Flood Recovery | Vermont League of Cities and Towns

The July 2023 flooding affected all 14 counties in Vermont, damaging property at a scale beyond that experienced in the last 100 years. Governor Scott requested a disaster declaration (July 13) and it was approved by President Biden (July 14) enabling federal resources to aid in the recovery.

As more flood response and recovery information is released that is essential for municipalities to know, you will find it here.

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Email flood recovery or FEMA PA program questions to: ADM.2023floods@Vermont.gov

General

Protecting Workers and Volunteers During Flood Cleanup (VLCT)
Guidance for Municipalities: Temporary Flood Debris Collection Sites for Special Materials Best Practices - Must notify DEC of temporary collection site location and more. Revised 7/21/2023.
Guidance: Help for Communities on How to Comply with FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program After a Flood - Communities must complete Substantial Damage estimates and permitting to remain in good standing for the NFIP. Published 7/21/2023.
Resources for Municipal Administrative Officers - ANR guidance about Substantially Damaged (SD) and Substantial Improvement (SI) determinations, including template letter for building owner. FEMA SI/SD Checklist - Initial screening thresholds and included/excluded improvement cost
Report a Landslide to the Vermont Geological Survey - This is NOT for emergency response.
VT DEC Property Concerns with Rivers and Streams - Frequently Asked Questions
Clean and Prevent Mold - Vermont Department of Health
Flood Recovery Discussions and Workshops - Vermont Council on Rural Development events to help formal and informal community leaders share response and recovery challenges, best practices, and thoughts on how to move forward together.
Vermont Bond Bank - VBB is actively tracking the short term and long term financing needs of Vermont's communities in support of borrowing.
Mutual Aid through Vermont Water/Wastewater Agency Response Network (VT WARN) - Equipment and personnel assistance.
EPA: Lessons Learned from Water/Wastewater Utilities that Participated in FEMA's Public Assistance Grant Program - Discusses Immediate Needs Funding for emergency work and has other practical advice. Published May 2012.
UVM Drone Services and Aerial Images of Flooding - No charge services. Helps document flood damaged areas.
Safe Tree Removal Workshops - Hands-on workshops in August by the Vermont Urban & Community Forestry Programs.
Working Capital Financings: Federal Tax Law Considerations - Vermont Bond Bank guidance on when short term borrowings for municipalities can be completed on a tax-exempt basis.
Plumbers and Electricians Contact List - Published by the Vermont Secretary of State and the Division of Fire Safety. List is organized by county.
Flood Risk and Historic Buildings - State Historic Preservation Office Guidance
Report Municipal Trail Damages - VT Trails and Greenways Council in coordination with the VT Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation
What to do if you find a release of hazardous materials - VANR Spills Program assistance
EMDs can refer individuals to Vermont Emergency Eats program - Meals available for individuals whose food security has been negatively impacted because of the July 2023 flood
Mobile Home Condemnation and Public Building Assistance - Contact the Division of Fire Safety at 802-479-7561 for assistance.
Statewide Contracts Search Tool - AI powered tool to assist municipalities and other political subdivisions to purchase goods and services under the terms negotiated by the State Office of Purchasing and Contracting on select statewide contracts.
Emergency Relief Assistance for Federal-Aid Highways - FEMA Public Assistance does not cover Federal-Aid Highways.

Communication from State Agencies

VLR: First Few Days of Flood Recovery (7/11/2023)
VEM: Guidance for Town Officials - July 2023 Flooding Recovery (7/11/2023)
VEM: Debris Guidance and FEMA Eligibility (7/14/2023)
VEM: Town Equipment Documentation for FEMA (7/17/2023)
VEM: Flood Work and Contractors! Must Read (7/22/2023)
VEM: FEMA Public Assistance DR4720 (7/24/2023)
VEM: FEMA R1 EHP (Environmental Historic Preservation) Disaster Activities (7/24/2023)
DEC: Municipal Roads General Permit - Storm Damage Culvert Repair & Change of Contact (7/24/2023)
DEC: Flood-Related Hazardous Materials and Debris Collection Assistance Available - Municipal Action Required by 7/26/23 (7/25/2023)
VEM: Applicant Briefings Scheduled (7/26/2023)
DEC: Flood-Related Hazardous Materials and Debris Collection Assistance Available - Deadline Extended! (7/26/2023) Contact Steven Young at 802-261-5823 or steven.young@vermont.gov for municipal assistance with debris removal.
VEM: Public Assistance FEMA DR4720 Flood Information All in One Spot! (7/27/2023)
DEC: How to Make Aboveground Storage Tanks in Flood-Prone Areas More Safe (8/24/2023)
VLR: Help VTrans assess statewide municipal needs - Please fill out this form whether you need help or not! See Gubernatorial Directive No. 1 re: Debris Removal.
ANR: After a Flood - River and Stream Debris Management - Guidance on managing the removal of flood-related debris in and along rivers and streams (9/1/2023)
VEM: FEMA Eligibility for Management of River Debris - Reminders for Public Assistance applicants. (10/12/2023)

State of VT Press Releases

ANR Press Release: Vermont has a High Risk of Landslides after Recent Flooding - Published 7/14/2023
ANR Press Release: Flood Recovery Work in Rivers and Streams - Published 7/14/2023
DEC Press Release: Dam Safety Inspections - Published 7/18/2023
DEC Press Release: Increasing Waste Disposal Opportunities for Vermont Communities During Flood Recovery - Published 7/20/23. Call before you haul.
Governor Scott Announces Emergency Gap Funding - Published 7/21/2023. Early release of State payments to municipalities plus business assistance program.
Governor Scott Appoints Doug Farnham as Chief Recovery Officer - Published 8/2/2023.
Flood Recovery Public Space Clean Up Day - Sign up your town for volunteer assistance to clean up flood impacted public properties. Published 8/15/2023.

FEMA

VLCT's FEMA PA Program webpage
FEMA DR-4720-VT webpage
Designated Areas: Disaster 4720 map shows the current types of FEMA assistance that have been designated for Vermont's fourteen (14) counties (this map will be regularly updated but the link remains the same). NEW 9/12/2023: Essex County now eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.
FEMA Press Release: President Increases Federal Cost Share for Vermont - Published 7/18/2023. Applies to State-designated 30-day period.
FEMA Schedule of Equipment Rates (only use 2021; DO NOT USE 2023)
Incident Period for July Floods extended! Damages incurred from July 7 through July 21, 2023 eligible.

Vermont Emergency Declaration and Addendums

Emergency Declaration (Executive Order 03-23) - Governor Phil Scott 7/9/2023
Addendum 1 to Executive Order 03-23 Regulatory Relief for Infrastructure Rebuild - Governor Phil Scott 7/13/2023
Addendum 2 to Executive Order 03-23 Additional Regulatory Relief - Governor Phil Scott 7/19/2023
Addendum 3 to Executive Order 03-23 Licensee Regulatory Relief - Governor Phil Scott 7/20/2023
Addendum 4 to Executive Order 03-23 Regulatory Relief (partially pertains to municipal water/wastewater professionals) - Governor Phil Scott 7/20/2023
Addendum 5 to Executive Order 03-23 Stream Alteration and Dam Safety Notice Modifications - Governor Phil Scott 8/1/2023
Directive 1: Debris Removal Directs VTrans, DPS, the Chief Recovery Officer, and VANR to clear or remove debris and wreckage that may threaten public health or safety, or public or private property at the discretion of VTrans - Governor Phil Scott 8/25/2023
Governor Scott Requests Major Disaster Declaration for Early August Flooding - Request covers repair of public infrastructure in Addison and Rutland Counties for August 3-5, 2023. Press Release published 9/27/2023.
Addendum 6 to Executive Order 03-23 Rescinds and reissues Addendum 1 for infrastructure rebuild regulatory relief for certain businesses. - Governor Phil Scott 10/10/2023 (Extension requires refiling NRB Act 250 waiver documentation.)

In addition to FEMA's Public Assistance (PA) program, your municipality or residents may be eligible for the programs listed below. Deadlines for applications vary among the programs. These opportunities are described more fully on our Open Funding Opportunities webpage. Check back periodically as we will add to this list.

FHWA Emergency Relief - Supports repair or reconstruction of Federal-aid highways and roads on Federal lands which have suffered serious damage because of natural disasters or catastrophic failures from an external cause. These roads are NOT eligible for FEMA Public Assistance.
Vermont Emergency Relief and Assistance Fund (ERAF) - Through this program, the State of Vermont pays a share of the required local match for FEMA Public Assistance. The State contribution is based on disaster preparedness actions taken by the municipality. Find your municipality's ERAF rate at Flood Ready Vermont.
Vermont Emergency Management Property Buyouts (July 2023 Flooding) - Grant funding is available to cover 100% of the project cost for the voluntary purchase of properties (residential, commercial, or vacant parcels) that are at risk from flooding. Property owners or municipalities can complete a form, which VEM will use to match the proposed buyout to the best grant program.
USDA Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) - The EWP Program is a recovery effort aimed at relieving imminent hazards to life and property caused by floods, fires, windstorms, and other natural disasters. Public and private landowners are eligible for assistance but must be represented by a project sponsor. ~~Application deadline is 9/7/2023.~~ NEW: Municipalities have two options to access this program. 1) Municipalities can apply directly to NRCS. NRCS has extended the Request for Assistance deadline to October 12, 2023. 2) Municipalities also can submit proposed projects to the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources (ANR). ANR submitted a Request for Assistance Letter to NRCS offering to sponsor or co-sponsor any Vermont project. Projects submitted through ANR can be submitted after October 12, 2023. Contact John Smeltzer, DEC, at 802-249-5620 to submit through VANR.
USDA Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) Floodplain Buyout - Use this program where structure projects to reduce threats from flooding and erosion are not cost-effective and/or beneficial. (Use VEM's program first!)
EDA Disaster Supplemental Funding - Supports disaster recovery activities including economic recovery strategic planning grants, public works construction projects including broadband and resiliency projects, workforce development, capitalization of revolving loan funds, and economic development projects that enhance density in the vicinity of other economic development. Vermont qualifies for FY2022 funding.
USDA Rural Development Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants (ECWAG) - Helps eligible communities prepare, or recover from, an emergency that threatens the availability of safe, reliable drinking water. Contact Rebecca Schrader, Lead Community Program Specialist, Rebecca.schrader@usda.gov, before pursuing an application
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) - Supports projects such as mitigation of local roads and bridges, home acquisition (buyout), structural elevations or relocations, replacement of undersized culverts, mitigation outreach and education, etc. Project do not need to be directly connected to damage incurred from this disaster.
EPA Drinking Water System Infrastructure Resilience and Sustainability - Supports underserved, small, and disadvantaged communities to increase drinking water facility resilience to natural hazards. Disadvantaged Community is determined by the State’s affordability criteria.
AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) Traditional Disaster Response - Provides a team of 8-12 AmeriCorps NCCC members for disaster response, recovery, and mitigation activities.
Clean Water Initiative Flood Response and Recovery - Municipalities can use this funding to perform preliminary assessment of clean water project losses. Other municipal activities may be eligible. Last resort funding after sources like FEMA PA and insurance used.

State of Vermont

Vermont Emergency Management
Vermont Emergency Management Public Assistance
VT Agency of Natural Resources
VT Department of Environmental Conservation - After a Flood
VT Department of Health
VT Department of Mental Health
VT Department of Libraries
VT Department of Forests, Parks and Recreation - Guidance for municipal parks and recreation departments
VT Division of Fire Safety - Safety and inspections after a flood
VT Division for Historic Preservation - Guidance for historic buildings and sites
VT Agency of Agriculture, Foods, and Market
VT Agency of Commerce and Community Development
Flood Ready Vermont
Act 250 Temporary Waivers - Form and instructions to access waiver. Reminder, waivers end 10/15/2023. Waiver documentation due to NRB 11/15/2023.
Vermont Bond Bank - Resources and reminders about short and long term financing needs, cost documentation best practices, etc. for response and recovery.

Vermont Emergency Declaration and Addendums

Emergency Declaration (Executive Order 03-23) - Governor Phil Scott 7/9/23
Addendum 1 to Executive Order 03-23 Regulatory Relief for Infrastructure Rebuild - Governor Phil Scott 7/13/23
Addendum 2 to Executive Order 03-23 Additional Regulatory Relief - Governor Phil Scott 7/19/23
Addendum 3 to Executive Order 03/23 Licensee Regulatory Relief - Governor Phil Scott 7/20/23
Addendum 4 to Executive Order 03-23 Regulatory Relief (partially pertains to municipal water/wastewater professionals) - Governor Phil Scott 7/20/2023
Addendum 5 to Executive Order 03-23 Stream Alteration and Dam Safety Notice Modifications - Governor Phil Scott 8/1/2023

Other Resource Websites

Vermont Bond Bank - Flood Response Resource Page
National Weather Service Forecast Office - Burlington, Vermont
National Weather Service Forecast Office, - Albany, New York
Road Conditions
Track River Forecasts and Levels (National Weather Service)
Vermont 211 or Dial 211

General - Applies to Individual, Business, and Nonprofit Assistance

Governor's Office Flood Recovery Resources - Compilation of resources to help individuals and businesses navigate flood response and recovery.
Cleaning Up After the Flood Resources - Agency of Natural Resources guidance and resources
Guidance for Vermont Flood Recovery Health and Safety - Vermont Department of Health (VDH) Frequently Asked Questions
Clean and Prevent Mold - Vermont Department of Health
VT DEC Property Concerns with Rivers and Streams - Frequently Asked Questions
Multi Agency Resource Centers - Assistance to those affected by this disaster
USDA NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection Program - For imminent threats to life and property. Projects or floodplain buyouts. Governmental entity must be applicant. 60-day window from disaster event to apply.
Vermont Language Justice Project Videos - Resource for non-English speakers to access flood safety information
Translated Recovery Materials - A variety of recovery materials translated to multiple languages
Report Damages to 211 Flyer - For posting
DEC Press Release: Vermont Residents Can Bring Flood-Related Hazardous Materials to Collection Site in Middlesex or Local Collection Locations - Published 7/28/2023
VT Division of Fire Safety Disaster Placards - What do the placards (tags) colors represent? Can they be removed?
VT DEC: Flood Related Hazardous Materials Assistance - Lists temporary collection sites and contact information.
Plumbers and Electricians Contact List - Published by the Vermont Secretary of State and the Division of Fire Safety. List is organized by county.
Help for Privately Owned Road or Bridge - FEMA Fact Sheet. Published 8/17/2023
Vermont State and Local Level Referrals - Where to find help for disaster recovery needs.
Incident Period for July Floods extended! Damages incurred from July 7 through July 21, 2023 eligible.
FEMA extends deadline for Individual Assistance applications to 10/12/2023.
FEMA extends deadline for Individual Assistance applications to 10/31/2023.

Individual Assistance

Open Shelters - VT 211 tracking
Individual assistance - Site for reporting damages now to inform the state's FEMA request.
FEMA Individual Assistance Information - VEM website summarizing available assistance, non-monetary services, eligibility criteria, and more
Request Volunteer Help to Assist with Home Cleaning - Call VT 211. If you can't get through, try 866-652-4636 or 802-652-4636.
Debris Removal Guidelines for Private Residential Properties
Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) - For certain individuals whose employment is lost or interrupted as a direct result of this flood event. Deadline to apply extended to 9/29/2023.
Vermont Emergency Eats - Meals available for individuals whose food security has been negatively impacted because of the July 2023 flood.
Loss of 3Squares VT due to Household Misfortune/Flood- Current 3 Squares Vermont recipients that experienced a loss may call 1-800-479-6151. Replacement requests due by 08/31/2023. Hot Foods Waiver Extension extended through 09/17/2023.