be able to serve the community). A map showing all community infrastructure and facilities is presented below. Structures that would obtain damage in the 1% annual chance flood (with the exception of dams and levees) are highlighted in the maps below with a yellow point. All maps of the impacted facility or infrastructure are included in the appendix. Figure 4-9-10: Infastructure Located in Special Flood Hazard Areas ---PAGE BREAK--- 62 ---PAGE BREAK--- 63 Exposure Analysis An exposure analysis identifies the existing and future assets located in identified hazard areas, often by using GIS for analysis and maps for visualization. Exposure analysis can quantify the number, type, and value of structures, critical facilities, and infrastructure located in identified hazard areas, as well as assets exposed to multiple hazards. The analysis also can take into account the magnitude of the flood frequency area annual flood, AE/Floodway and 0.2% annual flood risk). Further analysis is provided on the Best Available mapping layers, which are provided by DNR for floodway references but are not to be used for flood insurance determinations. A list of all infrastructure systems and the floodplains are located in the appendix. The following tables present the total identified structures within the type of published special flood hazard area. The first table compares the totals of Zone A and Zone AE number of structure a. Zone A areas, are in ---PAGE BREAK--- 64 locations where published elevation have not been established by FEMA. Zone AE areas have a floodway identified on the FIRM map along with an associated Floodway Data table and flood profile for Base Flood Elevation (BFE) reference for local floodplain permitting. The Zone AE/Floodway is considered the areas where fast moving floodwaters during the 1% annual chance flood as opposed to pooling. Table 4-14: Structures in Zone A, AE, and Floodway only Zone A Zone AE Zone AE/Floodway Total Allen County (unincorporated) 186 652 209 1,047 Fort Wayne 31 1,595 271 1,897 Grabill - 1 1 2 Huntertown - 2 2 4 Leo-Cedarville - 11 7 18 Monroeville - 5 2 7 New Haven - 120 44 164 Woodburn - - - 0 Zanesville - 5 3 8 Source: Allen County 2016 secured roll assessor and parcel date; Allen County DFIRM The total structures in the Special Flood Hazard Area are based on approximate building locations, and therefore should not be used as an absolute comparison. However, this information may be used to target further mitigation through further engagement with the NFIP. In addition, this may be a tool to help understand if there would be an interest in becoming involved in a discount program with the Community Rating System (CRS). Table 4-15: Community Structure Count and Number of Policies Structures in Zone A/AE Number of Policies Allen County (unincorporated) 1,047 199 Fort Wayne 1,897 763 Grabill 2 - Huntertown 4 4 Leo-Cedarville 18 2 Monroeville 7 1 New Haven 164 32 Woodburn - - Zanesville 8 - Total 3,147 1,001 Source: Allen DFIRM; FEMA Indiana NFIP report, September 2017 ---PAGE BREAK--- 65 The analysis detected several areas of interest for Allen County that contain a larger than average number of buildings exposed to flood hazard. These areas have been focused on as areas of interest. Buildings located in the flood zone are symbolized based on their occupancy code. Locations identified below appear to pose a major flood risk to the building inventory, developed with the analysis. Major areas of flooding are provided below, and the remaining areas are included in the appendix. The classification of the types is based on the occupancy codes and can be a helpful indicator on the type of flooding and may help guide successful mitigation projects. Figure 4-11-19: Damaged Building Inventory ---PAGE BREAK--- 66 ---PAGE BREAK--- 67 ---PAGE BREAK--- 68 ---PAGE BREAK--- 69 User Input: July 2015 ---PAGE BREAK--- 70 User Input Since accurate, published floodplain mapping can be difficult to manage on top of development, the FIRM analysis may not always be sufficient for understanding the flood exposure. In addition to the FIRM analysis, the Best Available Data can produce an improved assessment of more streams. The former EMA provided these locations of known vulnerable places of flooded areas, roads, and intersections to the IDHS office. The countywide and important locations are provided below in the analysis. Other relevant mapping may be included in Appendix B. Figure 4-20: Countywide flooded intersections, roads and areas ---PAGE BREAK--- 71 Through administering the Floodway and NFIP programs in the state, the DNR receives requests for information and applications for construction in a floodway. The construction requests are classified as constructions in a floodway, general information requests, such as a letter outreach request, and finally drainage board projects, which are designated through prior coordination with the count surveyor and DNR offices. The following maps display the requests handled by the DNR from 2006 to 2016. Portions along streams less than one square mile will not have a base flood elevation determined by the DNR as this is out of their jurisdiction. Figure 4-21: DNR Floodplain Inquiries and FEMA Map Changes. ---PAGE BREAK--- 72 Figure 4-22: DNR Construction Requests ---PAGE BREAK--- 73 Relationship to other Hazards Severe storms and blizzards - summer storms lead to log jams and snow melt can contribute to flooding and, under the right circumstances, flash flooding. Dam Failure - Flood events can compromise the structural integrity of dams. Public Health - Public health can be affected as a result of wastewater spills due to flooding or power failures. Water Main Breaks - Surges in water pressure as a result of water pumps starting after power outages can lead to water main breaks. Plans and Programs in Place Debris Management Plan- Aligns partnerships and communication between jurisdictions, transportation, and utilities. Floodplain Ordinances –The County and its NFIP communities have a floodplain ordinances in place that regulates development and setbacks on shorelines and include the state floodplain and ---PAGE BREAK--- 74 shoreland standards. These programs set minimum standards for local units of government that regulate development within shoreland and floodplain areas. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) - The NFIP is a federal program created by Congress to mitigate future flood losses nationwide through sound, community-enforced building and zoning ordinances and to provide access to affordable, federally-backed flood insurance protection for property owners. The NFIP is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods. Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between local communities and the federal government that states that if a community will adopt and enforce a floodplain management ordinance to reduce future flood risks to new construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), the federal government will make flood insurance available within the community as a financial protection against flood losses. Road Infrastructure and Drainage - Public Works staff at the county, city and township level work on culvert and ditch maintenance to prevent road flooding. Ice dams and culverts are monitored and addressed to reduce road flooding during spring thaws. The county has put a priority on culvert improvements to avoid road washouts. Stream Gauging - The National Weather Service and the U.S. Geological Society provide real-time websites that gauge stream flow in area streams and rivers. Multiple gages in the county have can be accessed online and used to inform the public of areas expected to be flooded as the river and reservoir levels rise. Repetitive Loss Structures – Allen County and its communities have the ability to purchase repetitive loss properties. Public Warning and Notification - Allen County promotes the use of NOAA weather radios by critical facilities and the public to receive information broadcast from the National Weather Service. Program Gaps or Deficiencies Stream Stabilization - Ongoing maintenance and repairs exist along regulated drains in the county. ---PAGE BREAK--- 75 Beaver Dams and Flood Risk - Beaver dams have impounded many areas with water, and under normal rain events they are not a problem. However, in the event of flash flooding, when beaver dams break, road infrastructure is burdened with a major additional flow of water. Road and Culvert Improvements - Allen County strives to constantly improve its road and culvert infrastructure against flooding, but is limited by financial resources to go beyond maintenance on some projects. 4.2 Earthquake Hazard Description An earthquake is a sudden, rapid shaking of the earth caused by the breaking and shifting of rock beneath the earth's surface. For hundreds of millions of years, the forces of plate tectonics have shaped Earth as the huge plates that form the Earth's surface move slowly over, under, and past each other. Sometimes the movement is gradual. At other times, the plates are locked together, unable to release the accumulating energy. When the accumulated energy grows strong enough, the plates break free, causing the ground to shake. Ninety-five percent of earthquakes occur at the plate boundaries; however, some earthquakes occur in the middle of plates, as is the case for seismic zones in the Midwestern US. The most seismically active area in the Central US is referred to as the New Madrid Seismic Zone. Scientists have learned that the New Madrid fault system may not be the only fault system in the central US capable of producing damaging earthquakes. The Wabash Valley Fault System in Indiana shows evidence of large earthquakes in its geologic history, and there may be other currently unidentified faults that could produce strong earthquakes. Figure 4-23 depicts Indiana’s historical earthquake epicenters. Tables 4-16 and 4-17 provide guidance on how to interpret the modified Mercalli intensity scale. Ground shaking and tremors from strong earthquakes can collapse buildings and bridges; disrupt gas, electric, and communication (e.g. phone, cable, Internet) services; and sometimes trigger landslides, flash floods, and fires. Buildings with foundations resting on unconsolidated landfill and other unstable soil and trailers or homes not tied to their foundations are at risk because they can be shaken off their mountings during an earthquake. When an earthquake occurs in a populated area, it may cause deaths, injuries, and extensive property damage. ---PAGE BREAK--- 76 Figure 4-23: Indiana Historical Earthquake Epicenters ---PAGE BREAK--- 77 Table 4-16: Abbreviated Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale Mercalli Intensity Description I Not felt except by a very few under especially favorable conditions. II Felt only by a few persons at rest, especially on upper floors of buildings. III Felt quite noticeably by persons indoors, especially on upper floors of buildings. Many people do not recognize it as an earthquake. Standing motor cars may rock Vibrations similar to the passing of a truck. Duration estimated. IV Felt indoors by many, outdoors by few during the day. At night, some awakened. Dishes, windows, doors disturbed; walls make cracking sound. Sensation like heavy truck striking building. Standing motor cars rocked noticeably. V Felt by nearly everyone; many awakened. Some dishes, windows broken. Unstable objects overturned. Pendulum clocks may stop. VI Felt by all, many frightened. Some heavy furniture moved; a few instances of fallen plaster. Damage slight. VII Damage negligible in buildings of good design and construction; slight to moderate in well-built ordinary structures; considerable damage in poorly built or badly designed structures; some chimneys broken. VIII Damage slight in specially designed structures; considerable damage in ordinary substantial buildings with partial collapse. Damage great in poorly built structures. Fall of chimneys, factory stacks, columns, monuments, walls. Heavy furniture overturned. IX Damage considerable in specially designed structures; well-designed frame structures thrown out of plumb. Damage great in substantial buildings, with partial collapse. Buildings shifted off foundations. X Some well-built wooden structures destroyed; most masonry and frame structures destroyed with foundations. Rails bent. XI Few, if any (masonry) structures remain standing. Bridges destroyed. Rails bent greatly. XII Damage total. Lines of sight and level are distorted. Objects thrown into the air. Table 4-17: Earthquake Magnitude vs. Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale Earthquake Magnitude Typical Maximum Modified Mercalli Intensity 1.0 - 3.0 I 3.0 - 3.9 II - III 4.0 - 4.9 IV - V 5.0 - 5.9 VI - VII 6.0 - 6.9 VII - IX 7.0 and higher VIII or higher ---PAGE BREAK--- 78 Earthquake History in Allen County At least 43 earthquakes, M3.0 or greater, have occurred in Indiana since 1817. The last such event was a M3.1 centered just north of Vincennes on May 10, 2010. A M3.8 earthquake occurred in December later that same year with approximately 10,390 individuals submitting felt reports to the USGS. More recently, a magnitude 5.8 centered in Mineral, Virginia affected much of the East Coast on August 23, 2011. Ten nuclear power plants were shutdown of precautionary inspections following the quake, over 400 flights were delayed, and the Washington Monument was closed indefinitely pending detailed inspections by engineers. Although the majority of seismic activity in Indiana occurs in the southwestern region of the state, there are some documented instances in the central and northern parts of the state. Vulnerability and Future Development During an earthquake, the types of infrastructure that could be impacted include roadways, runways, utility lines and pipes, railroads, and bridges. Because an extensive inventory of the infrastructure is not available to this plan, it is important to emphasize that any number of these structures could become damaged in the event of an earthquake. The impacts to these structures include broken, failed, or impassable roadways and runways; broken or failed utility lines, such as loss of power or gas to a community; and railway failure from broken or impassable tracks. Bridges also could fail or become impassable, causing traffic risks and ports could be damaged which would limit the shipment of goods. Typical scenarios are described to gauge the anticipated impacts of earthquakes in the county in terms of numbers and types of buildings and infrastructure. New construction, especially critical facilities, will accommodate earthquake mitigation design standards. The discussion included strategies to harden and protect future, as well as existing, structures against the possible termination of public services and systems including power lines, water and sanitary lines, and public communication. Risk Analysis ---PAGE BREAK--- 79 Combining Available Data and Methods The Hazus earthquake mode estimates damages and loss of buildings, lifelines and essential facilities from scenario and probabilistic earthquakes. It also provides information on the direct economic losses such as casualties, and shelter and economic (including indirect) impacts and the indirect losses such as inundation, fire, hazmat, and debris. In depth earthquake results are provided in Appendix B, below is a summary of the comparisons of the chosen earthquake scenarios. The building losses are broken into two categories: direct building losses and business interruption losses. The direct building losses are the estimated costs to repair or replace the damage caused to the building and its contents. The business interruption losses are the losses associated with inability to operate a business because of the damage sustained during the earthquake. Business interruption losses also include the temporary living expenses for those people displaced from their homes because of the earthquake. The building damage total loss amount is developed by the building inventory attributes inputs. Depending on the material of construction, type of foundation, year of construction the expense in rebuilding the expense will be affected. Hazus Earthquake Description Modeling a deterministic scenario requires user input for a variety of parameters. One of the most critical sources of information required for accurate assessment of earthquake risk is soils data. Fortunately, a National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program (NEHRP) soil classification map exists for Indiana. NEHRP soil classifications portray the degree of shear-wave amplification that can occur during ground shaking. The Indiana Geological Survey (IGS) supplied the soils map used for the analysis. FEMA provided a map for liquefaction potential that was used in the Hazus-MH analysis. An earthquake depth of 10.0 kilometers was selected for all deterministic scenarios based on input from IGS. Hazus-MH also requires the user to define an attenuation function unless ground motion maps are supplied. Because Indiana has experienced smaller earthquakes, the decision was made to use the Central Eastern US (CEUS) attenuation function. Additionally, the analysis included two different types of probabilistic scenarios. These types of scenarios are based on ground shaking parameters derived from U.S. Geological Survey ---PAGE BREAK--- 80 probabilistic seismic hazard curves. The first probabilistic scenario was a 500-year return period scenario. This scenario evaluates the average impacts of a multitude of possible earthquake epicenters with a magnitude that would be typical of that expected for a 500-year return period. The second probabilistic scenario allowed calculation of annualized loss. The annualized loss analysis in HAZUS-MH provides a means for averaging potential losses from future scenarios while considering their probabilities of occurrence. The HAZUS-MH earthquake model evaluates eight different return period scenarios including those for the 100-, 250-, 500-, 750-, 1000-, 1500-, 2000-, and 2500-year return period earthquake events. HAZUS-MH then calculates the probabilities of these events as well as the interim events, calculates their associated losses, and sums these losses to calculate an annualized loss. The Building Damage Summary by Earthquake Event table displays damages for all 4 scenarios run by Hazus. The map displayed in the Earthquake Scenarios figure displays total losses for each scenario broken down by census block. Additional tables and figures breaking down building loss by occupancy can be found in the Appendix. Table 4-18: Building Damage Summary by Earthquake Event Scenario Total Loss in Dollars Moderate Extensive New Madrid, KY M7.7 0.00 0 0 Mount Carmel, IL M6.8 0.00 0 0 Probabilistic M5.0 14.25 Million 32 1 Annualized .28 Million 0 0 ---PAGE BREAK--- 81 Figure 4-24: Earthquake scenarios for Allen County Relationship to other Hazards Ground Failure- According to the National Academies of Sciences Engineering Medicine, the major cause of earthquake damage is ground failure. Some ground failures induced by earthquake are the result of liquefaction of saturated sands and silts, the weakening of sensitive clays or by the crumbling and breaking away of soil and rock on steep slopes. Ground failure has been known to cause buildings to collapse and to severely hinder communication and transportation systems. ---PAGE BREAK--- 82 Utility Failure- Earthquakes frequently damage utilities particularly underground facilities and older storage tanks, but nearly every utility can be vulnerable to the shaking that earthquakes induce. Seismic damage to buried utilities are often influenced by ground conditions and subsurface strain distribution. Since utilities are typically part of a larger network system, damages to key locations in a network can potentially set off a chain reaction that affects significant portions of the utility system as a whole. Earthquake damage to utilities can also potentially create secondary hazards such as fires or hazmat situations since some utilities may handle volatile or flammable substances. Plans and Programs in Place No existing plans or programs were identified. Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified. 4.3 Ground Failure Hazard Description According to the USGS, the term ground failure is a general reference to landslides, liquefaction, lateral spreads, and any other consequence of land shaking that affects ground stability. For ground failure this plan will only address land subsidence and landslides. Landslides are a serious geologic hazard common to almost every state in the US. It is estimated that nationally they cause up to $2 billion in damages and from 25 to 50 deaths annually. Globally, landslides cause billions of dollars in damage and thousands of deaths and injuries each year. The term landslide is a general designation for a variety of downslope movements of earth materials. Some landslides move slowly and cause damage gradually, whereas others move so rapidly that they can destroy property and take lives suddenly and unexpectedly. Gravity is the force driving landslide movement. Factors that allow the force of gravity to overcome the resistance of earth material to landslide movement include: saturation by water, steepening of slopes by erosion or construction, alternate freezing or thawing, earthquake shaking, and volcanic eruptions. There are three main types of landslides that occur in Indiana: rotational slump, and rock fall. Landslides ---PAGE BREAK--- 83 A landslide is a rapid movement of surface land material down a slope. The main causes of landslides include: • Earthquake or other significant ground vibration • Slope failure due to excessive downward movement, gravity • Groundwater table changes (often due to heavy rains) Preventive and remedial measures include modifying the landscape of a slope, controlling the groundwater, constructing tie backs, spreading rock nets, etc. The USGS claims that landslides are a significant geologic hazard in the US causing $1-2 billion in damage and over 25 fatalities per year. The expansion of urban and recreational development into hillside areas has resulted in an increasing number of properties subject to damage as a result of landslides. Landslides commonly occur in connection with other major natural disasters such as earthquakes, wildfires, and floods. Although landslides may not be preventable, their effect on people and property can be mitigated. Mitigation includes any activities that prevent an emergency, reduce the chance of an emergency happening, or lessen the damaging effects of unavoidable emergencies. Investing in preventive mitigation steps now such as planting ground cover (low growing plants) on slopes, or installing flexible pipe fittings to avoid gas or water leaks, will help reduce the impact of landslides and mudflows in the future. Karst Southern Indiana has a network of underground caves formed by what is known as karst landscape. According to the Indiana Geological Survey, karst topography is a distinctive type of landscape largely shaped by the dissolving action of groundwater on carbonate bedrock, usually limestone. This geological process, which will take thousands of years, is characterized by unique features such as sinkholes, fissures, caves, disappearing streams, springs, rolling topography, and underground drainage systems. These karst formations have the potential to collapse under the weight of the ground above them creating a sinkhole. Ground failure of this nature is known as land subsidence. Any structures built above a karst formation could potentially be subject to land subsidence and collapse into a resulting sinkhole. Allen County has no karst features. Fluvial Erosion ---PAGE BREAK--- 84 The Fluvial Erosion Hazard (FEH) also represents a significant concern in areas where human development and infrastructure, are established in close proximity to natural waterways. In mild cases, this may be seen as the gradual loss of a farm field or the undermining of a fence row when gradual channel migration consumes private land. In more severe cases, the FEH risk may threaten properties and/or structures to the degree that they become uninhabitable or even lost to natural channel processes. Where interaction between human activities and natural waterways within communities exist, those communities must be mindful of the tendency of waterways to shift their position across the landscape. This knowledge can help a community anticipate FEH damages thereby making the community more resilient to flood and erosion impacts. The Indiana Silver Jackets Hazard Mitigation Task Force has initiated a multi-agency program to identify, study and provide mitigation planning resources for individuals and communities who would like to adopt FEH avoidance strategies. The resources provided by this project will enable individuals and communities to better recognize areas prone to natural stream-erosion processes and adopt strategies to avoid FEH-related risks. Ground Failure History in Allen County Unrecorded landslide events occur throughout Allen County with varying degrees of severity. Flash floods, which Allen County experiences relatively frequently, can trigger mudflows, landslides, and crumbled roads. Ground failure is less likely to cause spectacular structural collapses, but is frequently the cause of major disruptions, particularly to lifelines, which can lead to prolonged loss of function and income, even for undamaged areas. Allen County has no karst areas to list but there have been reports of sinkholes throughout the county. The 13th World Conference on Earthquake Engineering highlighted some of the methodology that can be used to for evaluating ground failure losses. Their paper is designed to assist decision makers in coming to an informed choice regarding the use of appropriate methodology and to help them consider the best allocation of resources when mitigating ground failure. Vulnerability and Future Development The extent of the ground failure hazard is closely related to development near the regions that are at risk. The extent will vary within these areas depending on the potential of elevation change, as well as the size of the underground structure. The hazard extent of ground failure is spread throughout the county in various concentrated areas. ---PAGE BREAK--- 85 Figure 4-25: Elevation Map – Allen County The US Geological Survey’s Landslide Overview Map of the Conterminous United States shows two large zones in south-central Indiana as having moderate susceptibility for landslides, but with low incidence of landslides. In contrast, the majority of northern Indiana has a very low (less than 1.5% of the area involved) incidence of landslides and only the northwest is shown as having a moderate level of susceptibility. As seen in USGS Landslide Overview Map figure, Allen County predominantly lies the low susceptibility and low to moderate incidence areas. The physiographic divisions of the show that the county is located in the southern hills within the Norman, Mitchell, and Crawford upland regions. ---PAGE BREAK--- 86 Figure 4-26: USGS Landslide Overview Map Figure 4-27: Physiographic Divisions of Indiana ---PAGE BREAK--- 87 Risk Analysis Exposure Analysis Since the difficulty predicting which communities are at risk of ground failure, the entire population and all buildings have been identified as at risk. As a result, this plan will consider all buildings as vulnerable. The existing buildings and infrastructure of Allen County are discussed in types and number below. As seen in Figure 4-28, the terrain of Allen County is driven by the rivers bordering its northern and eastern boundaries. The terrain immediately adjacent to the rivers is mostly flat with the diverse terrain being found further into the center of the county. There are no karst areas in the county though some reports of sinkholes can be found scatter throughout the county. ---PAGE BREAK--- 88 Figure 4-28: Slope Map – Allen County The majority of Allen County is commercial and residential and, as such, many of the areas of diverse terrain do intersect with populated areas. Some areas do border major transportation routes, such as what is displayed in Figure 4-29, in the north eastern portion of the county. Figure 4-29: Slope Map – Eastern Allen County ---PAGE BREAK--- 89 Since of the difficulty predicting which communities are at risk of ground failure, the entire population and all buildings have been identified as at risk, as a result this plan will consider all buildings as vulnerable. These impacts include damages ranging from cosmetic to structural. Buildings may sustain minor cracks in walls due to a small amount of settling, while in more severe cases the failure of building foundations causes cracking of critical structural elements. Since Allen County is susceptible to ground failure events, the types of infrastructure that could affect include roadways, utility lines/pipes, railroads, and bridges. The risk to these structures is primarily associated with land collapsing directly beneath them in a way that undermines their structural integrity. Since all infrastructure in the affected area are equally vulnerable, it is important to emphasize that any number of these items could become damaged as a result of significant landslides. The impacts to these items include broken, failed, or impassable roadways; broken or failed utility lines such as loss of power or gas to a community; and railway failure from ---PAGE BREAK--- 90 broken or impassable tracks. In addition, bridges could fail or become impassable causing risk to traffic. Relationship to other Hazards Flooding – Flooding is typically the leading cause to ground failure, particularly along streams. Ground failure and flooding combine to impact property and infrastructure such as roads and bridges. Plans and Programs in Place Fort Wayne Stormwater Utility Rules and Regulations: - Regulations that address soil erosion and sedimentation caused by land disturbing activities within Allen County. Allen County Zoning Ordinance- The zoning ordinance applies to all land disturbing activities within the boundaries and jurisdiction of Allen County except for when superseded by a local city or town ordinance. Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified. 4.4 Summer Storms: Thunderstorms, Hailstorms, Lightning, Tornadoes, Windstorms Hazard Description Thunderstorms Severe thunderstorms are defined as thunderstorms with one or more of the following characteristics: strong winds, large damaging hail, or frequent lightning. Severe thunderstorms most frequently occur in Indiana during the spring and summer but can occur any month of the year at any time of day. A severe thunderstorm’s impacts can be localized or can be widespread in nature. A thunderstorm is classified as severe when it meets one or more of the following criteria. • Hail of diameter 0.75 inches or higher • Frequent and dangerous lightning • Wind speeds equal to or greater than 58 miles an hour ---PAGE BREAK--- 91 Lightning Lightning is caused by the discharge of electricity between clouds or between clouds and the surface of the earth. In a thunderstorm there is a rapid gathering of particles of moisture into clouds and forming of large drops of rain. This gathers electric potential until the surface of the cloud (or the enlarged water particles) is insufficient to carry the charge, and a discharge takes place, producing a brilliant flash of light. The power of the electrical charge and intense heat associated with lightning can electrocute on contact, split trees, ignite fires, and cause electrical failures. Most lightning casualties occur in the summer months, during the afternoon and early evening. Hail Hail is a product of a severe thunderstorm. Hail consists of layered ice particles which are developed when strong updrafts within the storm carry water droplets above the freezing level. They remain suspended and continue to grow larger, until their weight can no longer be supported by the winds. The NWS uses the following descriptions when estimating hail sizes: pea size is ¼ inch, marble size is ½ inch, dime size is ¾ inch, quarter size is 1 inch, golf ball size is 1 ¾ inches, and baseball size is 2 ¾ inches. Individuals who serve as volunteer “storm spotters” for the NWS are located throughout the state, and are instructed to report hail dime size (¾ inch) or greater. Hailstorms can occur throughout the year; however, the months of maximum hailstorm frequency are typically between May and August. Although hailstorms rarely cause injury or loss of life, they can cause significant damage to property, particularly roofs and vehicles. Windstorms and Tornadoes Windstorms can and do occur in all months of the year; however, the most severe windstorms usually occur during severe thunderstorms in the warm months. Allen County frequently experiences winds blowing at over 50 knots. Associated with strong thunderstorms, downbursts are severe localized downdrafts from a thunderstorm or rain shower. This outflow of cool or colder air can create damaging winds at or near the surface. Downburst winds can potentially cause as much damage as a small tornado and are often confused with tornadoes due to the extensive damage that they inflict. As these downburst winds spread out, they are frequently referred to as straight-line winds. Straight-line winds can cause major structural and tree damage over a relatively large area. The most recent severe wind and hail storms, as well as to historic tornado paths are shown in map and in tables in the Appendix. ---PAGE BREAK--- 92 Summer storms, including thunderstorms, hailstorms, and windstorms affect Allen County on an annual basis. Thunderstorms are the most common summer hazardous event in the county, occurring primarily during the months of May through August, with the severest storms most likely to occur from mid-May through mid-July. Typically, thunderstorms are locally produced by cumulonimbus clouds, are always attended by lightning, and are often accompanied by strong wind gusts, heavy rain, and sometimes hail and tornadoes. Tornadoes are violently-rotating columns of air extending from thunderstorms to the ground, with wind speeds between 40-300 mph. The Glossary of Meteorology defines a tornado as a violently rotating column of air, in contact with the ground, either pendant from a cumuliform cloud or underneath a cumuliform cloud, and often (but not always) visible as a funnel cloud. They develop under three scenarios: along a squall line; in connection with thunderstorm squall lines during hot, humid weather; and in the outer portion of a tropical cyclone. Funnel clouds are rotating columns of air not in contact with the ground; however, the column of air can reach the ground very quickly and become a tornado. Since 2007, tornado strength in the United States is ranked based on the Enhanced Fujita scale (EF scale), replacing the Fujita scale introduced in 1971. The EF scale uses similar principles to the Fujita scale, with six categories from 0-5, based on wind estimates and damage caused by the tornado. The EF Scale is used extensively by the NWS in investigating tornadoes (all tornadoes are now assigned an EF Scale number), and by engineers in correlating damage to buildings and techniques with different wind speeds caused by tornadoes. Tornado damage curves for the Fujita Scale are shown below. The approximate width of the damage and minimum percent damage provide a better understanding of the capabilities of the tornado funnels as the sizes increase. Table 4-19: Tornado Path Widths and Damage Curves Enhanced Fujita Scale Path Width (feet) Maximum Expected Damage EF5 3,000 100% EF4 2,400 100% EF3 1,800 80% EF2 1,200 50% EF1 600 10% EF0 300 0% ---PAGE BREAK--- 93 Summer Storm History in Allen County Tornado Tornadoes are widespread throughout the state and may cause varying amounts of damage to property and injuries to Allen County’s residents and visitors. NCDC reported 4 tornados in the last decade none causing any serious injuries or deaths though property damages were reported. Two separate touchdowns were reported with the same storm system on October 26th 2010. Damages were reported on homes, power lines, barns, and rail cars in the area. An EF-0 was recorded on August 20th of 2014 which caused minor damages to trees and crops. On August 24th of 2016 a tornado which started northeast of Fort Wayne in Milan Center was responsible for significant damages to a farm and farm equipment. Summer Storm Summer storms are recorded in the NCDC database in a variety of fashions for Allen County such as, thunder storm, thunder storm wind, hail, flash flood, flood, and lightening. Overall there have been 205 summer storm related reports, not including reports of tornados. 2007-2014 was a 7-year stretch that saw extensive reports of summer storms, particularly 2001-2012 with each of those three years reporting 24-26 events each year. May, June, and July are the most common months for reports, followed closely by March, April, and August. Reports of summer storm activity have been recorded in 11 out of the 12 months. On May 1st of 2010 one man was reported to have been killed instantly by a lightning strike associated with an early morning storm. In March of 2016 trained spotters reported quarter to ping pong ball sized hail county wide. A summer storm on July 13th of 2015 brought heavy rains and lightning to the area. One home was stuck by lightning, causing a fire which destroyed the home completely. Heavy flooding affected I-69 in places making it very dangerous. Later that year in August, trained storm spotters reported high winds with the strength to blow down tree limbs which were 2-3 feet in diameter. More details on the many summer storm events in Allen County can be found in the NCDC database, listed in Appendix B. ---PAGE BREAK--- 94 Figure 4-30: NCDC-Reported Thunderstorm Events by Category (June 1995–July 2015) Vulnerability and Future Development During a tornado the types of infrastructure that could be impacted include roadways, utility lines/pipes, railroads, and bridges. Since the county’s entire infrastructure is equally vulnerable, it is important to emphasize that any number of these items could become damaged during a tornado. The impacts to these items include broken, failed, or impassable roadways, broken or failed utility lines (e.g. loss of power or gas to community), and railway failure from broken or impassable railways. Bridges could fail or become impassable causing risk to traffic. All facilities are vulnerable to severe thunderstorms. These facilities will encounter many of the same impacts as any other building within the jurisdiction including structural failure, damaging debris (trees or limbs), roofs blown off or windows broken by hail or high winds, fires caused by lightning, and loss of building functionality, such as a damaged police station would no longer be able to serve the community. During a severe thunderstorm, the types of infrastructure that could be impacted include roadways, utility lines and pipes, railroads, and bridges. Since the county’s entire infrastructure is equally vulnerable, it is important to emphasize that any number of these structures could become ---PAGE BREAK--- 95 damaged during a severe thunderstorm. The impacts to these structures include impassable roadways, broken or failed utility lines, causing loss of power or gas to the community, or railway failure from broken or impassable tracks. Additionally, bridges could fail or become impassable, causing risks to traffic. The Allen County Zoning Ordinance and Fort Wayne Zoning Ordnance both address policies for the controlled release of storm water runoff and declares that the release rate of storm water from developed lands shall not exceed the release rate from the land area in it pre-construction state. Since topography and the availability and adequacy of outlets for storm runoff vary with almost every site, the requirements for storm drainage tend to be an individual matter for any project. The Allen County Zoning Ordinance recommends that each proposed project be discussed with the Allen County Surveyor and Plan Director at the earliest practical time in the planning stage. Risk Analysis Exposure Analysis Since all buildings are subject to exposure from summer storm events, it is important to recognize the numerous potential benefits of investing in mitigation. An ounce of prevention can be more effective than a pound of cure. Taking steps to guard against and prepare for hazardous events can be one of the most effective means of safeguarding property, community assets, and lives. The identification of safe rooms and clear communication on the execution of the use of them during a hazardous event can be vital in providing safety to populations, particularly for those who do not inhabit buildings with basements or have easy access to designated shelters. Schools and public buildings where large groups of people will all require shelter demand special attention and planning. During a tornado, the types of infrastructure that could be impacted include roadways, utility lines and pipes, railroads, and bridges. Since the county’s entire infrastructure is equally vulnerable, it is important to emphasize that many of these structures could become damaged during a tornado. The potential impacts to these structures include broken, failed, or impassable roadways, broken or failed utility lines, such as loss of power or gas to community, and railway failure from broken or impassable tracks. Bridges could fail or become impassable, causing risk to traffic. ---PAGE BREAK--- 96 Combining Available Data and Methods An example scenario is described as follows to gauge the anticipated impacts of tornadoes, in terms of numbers and types of buildings and infrastructure, in the county. Using the parameters described above n the Fujita scale, the following methods were implemented when determining the potential impact of a tornado within the City of Rising Sun. An EF3 tornado has three damage zones, as shown in Table 4-20. Maximum devastation of 80% is estimated within 150 feet of the tornado path (the darker-colored Zone Within the outer buffer, between 300 and 600 feet of the tornado path (the lightest-colored Zone 10% of the buildings will be damaged. Figure 4-31: EF4 Tornado Analysis, Using GIS Buffers Table 4-20: F4 Tornado Zones and Damage Curves Fujita Scale Zone Buffer (feet) Damage Curve EF-4 4 900-1200 10% EF-4 3 600-900 50% EF-4 2 300-600 80% EF-4 1 0-300 100% The planning team determined to recreate a historical EF3 tornado that occurred in 2002. A hypothetical EF3 tornado path that stretches from the southwest to the eastern part of the county through Rising Sun. The hypothetical path, and damage buffers with building inventory are shown below. The results of the analysis are depicted in Tables 4-15 and 4-16. The GIS analysis estimates that 1,949 buildings will be damaged. The estimated building losses are $508.6 million. The building ---PAGE BREAK--- 97 losses are an estimate of building replacement costs multiplied by the percentages of damage. The overlay was performed against the Building Inventory created at an earlier stage using the Assessor data in combination with Parcel records. Figure 4-32: Modeled F4 Tornado Damage Hypothetical Path Figure 4-33: Tornado Path with Damaged Buildings ---PAGE BREAK--- 98 Figure 4-34: Tornado Path: Allen County Zoomed In Table 4-21: Estimated Building Losses by Occupancy Type ---PAGE BREAK--- 99 Occupancy Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 4 Residential 842 821 1,587 1,452 Commercial 42 40 63 74 Industrial 12 0 5 8 Agriculture 7 4 14 14 Religious 8 12 9 21 Government 6 3 2 6 Education 0 2 2 7 Total 917 882 1,682 1,582 Table 4-22: Estimated Losses by Zone Occupancy Zone 1 Zone 2 Zone 3 Zone 4 Residential $150,922,456 $121,951,111 $196,064,028 $35,765,860 Commercial $238,163,512 $76,652,291 $170,227,190 $48,961,246 Industrial $23,769,432 $0 $34,406,660 $5,308,461 Agriculture $6,947,718 $601,528 $1,865,231 $338,860 Religious $86,389,159 $25,322,984 $85,653,997 $9,300,684 Government $2,200,055 $76,652,291 $183,807 $1,513,509 Education $0 $3,805,552 $8,065,846 $18,721,250 Total %508,392,332 $231,890,565 $496,466,760 $119,909,873 Facility and Infrastructure Damage The critical facilities damaged in the hypothetical tornado path are shown in Figure 4-35. ---PAGE BREAK--- 100 Figure 4-35: Hypothetical Damages to Infastructure within Tornado Path Allen County Relationship to other Hazards Flooding - Thunderstorms with heavy amounts of rainfall can cause localized flooding, which can impact property and infrastructure such as roads. Public Health - Public health can be impacted as a result of wastewater spills due to flooding. Wildland Fire - Lighting strikes may ignite a wildland fire. Windstorms that result in downed timber increase the fuel load in a forest that may increase the risk of wildfire. Structural Fire - Lighting strikes may ignite a wildland or structural fire. Plans and Programs in Place Debris Management Plan- Aligns partnerships and communication between jurisdictions, transportation, and utilities. ---PAGE BREAK--- 101 SKYWARN Program - The National Weather Services (NWS) has a SKYWARN Program, offering annual training sessions to volunteers in Allen County. There is a network of trained storm spotters in Allen County. These volunteers help keep their local communities safe by providing timely and accurate reports of severe weather to their local National Weather Service office. Storm Shelters –The Allen County Emergency Management Agency supports residential applicants in their pursuit of storm shelter federal funding. Outdoor Warning Sirens – Allen County, Indiana does possess warning sirens and participated in tornado warning tests issued by the National Weather Service offices in Indiana, triggering programmed electronic devices. Sirens are activated in the event of a tornado warning or severe thunderstorms with winds of 70 mph or greater. Warning sirens are used to issue a warning to the public concerning inclement weather conditions, enabling them to seek shelter. Backup Power – Not all critical facilities have backup power. Burying Power Lines - Burying power lines helps eliminate loss of power due to severe summer storms. The power company works to accommodate requests for installation of underground power lines to residents or businesses receiving connection of new power in areas where it is feasible. Some energy providers bury lines in areas where it makes sense to do so, but does not offer this as a regular customer option. Vegetation Management – The Allen County Highway Department strives to clear the right of way of its improved, high-volume roads to reduce tree blowdown in the event of severe summer storms. Many of the utility companies also assist in the management of tree maintenance along utility corridors. School Closings - All school districts within Allen County have a school closing policy and communications plan in place if inclement weather or temperatures create a hazardous situation for students or staff. Schools have notification systems which allow them to notify all families who are registered in the school system with up-to-date information. NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter Towers - The National Weather Service delivers storm warnings and key information during severe winter weather events over its radio towers. According to the National Weather Service Coverage Listing for Indiana, all of Allen County is covered by the National Weather Service transmitters. ---PAGE BREAK--- 102 Public Warning and Notification - In the event of emergencies or hazardous conditions that require timely and targeted communication to the public, Allen County utilizes its Allen County Alert mass notification system along with local news media. Allen County promotes the use of NOAA weather radios by critical facilities and the public for receiving information broadcast from the National Weather Service. Public Education and Awareness - Allen County promotes the National Weather Service’s “Severe Weather Awareness Week” held in April each year. The event seeks to educate residents on the dangers of severe summer storm events and highlights the importance of preparing for severe weather before it strikes. Program Gaps or Deficiencies Outdoor Warning Sirens - Gaps in the warning sirens are listed as a needed mitigation strategy. Storm Shelters - Not all Allen County public schools have designated safe rooms. Backup Power - Not all county facilities have backup power in the event of a disaster. 4.5 Drought Hazard Description The meteorological condition that creates a drought is below normal rainfall. However, excessive heat can lead to increased evaporation, which will enhance drought conditions. Droughts can occur in any month. Drought differs from normal arid conditions found in low rainfall areas. Drought is the consequence of a reduction in the amount of precipitation over an undetermined length of time (usually a growing season or more). There are several common types of droughts including meteorological, hydrological, agricultural, and socioeconomic. Figure 4-43 describes the sequence of drought occurrence and impacts of drought types. Meteorological: Defined by the degree of dryness (as compared to an average) and the duration of the dry period. These are region-specific and only appropriate for regions characterized by year- round precipitation. Hydrological: Associated with the effects of periods of precipitation shortfalls (including snow) on surface or subsurface water supply, including stream flow, reservoir and lake levels, and ---PAGE BREAK--- 103 groundwater. Impacts of hydrological droughts do not emerge as quickly as meteorological and agricultural droughts. For example, deficiency on reservoir levels may not affect hydroelectric power production or recreational uses for many months. Agricultural: Links characteristics of meteorological or hydrological drought to agricultural impacts. An agricultural drought accounts for the variable susceptibility of crops during different stages of crop development from emergence to maturity. Socioeconomic: Links the supply and demand of some economic good, e.g. water, forage, food grains, and fish, with elements of meteorological, hydrological, or agricultural droughts. This type of drought occurs when demand for an economic good exceeds supply as a result of weather- related shortfall in water supply. Figure 4-36: Sequence of Drought Occurrence and Impacts A drought refers to an extended period of deficient rainfall relative to the statistical mean for a region. Drought can be defined according to meteorological, hydrological, socioeconomic, and ---PAGE BREAK--- 104 agricultural criteria. Meteorological drought is qualified by any significant deficit of precipitation. Hydrological drought is manifest in noticeably reduced river and stream flow and critically low groundwater tables. The term agricultural drought indicates an extended dry period that results in crop stress and harvest reduction. Socioeconomic drought refers to the situation that occurs when water shortages begin to affect people and their lives. It associates economic goods with the elements of meteorological, agricultural, and hydrological drought. Many supplies of economic goods water, food grains, and hydroelectric power) are greatly dependent on the weather. Due to natural variations in climate, water supplies are high in some years but low in others. Fluctuating long-term climate variations make drought difficult to predict. Drought is a climatic phenomenon that occurs in Allen County. The meteorological condition that creates a drought is below-normal rainfall. Excessive heat, however, can lead to increased evaporation, which will enhance drought conditions. Droughts can occur in any month. Drought differs from normal arid conditions found in low-rainfall areas. Drought is the consequence of a reduction in the amount of precipitation over an undetermined length of time (usually a growing season or more). Drought conditions are often accompanied by extreme heat, which is defined as temperatures that hover 10° F or more above the average high for the area and last for several weeks. Extreme heat can occur in humid conditions when high atmospheric pressure traps the damp air near the ground or in dry conditions, which often provoke dust storms. The severity of a drought depends on location, duration, and geographical extent. Additionally, drought severity depends on the water supply, usage demands made by human activities, vegetation, and agricultural operations. Drought brings several different problems that must be addressed. The quality and quantity of crops, livestock, and other agricultural assets will be affected during a drought. Drought adversely can impact forested areas, leading to an increased potential for extremely destructive forest and woodland fires that could threaten residential, commercial, and recreational structures. The Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), developed by W.C. Palmer in 1965, is a soil moisture algorithm utilized by most federal and state government agencies to trigger drought relief programs and responses. The objective of the PDSI is to provide standardized measurements of moisture, so that comparisons can be made between locations and periods of time—usually months. The PDSI is designed so that a -4.0 in Indiana has the same meaning in terms of the moisture departure from a climatological normal as a -4.0 does in South Carolina. ---PAGE BREAK--- 105 The U.S. Drought Monitor (USDM) provides a national assessment on drought conditions in the United States. The following table is a reference from the classification scheme provided by the USDM, and the correlation between PDSI and the category, descriptions, and possible impacts associated with those level events. This classification is often used to refer to the severity of droughts for statistical purposes. The USDM provides weekly data for each county, noting the percent of land cover in the condition of the drought category identified below. Table 4-23: USDMX Category Description Possible Impacts Palmer Drought Severity Index D0 Abnormally Dry Going into drought: -short-term dryness slowing planting, growth of crops or pastures. Coming out of drought: some lingering water deficits -1.0 to -1.9 D1 Moderate Drought -Some damage to crops, pastures -Streams, reservoirs, or wells low, some water shortages developing or imminent -Voluntary water-use restrictions requested -2.0 to -2.9 D2 Severe Drought -Crop or pasture losses likely -Water shortages common -Water restrictions imposed -3.0 to -3.9 D3 Extreme Drought -Major crop/pasture losses -Widespread water shortages or restrictions -4.0 to -4.9 D4 Exceptional Drought -Exceptional and widespread crop/pasture losses -Shortages of water in reservoirs, streams, and wells creating water emergencies -5.0 or less In the past decade, the US has continued to consistently experience drought events with economic impacts greater than $1 billion; FEMA estimates that the nation’s average annual drought loss is $6 billion to $8 billion. For Indiana alone, the National Drought Mitigation Center reported hundreds of drought impacts in the past decade ranging from water shortage warnings to reduced crop yields and wild fires. Drought History in Allen County During the 1988 drought, crop yields were 50%-86% less than in the previous year, as indicated in a study by the USGS. Additionally, the IDNR issued a 90-day water conservation decree for the northwest quadrant of Indiana. State surface water reservoirs approached, and some reached, record low water levels. Some power plants reduced, or shut down, operations temporarily where cooling reservoirs fell to a level that could not support the capacity to cool discharge waters from ---PAGE BREAK--- 106 the plant. The 1999 drought affected the eastern and Midwestern portions of the United States, with Indiana facing hard-felt crop and other agricultural losses. Data gathered from the National Drought Mitigation Center’s Drought Impact Reporter indicated that between August 2005 and September 2015, there were 191 total drought-related impacts to Allen County. Vulnerability and Future Development Future development will remain vulnerable to drought events. Typically, some urban and rural areas are more susceptible than others. For example, urban areas are subject to water shortages during periods of drought. Excessive demands of the populated area place a limit on water resources. In rural areas, crops and livestock may suffer from extended periods of heat and drought. Dry conditions can lead to the ignition of wildfires that could threaten residential, commercial, and recreational areas. Since droughts are regional in nature, future development will be impacted across the county. Although urban and rural areas are equally vulnerable to this hazard, those living in urban areas may have a greater risk from the effects of a prolonged heat wave. According to FEMA, the atmospheric conditions that create extreme heat tend to trap pollutants in urban areas, adding contaminated air to the excessively hot temperatures and creating increased health problems. Furthermore, asphalt and concrete store heat longer, gradually releasing it at night and producing high nighttime temperatures. This phenomenon is known as the “urban heat island effect.” Local officials should address drought hazards by educating the public on steps to take before and during the event. For example, temporary window reflectors can be used to direct heat back outside, the public should be advised to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid strenuous work during the warmest part of the day. Relationship to other Hazards Wildfires - A drought situation can significantly increase the risk of wildfire. Extreme Temperatures - A drought situation can significantly increase with long periods of high temperatures. Plans and Programs in Place ---PAGE BREAK--- 107 Well Monitoring - The Allen County SWCD routinely monitors wells throughout the county for water levels for groundwater levels. EMS Training – The Allen County Emergency Medical Service (EMS) provides full emergency services the county and is dedicated to the preservation of life and quality of life and the education of the public in areas of life preservation. Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified. 4.6 Winter Storms: Blizzards, Ice Storms, Snowstorms Hazard Description Severe winter weather consists of various forms of precipitation and strong weather conditions. This may include one or more of the following: freezing rain, sleet, heavy snow, blizzards, icy roadways, extreme low temperatures, and strong winds. These conditions can cause human- health risks such as frostbite, hypothermia, and death. Ice Storms Ice or sleet, even in the smallest quantities, can result in hazardous driving conditions and can be a significant cause of property damage. Sleet can be easily identified as frozen raindrops. Sleet does not stick to trees and wires. The most damaging winter storms in Indiana have been ice storms. Ice storms are the result of cold rain that freezes on contact with objects having a temperature below freezing. Ice storms occur when moisture-laden gulf air converges with the northern jet stream, causing strong winds and heavy precipitation. This precipitation takes the form of freezing rain, coating power lines, communication lines, and trees with heavy ice. The winds then will cause the overburdened limbs and cables to snap, leaving large sectors of the population without power, heat, or communication. Falling trees and limbs also can cause building damage during an ice storm. In the past few decades, numerous ice-storm events have occurred in Indiana. Snowstorms Significant snowstorms are characterized by the rapid accumulation of snow, often accompanied by high winds, cold temperatures, and low visibility. A blizzard is categorized as a snowstorm with winds of 35 miles an hour or greater and/or visibility of less than one-quarter mile for three or more ---PAGE BREAK--- 108 hours. The strong winds during a blizzard blow about falling and already existing snow, creating poor visibility and impassable roadways. Blizzards have the potential to result in property damage. Indiana has been struck repeatedly by blizzards. Blizzard conditions not only cause power outages and loss of communication, potentially for days, but can also make transportation difficult. The blowing of snow can reduce visibility to less than one-quarter mile, and the resulting disorientation makes even travel by foot dangerous, if not deadly. Damages from blizzards can range from significant snow removal costs to human and livestock deaths. Because of the blinding potential of heavy snowstorms, drivers are also at risk of collisions with snowplows or other road traffic. Stranded drivers can make uninformed decisions, such as leaving the car to walk in conditions that put them at risk. Drivers and homeowners without emergency plans and kits are vulnerable to the life-threatening effects of heavy snow storms such as power outages, cold weather, and inability to travel, communicate, obtain goods or reach their destinations. Heavy snow loads can cause structural damage, particularly in areas where there are no building codes or for residents living in manufactured home parks. Winter Storm History in Allen County Allen County and the surrounding northern Indiana counties are all susceptible to severe winter weather. Snow and ice accumulations cause problems on area road ways as does blowing and drifting snow. The county can see both system snow and on occasion lake effect snow from Lake Michigan, though the first snow accumulation is most common. The NCDC database reports 52 winter storm events, including winter storms, blizzards, ice storms, and heavy snow, since 2006. Only two deaths were reported as a result of winter weather events, one in January of 2012 and one in December of 2016. The latter of the two was the result of icy road conditions which caused a fatal accident. Allen County has seen winter weather events from November through March, with February being the most common month having a total of 18 reported events. January and December both reported having 13 winter weather events. March had 6 reported events and November had only 2. Relationship to other Hazards Flooding - Melting from heavy snows can cause localized flooding which can impact property and infrastructure such as roads. ---PAGE BREAK--- 109 Wildland or Structural Fire - Heavy storms that result in large amounts of downed timber can result in an increase of dead or dying trees left standing, thus providing an increased fuel load for a wildfire. There is an additional risk of increased frequency of structural fires during heavy snow events, primarily due to utility disruptions and the use of alternative heating methods by residents. Public Safety - Drivers stranded in snowstorms may make uninformed decisions that can put them at risk; residents who are unprepared or vulnerable may not be able to obtain goods or reach their destinations. EMS providers may be slowed by road conditions to respond to emergencies. Ice storms may result in power outages due to downed power lines, putting people at risk for cold temperature exposure and reducing the ability to spread emergency messages to the public via television, radio or computer. Plans and Programs in Place Snow Removal – The Allen County Highway Department has capabilities for snow removal and highway treatment in order to maintain safe winter driving conditions. The department carries out snow removal and ice control operations. Paved routes within Allen County receive priority for snow plowing. INDOT handles snow removal on trunk highways within Allen County. The county has agreements with several townships to do snow plowing. All other city and township jurisdictions either have their own equipment for snow removal or contract for services to do so. Backup Power – Not all essential facilities have backup power. Burying Power Lines - Burying power lines helps eliminate loss of power due to snow and ice storms. NOAA Weather Radio Transmitter Towers - The National Weather Service delivers storm warnings and key information during severe winter weather events over its radio towers. School Closings - All school districts within Allen County have a school closing policy and communications plan in place if inclement weather or temperatures create a hazardous situation for students or staff. Schools have notification systems which allow them to notify all families who are registered in the school system with up-to-date information. ---PAGE BREAK--- 110 Public Warning and Notification - Allen County promotes the use of NOAA weather radios by critical facilities and the public to receive information broadcast from the National Weather Service. Public Education and Awareness - Allen County promotes the National Weather Service’s “Winter Hazard Awareness Week” held in November each year. The event seeks to educate residents on the dangers of winter weather and how to properly deal with it. Program Gaps or Deficiencies Backup Power - Not all county facilities have backup power in the event of a disaster. 4.7 Wildfire Hazard Description The hazard extent of wildfires is greatest in the heavily forested areas of southern Indiana. The IDNR Division of Forestry assumes responsibility for approximately 7.3 million acres of forest and associated wild lands, including state and privately-owned lands. Indiana’s wildfire seasons occur primarily in the spring—when the leaf litter on the ground dries out and before young herbaceous plants start to grow and cover the ground (green up)—and in the fall—after the leaves come down and before they are wetted down by the first heavy snow. During these times, especially when weather conditions are warm, windy, and with low humidity, cured vegetation is particularly susceptible to burning. When combined, fuel, weather, and topography, present an unpredictable danger to unwary civilians and firefighters in the path of a wildfire. Human action can not only intervene to stop the spread of wildfires, but can also mitigate their onset and effects. Forest and grassland areas can be cleared of dry fuel to prevent fires from starting and can be burned proactively to prevent uncontrolled burning. Wildfire History in Allen County There have been no recorded wildfires in Allen County. Relationship to other Hazards Flooding and Erosion-Wildfires can completely eliminate vegetation and pose an increased risk to flooding and erosion effects. ---PAGE BREAK--- 111 Drought and Extreme Heat - Dry, hot conditions can reduce the protective moisture of woodlands and increase the risk of wildfire. Hazardous Material Release – Storage tanks carrying chemicals including chlorine, ammonia, and fuel tanks located at farm pose an increased risk to wildfire ignition. Infectious Disease Outbreak- Pests such as the Emerald Ash Borer, pose a threat to increased wildfire risk, as they provide liter for fire ignition. Plans and Programs in Place Fire Departments- Fire departments respond to structure fires and will also help when needed in other jurisdictions. Community arrangements are highlighted in detail within the community Zoning- County and community enforced zoning promote healthy fire safety from all avenues of construction and enforcement. State Land Management- DNR manages all state properties and executes vegetation management plans which reduce the risk of wildfire incidents. 4.8 Extreme Temperatures Hazard Description Severe Cold What constitutes an extreme cold event, and its effects, varies by region across the US. In areas unaccustomed to winter weather, near freezing temperatures are considered “extreme cold.” Extreme cold temperatures are typically characterized by the ambient air temperature dropping to approximately zero degrees Fahrenheit or below. Exposure to cold temperatures—indoors or outdoors—can lead to serious or life-threatening health problems, including hypothermia, cold stress, frostbite or freezing of the exposed extremities, such as fingers, toes, nose, and earlobes. Certain populations—such as seniors age 65 or older, infants and young children under five years of age, individuals who are homeless or stranded, or those who live in a home that is poorly insulated or without heat (such as mobile homes) — are at greater risk to the effects of extreme cold. Extremely cold temperatures often accompany a winter storm, so individuals may also have to cope with power failures and icy roads. Although staying indoors can help reduce the risk of ---PAGE BREAK--- 112 vehicle accidents and falls on the ice, individuals are susceptible to indoor hazards. Homes may become too cold due to power failures or inadequate heating systems. The use of space heaters and fireplaces to keep warm increases the risk of household fires, as well as carbon monoxide poisoning. The magnitude of extreme cold temperatures is generally measured through the Wind Chill Temperature (WCT) Index. WCT are the temperatures felt outside and is based on the rate of heat loss from exposed skin by the effects of wind and cold. As the wind increases, the body is cooled at a faster rate causing the skin’s temperature to drop. In 2001, the NWS implemented a new WCT Index, designed to more accurately calculate how cold air feels on human skin. The index, shown in Figure 4-37, includes a frostbite indicator, showing points where temperature, wind speed, and exposure time will produce frostbite in humans. Figure 4-37: NWS Wind Chill Temperature Index Each National Weather Service Forecast Office may issue the following wind chill-related products as conditions warrant: • Wind Chill Watch: Issued when there is a chance that wind chill temperatures will decrease to at least 24° F below zero in the next 24-48 hours. ---PAGE BREAK--- 113 • Wind Chill Advisory: Issued when the wind chill could be life threatening if action is not taken. The criteria for this advisory are expected wind chill readings of 15° F to 24° F below zero. • Wind Chill Warning: Issued when wind chill readings are life threatening. Wind chill readings of 25° F below zero or lower are expected. Extreme Heat Human beings need to maintain a constant body temperature if they are to stay healthy. Working in high temperatures induces heat stress when more heat is absorbed into the body than can be dissipated out. Heat illness such as prickly heat, fainting from heat exhaustion, or heat cramps are visible signs that people are working in unbearable heat. In the most severe cases, the body temperature control system breaks down altogether and body temperature rises rapidly. This is a heat stroke, which can be fatal. The NWS issues a heat advisory when, during a 24-hour period, the temperature ranges from 105°F to 114°F during the day, and remains at or above 80°F at night. Heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States, even though most heat-related deaths are preventable through outreach and intervention. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the summer of 2016 was one of the five hottest on record dating to the late 19th century. Unusually hot summer temperatures have become more frequent across the contiguous 48 states in recent decades1 (see the High and Low Temperatures indicator), and extreme heat events (heat waves) are expected to become longer, more frequent, and more intense in the future. As a result, the risk of heat-related deaths and illness is also expected to increase. Older adults have the highest risk of heat-related death, although young children are also sensitive to the effects of heat. Across North America, the population over the age of 65 is growing dramatically. People with certain diseases, such as cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, are especially vulnerable to excessive heat exposure, as are the economically disadvantaged. Temperatures that hover 10 degrees Fahrenheit or more above the average high temperature for a region, and last for several weeks, constitute an extreme heat event (EHE). An extended period of extreme heat of three or more consecutive days is typically referred to as a heat wave. Most summers see EHEs in one or more parts east of the Rocky Mountains. They tend to combine both high temperatures and high humidity; although some of the worst heat waves have been catastrophically dry. ---PAGE BREAK--- 114 Prolonged exposure to extreme heat may lead to serious health problems, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, or sunburn. Certain populations — such as seniors age 65 and over, infants and young children under five years of age, pregnant women, the homeless or poor, the obese, and people with mental illnesses, disabilities, and chronic diseases — are at greater risk to the effects of extreme heat. Depending on severity, duration, and location, EHEs can also trigger secondary hazards, including dust storms, droughts, wildfires, water shortages, and power outages. Criteria for EHE typically shift by location and time of year, and are dependent on the interaction of multiple meteorological variables temperature, humidity, cloud cover). While this makes it difficult to define EHEs using absolute, specific measures, there are ways to identify conditions. Some locations evaluate current and forecast weather to identify conditions with specific, weather-based mortality algorithms. Others identify and forecast conditions based on statistical comparison to historical meteorological baselines that are the criteria for EHE conditions could be an actual or forecast temperature that is equal to or exceeds the 95th percentile value from a historical distribution for a defined time period. Heat alert procedures are based primarily on Heat Index Values. The Heat Index—given in degrees Fahrenheit—is often referred to as the apparent temperature and is a measure of how hot it really feels when the relative humidity is factored with the actual air temperature. The National Weather Service Heat Index Chart can be seen in Figure 4-38. Figure 4-38: National Weather Service Heat Index ---PAGE BREAK--- 115 Source: Office of Atmospheric Programs. (2006). Excessive Heat Events Guidebook. Unites States Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, D.C. Each National Weather Service Forecast Office may issue the following heat-related products as conditions warrant: • Excessive Heat Outlooks- issued when the potential exists for an EHE in the next 3-7 days. An Outlook provides information to those who need considerable lead time to prepare for the event, such as public utility staff, emergency managers, and public health officials. • Excessive Heat Watches- issued when conditions are favorable for an EHE in the next 24 to 72 hours. A Watch is used when the risk of a heat wave has increased but its occurrence and timing is still uncertain. A Watch provides enough lead time so that those who need to prepare can do so, such as city officials who have excessive heat mitigation plans. • Excessive Heat Warnings/Advisories- issued when an EHE is expected in the next 36 hours. These products are issued when an excessive heat event is occurring, is imminent, or has a very high probability of occurring. The warning is used for conditions posing a threat to life or property. An advisory is for less serious conditions that cause significant discomfort or inconvenience and, if caution is not taken, could lead to a threat to life and/or property. Extreme Temperature History in Allen County The NCDC reported four occurrences of extreme temperatures in Indiana since 1995: two were extreme heat events and two were extreme cold events. All four events impacted Allen County. Both NCDC-reported heat events occurred in 1995, resulting in 15 deaths statewide and more than $1 million. Though not reported to NCDC, local resources recorded an additional two extreme heat events in the past decade. In August 2006, the Community Center in Fort Wayne operated as a cooling station to provide air conditioning and ice water to citizens in need. Additionally, Fort Wayne’s public pools provided free admission to those seeking relief. Though no power outages were reported in Allen County, the United REMC, a local energy wholesaler, asked customers to conserve energy during the period of high temperatures to mitigate the possibility of heat impacts. More recently, in July 2011, temperatures hovered steadily around 100°F for nearly a week. The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for northern Indiana and northwest Ohio, and Fort Wayne activated two public cooling shelters at the Community Center and Public Safety Academy. These cooling centers reported serving more than 200 residents. ---PAGE BREAK--- 116 The two recent extreme cold events occurred in January 2014 and January 2015 respectively. The 2014 event resulted in dangerous wind chill values between 30 and 45 degrees below zero, and in Allen County strong winds caused significant snow drifting, leaving roads impassable in areas. A similar event occurred a year later in 2015 when a prolonged period of very cold weather registered wind chill temperatures at 20 to 30 degrees below zero. There were numerous school closings and delays, but no reported injuries or property damage. Relationship to other Hazards Drought and Wildfire - Dry, hot conditions can reduce the protective moisture of woodlands and increase the risk of wildfire. Public Safety - Anyone exposed to extreme heat can develop heat exhaustion and heat stroke. The elderly, children and those who engage in outdoor work or recreation may be most susceptible to the danger of extreme heat. Plans and Programs in Place School Closings - All school districts in Allen County have a school closing policy and communications plan in place if inclement weather or temperatures create a hazardous situation for students or staff. Schools have notification systems, which allow them to notify all families who are registered in the school system with up-to-date information. Public Warning and Notification - In the event of emergencies or hazardous conditions that require timely and targeted communication to the public, Allen County utilizes a Mass Notification System and the Allen County Police department Facebook page, as well as local news media. Allen County promotes the use of NOAA weather radios by critical facilities and the public to receive information broadcast from the National Weather Service. Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified. 4.9 Infectious Disease Outbreak Hazard Description Communicable disease transmission due to insect infestations is an occasionally overlooked potential natural hazard that can be exacerbated following a natural disaster such as flooding. The Journal of Research in Medical Sciences stated that natural disasters can influence transmission ---PAGE BREAK--- 117 of vector-borne disease. The crowding of infected and vulnerable hosts, a debilitated public health infrastructure and disruptions of ongoing control processes are entirely risk factors for transmission of vector-borne disease. Vector-borne diseases are illnesses caused by infectious microbes that are transmitted to people via blood-sucking arthpods like mosquitos, ticks, fleas, and spiders. The Indiana State Department of Health identifies Eastern equine encephalitis, La Crosse encephalitis virus, St. Louis encephalitis, the West Nile Virus, and Dengue as mosquito- borne diseases that Hoosiers should take steps to protect themselves against. In order to help control mosquito populations, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends draining all standing water left outdoors, but, in the aftermath of flooding, a plethora of standing water combined with a possibly weakened health infrastructure and an interruption of ongoing control programs increases the risk factors for vector-borne disease transmission. Natural disasters, particularly meteorological events such as cyclones, hurricanes, and flooding, can affect vector-breeding sites and vector-borne disease transmission. While initial flooding may wash away existing mosquito-breeding sites, standing water caused by heavy rainfall or overflow of rivers can create new breeding sites. Typically, responding effectively to a disaster-affected population requires among other steps a disease-risk assessment that evaluates the diseases that are common in the area, living conditions of the affected population such as the degree of exposure and density of settlements, availability of safe water and adequate sanitation facilities, access to healthcare, and effective management. Emerald Ash Borer The Emerald ash borer (EAB), Agrilus planipennis Fairmaire, is an exotic beetle thought to have arrived in the United States by 2002, discovered near Detroit, Michigan. Indiana was one of the second states recognized to have the beetle, having been discovered in northern Indiana in 2004. The adult beetles do not pose harm to the ash trees, as they nibble on ash foliage. The immature or larvae stage, feed on the inner bark of the ash trees, disrupting it ability to transport nutrients and water. The EAB is responsible for killing millions of ash trees in North America. It has cost municipalities, property owners, nursey owners and forest industries millions of dollars. The Purdue Extension and Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Forestry provide a plethora of excellent resources for homeowners and managers. The provided link offers the resources necessary for understanding how to combat the invasive pest and suggests what you can do to preserve the ash trees in Indiana. In order to make the information as accessible as ---PAGE BREAK--- 118 possible, the site provides tools such as an EAB Cost Calculator and the resources are also available in Spanish. There are other invasive species in Indiana that can also pose a concern, such as the Moth and Asian long horned beetle. The IDNR requests that any sighting of the beetle or notice tress with signs of damage are reported to the State Epidemiologist. • Note the date and location where you found the beetle or damaged tree. • Capture the beetle in a plastic jar and place it in the freezer to kill it. • Carefully wrap the beetle and send it to: Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Entomology and Plant Pathology 402 West Washington Street, Room W290 Indianapolis, IN 46204-2739 Tick Borne Illness The health department has reported more than 200 cases of tick-borne illness in Indiana in 2016 alone. Tick-borne diseases can be caused by viruses, bacteria, or parasites. Tick borne illnesses are transmitted from bites inflicted by infected ticks and cannot be directly conveyed person-to- person. Depending upon the disease, the incubation period of tick-borne diseases can range anywhere from two days to thirty-one days. According to the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, tick-borne illnesses will continue to remain a problem since people build homes in wilderness areas where ticks and their animal hosts live, however, urban environments can also host ticks and the pathogens they can transmit. Over the past few years, Indiana has experienced a rise in tick-borne Lyme disease. There were approximately 100 confirmed cases of Lyme disease in 2014, but only 26 cases in 2006. Increased summer tick populations frequently follow mild winters, and back-to-back mild winters can cause a notable surge in tick numbers along with the diseases they carry. In June of 2017, a young Indiana girl died after contracting Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever from a tick bite. The Indiana State Department of Health highlighted the following tick borne infections as particularly prevalent in Indiana: Lyme Disease – An infection commonly transmitted from the bite of Ixodes scapularis or the deer tick. Lyme disease is easily recognized by a characteristic “bullseye” rash, which appears between 2 to 31 days after the tick bite is received. Additional include: fever, headache, pain in the joints or muscles, mild neck stiffness, or swollen nodes. If left untreated, more serious health problems will occur. ---PAGE BREAK--- 119 Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever- Approximately 3 to 10 days after the tick bite, Rock Mountain Spotted Fever victims will experience a sudden onset of fever often accompanied by feelings of malaise, deep muscle pain, severe headaches, chills, and eye infections. Around the third day, a rash develops and spreads to the palms, soles of the feet, and the rest of the body. It can often prove fatal. Ehrlichiosis – A bacterial illness transmitted by ticks causing flu-like which vary from mild to fatal. Typical include fever, depression, and even anorexia. Ehrlichiosis can be contracted from multiple species of tick including lonestar and deer ticks. Recently, a new tick transmitted virus has made headlines through the state. The Centers for Disease Control confirmed two cases of Heartland Virus in Indiana. Both infected patients survived. In a statement, the State Health Commissioner said, “Tick bites can cause serious illness and even death, and the discovery of Heartland virus gives Hoosiers another important reason to take precautions. If you become ill after spending time outdoors, visit your health care provider immediately — especially if you found an attached tick. Prompt diagnosis of tick-borne illness helps prevent complications.” For preventive care, the Indiana State Department of Health recommends removing ticks immediately since ticks usually must be attached for several hours before they can transmit a disease. Extract attached ticks in a manner that does not leave the head embedded in the skin. Seek medical attention if a febrile illness or rash develops over the next three to four weeks. HIV Outbreak In January 2015, Indiana Disease Intervention Specialists (DIS) identified 11 new HIV cases linked to a rural county in southeastern Indiana that previously had <5 new HIV cases per year. This prompted a complex outbreak investigation in order to identify additional cases and contacts potentially exposed. In addition, as of June 1, 2015 a total of 166 (163 confirmed and three preliminary positive) individuals linked to this outbreak have tested positive for HIV, and >80% are also infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The vast majority of these individuals reported injecting oxymorphone (brand name Opana) and sharing needles. What Local Health Departments Can Do- as the local “eyes and ears on the ground,” public health staff are critical to the identification of outbreaks. To do this, the following are important: ---PAGE BREAK--- 120 • report new HIV cases to the ISDH Division of HIV/STD/Viral Hepatitis. • report new HCV cases to the ISDH Epidemiology Resources Center. • Look for possible clusters of HIV and/or HCV: case numbers clearly above baseline, same demographics, common risk factors and contacts. • Become familiar with local data so any increases are easily identified. • Know who to contact for assistance and appropriate health services. In May 2015, a law was developed to allow local health departments and law enforcement to work together to start a needle exchange program in their counties if certain local health officers declare that situational and notification parameters are met. Syringe exchange programs provide people who inject drugs with an opportunity to reduce the spread of blood borne diseases such as HIV and HCV by encouraging them to use sterile syringes, share syringes less often, and safely dispose of used syringes. The programs serve to connect hard-to-reach people who inject drugs with important public health services, including HIV and HCV testing, substance abuse treatment, sexually transmitted disease (STD) screening and treatment, and risk reduction counseling. Meth Methamphetamine laboratories and precursors found in a residence, apartment or motel/hotels will be ordered unfit for human habitation by the health department per Rule 318 IAC 1 requirements and Indiana State Department of Health guidance. These dwellings and are to be kept vacant until they are cleaned up and tested, or demolished. The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) Rule 318 IAC 1 requires a cleanup and will not accept homeowners clean up or air out of a house as adequate. The Indiana State Police maintains the listing of contaminated residences, outbuilding, vehicles & properties. Table 4-24: Allen Buildings Contaminated by Meth per Year Year Total Year Total 2007 2 2012 17 2008 7 2013 31 2009 6 2014 38 2010 12 2015 34 2011 19 2016 39 Infectious Disease Outbreak History in Allen County Emerald Ash Borer disease was found in Allen County. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources confirmed that Emerald Ash Borers (EAB) were found in Allen County as a result of the ---PAGE BREAK--- 121 statewide EAB survey and trapping program. The county was placed under quarantine, meaning people are prohibited from removing firewood or ash wood from the county. Once the EAB is identified, the quarantine restricts the movement of regulated ash materials, including any ash tree, limb, branch or debris of an ash tree at least 1 inch in diameter, ash log or untreated ash lumber with bark attached, or cut firewood of any hardwood species, outside of the affected county. Allen County residents who think they may have emerald ash borers can call the Purdue extension or the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Invasive Species Hotline or contact a certified arborist; however, homeowners are responsible for removing infested ash trees. West Nile Virus has been detected in northern Indiana. 44 Indiana residents have died from West Nile Virus, six of which occurred in Allen County. West Nile virus is an arthropod-borne virus most commonly spread by infected mosquitoes. Most people who get infected with West Nile Virus will have either no or mild but a few individuals may contract amore severe form of the disease. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, West Nile virus can cause febrile illness, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or meningitis (inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord). The Indiana Department of Health encourages people who develop the following to immediately contact a doctor: • high fever, • severe headache, • neck stiffness, • muscle weakness or paralysis, • nausea or vomiting, • sore joints • confusion. There is no specific treatment for West Nile Virus, and no vaccine is available for humans. Eliminating areas of standing water may help diminish the West Nile mosquito population by removing areas that they like to breed. People can help protect themselves from biting mosquitoes by: • Eliminating areas of standing water where mosquitos breed. • Repairing failed septic systems. • Keeping grass cut short and shrubbery trimmed. • Disposing of old tires, tin cans, plastic containers, ceramic pots or other unused containers that can hold stagnant water. • Cleaning clogged roof gutters, particularly if leaves tend to plug up the drains. • Aerating ornamental pools, or stocking them with predatory fish. ---PAGE BREAK--- 122 • Cleaning and chlorinating swimming pools that are not being used. • Avoiding places and times when mosquitoes bite, whenever possible. • Using an insect repellant containing DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide). • Wearing shoes, socks, long pants and a long-sleeved shirt when outdoors for long periods of time, or from dusk to dawn, when mosquitoes are most active. • Making sure that all windows and doors have screens, and that all screens are in good repair. • Using mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened structure. Vulnerability and Future Development Future development will remain vulnerable to these events. Emerald ash borers have killed millions of ash trees in Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, Allen and Ontario and will continue to do so until the insects are effectively contained or eliminated or a strain of more resistant trees is developed. Since the county is heavily wooded and is considered a camping destination for many students and out of county residents, ash trees may be more susceptible to the spread of the EAB. All communities can be potentially at risk for an epidemic and experience increased risk during hazards the cause displacement, contaminate the water supply, deprive people of essential utilities, or when residents are not exposed to educational resources outlining preventive steps. Risk Analysis Exposure Analysis An exposure analysis identifies the existing and future assets located in identified hazard areas. The reported identification of the Emerald Ash Borer in Allen County is identified in Figure 4-39 and reveals that Emerald Ash Borers have been spotted throughout the county. The magenta dots pinpoint areas where EAB has been identified in Allen County. ---PAGE BREAK--- 123 Figure 4-39: Emerald Ash Borer in Allen County Relationship to other Hazards The risk for communicable disease transmission is primarily associated with displacement and the characteristics of the displaced population, the proximity of sterile water and function restrooms, the nutritional status of the displaced, the level of immunity to vaccine preventable diseases, and the availability of access to healthcare services. Flooding – increased risk of vector borne diseases. Earthquake – In the aftermath of earthquakes, some populations have experienced infection outbreaks associated with increased exposure to airborne dust from landslides. Tornadoes – Natural disasters like tornadoes that affect communities on a large scale and cause displacement have been associated with an increased risk in disease. ---PAGE BREAK--- 124 Utility Failure – Power outages and the disruption of water treatment and supply plants can affect the proper functioning of health facilities and has also been linked with an increase in diarrheal illness. Plans and Programs in Place Indiana Health Codes The Fort Wayne- Allen County Department of Health is committed to promoting public health and enhancing the quality of life and safety for all Allen County residents and visitors by preventing, planning, and protecting against disease and injury. The Department of Health is a highly utilized and trusted leader offering multiple public health services to better support and prepare the local community. The Department of Health seeks to investigate, monitor, prevent, and treat the following health issues: • Communicable Diseases • Sexually Transmitted Diseases • Insect and Animal-Borne Diseases • Food-Borne Illnesses • Water-Borne Illnesses • Childhood Lead Poisoning The department has twelve divisions that seek to address the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s essential public health services and activities that were developed by the Core Public Health Functions Steering Committee. To contact the Fort Wayne- Allen Department of Health: Fort Wayne-Allen County Department of Health 200 E. Berry St., Suite 360 Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (260) 449-7561 Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified at this time. ---PAGE BREAK--- 125 4.10 Hazardous Material Release Hazard Description The State of Indiana has numerous active transportation lines that run through many of its counties. Active railways transport harmful and volatile substances between our borders every day. The transportation of chemicals and substances along interstate routes is commonplace in Indiana. The rural areas of Indiana have considerable agricultural commerce, creating a demand for fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides to be transported along rural roads. Finally, Indiana is bordered by two major rivers and Lake Michigan. Barges transport chemicals and substances along these waterways daily. These factors increase the chance of hazardous material releases and spills throughout the State of Indiana. The release or spill of certain substances can cause an explosion. Explosions result from the ignition of volatile products such as petroleum products, natural and other flammable gases, hazardous materials and chemicals, dust, and bombs. An explosion potentially can cause death, injury, and property damage. In addition, a fire routinely follows an explosion, which may cause further damage and inhibit emergency response. Emergency response may require fire, safety and law enforcement, search and rescue, and hazardous materials units. IDHS works with county EMA offices to coordinate their local CEMP and LEPC programs. A Local Emergency Planning Committee is required, under the Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act, to develop an emergency response plan and to inform citizens about chemicals in their community. A Comprehensive Emergency Management Plan (CEMP) incorporates lists of Hazmat preparedness tasks for Emergency Support Function (ESF) personnel. Transportation Roads, rails, aircrafts and pipelines, convey hazardous materials while presenting differing levels of risk of unwanted release of the hazardous materials. Transported products include hazardous materials moving from producers to users, moving between storage and use facilities, and hazardous waste moving from generators to treatment and disposal facilities. The road and train systems in Allen County act as transportation networks for both hazardous and nonhazardous material. Hazardous materials are transported throughout the region and between local communities as both commodities and waste. Risks of hazardous material events vary based on the classification the hazmat material being transported and the location of the road and its ---PAGE BREAK--- 126 proximity to people and property. Along state highways and in more populated portions of the county, the risk of a major hazmat event is most severe and the damages most potent. Hazardous Incident History in Allen County On June 10, 2009, Allen County experienced a spill involving at least 500 gallons of a liquid petroleum material, which was intended for use as part of the County’s dust control program.i As a semi-tanker truck pumped the petroleum material into a county owned tank, a malfunctioning valve caused the leak. According to Tony Burrus, the County’s Safety and Environmental Affairs Director, an undetermined amount of the petroleum material drained into a nearby ditch. Using piles of dirt, sand, and pumps, responders removed the material from the ditch and contained the spread. Reportedly, no one was harmed as a result of the spill and its effect on the environment was minimized by rapid containment and remediation. While Eastbound on U.S. 24 between Fort Wayne and Roanoke on July 24, 2015, a fuel-tanker knocked into a road sign causing gasoline to spill out of the tank and onto the surrounding area.ii The hazmat situation was quickly dealt with and no one was harmed. The county has also endured potentially hazardous incidents. During September 2014, thirty-one freight train cars were derailed on the railroad line in New Haven.iii Five tankers usually transporting chemicals were empty at the time of derailment. The Norfolk Southern crews that cleared the line announced that the investigation into the train derailment would look into both human and mechanical factors. Vulnerability and Future Development The hazardous material release hazards are countywide and primarily are associated with the transport of materials by highway and/or railroad. During a hazardous material release, the types of infrastructure that could be impacted include roadways, utility lines/pipes, railroads and bridges. The release or spill of certain substances can cause an explosion. Explosions result from the ignition of volatile products such as petroleum products, natural and other flammable gases, hazardous materials/chemicals, dust, and bombs. An explosion potentially can cause death, injury, and property damage. In addition, a fire routinely follows an explosion, which may cause Risk Analysis Exposure Analysis ---PAGE BREAK--- 127 The extent of the hazardous material (referred to as hazmat) hazard varies in terms of the quantity of material being transported as well as the specific content of the container. Hazardous material impacts are an equally distributed threat across the entire jurisdiction; therefore the entire county is vulnerable to a hazardous material release and can expect the same impacts within the affected area. The main concern during a release or spill is the population affected. This plan will therefore consider all buildings located within the county as vulnerable. Combining Available Data and Methods The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) jointly developed a suite of software applications known as CAMEO which aid in the response to chemical emergencies. The CAMEO system integrates four separate programs that can be used together or separately. One of the programs, Areal Locations of Hazardous Atmospheres (ALOHA), is designed especially for use by people responding to chemical releases, as well as for emergency planning and training. ALOHA generates a threat zone area where a hazard (such as toxicity or thermal radiation) has exceeded a user-specified Level of Concern (LOC). ALOHA will display up to three threat zones overlaid on a single picture. Through the development of Acute Exposure Guideline Levels (AEGLs) are exposure guidelines designed to help responders deal with emergencies involving chemical spills or other catastrophic events where members of the general public are exposed to a hazardous airborne chemical. AEGLs are intended to describe the health effects on humans due to once-in-a-lifetime or rare exposure to airborne chemicals. The National Advisory Committee for AEGLs is developing these guidelines to help both national and local authorities, as well as private companies, deal with emergencies involving spills or other catastrophic exposures. • Zone 1 (AEGL Above this airborne concentration of a substance, it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience notable discomfort, irritation, or certain non-sensory effects. However, the effects are not disabling and are transient and reversible upon cessation of exposure • Zone 2 (AEGL Above this airborne concentration of a substance, it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience irreversible or other serious, long-lasting adverse health effects or an impaired ability to escape ---PAGE BREAK--- 128 • Zone 3 (AEGL Above this airborne concentration of a substance, it is predicted that the general population, including susceptible individuals, could experience life-threatening health effects or death. Scenario The ALOHA model was utilized to assess the area of impact for a chlorine release on Rising Sun. The same location was used as the 2009 Allen County mitigation plan in order to generate an output that could be compared to the previous analysis. ammonia is a clear colorless gas with a strong odor. Contact with the unconfined liquid can cause frostbite. The gas is generally regarded as nonflammable but can burn within certain vapor concentration limits with strong ignition. The fire hazard increases in the presence of oil or other combustible materials. Vapors from an ammonia leak initially hug the ground. Prolonged exposure of containers to fire or heat may cause violent rupturing and rocketing. Long- term inhalation of low concentrations of the vapors or short-term inhalation of high concentrations has adverse health effects. ammonia is generally used as a fertilizer, a refrigerant, and in the manufacture of other chemicals. ammonia is a common chemical used in industrial operations and can be found in either liquid or gas form. Rail and truck tankers commonly haul ammonia to and from facilities. ALOHA is a computer program designed especially for use by people responding to chemical accidents, as well as for emergency planning and training. Results As the substance moves away from the source, the level of substance concentration decreases. Each color-coded area depicts a level of concentration measured in parts per million (ppm). For the purpose of clarification, this report will designate each level of concentration as a specific zone. The zones are as follows: • AEGL 3 (1100 ppm) is depicted in the red buffer. It extends approximately 3.5 miles from the point of release after one hour. • AEGL 2 (100 ppm) is depicted in the orange buffer. It extends more than 6 miles from the point of release after one hour. • AEGL 1 (30 ppm) is depicted in the yellow buffer. It extends more than 6 miles from the point of release after one hour. ---PAGE BREAK--- 129 • The confidence boundary in Figure 33 depicts the level of confidence in which the exposure will be contained. The ALOHA model is 95% confident that the release will stay within this boundary. The modeling scenario is based on a transportation-related hazardous materials release that assumes a tanker truck leaks ammonia onto I-69 in Fort Wayne. The location was targeted due to its proximity to densely populated areas. For this scenario, moderate atmospheric and climatic conditions with a slight breeze from the west were assumed, and the ALOHA atmospheric modeling parameters were based on the actual conditions at the location when the model was run including wind speed of 10 mph. The temperature was 69°F with 55% humidity and clear skies. This modeled release was based on a leak from 2.5 feet-diameter hole in the tank. According to the ALOHA parameters, approximately 4,390 pounds of material would be released per minute. Figure 4-XX on the following page shows the location of the release. Building Inventory Exposure The Allen County Building Inventory was added to ArcMap and overlaid with the threat zone footprint. The Building Inventory was then intersected with each of the three footprint areas to classify each point based upon the plume footprint in which it is located. Figure 4-40 depicts the Allen County Building Inventory after the intersect process. ---PAGE BREAK--- 130 Figure 4-40: Building Inventory by Threat Zone The results of the analysis against the Building Inventory counts are depicted in Tables 35 and 36. Table 4-25 summarizes the results of the chemical spill by combining all AEGL zones. Table 4-25: Estimated Exposure for all Threat Zones Number of Buildings within the HazMat Plume Occupancy AEGL 3 (most severe) AEGL 2 AEGL 1 (least severe) Agriculture 0 2 5 Commercial 39 21 131 Education 0 0 4 Government 0 0 1 Industrial 0 4 128 Religious 2 1 12 Residential 86 385 1,060 Total 127 413 1,341 Tables 4-26 summarizes the results of the chemical spill for each zone individually. Values represent only those portions of each zone that are not occupied by other zones. ---PAGE BREAK--- 131 Table 4-26: Estimated Exposure for Threat Zones 1, 2, & 3 Replacement Cost of Buildings within the HazMat Plume Occupancy AEGL 3 (most severe) AEGL 2 AEGL 1 (least severe) Agriculture $0 $318,331 $824,559 Commercial $77,661,621 $27,361,880 $80,432,054 Education $0 $0 $3,279,303 Government $0 $0 $796,923 Industrial $0 $1,977,281 $147,806,267 Religious $2,487,716 $2,092,818 $9,814,797 Residential $11,065,718 $45,028,032 $146,784,115 Total $91,215,055 $76,778,342 $389,738,018 Essential Facilities There were 12 essential facilities within the limits of the three threat zones. This includes 1 pharmacy, 1 fire station, and 10 care facilities. The affected facilities are shown in Figure 4-41. Table 4-27: Essential Facilities Within Threat Zone Type Name Number of Beds AEGL Zone Care Facility Nightingale Hospice 150 AEGL 3 Care Facility Universal Home Health Of Indiana 0 AEGL 3 Care Facility Pediatric Nursing Specialists Of Indiana 0 AEGL 3 Care Facility Home Health Network Inc The 0 AEGL 3 Care Facility Home Care Services Inc 0 AEGL 3 Pharmacy Meijer 125 0 AEGL 2 Care Facility Hamilton Houseiv 47 AEGL 1 Care Facility Visiting Angels 150 AEGL 1 Care Facility Rescare Northern Indiana 0 AEGL 1 Care Facility Heartland Home Care 0 AEGL 1 Care Facility Heartland Home Health Care And Hospice 150 AEGL 1 Fire Station Ft Wayne Fire Department Station 6 0 AEGL 1 NOTE: Several of the listed care facilities are home health care providers and, therefore, have zero beds available. ---PAGE BREAK--- 132 Figure 4-41: Essential Facilities Located in Threat Zone Relationship to other Hazards Flood- Hazmat incidents are likely when flood incidents occur. Plans and Programs in Place CEMP- The county coordinates local hazardous response through the CEMP. LEPC- the Local Emergency Planning Committee develops emergency response plans and informs citizens about chemicals in their community. Commodity Flow Study- In the 2009 Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan mitigation strategies, Allen County began the process of conducting a commodity flow study along major roadways. Program Gaps or Deficiencies No gaps or deficiencies were identified at this time. ---PAGE BREAK--- 133 4.11 Dams Hazard Description Dams are structures that retain or detain water behind a large barrier. When full, or partially full, the difference in elevation between the water above the dam and below creates large amounts of potential energy, creating the potential for failure. The same potential exists for levees when they serve their purpose, which is to confine flood waters within the channel area of a river and exclude that water from land or communities land-ward of the levee. Dams and levees can fail due to either 1) water heights or flows above the capacity for which the structure was designed; or 2) deficiencies in the structure such that it cannot hold back the potential energy of the water. If a dam or levee fails, issues of primary concern include loss of human life/injury, property damage, lifeline disruption (of concern would be transportation routes and utility lines required to maintain or protect life), and environmental damage. Many communities view both dams and levees as permanent and infinitely safe structures. This sense of security may well be false, leading to significantly increased risks. Both of dams and on floodplains protected by levees, this false sense of security leads to new construction, added infrastructure, and increased population over time. Levees in particular are built to hold back flood waters only up to some maximum level, often the 100-year annual probability) flood event. When that maximum is exceeded by more than the design safety margin, the levee will be overtopped or otherwise fail, inundating communities occupying the land previously protected by that levee. It has been suggested that climate change, land-use shifts, and some forms of river engineering may be increasing the magnitude of large floods and the frequency of levee failure situations. In addition to failure that results from extreme floods above the design capacity, levees and dams can fail due to structural deficiencies. Both dams and levees require constant monitoring and regular maintenance to assure their integrity. Many structures across the U.S. have been under- funded or otherwise neglected, leading to an eventual day of reckoning in the form either of realization that the structure is unsafe or, sometimes, an actual failure. The threat of dam or levee failure may require substantial commitment of time, personnel, and resources. Since dams and levees deteriorate with age, minor issues become larger compounding problems, and the risk of failure increases. ---PAGE BREAK--- 134 Dams are structures that retain or detain water behind a large barrier. When full, or partially full, the difference in elevation between the water above the dam and below creates large amounts of potential energy, creating the potential for failure. Dams are usually constructed to provide a ready supply of water for drinking, irrigation, recreation and other purposes. They can be made of rock, earth, masonry, or concrete or of combinations of these materials. The Indiana General Assembly has established dam safety laws to protect the citizens of Indiana. Generally, the laws are intended to insure that the dam owner maintains his/her dam in a safe manner. The laws also define inspection requirements, violation conditions, and actions that the Indiana Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) will take if the dam owner violates the law. IDNR currently regulates all dams that meet any one of the following criteria: the drainage area above the dam is greater than 1 square mile the dam embankment is greater than 20 feet high the dam impounds more than 100 acre-feet Dam failure is a term used to describe the major breach of a dam and subsequent loss of contained water. Dam failure can result in loss of life and damage to structures, roads, utilities, crops, and livestock. Economic losses can also result from a lowered tax base, lack of utility profits, disruption of commerce and governmental services, and extraordinary public expenditures for food relief and protection. National statistics show that overtopping due to inadequate spillway design, debris blockage of spillways, or settlement of the dam crest account for one third of all US dam failures. Foundation defects, including settlement and slope instability, account for another third of all failures. Piping and seepage, and other problems cause the remaining third of national dam failures. This includes internal erosion caused by seepage, seepage and erosion along hydraulic structures, leakage through animal burrows, and cracks in the dam. Since the responsibility for maintaining a safe dam rests with the owner, dam ownership imposes significant legal responsibilities and potential liabilities on the dam owner. A dam failure resulting in an uncontrolled release of the reservoir can have a devastating effect on persons and property Low-Head Dams Low-head, or in-channel, dams can present a safety hazard to the public because of their ability to trap victims in a submerged hydraulic jump formed just from the dam.38 Recent deaths and injuries around these structures in the state, has brought the attention of this issue to ---PAGE BREAK--- 135 the surface for local, state and federal officials. Current initiatives led by the Indiana Silver Jackets—a multi-agency coalition that leverages efforts to address natural hazards—have focused on the identification of these dams statewide, as well as various efforts to notify the public on their dangers. With research led by Manchester University (Indiana), and support from National Fish Habitat Program and the Ohio River Basin Fish Habitat Partnership, two low-head dams were removed on the Eel River of the Wabash River watershed in north central Indiana in October 2012. The removal of these dams resulted in the reconnection of over 190 stream miles. Data from this study demonstrates the ecological benefits of removing these dams. This project has been thought to bring tremendous awareness about the Eel River (located in northeast Indiana) and fish passage, and the benefits of low head removal both locally and regionally. Dam Failure History in Allen County There are no records or local knowledge of any dam failures in the county. There are 14 registered dams with the Indiana Department of Natural Resources in the county. There have been numerous deaths along low-head dams within the county, the county EMA and other partners are working to develop public outreach to acknowledge the danger of these dams. Vulnerability and Future Development ---PAGE BREAK--- 136 Figure 4-42: Allen County Dams Table 4-28: DNR Hazard Classification and In-Channel Dams Name Hazard Level In Channel EAP Cedarville Dam High X Foxwood Lake Dam High Hurshtown Reservoir Dam High X Kekionga Lake Dam High Coventry Dry Dam Significant Covington Lake Dam Significant Daus Addition Lake Dam Significant Poe Lake Dam Significant Rich Lake Dam Significant St Joseph River Dam Significant X Bittersweet Moors Lake Dam Low Hosey (Maumee River) Dam Low X Spy Run Dam Low X Beedy Lake Dam No Level estb. ---PAGE BREAK--- 137 Risk Analysis The primary focus of the dam safety laws in Indiana is that dam owners are responsible operating their dams in a manner that minimizes potential safety risks to lives and property. Dam owners can be held accountable for any damage that results from the failure of their dams, so they should do whatever is necessary to avoid injuring persons or property. The analysis team examines dam risk in terms of proximity to populated areas or infrastructure. Figure 4-43-46: Allen County Dams ---PAGE BREAK--- 138 ---PAGE BREAK--- 139 Relationship to other Hazards Flooding – Flooding is typically the leading cause of dam failure incidents. Drought – Property owners living around dams may have problems accessing boating equipment during times of drought. Plans and Programs in Place The US Army Corps of Engineers coordinates al established levels on managed reservoirs. The Pelorus Project- is a committee developed after the 2015 tragic drowning of a kayaker and they collaborate to work to improve safety along the rivers. http://thepelorusproject.org/ In May 2016, the group worked to install more than 30 signs and buoys along the St. Joseph and Maumee Rivers to promote awareness of the dangers of the low-head (small) dams. The group consists of a committee made up of representatives of the family impacted by the tragic loss, the City of Fort Wayne (Utilities, Community Development and Fire), Northeast Indiana Regional Coordinating Council, Northeast Indiana Water Trails, Tri-State Watershed Alliance, A Better Fort and The Indiana Silverjackets (a voluntary inter-agency natural hazard mitigation team working to protect life, property and resources). Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified. 4.12 Levees Hazard Description Levees are small, long earth dams that protect low areas of cities and towns, industrial plants, and expensive farmland from flooding during periods of high water. FEMA defines a levee as a “man- made structure, usually an earthen embankment, designed and constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices to contain, control, or divert the flow of water so as to provide a level of protection from temporary flooding.” Levees reduce the risk of flooding but do not eliminate all flood risk. As levees age, their ability to reduce this risk can change and regular maintenance is required to retain this critical ability. In serious flood events, levees can fail or be overtopped and, when this happens, the flooding that follows can be catastrophic. ---PAGE BREAK--- 140 The US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and FEMA have different roles and responsibilities related to levees. FEMA addresses mapping and floodplain management issues related to levees, and accredits levees as meeting requirements set forth by the National Flood Insurance Program. USACE addresses a range of operation and maintenance, risk communication, risk management, and risk reduction issues as part of its responsibilities under the Levee Safety Program. FEMA may also provide accreditation for levees which means that the levee meets all the requirements of the Code of Federal Regulations Section 65.10. This ensures that the levee has adequate freeboard above the 1% annual chance flood, meets design specifications, maintenance plan in place, and that the owners take responsibility. Non-Levee Embankments Along with accredited levees regulated by federal agencies, there are also what are referred to as Non-Levee Embankments (NLE), which typically parallel to the direction of natural flow. An embankment is an artificial mound of soil or broken rock that supports railroads, highways, airfields, and large industrial sites in low areas, or impounds water. NLEs are often highways or railroads built on fill in low lying areas and thus tend to impose lateral constraints on flood flows, and typically contain the following characteristics: • NLEs are elevated linear features adjacent to waterways and within the floodplain. • They are typically man-made and include agricultural embankments built by landowners and road and railroad embankments banks. • They are levee-like structures, but are not certified or engineered to provide flood protection. The National Committee on Levee Safety estimates that the location and reliability status of 85% of the nation’s NLEs are unknown. In Indiana, majority of NLEs are unidentified and are typically not maintained. NLEs impose lateral constraints on flood flows, reducing the floodplain storage capacity and increasing the flood velocity. As a result, flooding and the potential for stream erosion can increase. As such, NLE’s can give a false sense of security and protection to the people residing near NLEs. For these reasons, it is extremely important to map where these features are located. Living with levees is a shared responsibility. While operating, maintaining levee systems are the levee sponsor responsibility, local officials are adopting protocols and procedures for ensuring public safety and participation in the NFIP. ---PAGE BREAK--- 141 Levee History in Allen County There are no records or local knowledge of any significant levee or non-levee embankment failures in the county. There is no certified or accredited levee in the county and numerous NLEs that are later assessed in the analysis for their potential impact to health and safety. Figure 4-69 identifies the geographic location density (using a hill shade) of levees in the state of Indiana and an overview of the levees in Allen County. Figure 4-47: Non-Levee Embankment Density Indiana Vulnerability and Future Development The extent of potential levee failure varies across the county. In order to be considered creditable flood protection structures on FEMA's flood maps, levee owners must provide documentation to prove the levee meets design, operation, and maintenance standards for protection against the "one-percent-annual chance" flood. If this accreditation is maintained, portions that would be ---PAGE BREAK--- 142 mapped as Special Flood Hazard Area appear on a FIRM map as Zone X, protected by levee. A review of the USACE and FEMA data identified no certified levee segments in Allen County. Using LiDAR elevation data, in conjunction with multiple GIS data layers including digital elevation models (DEM) and slope maps, the Indiana Silver Jackets identified and mapped NLEs for 82 of the state’s 92 counties. The team performed a literature review on existing approaches and developed new approaches before narrowing the methods to manual digitization, a semi- automated slope-derived method, and a semi-automated maximum curvature method. The team developed a set of characteristics that helped define NLE and distinguish them from natural berms or spoil banks. • The following minimum characteristics were analyzed before capturing the extent of the NLE: • Within or partially within the buffered 100-year floodplain (DFIRM) • At least 100 yards (300 ft.) in length • At least 1 meter (3 feet) in height • At least 20 degrees of slope on either face The identification of these embankments can aid in the further improvement of hydraulic modeling for streams. The classification of these structures is not completely objective, as the interpretation of agricultural, residential, and commercial will vary depending on the analyst interpretation. ---PAGE BREAK--- 143 Figure 4-48: Non-Levee Embankments: Allen County Risk Analysis Analysis Allen County is predominately made of transportation and agricultural-related NLEs spread fairly regularly throughout the county. A concentrations of transportation NLE’s can be seen in the southern portion of the county following smaller roads in the rural portions of the county. The following maps provide a closer look at the areas around these NLE structures. If there are any resources located around these structures, they have been provided to assess the potential exposure to the county and communities. Non-Levee Embankments Although considered a rough estimation of the classification, at the development of the NLE dataset, an analyst performed a rough assessment to estimate the function of the NLE based on available suggestions from orthophotography. ---PAGE BREAK--- 144 Non-Levee Embankment Assets Figure 4-49-56: Non-Levee Embankments, Southern Allen County ---PAGE BREAK--- 145 ---PAGE BREAK--- 146 ---PAGE BREAK--- 147 ---PAGE BREAK--- 148 Relationship to other Hazards Flooding – Flooding is typically the leading cause to levee failure incidents. Plans and Programs in Place USACE and FEMA Levee Certification- The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and the City of Fort Wayne are working together to develop corrective actions to address the levee safety issues identified in an inspection report and bring the system into compliance. There are no levees that are mapped by FEMA as providing protection from the levee certification. Floodplain Ordinance- Proposed construction in the floodway requires the prior approval of the State DNR Division of Water. Program Gaps or Deficiencies No program gaps or deficiencies were identified. ---PAGE BREAK--- 149 Chapter 5 – Goals, Objectives, Mitigation Strategies and Implementation The goal of mitigation is to protect lives and reduce the future impacts of hazards including property damage, disruption to local and regional economies, the amount of public and private funds spent to assist with recovery, and to build disaster-resistant communities. Mitigation actions and projects should be based on a well-constructed risk assessment, provided in Section 4 of this plan. Mitigation should be an ongoing process adapting over time to accommodate a community’s needs. Community Capability Assessment The capability assessment identifies current activities used to mitigate hazards. The capability assessment identifies the policies, regulations, procedures, programs, and projects that contribute to the lessening of disaster damages. The assessment also provides an evaluation of these capabilities to determine whether the activities man be improved in order to more effectively reduce the impact of future hazards. The planning team completed a survey and then discussed any of the discrepancies in meeting 3. The following sections highlight the existing plans and mitigation capabilities within all of the communities and a copy of the results of the capability survey are included in Appendix G. Planning and Regulatory Planning and regulatory capabilities are the plans, policies, codes, and ordinances that prevent and reduce the impacts of hazards. Below the team details the NFIP program and local plans, codes, and ordinances in place, to make the community more resilient to disasters. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) The NFIP is a federal program created by Congress to mitigate future flood losses nationwide through sound, community-enforced building and zoning ordinances and to provide access to affordable, federally-backed flood insurance protection for property owners. The NFIP is designed to provide an insurance alternative to disaster assistance to meet the escalating costs of repairing damage to buildings and their contents caused by floods. Participation in the NFIP is based on an agreement between local communities and the federal government that states that if a community will adopt and enforce a floodplain management ordinance to reduce future flood risks ---PAGE BREAK--- 150 to new construction in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs), the federal government will make flood insurance available within the community as a financial protection against flood losses. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) oversee the continued compliance of state floodway permitting and was empowered by the Indiana General Assembly to regulate certain development activities in the floodway, including the construction of structures, obstructions, deposits, and/or excavations. These activities any State waterway (streams less than 1 square mile in drainage area) by requiring DNR approval prior to the beginning of the project. DNR authority under the Flood Control Act is further described in 312 IAC 10: Floodplain Management. In 1945, the Indiana Flood Control Act was passed by the state legislature, enabling the IDNR to have regulatory control over floodway areas produced by regulatory floods. The Indiana "Flood Control Act" (IC 14-28-1) and Flood Hazard Areas Rule (310 IAC 6-1): In the Flood Control Act's preamble, the General Assembly declared that the loss of lives and property caused by floods and the damage resulting from floods is a matter of deep concern to Indiana affecting the life, health, and convenience of the people and the protection of property." Furthermore, the channels and that part of the flood plains of rivers and streams that are the floodways should not be inhabited and should be kept free and clear of interference or obstructions that will cause any undue restriction of the capacity of the floodways." Within the Flood Control Act, the General Assembly created a permitting program. Two of the fundamental provisions of the Act’s regulatory programs consist of the following: An abode or place of residence may not be constructed or placed within a floodway. Any structure, obstruction, deposit, or excavation within a floodway must receive written approval from the Director of the Department of Natural Resources for the work before beginning construction. The DNR is Cooperating Technical Partner (CTP) for the FEMA Floodplain Mapping program. The DNR provides floodway site determinations as requested. The DNR performs the Community Assistance Call (CAC) and Community Assistance Visit (CAV) for the NFIP program. The CAV and CAC services as each NFIP communities’ assurance that the community is adequately enforcing its floodplain management regulations and prices a chance for technical assistance by the DNR on behalf of FEMA. ---PAGE BREAK--- 151 The NFIP’s Community Rating System (CRS) recognizes and encourages community floodplain management activities that exceed the minimum NFIP standards. Depending upon the level of participation, flood insurance premium rates for policyholders can be reduced. Besides the benefit of reduced insurance rates, CRS floodplain management activities enhance public safety, reduce damages to property and public infrastructure, avoid economic disruption and losses, reduce human suffering, and protect the environment. Technical assistance on designing and implementing some activities is available at no charge. Participating in the CRS provides an incentive to maintaining and improving a community's floodplain management program over the years. Allen County and its communities participate in the NFIP. The total number of policies, written premiums in-force, and coverage of insurance in-force are identified below. Table 5-1: NFIP policies and coverage Community Total Number of Policies Insurance In-force whole Written Premium In-force Allen County (Unincorporated) 199 $39,502,900 $149,231 City of Fort Wayne 763 $149,587,600 $996,183 Town of Huntertown 4 $1,085,000 $1,397 Town of Leo-Cedarville 2 $700,000 $830 Town of Monroeville 1 $317,200 $2,786 City of New Haven 32 $8,738,900 $25,131 Allen County currently participates in the CRS program while the City of Fort Wayne’s participation was rescinded. The previous CAVs in the City of Fort Wayne in the years 1989, 1994, 2003, 2006, 2010, and 2014 and the CAC in 1997 did not result in further compliance follow-up. The City of New Haven’s CACs in 1989, 1990, 2010, and 2014 and CAVs in 1994 and 2003 did not result in further compliance or follow-up. The Town of Grabill’s CAC in 1995 and the Town of Huntertown ‘s CAV in 1996 also did not require further compliance or follow-up. This was also true of the Town of Monroeville’s CACs in 1996, 1998, and 2010. The previous CAVs for the County in the years 1989, 1994, 2000, 2010, and 2014 or the CAC in 2006 did not result in a need for further compliance follow- ups. Plans and Ordinances Allen County and its incorporated communities have a number of plans and ordinances in place to ensure the safety of residents and the effective operation of communities. These include the 2012 Allen County Multi-Hazard Mitigation Plan, Allen County Flood Insurance Study, Plan It Allen: ---PAGE BREAK--- 152 Allen County Comprehensive Plan, Allen County Zoning Ordinance, Fort Wayne Zoning Ordinance, Huntertown Zoning Ordinance, and the Cedar Creek Watershed Management Plan. In Section 4.4 of this plan (Hazard Profiles) a review of the plans and programs in place as well as any identified program gaps or deficiencies was included as related to each of the natural hazards addressed in the plan. Information was collected through surveys with plan team representatives of the county, cities, towns and school districts. The review of this information was used to inform the development of mitigation strategies for the 2017 plan update. General Mitigation Vision In Section 4.0 of this plan, the risk assessment determined that Allen County is prone to a number of natural hazards. The planning team understands that although hazards cannot be eliminated altogether, Allen County can work toward building disaster-resistant communities. The goals, strategies and objectives listed in the 2014 Indiana State Hazard Mitigation Plan were adopted for use in the Allen County Plan. This framework will allow for integration of the mitigation actions that are listed by Allen County and its jurisdictions into the state plan. The state will then be able to develop a statewide strategy that will benefit all of Indiana. Table 5-2: Allen County Strategies Flooding Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss and economic disruption due to all types of flooding (riverine, flash flooding, dam/levee failure) Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning, technical studies, training, adoption of ordinances and legislation, acquisition and use of equipment, establishing shelters, and encouraging participation in NFIP and CRS will be used to prevent or reduce risks to lives and property from flooding. Property Protection: Acquisition, repair, or retrofitting of property and acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property from flooding. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of risks from flooding in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Natural Resource Protection: Stream corridor protection projects and restoration and soil erosion control projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks and increase the protection of natural resources from flooding. Emergency Services: Technological improvements, warning systems, responder training, emergency response services, acquisition and use of equipment, and planning will provide emergency services to prevent or reduce the risks to lives and property from flooding. Structural Improvements: Construction and maintenance of drains, sewer drainage and separation projects, floodwalls, dams, culverts, levees, roads, bridges, and general flood protection projects will be used to prevent or reduce damages from flooding, loss of services to critical equipment, and the risks they pose to lives, property, and the natural environment. Summer Storms Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to summer storms. Mitigation Strategy Objectives ---PAGE BREAK--- 153 Prevention: Planning, training, technical studies, acquisition and use of equipment, adoption of ordinances and legislation, and construction of new or retrofitting safe rooms will be used to prevent or reduce risks from summer storms to lives, property, and economic activity. Property Protection: Constructing safe rooms and storm shelters, retrofitting, and vegetation management will be used to prevent or reduce risks to the protection of property from summer storms. Public Education and Awareness: Public education, warning systems, and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of risks from summer storms in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Warning systems, responder training, emergency response services, technological improvements, and response and recovery planning will provide emergency services to prevent or reduce risks from summer storms. Structural Improvements: The construction of safe rooms, shelters, and underground utility lines as well as maintenance of structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from summer storms Tornado Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to tornado. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Adoption of ordinances and legislation, acquisition and use of equipment, planning, conducting technical training, studies, and retrofit or construction of safe rooms will be used to prevent or reduce risks to lives, property, and economic activity from tornadoes. Property Protection: Constructing safe rooms and storm shelters, and retrofits will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property from tornadoes. Public Education and Awareness: Warning systems, IPAWS, public education, and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of risks from tornadoes in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Warning systems, technological improvements, responder training, planning, emergency response services, and acquisition and use of equipment will provide emergency services to prevent or reduce risks from tornadoes. Structural Improvements: Construction of storm shelter and safe rooms and maintenance of other structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from tornadoes. Hazardous Incident: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to hazardous incidents. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning, training, technical studies, acquisition and use of equipment, adoption of ordinances and legislation, and construction of Property Protection: Public Education and Awareness: Public education, warning systems, and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of risks from hazardous incidents in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Warning systems, responder training, emergency response services, technological improvements, and response and recovery planning will provide emergency services to prevent or reduce risks from summer storms. Structural Improvements: Severe Winter Storms Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to severe winter weather Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Acquisition and use of equipment, adoption and enforcement of ordinances and legislation, planning, training, and technical studies will be used to prevent or reduce risk to the protection of lives, property, and economic activity from the risks from severe winter storms. Property Protection: Acquisition and use of equipment and vegetation management will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property from severe winter storms. Public Education and Awareness: Public education, warning systems, access to information, and outreach projects will be used to raise public awareness of the risks from severe winter storms in order to reduce those risks. ---PAGE BREAK--- 154 Natural Resource Protection: Management of Logjams Emergency Services: Acquisition and use of equipment, emergency response services, warning systems, technological improvements, planning, and responder training will provide emergency services to prevent or reduce risks from severe winter storms. Structural Improvements: Structural projects for critical infrastructure will be implemented and maintained to prevent or reduce risks from severe winter storms. Extreme Temperatures Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to extreme temperatures. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning and the acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks from extreme heat and extreme cold. Property Protection: Acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property and economic disruption from extreme heat and extreme cold. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of the risks from extreme cold and extreme heat in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Planning and implementing watershed plans will be used to prevent or reduce risks from drought. Structural Improvements: Structural Improvements: Technological improvements and acquisition of equipment for structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from extreme temperatures. Ground Failure Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to ground failure. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning and the acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks from ground failure. Property Protection: Acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property and economic disruption from ground failure. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of the risks from ground failure in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Planning and implementing watershed plans will be used to prevent or reduce risks from ground failures. Structural Improvements: Technological improvements and acquisition of equipment for structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from ground failure. Dams and Levee Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to dam and levee. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning and the acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks from dam or levee failure. Property Protection: Acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property and economic disruption from dam or levee failure. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of the risks from dam or levee failure in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Planning and implementing watershed plans will be used to prevent or reduce risks from dam or levee failure. Structural Improvements: Technological improvements and acquisition of equipment for structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from dam or levee. Drought Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to drought. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning, acquisition and use of equipment, and technical studies will be used to prevent or reduce risks from drought. ---PAGE BREAK--- 155 Property Protection: Water treatment measures will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property from drought. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of risks from drought in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Planning and implementing watershed plans will be used to prevent or reduce risks from drought. Structural Improvements: Technological improvements and acquisition of equipment for structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from drought. Infectious Disease Outbreak Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to outbreak. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning, acquisition and use of equipment, and technical studies will be used to prevent or reduce risks from outbreak. Property Protection: Water treatment measures will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property from outbreak. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of risks from outbreak in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Planning and implementing watershed plans will be used to prevent or reduce risks from outbreak. Structural Improvements: Technological improvements and acquisition of equipment for structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from outbreak. Earthquake Goal: Reduce deaths, injuries, property loss, natural resource and economic disruption due to earthquake. Mitigation Strategy Objectives Prevention: Planning and the acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks from extreme heat and extreme cold. Property Protection: Acquisition and use of equipment will be used to prevent or reduce risks to property and economic disruption from extreme heat and extreme cold. Public Education and Awareness: Public education and access to information will be used to raise public awareness of the risks from extreme cold in order to prevent or reduce those risks. Emergency Services: Planning and implementing watershed plans will be used to prevent or reduce risks from drought. Structural Improvements: Structural Improvements: Technological improvements and acquisition of equipment for structural projects will be used to prevent or reduce risks from drought. Mitigation Actions and Projects Upon completion of the risk assessment and development of the goals and objectives, the planning committee was provided a list of the six mitigation measure categories from the FEMA State and Local Mitigation Planning How to Guides. The types of mitigation actions are listed as follows: • Prevention: Government, administrative, or regulatory actions or processes that influence the way land and buildings are developed and built. These actions also include public activities to reduce hazard losses. Examples include planning and zoning, building codes, capital improvement programs, open space preservation, and stormwater management regulations. ---PAGE BREAK--- 156 • Property Protection: Actions that involve the modification of existing buildings or structures to protect them from a hazard or removal from the hazard area. Examples include acquisition, elevation, structural retrofits, storm shutters, and shatter-resistant glass. • Public Education and Awareness: Actions to inform and educate citizens, elected officials, and property owners about the hazards and potential ways to mitigate them. Such actions include outreach projects, real estate disclosure, hazard information centers, and school-age and adult education programs. • Natural Resource Protection: Actions that, in addition to minimizing hazard losses, preserve or restore the functions of natural systems. These actions include sediment and erosion control, stream corridor restoration, watershed management, forest and vegetation management, and wetland restoration and preservation. • Emergency Services: Actions that protect people and property during and immediately after a disaster or hazard event. Services include warning systems, emergency response services, and protection of critical facilities. • Structural Projects: Actions that involve the construction of structures to reduce the impact of a hazard. Such structures include dams, levees, floodwalls, seawalls, retaining walls, and safe rooms. Implementation of the mitigation plan is critical to the overall success of the mitigation planning process. The first step is to decide, based upon many factors, which action will be undertaken first. In order to pursue the top priority first, an analysis and prioritization of the actions is important. The plan team assessed the status and priority of the existing strategies using the FEMA mitigation evaluation criteria, using the STAPLE + E criteria. Table X lists the factors to consider in the analysis and prioritization of actions. Some actions may occur before the top priority due to financial, engineering, environmental, permitting, and site control issues. Public awareness and input of these mitigation actions can increase knowledge to capitalize on funding opportunities and monitoring the progress of an action. Table 5-3: STAPLE+E criteria Criteria Description S – Social Mitigation actions are acceptable to the community if they do not adversely affect a particular segment of the population, do not cause relocation of lower income people, and if they are compatible with the community’s social and cultural values. T – Technical Mitigation actions are technically most effective if they provide a long-term reduction of losses and have minimal secondary adverse impacts. ---PAGE BREAK--- 157 A – Administrative Mitigation actions are easier to implement if the jurisdiction has the necessary staffing and funding. P – Political Mitigation actions can truly be successful if all stakeholders have been offered an opportunity to participate in the planning process and if there is public support for the action. L – Legal It is critical that the jurisdiction or implementing agency have the legal authority to implement and enforce a mitigation action. E – Economic Budget constraints can significantly deter the implementation of mitigation actions. It is important to evaluate whether an action is cost-effective, as determined by a cost benefit review, and possible to fund. E – Environmental Sustainable mitigation actions that do not have an adverse effect on the environment, comply with federal, state, and local environmental regulations, and are consistent with the community’s environmental goals, have mitigation benefits while being environmentally sound. Understanding the dynamics of STAPLE + E lead to the project’s success. Developing questions evolving around the evaluation criteria, similar to those outlined below, help the team prioritize the projects. Social: • Will the proposed action adversely affect one segment of the population? • Will the action disrupt established neighborhoods, break up voting districts, or cause the relocation of lower income people? Technical: • How effective is the action in avoiding or reducing future losses? • Will it create more problems than it solves? • Does it solve the problem or only a • Does the mitigation strategy address continued compliance with the NFIP? Administrative: • Does the jurisdiction have the capability (staff, technical experts, and/or funding) to implement the action, or can it be readily obtained? • Can the community provide the necessary maintenance? • Can it be accomplished in a timely manner? Political: • Is there political support to implement and maintain this action? • Is there a local champion willing to help see the action to completion? • Is there enough public support to ensure the success of the action? • How can the mitigation objectives be accomplished at the lowest cost to the public? Legal: • Does the community have the authority to implement the proposed action? • Are the proper laws, ordinances, and resolution in place to implement the action? • Are there any potential legal consequences? • Is there any potential community liability? • Is the action likely to be challenged by those who may be negatively affected? ---PAGE BREAK--- 158 • Does the mitigation strategy address continued compliance with the NFIP? Economic: • Are there currently sources of funds that can be used to implement the action? • What benefits will the action provide? • Does the cost seem reasonable for the size of the problem and likely benefits? • What burden will be placed on the tax base or local economy to implement this action? • Does the action contribute to other community economic goals such as capital improvements or economic development? • What proposed actions should be considered but be “tabled” for implementation until outside sources of funding are available? Environmental: • How will this action affect the environment (land, water, endangered species)? • Will this action comply with local, state, and federal environmental laws and regulations? • Is the action consistent with community environmental goals? Hazard Mitigation Actions Allen County and its included municipalities share a common Multi-Hazard Mitigation plan and worked closely to develop it. These people work together with their city councils and the Allen County Emergency Management Director to insure that the hazards and mitigation actions included in this plan are accurate and addressed in their jurisdictions. The jurisdictions responsible for each action are Allen County and the communities of Fort Wayne, Grabill, Huntertown, Leo-Cedarville, Monroeville, New Haven, Woodburn, and Zanesville. Table 5-1 lists all mitigation actions for Allen County and its jurisdictions. Each of these mitigation action charts detail the hazard, the mitigation action to address it, the priority ranking for implementation (1=High Priority; 2= Moderate Priority; 3= Low Priority), its current stage of implementation, the timeframe for implementation going forward, the jurisdictions who have identified they will work to implement the action, the responsible parties to carry through with implementation, and comments on how the plan will be implemented through existing planning mechanisms and funding to make implementation happen. All of the mitigation actions identified in the 2012 Allen County Hazard Mitigation Plan have been carried over into the 2017 plan, based on the advisement of the Allen County Emergency Management Director and the consensus of the steering committee. Some of the strategies from 2012 have been completed and are identified in the 2017 plan to reflect their ongoing implementation. Appendix J Documentation of Allen County MHMP Update documents the ---PAGE BREAK--- 159 carryover of these actions and the language revisions that they underwent for the 2017 plan to clarify or improve the wording of the mitigation action. The status designations are: • New – actions have not yet started • Complete – the action is complete • Ongoing – actions require continuing application • In Progress – actions are currently being acted upon • Deferred – no progress has been made • Deleted – the action is no longer relevant The mitigation action types are defined as follows: • Prevention • Property Protection • Public Education • Natural Resource Protection • Emergency Services • Structural Improvement Mitigation Actions by Community This is a multi-jurisdictional plan that covers Allen County, its school districts, and Fort Wayne, Grabill, Huntertown, Leo-Cedarville, Monroeville, New Haven, Woodburn, and Zanesville. The Allen County risks and mitigation activities identified in this plan also incorporate the concerns and needs of townships and other entities participating in this plan. All of the identified strategies are planned to be initiated within the lifetime of this plan (2018-2023). ---PAGE BREAK--- 160 Table 5-4: Mitigation Actions # Hazards Mitigation Action Type Action Community Responsible Party Status Priority Coordinating Agency Potential Funder Action Source 1 Flood Prevention Conduct detailed hydraulic analyses of unstudied, understudied, and unnumbered Zone A streams to determine exact floodplain boundaries x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville Allen County Surveyor w/ Maumee River Basin Commission Complete 2 All Hazards Emergency Services Obtain 800mhz radios for emergency response County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville CCP and Radio Shop Complete Dam Prevention IEAP for Hurshtown Reservoir Dam in NE Allen County). Dated Sep 2015. County City/Town Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven x x Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville Public Works Dept & MRBC Complete 3 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Increase emergency warning system through the use of new CMAS technology, local media platforms, or social media outlets x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville CCP and EMA Ongoing High CCP Cost share through general funds 2015 CEMP Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Storm Spotter Training x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville CCP and EMA Ongoing High CCP Cost share through general funds 2015 CEMP Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Storm-Ready Certification x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville CCP and EMA Ongoing High CCP Cost share through general funds 2015 CEMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 161 4 Flood Property Prevention Complete buyout process for more than 12 homes since 2012 County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville Public Works Dept & MRBC Complete High PW FEMA 5 Dams Prevention Develop signage and install at low-head (small) dam locations County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville River Greenway Section Complete High FW Parks Dept General Fund 2017 HMP Flood Property Prevention Pursue additional buyouts in the City of Ft. Wayne County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville Public Works Dept & MRBC Identified High City of Ft Wayne FEMA, IDHS 2017 HMP All Hazards Emergency Services Obtain 800mhz radios for emergency response x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville NE Fire District & Monroeville FD In- progress High Township Trustees Township Fire Fund 2015 CEMP 6 Flood Emergency Services Prepare a detailed Flood Response Plan (FRP) to improve response and reduce losses from a flood event x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA & FW Flood Control Div In Progress High EMA, Local FPA FEMA, IDHS 2012 HMP 7 Flood Prevention Work to improve the NFIP’s CRS current rank of suspended County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville FWAC Dept of Planning Svcs Identified High DPS FEMA, IDHS 2017 HMP 8 Flood Prevention Continue to reduce flood insurance premiums through participation or advancement in the NFIP’s CRS Program County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville FWAC Dept of Planning Svcs Ongoing High DPS FEMA, IDHS 2012 HMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 162 Grabill Zanesville 9 Flood Prevention Integrate new mapping into statewide Flood Hazard Best Available layer, on Indiana Floodplain Information Portal x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville Allen County GIS Office New In Progress Medium MRBC, DNR secured 2017 HMP 10 All Hazards Public Education Provide hazard preparedness (warning sirens, radio stations, insurance protection, etc.) literature at public facilities and on agency websites as appropriate x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Ongoing High EMA FEMA, IDHS 2005 HMP 11 All Hazards Public Education Educate the population in known hazard areas (floodplains, dam inundation areas, levee-protected areas, hazmat evacuation zones, etc.) x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Ongoing High EMA FEMA, IDHS 2012 HMP 12 All Hazards Public Education Develop an education and outreach campaign encouraging residents to keep in contact with their neighbors during anticipated or actual hazard events. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Ongoing High EMA FEMA, IDHS 2012 HMP 13 All Hazards Prevention Maintain trees on public rights- of-way (ROW) to reduce risk of downed utility lines. This also includes enforcement of tree maintenance on private property. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville FW & NH Parks Dept. County Highway Ongoing High Parks, Highway Local Utilities General Funds 2012 HMP 14 All Hazards Prevention Inventory dying ash trees and implement a removal program. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville Complete High Forestry & Parks Divs General Fund & Solid Waste District 2012 HMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 163 15 Hazardous Material Release Emergency Services Establish procedures to evacuate the populations in known hazard areas. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Ongoing High EMA LEPC General Fund 2012 HMP 16 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Develop and implement a voluntary immunization program for all emergency responders, inspection staff, and families x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville AC Health Dept Ongoing High Health Department General Fund 2012 HMP 17 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Develop reciprocal agreements between neighboring communities/counties for structural inspections following hazard events x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Complete Medium EMA General Fund 2012 HMP 18 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Increase use of Mobile Command Center during special events or through more stationary uses x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Ongoing Medium EMA & CCP General Fund 2012 HMP 19 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Maintain a database of accurate and community specific information following each hazard event. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Ongoing Medium EMA General Fund 2012 HMP 20 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Update outdoor warning siren system to alert population of severe weather conditions x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Complete High EMA, cities & townships General Fund 2012 HMP 21 Summer & Winter Storms Emergency Services Improve disaster preparedness and emergency response within the County through elements of the StormReady Community Program. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville EMA In Progress Medium EMA General Fund 2012 HMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 164 x Grabill x Zanesville 22 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Create multi-lingual notifications and hazard preparedness materials. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville EMA Complete High EMA FEMA 2012 HMP 23 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Facilitate the promotion of the construction of safe rooms in new municipal facilities x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville ACFW Dept of Planning Svcs Identified Low DPS, Bdlg and Parks Dept Capital Budget 2012 HMP 24 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Provide incentives for (private) buildings with approved safe rooms. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville ACFW Dept of Planning Svcs Identified Low DPS and AC Building Dept Comm Devlp Fund 2012 HMP 25 Flood Property Prevention Discourage development of new critical facilities in 1% & 0.2% annual chance flood hazard and areas behind levees. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville ACFW Dept of Planning Svcs Ongoing High DPS, Bldg, CD Div General Fund 2012 HMP 26 Flood Property Prevention Protect existing critical facilities in 1% & 0.2% annual chance flood hazard and behind levees County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville City Utilities In Progress High City Utilities, PW, Engineering General Fund, Light Lease Fund 2012 HMP 27 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Investigate the potential to use wind or solar generators for power back-up. County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville City Engineering Complete High Utilities, Public Works, Parks Depts General Fund & Utility rates 2012 HMP 28 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Obtain funding to retrofit public facilities and/or all critical x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown Complete Medium FW Property Mgmt & AC General Fund, Capital 2012 HMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 165 facilities with appropriate wiring and electrical capabilities for utilizing a large generator for power back-up. x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville FW Property Mgmt & AC Building Dept Building Dept Improvement Fund 29 Multiple Hazards Emergency Services Facilitate power back-up generators in all critical facilities x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville AC & Grounds Mgr In Progress Medium AC Facilities Mgr, Highway Dept General Fund 2012 HMP 30 Flood Prevention Support FEMA approved flood depth mapping (RiskMAP) on the Maumee, St. Joseph, and St. Mary’s Rivers to better understand the flood risk potential x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville AC GIS Section In Progress Medium AC GIS, FW PW, FWAC IT General Fund, IDHS 2012 HMP 31 Dams Prevention/ Public Education Encourage Dam owners to make necessary repairs to structures to improve overall dam conditions x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville AC Dept of Planning Identified Medium AC DPS, FW PW General Fund 2012 HMP 32 Dams Prevention Encourage development of IEAPs for High Hazard dams County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville City Utilities Div Complete Medium City Utilities, EMA, Town of Leo- Cedarville City Utility Fund 2012 HMP 33 Levees Prevention Develop, maintain, and regularly exercise Evacuation plans in levee-protected areas County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville FW Public Works Identified Medium FW PW and EMA General Fund, FEMA 2012 HMP 34 Dams, Levees, Flooding Prevention Establish hazard overlay zones or overlay districts in the Zoning Ordinance to permit only those land uses that are least susceptible to flood; dam or levee failure damages. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville AC Dept of Planning Svcs Complete Low AC DPS, GIS, EMA, CD General Fund 2012 HMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 166 35 Flood Earthquake Prevention Train GIS staff in HAZUS-MH to quantitatively estimate losses in “what if scenarios” and continue to use the most recent GIS data in land use planning efforts. x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville Allen County GIS Office Identified Low AC GIS, ATOS, NIRCC, EMA General Fund & FEMA 2012 HMP 36 Levee Prevention Develop a levee evacuation plan for Leo-Cedarville County City/Town Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven x x Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville Fort Wayne City Utilities In- Progress Medium FW CU, town of Leo- Cedarville, EMA City Utilities Fund 2017 HMP 37 Infectious Disease Public Outreach Develop educational materials related to EBA removal x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Huntertown x New Haven x Leo- Cedarville x Woodburn x Monroeville x Grabill x Zanesville FWAC Health Dept Identified Low FWAC Health Dept Public Health Fund 2017 HMP 38 Levee Prevention Levee Evaluation Plan County City/Town Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven x x Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville Fort Wayne City Utilities Identified Low FW CU, town of Leo- Cedarville DNR IDHS FEMA USACE 2017 HMP 39 Flood, Levee, Infectious Outbreak Prevention/ Public Education Continue to support River Watch initiatives along Spy Run Creek County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville FW IT Div Ongoing Low FW IT Div, FW PW, FW Zoo General Fund 2017 HMP 40 Flood, Levee, Infectious Outbreak Prevention/ Public Education Continue to support River Watch initiatives along Graham McCulloch Ditch County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville Grabill Zanesville FW IT Div Ongoing Low FW IT Div, FW PW, AC Parks General Fund, Little River Wetlands Project Inc. 2017 HMP 41 Flood, Levee, Infectious Outbreak Prevention/ Public Education Continue to support River Watch initiatives along Cedar Creek County City/Town x Fort Wayne Huntertown New Haven Leo- Cedarville Woodburn Monroeville FW IT Div Ongoing Low FW IT Div, FW CU Concordia Elementary School 2017 HMP ---PAGE BREAK--- 167 Grabill Zanesville The following is meant to include more clarification to the strategy listed next to the identified number: 2. Fort Wayne, New Haven, Woodburn, Huntertown all have 800mhz radios. The town of Monroeville is served by the Monroeville FD; the town of Grabill is served by the NE Fire District. 3. The Consolidated Communications Partnership (CCP) is the communications agency and 911 Center for all jurisdictions within Allen County. 6. The City of Fort Wayne Flood Control Division has a detailed flood response plan and represents 80-85% of our flood fighting efforts. We are still working to complete a county-wide FRP which captures our actions for the remainder of the county. 17. Indiana now has a state-wide mutual aid agreement between and amongst all political subdivisions for emergency response, training, exercises and recovery efforts. 29. Back-up generators are now in/serving all Fort Wayne and Allen County government buildings and facilities except a couple of gas pumps at the service garages. Still working to complete them CY18. 36. Fort Wayne City Utilities is the primary agency because the dam near Leo-Cedarville is Fort Wayne City Utilities property. It regulates the water supply for the City of Fort Wayne. (Hurshtown Reservoir) ---PAGE BREAK--- Chapter 6 – Plan Maintenance and Implementation Implementation and Maintenance The Allen County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan (AHMP) is intended to serve as a guide for dealing with the impact of both current and future hazards for all county people and institutions. As such it is not a static document but must be modified to reflect changing conditions if it is to be an effective plan. The goals, objectives and mitigation strategies will serve as the action plan. Even though individual strategies have a responsible party assigned to it to ensure implementation, overall responsibility, oversight and general monitoring of the action plan has been assigned to the Allen County Emergency Manager. It will be their responsibility to gather a Local Task Force to update the All-Hazard Mitigation Plan on a routine basis. Every year, the County Emergency Manager will call a meeting to review the plan, mitigation strategies and the estimated costs attached to each strategy. All participating parties of the original Local Task Force and cities will be invited to this meeting. Responsible parties will report on the status of their projects. Committee responsibility will be to evaluate the plan to determine whether: • Goals and objectives are relevant. • Risks have changed. • Resources are adequate or appropriate. • The plan as written has implementation problems or issues. • Strategies have happened as expected. • Partners participating in the plan need to change (new and old). • Strategies are effective. • Any changes have taken place that may affect priorities. • Any strategies should be changed. In addition to the information generated at the Local Task Force (LEPC and CEMP)meetings, the County Emergency Manager will also annually evaluate the All-Hazard Mitigation Plan and update the plan in the event of a hazardous occurrence. Two-year updates are due on the anniversary of the plan approval date. After the second two-year update meeting, the Allen County Emergency Manager will finalize a new Local Task Force to begin the required five-year update process. This will be accomplished in coordination with Allen County jurisdictions and the entire All-Hazard Mitigation Plan shall be updated and submitted to FEMA for approval (within 5 years of plan adoption). These revisions will include public participation by requiring a public hearing and ---PAGE BREAK--- 169 published notice, in addition to multiple Local Task Force meetings to make detailed updates to the plan. Public participation for updates is as critical as in the initial plan. Public participation methods that were used in the initial writing will be duplicated for any future update processes – direct mailing list of interested parties, public meetings, press releases, surveys, questionnaires, and resolutions of participation and involvement. Additional methods of getting public input and involvement are encouraged such as placing copies of the plan in the Allen County Emergency Manager’s Office and city offices, in addition to placing the plan on the Allen County and social media websites. Further, jurisdictions will be encouraged to place a notice on their websites stating the plan is available for review at the city offices. Notifications of these methods could be placed in chamber newsletters, and local newspapers. Committee responsibilities will be the same as with updates. Chapters 5 focuses on mitigation strategies for natural hazards, jurisdiction-specific mitigation strategies for both natural and man-made/technological hazards. The All-Hazard Mitigation Plan proposes a number of strategies, some of which will require outside funding in order to implement. If outside funding is not available, the strategy will be set aside until sources of funding can be identified. In these situations, Allen County and cities will also consider other funding options such as the county’s/cities’/towns’ general funds, bonding and other sources. Based on the availability of funds and the risk assessment of that hazard, the county will determine which strategies should be continued and which should be set aside. Consequently, the action plan and the risk assessment serves as a guide to spending priorities but will be adjusted annually to reflect current needs and financial resources. The last step requires an evaluation of the strategies identified in the goals and policies framework, selecting preferred strategies based on the risk assessment, prioritizing the strategy list, identifying who is responsible for carrying out the strategy, and the timeframe and costs of strategy completion. Allen County and its jurisdictions have incorporated the preferred strategies including identification of the responsible party to implement, the timeframe and the cost of the activity with the goals and policies framework. This plan will be integrated into other county plans such as County Comprehensive Plans, the County Water Plan, the County Transportation Plan and all Emergency Operations Plans. Chapter one will serve as an executive summary to be attached to those plans as necessary. The County ---PAGE BREAK--- 170 Board and Emergency Manager will encourage jurisdictions to implement their jurisdiction- specific mitigation strategies in their comprehensive plans, land use regulations, zoning ordinances, capital improvement plans and/or building codes by including mitigation strategies in their plans as listed in Table 6-1. Further, as each land use mechanism is updated, mitigation strategies will be evaluated to determine whether they can implement or include them at that time. The Emergency Management Advisory Council (EMAC) will continue to serve as the advisory body that provides general supervision and control over the emergency management and the disaster programs for the county and its multiple jurisdictions. The quarterly meetings will continue to be available to the public and other mitigation team members through the EMAC and other mitigation projects avenues such as RiskMAP. Table 6-1: Allen County and Jurisdictions Planning Mechanisims Comprehensive Plan x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Emergency Operations Plan x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Capital Improvement Plan x County City/Town x Fort Wayne Woodburn Huntertown Monroeville New Haven Grabill Leo-Cedarville Zanesville Local Water Management Plan x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Watershed Plan x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Land Use Plan x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Zoning Ordinance x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Building Code x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville Floodplain Ordinance x County City/Town x Fort Wayne x Woodburn x Huntertown x Monroeville x New Haven x Grabill x Leo-Cedarville x Zanesville ---PAGE BREAK--- 171 Many of these plans or policies can help implement the goals, objectives and strategies in Allen County’s All Hazard Mitigation Plan. The Allen County Emergency Manager is responsible for meeting within each jurisdiction within two times throughout the next five years. During these meetings, the local Emergency Manager will review all Local Planning Mechanisms and collaborate with the Cities and Towns to ensure the All-Hazard Mitigation Plan is becoming as integrated into local plans as possible. These Local Planning Mechanisms are meant to work cooperatively together in order to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of Allen County and its corresponding jurisdictions. Although only one of the planning mechanisms has been updated since the initial hazard mitigation plan was adopted city, town and county officials will integrate related plans with hazard mitigation goals, objectives and strategies when feasible and appropriate. Adoption, Implementation and Maintenance County Adoption. One of the first steps in implementing the plan is to make sure that it is officially adopted in a public hearing. The task force and public provided comment on the draft plan. The task force reviewed comments, modifications were made and a final draft was sent to FEMA for review, comment and approval. After FEMA approved the plan, the county board adopted the plan. A public hearing was held to obtain any additional comments that the public or others wished to make. A copy of the county and the community jurisdictions resolutions to adopt are located in the Appendix I. City and Town Adoption. The All-Hazard Mitigation Plan for Allen County is a multijurisdictional plan. All communities in the county – towns and cities – were involved in the various stages of the planning process and a mitigation strategies have been identified for each jurisdiction. Each of Allen County’s cities and towns passed resolutions to participate in the county plan. Following official adoption of the plan by the county each city and township was notified. Each chose whether or not to adopt the plan as well. Each were encouraged to adopt enabling them to apply for HMGP funds independently not under the umbrella of the county. Copies of the city and towns resolutions choosing to adopt the plan are in Appendix I. Implementation and Maintenance Guidelines. The Allen County All-Hazard Mitigation Plan is intended to serve as a guide/reference to mitigate the impact of both current and future hazards for all county residents and institutions. As such, it is not a static document but must be modified to reflect changing conditions if it is to be an effective plan. The goals, objectives and mitigation strategies will serve as a work or action plan. ---PAGE BREAK--- 172 Individual strategies have a party assigned to it to help ensure implementation, oversight and general monitoring of the action plan; however oversight has been assigned to the County Emergency Manager. The following guidelines will help implement the goals, objectives and strategies of the plan. An implementation committee will be used to assist in this process. The existing task force, the planning commission, other appropriate county committee, or any other group of stakeholders could serve as the implementation committee to review implementation opportunities identified in the plan. Implementation of strategies should be a collaborative effort of the participating jurisdictions. This committee should operate by group consensus and create recommendations for implementation to bring forward to the proper governing entity for consideration. Guidelines for the committee include: 1. Commitment to the plan and overall mitigation vision. 2. Protect sensitive information. 3. Take inventory of strategies in progress. 4. Determine strategies that no longer are needed or new strategies that have emerged. 5. Set priorities. Assign responsibilities to complete. 6. Seek funding. 7. Meet minimum bi-annually – one meeting to set the course of action and a second to monitor progress. 8. Report to all respective boards for action. 9. Advisory capacity. Assigning strategies and implementation activities in this plan to certain entities does not guarantee completion. The strategies and activities addressed in this plan will be addressed as funding and other resources become available and approval by the responsible jurisdiction takes place. The County Emergency Manager has the overall responsibility of tracking the progress of mitigation strategies. The County Emergency Manager will request updates from responsible agencies and cities on their mitigation actions after each disaster and at least annual to coincide with plan evaluation. Post disaster monitoring will evaluate the effectiveness of mitigation actions that have been completed and determine implementation of planned strategies. Monitoring may lead to developing a project that may be funded by FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance Programs. Annual reviews to change the plan will be led by the County Emergency Manager using the implementation committee. It will be their responsibility to review the plan and mitigation. Yearly ---PAGE BREAK--- 173 reviews are due on the anniversary of the plan approval. Responsible parties and the implementation committee will report on the status of their projects. Committee responsibility will be to evaluate the plan to determine whether: • Goals, objectives and strategies are relevant. • Risks that have changed including the nature, magnitude, and/or type of risks. • Resources are adequate or appropriate. • The plan as written has any implementation problems or issues. • Deadlines are being met as expected. • Partners participating in the plan are appropriate. • Strategies are effective. • New developments affecting priorities. • Strategies that should be changed. Updates every five years are led by the County Emergency Manager in coordination with cities and townships to complete a rewrite for submitting to FEMA. A task force, similar to the one created to complete the plan, will be formed and used in the planning process to rewrite the plan. These revisions will include public participation by requiring a public hearing and published notice. Future updates should address potential dollar losses to vulnerable structures identified. Any major changes in the plan may include additional public meetings besides just a public hearing. Public participation for updates is as critical as in the initial plan. Public participation methods that were used in the initial writing should be duplicated for any updates – direct mailing list of interested parties, public meetings, press releases, surveys, questionnaires, and resolutions of participation and involvement. Additional methods of getting the public input and involvement are encouraged such as placing copies of the plan in public libraries for public comment or placing the plan on county and city websites. Notifications of these methods could be placed in newsletters and the local newspapers. Committee responsibilities will be the same with updates as the original plan. The action plan proposes a number of strategies, some of which will require outside funding to implement. If outside funding is not available, the strategy may be set aside until sources of funding can be identified or modified to work within the funding restrictions. In these situations, the county and entities will also consider other funding options such as the county’s general fund, bonding and other sources. Based on the availability of funds and the risk assessment of the hazard, the county will determine which strategies should they continue to work on and which should be set aside. Consequently, the action plan and the risk assessment serves as a guide to ---PAGE BREAK--- 174 spending priorities but will be adjusted annually to reflect current needs and financial resources. It is not a legal binding document. Updates require an evaluation of the strategies identified in the goals and policies framework, selecting preferred strategies based on the risk assessment, prioritizing the strategy list, identifying who is responsible for carrying out the strategy, and the timeframe and costs of strategy completion. Allen County has incorporated the preferred strategies including identification of the responsible party to implement, the timeframe and the cost of the activity in the plan framework. This plan will be integrated into other county plans such as the County Comprehensive Plan, the County Water Plan, the County Transportation Plan and all Emergency Operations Plans. Chapter One can serve as an executive summary to be attached to those plans as necessary. The County Board encourages jurisdictions to address hazards in their comprehensive plans, land use regulations, zoning ordinances, capital improvement and/or building codes by including some of the mitigation strategies in their plans. Many of the plans or policies can include strategies from the Hazard Mitigation Plan. They are meant to blend and complement each other so that strategies are duplicated and occur in different plans as appropriate.