Florida Division of Emergency Management - Recovery

Home / Recovery / Environmental and Debris Section /Environmental Considerations

Environmental Considerations

Early identification of projects having potential environmental concerns is important during disaster recovery. Take the necessary actions to prevent a health and safety threat as soon as possible, but know the rules for reimbursement following a Presidential Disaster Declaration. The environmental review requirements depend on the proposed action or scope of work. Early coordination with the appropriate federal, state, and local regulatory agencies is necessary to prevent delays in the review, approval, and funding of projects.

Beaches

Beaches and shore lines may be eligible for emergency sand placement or permanent restoration. Project location, scope of work, sand source, and potential impacts to flora and fauna are all important components to be considered. Since these areas may be environmentally sensitive, coordination with multiple agencies may be required. These agencies may include:

For additional information regarding eligibility of beaches please see FEMA Public Assistance Category G Work and FEMA Disaster Assistance Policy 9580.8 Eligible Sand Placement on Public Beaches.

Debris

Debris must be cleared, removed, and disposed of to eliminate any health and safety risk. Proper documentation of debris management sites, final disposal, and reduction methods, including burning, is required for NEPA compliance. Prior authorization from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and the Florida Division of Forestry may be necessary. For more information please see Debris.

Historic Facilities

Any facility (building, bridge, object, district) that is 50 years or older or that might have intrinsic historical value must be reviewed for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act. If these criteria apply, a review must be coordinated with the State Historic Preservation Office for guidance and any special requirements for repair or restoration.

Road Work and Bridges

Roadwork that involves excavation of fill material (clay, sand, limestone, etc.) from a borrow pit area may require consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer for compliance with Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act.

If any work is to be performed in wetlands or water bodies, coordination and possible permitting may be required from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, Water Management Districts, or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Vector Control

Following a heavy rain event, increased mosquito populations may pose a serious health threat and potentially hamper recovery efforts. It is important to take the necessary actions as soon as possible to lessen these threats. Familiarity with all environmental rules as well as regulatory procedures for reimbursement pertaining to the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), including the Endangered Species Act must be complied with. For policies and documentation requirements, please see the Vector Control Quick Guide.