State program helps fund local emergency management efforts Posted on 1/27/2011
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Cecily Fong
January 27, 2011
701-328-8100
Bismarck, ND - The Hazardous Chemicals Preparedness and Response Program, administered by the North Dakota Department of Emergency Services (NDDES) collected more than $185,000 in chemical storage fees during reporting year 2009. This is an increase of over $56,000 from the 2008 reporting year. These fees are divided equally between NDDES to cover program expenses and Local Emergency Planning Commissions (LEPCs) located in each county. The LEPCs may use the money to enhance emergency management capabilities in areas such as training, exercising, equipment, response, and salaries.
On a yearly basis, facility owners and operators are required to report the inventory of hazardous and toxic chemicals stored across North Dakota. Typical facilities reporting are bulk fuel plants, anhydrous ammonia plants, propane plants, agricultural processing plants, and energy and oil producing sites.
Program Quick Facts:
More than $185,000 collected during 2009 program year
More than 4,200 facilities comprised of over 900 different entities report yearly
525 spill incidents reported
91 incidents required emergency response
Common materials involved in spills were ammonia, gasoline, diesel fuel, fertilizer spills, crude oil, sulfur dioxide, motor oil, chemical fires, natural gas, and hydraulic fluid.
The North Dakota Department of Emergency Services provides 24/7 emergency communications and resource coordination with more than 50 lead and support agencies, private enterprise, and voluntary organizations to assist local jurisdictions in disaster and emergency response activities. It administers federal disaster recovery programs and the Homeland Security Grant Program.
