The Washington State Department of Ecology will begin soliciting applications from local and tribal governments around the state for flood hazard planning grants on Feb. 15, according to an Ecology news release.
The grants come from the flood control assistance account program, which the Washington Legislature established in 1984 to provide funding for local governments to reduce flooding risks.
“We know preparing for and avoiding flood damages is particularly important because storms are increasing in strength and frequency while sea levels are rising,” stated Ecology floodplain Planning Policy Lead Scott McKinney in the release. “Responding to a flood emergency often costs four to seven times more than investing in preventative measures, which save $6 for every $1 spent.”
Ecology expects to have about $2.3 million in grants available. There will be two virtual, 90-minute workshops held in January to provide information on how to apply for the funding.
The first workshop will be held at 10 a.m. on Jan. 11. To register, visit bit.ly/3Y7MkFu.
The second workshop will be held at 1 p.m. on Jan. 19. To register, go online to bit.ly/3PecpyD.
Ecology stated there is a desire to focus on underserved communities and communities facing economic challenges. The release stated Ecology has lacked sufficient funding for the flood control assistance account program for 10 years, which would have helped partners combat flooding and create flood hazard management plans.
“Unfortunately, this lack of funds disproportionately affected economically distressed rural communities,” stated the release. “Emerging research shows Latino and Tribal communities are more exposed to flooding. For example, research estimates that while Latino residents make up 8% of Washington’s total population, they comprise 16% of those living in flood zones.”
For more information on the flood control assistance account program, go online to bit.ly/3uChabM.
