Disaster response and recovery
Introduction
Our office works with state and federal agencies in the wake of a disaster. During this time, we provide data and documentation about affected cultural resources. We also ensure that response and recovery operations incorporate appropriate cultural resources protections. Finally, we provide technical assistance to affected members of the public, such as:
- Property owners
- Managers
- Communities
Programmatic Agreements
We have a programmatic agreement with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). This governs how Section 106 regulatory review applies to FEMA’s programs during and after a federally declared disaster. We occasionally develop similar agreements with other agencies on a case-by-case basis.
Among the activities HPO may participate in pursuant to these agreements:
- Windshield survey for damage assessment and historic property determinations.
- Expedited consultation on emergency undertakings.
- Coordination meetings with:
- Agency staff
- Community representatives
- FEMA’s Environmental and Historic Preservation review section
Section 106 Review
Learn more about Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. Our office consults with federal agencies as part of this review process.
FEMA Programmatic Agreements
Learn about FEMA’s use of Programmatic Agreements for Section 106.
FEMA Environmental Planning and Historic Preservation (EHP)
This FEMA program guides communities in complying with environmental and historic preservation regulations. This assistance extends to using environmental assessments as part of long-term planning.
National Flood Insurance Program
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) helps property owners and tenants in over 23,000 communities. To participate, communities must establish local Floodplain Management Ordinances. Normally, the following thresholds trigger flood mitigation requirements for properties in these communities:
- Substantial damage
- Substantial improvements
Floodplain Management Ordinances allow variances from these measures for certain historic properties. Our office can help property owners and advocates understand:
- How these rules define historic structures.
- How to apply these rules to historic properties in their communities.
DEP National Flood Insurance Program Resource Page
Learn about National Flood Insurance Program and how it applies for communities, homeowners and others.
DEP Model Floodplain Management Ordinances
Use these ordinances as best-practice examples while developing your own community’s ordinance.
New Jersey Cultural Alliance for Response
The New Jersey Cultural Alliance for Response (NJCAR) empowers cultural communities in New Jersey. These include but are not limited to:
- Museums
- Libraries and archives
- Historical societies
- Parks, gardens and arboretums
- Individual historic resources, including archaeological sites
Through NJCAR, these communities learn how to plan for and react to disasters. They can prevent or mitigate the loss of valuable assets. With preparation, they can sustain operations during and after disasters.
Our office is a founding member of the New Jersey Cultural Alliance for Response (NJCAR). We have actively helped NJCAR members develop an inventory of cultural facilities. These members include government programs, nonprofit associations and individuals invested in cultural heritage.
NJCAR Website
Learn about membership and training programs offered by NJCAR.
American Institute for Conservation
NJCAR is affiliated with the Foundation of the American Institute for Conservation of Historic and Artistic Works’ Alliance for Response network.