Gallatin County Emergency Management

Final Draft Hazard Mitigation Plan

2012-01-12T15:49:00.002-07:00

The Final Draft of the Gallatin County Hazard Mitigation Plan for the county including the cities of Bozeman, Belgrade, Three Forks, and West Yellowstone is now available for review at www.ReadyGallatin.com/mp.

Hazard Mitigation Public Meeting

2011-12-27T16:34:00.001-07:00

A public meeting has been scheduled for January 9th at 1:00 pm in the Bozeman Public Library to conduct ranking of mitigation projects as part of the Hazard Mitigation Plan revision. More information on this project can be located at www.ReadyGallatin.com/mp.

Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act

2011-12-22T09:51:00.002-07:00

The Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act (EPCRA) was created as a result of the 1984 chemical plant incident in Bhopal, India to ensure proper planning was taking place in the United States in reagrds to hazardous materials. To ensure that local communities know what chemical risks are in their communities, people that have certain quantities of identified chemicals are required to submit paperwork annually to the Local Emergency Planning Committee, State Emergency Response Commission, and the fire protection agency that protects their facility. Gallatin County Emergency Management has recently added information to our website that provides information on this "Tier" reporting requirement at http://www.readygallatin.com/tier.php.

National EAS Test on November 9th

2011-11-03T21:59:00.000-06:00

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) will conduct the first nationwide test of the Emergency Alert System (EAS).

The nationwide test will occur on Wednesday, November 9 at 12 p.m. mountain time and may last up to three and a half minutes. The public will hear a message indicating that "This is a test." The audio message will be the same for both radio, television, and cable.

The National-level EAS is a public alert and warning system that enables the President of the United States to address the American public during extreme emergencies. Similar to local EAS tests that are conducted frequently, the Nationwide Test will involve broadcast radio and television stations, cable television, satellite radio and television services and wirelineproviders across all states and territories.

Over the past two years and as part of ongoing national preparedness planning efforts, FEMA, the FCC and other federal partners, State, local, tribal and territorial governments, EAS Participants, and others in the EAS Community have been working toward making this test a reality.

As the federal, state, tribal, territorial and local governments prepare for and test their capabilities, this event serves as a reminder that everyone should establish an emergency preparedness kitand emergency planfor themselves, their families, communities, and businesses. Anyone can visit www.ReadyGallatin.com or www.Ready.gov for more information about how to prepare for and stay informed about what to do in the event of an actual emergency.

Article outlines importance of earthquake insurance

2011-10-19T15:16:00.000-06:00

The following USA Today article is an interesting piece on the risks involved with not having earthquake insurance regardless of where you live...

Very few homeowners have earthquake insurance

By Keith Matheny, USA Today

Cary Mann knows a major earthquake in Southern California could be catastrophic. But Mann doesn't carry earthquake insurance on either his Cathedral City home about 115 miles east of Los Angeles or on the hair salon he co-owns there.

"None of my family has ever had it," he said. "They've always said that if there was ever going to be a 'Big One,' the damage would be so massive that the insurance would never be able to pay out to everyone." Many in the state feel the same way. According to the Insurance Information Network of California, fewer than 12% of the state's homeowners had earthquake insurance last year, and fewer than 10% of businesses had the coverage.

Conventional home and business insurance coverage does not cover the damage caused by ground-shaking in an earthquake, said Glenn Pomeroy, CEO of the California Earthquake Authority, a non-profit, whose mission is to provide affordable earthquake insurance in California. Add in the California homeowners without any insurance coverage at all, he said, and the percentage drops even further.

The low numbers stand in contrast to the potential earthquake threat, which will be highlighted Thursday in the fourth annual Great California ShakeOut, a statewide event to highlight the need to prepare for major earthquakes and practice how to respond when they happen. ShakeOut organizers say they expect more than 8 million to participate.

A 2007 study by Risk Management Solutions looked at the potential costs of a replay of the last major quake in Southern California — the 7.9-magnitude Fort Tejon quake, which hit near Bakersfield in 1857. It found a repeat of that quake would cause $150 billion in damage to homes, businesses and industries — more than the damage cost from Hurricane Katrina— with only about $15 billion to $25 billion covered by insurance.

Earthquake insurance is even more of an afterthought away from the Pacific Coast, but the magnitude-5.8 earthquake in Virginia on Aug. 23 showed that the rest of the country isn't immune from earthquakes. According to the American Insurance Association, about 90% of the U.S. population lives in areas that are seismically active.

Louisa, Va., resident Rick Waugh said his home developed cracks in its foundation and along door and window frames during the unusual quake. He estimates the damage to his home at up to $40,000 — and insurance isn't covering it.

"We didn't even know there was an earthquake policy available for Virginia," he said.
The median price for earthquake coverage in California is between $800 and $825 a year, said Insurance Information Network spokesman Pete Moraga. The earthquake authority offers a standard deductible of 15% of the insured value of the home, or a more expensive 10% deductible. A homeowner with an insured value of $200,000, for example, would pay a $30,000 deductible before insurance kicked in if the policyholder took the standard deductible.

John Bratton, a professor of insurance and risk management at the University of Central Arkansas, who has earthquake insurance on his home, said even in his state, the New Madrid fault system provides the potential for a significant earthquake.

"I remember thinking when I bought earthquake insurance the first time that if I put an amount equal to the earthquake premium away each year it would take 2,000 years to save enough to replace my home if it were destroyed," he said.

Contributing: Matheny also reports for The Desert Sun in Palm Springs, Calif

Original article published at http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/insurance/story/2011-10-18/earthquake-insurance/50818456/1 on 10/19/11 @ 15:14 MST.

Gallatin River forecast to hit highest level this year

2011-06-23T17:40:00.000-06:00

Bozeman, MT – Residents along the Gallatin River are encouraged to closely monitor the Gallatin River through this weekend. The current forecast for the Gallatin River is predicting that the river will reach its highest level so far this year by the middle of the weekend. Water over the road is already present in Gallatin Gateway and everyone is reminded to take the necessary actions to protect their property before flooding occurs. Once flooding occurs it is to late to prevent damage.

Additional information is available at www.ReadyGallatin.com/flooding.php.

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Big Sky Natural Resource Council joins FireSafe Montana and holds FREE Community BBQ to recognize June as Wildfire Preparedness Month.

2011-06-08T21:14:00.000-06:00

Thursday June 23, 2011 community event will allow Big Sky residents to learn how they can prepare their property for wildland fires, review the completed Big Sky Forest Stewardship Plan, meet local foresters, and much more.

What: The Big Sky Natural Resource Council is hosting a FREE community BBQ for Big Sky residents. The event will include: a wildland fire preparedness message, unveiling of the Big Sky Forest Stewardship Plan, a forestry trade show, Smokey Bear, fire trucks, and much more… All community members and public are welcome to attend. The goal of this event is to help landowners learn how they can prepare their property for wildland fires, hear what the Big Sky Natural Resource Council is doing and review the Forest Stewardship Plan.

When: Thursday June 23, 2011, 5:00 – 8:00pm

Where: Big Sky Town Center Park, Big Sky, MT 59716

Who: Big Sky Natural Resource Council, FireSafe Montana, MSU Extension, Northern Rocky Mountain RC&D, Men@Work, Big Sky Tree Removal, US Forest Service, Big Sky Fire Department, Yellowstone Club, Moonlight Basin, Big Sky Town Center, Big Sky Community Corporation, Big Sky Owners Association, Merrill Lynch-Bank of America Corporation, Big Sky Institute, and Jack Creek Preserve Foundation.

Visit http://foresthealth.wikispaces.com/ for more information on the Healthy Forest Initiative or contact Crystal Hagerman at (406) 209-0344 or crystal.hagerman@montana.edu

Spring Flooding is not Over With

2011-05-27T10:51:00.000-06:00

Bozeman, MT - Gallatin County is reminding citizens that flood season is not over with. While we have seen the water receed from earlier this week, we are still primed for significant flooding this spring. With the amont of water held in the mountain snowpack Gallatin County could very easily see signifcantly worse flooding this spring than what we saw this week.

The community is encouraged to take the necessary precautions to prepare their property for flooding. If someone thinks their property could flood, then they should assume that it will this flood spring and prepare for flooding. Once flooding has occured, it is too late to protect your property. Residents are often caught off guard by flooding occuring during the night while they are asleep. Spring flooding often has a peak height each night due to the freezing and thawing of snow in the mountains. So while everything may be fine when you go to bed, water levels will often continue to rise late into the night resulting in people waking up to flooded houses. Please visit www.ReadyGallatin.com/flooding.php for more information on flooding.

While the use of sandbags is a very good tool against flooding, sandbags must be properly installed to be most affective. Sandbags often get stacked in a vertical wall which results in the wall being weak and not holding up against the water. To be most affective sandbags should be stacked in a pyramid shaped wall to add stability. Residents are encouraged to view the US Army Corps of Engineer’s Flood Fight handbook at www.ReadyGallatin.com/flooding.php for proper sandbag usage.

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Rivers at Capacity

2011-05-24T19:25:00.003-06:00

Bozeman, MT - Residents in Gallatin County are reminded that flooding could occur at any time. Many of the streams and rivers around Gallatin County are at capacity and do not have room to accomodate additional water. If too much water is added, from either rain or snow melt, flooding will occur.
Residents who’s property is at risk of flooding and have not taken any action to protect their property, should do so now. Sandbags are known to be available at the following locations:

Bozeman Brick and Kenyon Noble
Belgrade True Value
Lowe's
Owenhouse
Big Sky True Value

While sandbags are an effective tool, they must be properly setup to be effective. Please read the following information from the Army Corps of Engineers on proper sandbag use.
Additional information on flooding is available at: http://www.ReadyGallatin.com/flooding.php.

What is a Watch, Warning, or Statement?

2011-05-20T20:05:00.001-06:00

With all the information being issued by the National Weather Service in regards to flooding, many people wonder what the different weather terms mean. The common flood terms utilized by the National Weather Service are listed below with definitions:

Flood Watch	The potential exists for a river to exceed flood stage in the next 12 to 72 hours.
Flood Warning	The river is expected to exceed flood stage in the next 48 hours. Loss of life or property is possible with this type of event.
Small Stream Flood Advisory	This is used for minor flooding in towns, or small creeks, or areas where roads may have running water over them.
Small Stream Flood Warning	This is used for significant flooding within a town, or on creeks and streams that are tributaries to mainstem rivers. Loss of life or property is possible during this type of event.
Flood or River Statement	This is just a statement that gives you information on a creek or river that is rising, but isn’t expected to reach flood stage.

For current weather related information on Gallatin County, please visit www.weather.gov/greatfalls.

High Water Expected Throughout June

2011-05-17T10:07:00.000-06:00

Bozeman, MT – Residents in Gallatin County should expect high water to be present in the county through the end of June. Current forecasts for the National Weather Service are predicting that peak runoff in the Gallatin River Basin will not occur until mid June with water levels beginning to drop off at the end of the month. This means that as the water levels increase, they will likely remain at a high level until the end of June. In recent history most of the flooding problems in Gallatin County have developed quickly and the water levels have dropped in a matter of days. Residents should be aware that this year we may have flooding conditions present for an extended period of time. This means that once an area becomes flooded, it may remain flooded for quite a while. Residents are encouraged to take this into consideration when deciding what measures to take in preparing their property for flooding.

Updated Sandbag Use Information

2011-05-10T09:13:00.000-06:00

The following Flood-Fighting Handbook from the Army Corps of Engineers provides details of calculating needed sandbags and usage of them. Click here for the document.

Potential for Spring Flooding is Here

2011-05-09T12:45:00.004-06:00

Gallatin County wishes to remind residents that the potential for spring flooding is present and could occur at any time. The current and predicted weather, combined with the snow pack, has setup Gallatin County to be susceptible to flooding in the immediate future. Property that is susceptible to flooding (flooding has occured in the past or looks like it could occur) should be preparing now to protect their property. Once flooding occurs it is usually too late to do much good in protecting property.

Sandbags are available for purchase from several local hardware stores. Stores that have indicated having sandbags in stock include; Bozeman Brick and Tile (Kenyon Noble), Belgrade True Value, Lowe's, Owenhouse, and Big Sky True Value. Straw bales wrapped in plastic can also be an effective tool in controlling flood waters. Information on using sandbags is available here.

If people find themselves in flooded areas, they are encouraged to follow these safety practices:

Do Not Walk Through Flowing Water
Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Most occur during flash floods. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a pole or stick to make sure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where the water is not flowing.
Do Not Drive Through a Flooded Area
Most people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don’t drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.
Stay Away From Power Lines and Electrical Wires
Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager.
Turn Off Your Electricity When You Return Home
Some appliances, such as television sets, can shock you even after they have been unplugged. Don't use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried.
Watch for Animals, Especially Snakes
Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn items over and scare away small animals.
Look Before You Step
After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.
Be Alert for Gas Leaks
Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you are sure that the gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out.
Carbon Monoxide Exhaust Kills
Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping stoves. Fumes from charcoal are especially deadly — cook with charcoal only outdoors.
Clean Everything That Get Wet
Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Spoiled food and flooded cosmetics and medicines are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.
Take Good Care of Yourself
Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit. And the effects a disaster has on you and your family may last a long time. Learn how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress, and fatigue.

For more information on flooding (including current river levels and forecasts) please visit http://www.readygallatin.com/flooding.php .

Spring Runoff is Approaching

2011-03-24T21:18:00.000-06:00

Bozeman, MT - With spring approaching the possibility of spring runoff, and associated flooding, exists anytime over the next several months. With mountain snowpack at or above average in many locations the potential for above average runoff is very likely this spring. Residents of Gallatin County that are at risk for flooding are encouraged to ensure that their property is prepared for potential flooding by taking the following steps before it occurs:

Ensure that drainage ditches and culverts are clear of debris before runoff begins.
If significant work is needed in a waterway to mitigate potential future damage to your property, a permit is likely needed. Start the permiting process now.
Homeowners insurance does not cover flooding. Flood insurance has a 30 day waiting period to take effect, so talk to your insurance agent now.
Floodfighting material such as sandbags and plastic wrapped straw bales are difficult to obtain once flooding occurs, so obtain them now.

River levels during spring runoff can often change from no problem to flooding very quickly with peak flows often occur in the middle of the night when people are asleep. This often results in residents being behind the curve in protecting their property. Residents are highly encouraged to prepare ahead of time and pay close attention to river levels during peak runoff.

Additional information on flooding is available at http://www.readygallatin.com/flooding.php.

Open Burning Begins March 1st

2011-02-16T13:46:00.002-07:00

Bozeman, MT - Open burning in the State of Montana begins March 1^st. Starting on the 1^st residents of Gallatin County will be able to activate the required $15 Gallatin County Burn Permit to conduct burning. Permits can be purchased online at http://burnpermits.mt.gov/ or in person at:

-Gallatin County Treasurer's Office, 311 West Main-Room 103 in Bozeman

-Bozeman Fire Station 1, 34 North Rouse in Bozeman

-Central Valley Fire District Station 1, 205 East Main in Belgrade

-Manhattan Fire Department, 222 Main in Manhattan

-Three Forks Public Library, 607 North Main in Three Forks

-Hebgen Basin Fire District Station 1, 400 Yellowstone in West Yellowstone

After permits are purchased, or renewed, the permit is good until November 30, 2011 when burn season closes. These permits need to be activated each day a permit holder burns either online at http://burnpermits.mt.gov/, or by automated telephone at 1-877-306-2876.

Citizens can obtain additional information on burning and current burn locations in Gallatin County at http://burnpermits.mt.gov/.

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Maps for Trooper DeLaittre's Funeral

2010-12-06T08:44:00.000-07:00

Click on Maps below for enlargements

Parking Map
Procession Map

Media Release from PPL Montana

2010-09-03T10:46:00.002-06:00

Contact: David Hoffman, 406-431-6783

ENNIS, Mont. (Sept. 3, 2010) - PPL Montana will reopen the road that provides access to its Madison Dam and public recreation areas immediately downstream in the Bear Trap Canyon for the Labor Day weekend.

"Safety of the public and employees continues to be the top priority as we move forward with plans to repair Madison Dam,” said David Hoffman, director of External Affairs for PPL Montana. “In consultation with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, state and federal regulatory agencies, geologists and other experts, PPL Montana has determined that conditions are safe for public use of the road, and that’s good news for the Labor Day weekend."

Equipment atop the west side of the dam was damaged by a falling boulder from the wall of Bear Trap Canyon early Monday (8/30).

The road will be opened at 7 a.m. Saturday (9/4) and remain open until sunset on Monday (9/6). The road will remain closed on weekdays to allow construction equipment to access the dam. It may reopen on weekends after Labor Day, depending on the status of the work being done at the dam.

Hoffman said PPL Montana is sensitive to the importance of the fisheries, angling and boating on this popular section of the Madison River, and to the local economy.

"We're pleased that we can open the road for the holiday weekend," Hoffman said. "We ask the public to be mindful, however, that that road will be closed during the week so we can bring equipment to the dam. We plan to post signs by the Trail Creek trailhead with information about the status of the road."

Meanwhile, PPL Montana will complete a 5-foot drawdown of Ennis Lake by Friday night as the first step in the company’s plans to remove the boulder and repair the damaged equipment on the dam. To reduce pressure on the dam and the boulder, PPL Montana began to draw down Ennis Lake behind the dam on Monday evening.

The current flow rate of 3,300 cubic feet per second should limit effects on fishing and recreation on the lower Madison River, but the drawdown will affect boat docks and public launch sites on Ennis Lake. Flows will be reduced even further over the weekend — to near 1,400 cubic feet per second — once the drawdown is complete.

"Working with geologists and other experts, we’ve also determined that another large rock above the dam is anchored to the canyon wall,” Hoffman said. “That will allow us safe access to make repairs.”"

Damaged equipment on the dam includes three spill gates, walkways and wooden flashboards that sit atop the dam to raise the level of water it is able to hold back.

PPL Montana is coordinating its efforts at Madison Dam with regulatory agencies and law enforcement officials from the state and local level up to FERC, which is responsible for oversight of hydroelectric facilities.

Madison Dam is a four-unit hydroelectric plant on the Madison River at the head of Bear Trap Canyon about 10 miles north of Ennis. The units have a total generating capacity of 9 megawatts. Madison Dam is 257 feet long and 35 feet high.

PPL has 500 employees in Montana who generate and sell electricity. PPL Montana operates coal-fired power plants at Colstrip and Billings, as well as 11 hydroelectric power plants along Rosebud Creek and the Missouri, Madison, Clark Fork and Flathead rivers. It has a combined generating capacity of about 1,200 megawatts and has offices in Billings, Butte and Helena. PPL EnergyPlus operates a trading floor in Butte that markets and sells power in the wholesale and retail energy market. PPL Montana and PPL EnergyPlus are subsidiaries of PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL). More information about PPL Montana is available at http://www.pplmontana.com/.

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Weather Service Report on West Yellowstone Wind Event

2010-09-01T14:59:00.000-06:00

Overview

At approximately 300pm on Saturday August 28, 2010 a severe thunderstorm moved into the southwestern portions of West Yellowstone. The storm moved through the town over the next 5 to 10 minutes producing localized structural damage and downed or snapped trees across the town in a southwest to northeast line through the town due to straight-line winds, possibly associated with a microburst. The path of the damage was close to 1 mile in length, and extended from the far southwest corner of the town to near the USFS station on the northeast edge of town. Wind speeds were estimated near 85 mph.

Details of the Survey

The survey team consisted of Michael Mercer, Meteorologist in Charge; and Benjamin Schott, Warning Coordination Meteorologist. The survey team was dispatched to West Yellowstone after receiving reports of significant structural damage in the town, and many trees down, snapped and uprooted shortly after the event. The survey team reached the town the following morning at 9am and met with Robert Glenn, West Yellowstone Public Works to survey the damage together. The team started just southwest of town and noticed a scattering of trees down, approximately 10 trees. The survey team worked northeast across the town investigating structural damage at a few private residences where the corners of roofs were peeled off, each had significant eaves which may have helped the wind provide greater forcing on the roof, and a church had its brick/stone covered entry displaced from the wind gusts. A few trees were down near the church as well. The survey team then stopped in the city park where many trees were downed, and a few snapped, a portable tarp-covered stage had been pushed off its jacks and the 2 inch diameter supports bent. Next to the park is where the majority of the structural damage occurred with three hotels receiving significant damage to their roofs. The Best Western -Weston had most of the roof blown back behind the building, with some of the metal roof material in trees 50 to 100 feet behind the hotel. The roof had large eaves and that may have contributed to the loss of the structure, no other damage was noticed and as a note of interest the many flower pots still hung neatly all along the front of the hotel that was open to the strong winds. The debris from the roof did considerable damage to a few automobiles behind the hotel. The last of the damage was spotted just north of the hotel with some scattered trees down between the hotel and the USFS station.

The damage was consistent with straight-line wind damage with the trees downed in the same direction throughout the town. All debris from the hotels was sent in the same relative direction as the downed trees. Witnesses, nearly 20, reported funnel clouds but no one ever witnessed seeing the funnel cloud reaching the ground. A video taken as the storm entered town did show some elevated rotation, yet not a tornado. Aerial photos were taken through the Civil Air Patrol (photos below), in coordination with Gallatin County DES, and showed the scattered and localized nature of the damage in West Yellowstone. A big thanks to both West Yellowstone Public Works, and Gallatin County DES for a well coordinated effort in gathering information and support for the survey.

Click here for PDF Version.

Bozeman Water Restrictions Removed

2010-08-02T08:34:00.000-06:00

AUGUST 2, 2010 8:20 AM

Due to a major water main break on July 31, 2010, the City of Bozeman Director of Public Services issued an immediate prohibition on the use of outside water, which included lawn irrigation and car washing (from a hose). This restriction was needed to ensure adequate water for domestic, inside use.

The water restriction emergency has been resolved, and the restriction is now lifted. No water restrictions are currently in effect. The City of Bozeman offers its thanks to the citizens who abided with the restriction.

Media questions can be directed to Debbie Arkell, Director of Public Services, 581-0091.

Water Restriction Release for 8/1/10 7:00 am

2010-08-01T07:28:00.000-06:00

OUTSIDE WATER RESTRICTIONS IN PLACE

AUGUST 1, 2010 7:00 AM

Due to a major water main break last night, the City of Bozeman Director of Public Services issued a prohibition on the use of outside water. This includes lawn irrigation and car washing (from a hose). This restriction is needed to ensure adequate water for domestic, inside use.

The water restriction emergency continues. It is imperative that residents and business owners with automated sprinkler systems turn their systems to off.

The Bozeman Municipal Code authorizes the restriction of outdoor water use with the penalty for violations being the disconnection of water service. Again, it is imperative that citizens follow the outdoor water use prohibition to ensure adequate water is available for domestic use.

Media questions can be directed to Debbie Arkell, Director of Public Services, 581-0091.

Bozeman Water Main Break

2010-07-31T19:38:00.000-06:00

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 31, 2010 – 7:30 PM

The City of Bozeman has experienced a large water main break in the 900 block of South Black Avenue. Due to the large volume of water lost over a short period of time, Public Services Director Debbie Arkell is asking residents and business owners to restrict the use of water to domestic use until the water main can be repaired and the water tanks can be re-filled. Effective immediately, outside water use is prohibited.
The Bozeman Municipal Code authorizes the restriction of outdoor water use with the penalty for violations being the disconnection of water service. It is imperative that citizens follow the outdoor water use prohibition to ensure adequate water is available for domestic use.

The break will cause water to be colored in certain areas of town – it will look dirty. The chlorine residual makes the water safe to drink.
An area in the southeast part of the city will be without water during the period of the repair, and residents will be notified as soon as the area is known.
The city will update residents when the restriction is lifted.

Damage Reporting

2010-06-30T16:58:00.000-06:00

Individuals and businesses are encouraged to report their damage that they incurred during the June 30th hail storm. While it is unknown what assistance may, or may not, be available, people are encouraged to report the damage that ocurred. Determining an estimate on the damage incurred is important for us in determining if we may be eligible for any assistance programs. People are encouraged to submit the following:

Name
Address
Contact Info
Do you rent or own?
Do you have insurance?
What is your deductible?
What do you estimate the cost of your damage is? (This does not need to be exact, just a guess)
What was the value of your property before the damage? (This does not need to be exact, just a guess)
A brief description of the damage

Please email this information to damage@gcem.us. If assistance programs do become available, people who have submitted their information will be contacted with what programs are available.

Information on the federal assistance programs are available here.

Big Sky Wildfire Preparedness Event

2010-06-14T09:11:00.000-06:00

Big Sky Wildfire Preparedness Event

Monday June 21, 2010 at 5:00 PM

Ousel Falls Trailhead

Free BBQ, Smokey Bear, and Emergency Services vehicles will be present.

Learn how you can be prepared for wildfires and what funding is available to help you!

Information on assessing your wildfire risk and mitigation strategies will also be available.

Click here for flyer

Gallatin County Wildfire Preparedness Website

Spring Runoff in Gallatin County

2010-06-05T20:17:00.000-06:00

Many rivers in Gallatin County are currently experiencing increased flows due to the normal spring runoff. Residents are reminded that water levels can change quickly this time of year presenting life safety and property hazards. People, and their children, who are around moving water should use caution and exercise flood safety practices (available here). The current and debris carried in these waterways can present unexpected hazards.

Residents that feel their property may be at risk for flooding should take the necessary precautions ahead of time to protect their property. The change between high water, and water flooding your property, can often occur extremely fast and frequently during the night. It is often to late to protect your property after the flooding has occurred, this should be done before the flooding occurs. If your property is prone to flooding, or you think it might be flooded, you should act before flooding occurs to protect it.

The two most common methods of building dikes to protect from flooding include sandbags or hay bales wrapped in plastic. Sandbags can be obtained from several local hardware/ gravel suppliers in the Bozeman and Belgrade areas. Information on using sandbags is available here.

Information on flooding in Gallatin County, including current river levels, is available at http://www.readygallatin.com/flooding.php.

Informational Meeting on EIA Set for Gallatin County Horse Owners

2010-05-12T13:58:00.000-06:00

Montana Department of Livestock

301 N. Roberts/PO Box 202001
Helena MT 59620-2001
http://liv.mt.gov/

May 19, 2009

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Steve Merritt
Public Information Officer
Montana Department of Livestock
406/444-9431

Informational Meeting on EIA Set for Gallatin County Horse Owners

The Montana Department of Livestock's Animal Health Division has scheduled a meeting to update Gallatin County horse owners on its epidemiological investigation of two horses recently infected with equine infectious anemia (EIA). The meeting is set for 10 a.m. on Monday, May 17, at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds (Building #4).

EIA in Gallatin County was first reported on April 26 after a Coggins test – a screening test for EIA required for movement into or out of Montana – performed by the department's Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory identified the disease in one of three horses at a premises near Gallatin Gateway. The disease was confirmed by the National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) in Ames, Iowa, and subsequent testing identified and confirmed the disease in a second horse at the premises.

The two horses are currently quarantined pending transfer to the NVSL later this month.

Dr. Tahnee Szymanski, a staff veterinarian for the department, said the news about EIA created quite a stir among Gallatin County horse owners.

"We've had a lot of calls from horse owners," she said. "They are understandably concerned, and our goal is providing accurate, up to date information on the disease as well as our investigation."

Szymanski added that horse owners concerned about EIA "can buy some piece of mind" by having their horses Coggins tested.

"We recommend annual testing, and like to see horses that travel for equine-related events tested twice a year," she said.

Also known as swamp fever, EIA is potentially fatal viral disease of equines spread by biting insects like horse and deer flies that feed on blood. No vaccine or treatment exists for the disease, which is characterized by intermittent fever, depression, progressive weakness, weight loss, edema (fluid under the skin or in body cavities) and anemia. The disease is not contagious, and cannot be passed to humans.

For additional information about EIA or the meeting, please contact Dr. Szymanski or public information officer Steve Merritt at 406/444-2043.

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Skywarn Spotter Training

2010-05-10T15:45:00.000-06:00

A free Weather Spotter Class will be conducted by the National Weather Service on May 14, from 6 to 8 p.m., at Bozeman Fire Station 3, 1705 Vaquero in Bozeman. Students will learn about weather safety, thunderstorms, how to spot severe weather and properly call it in to the NWS, which relies on spotters in the field to provide information that supplements the high tech weather data that is received from radar and other sources.

Highlights

Ever wonder how thunderstorms develop?
What makes a thunderstorm severe?
Where can I get detailed weather hazard information?
We will answer these questions and many, many more!

Location:

Bozeman Fire Station 3

1705 Vaquero in Bozeman (next to County Regional Park)

Contact: Ben Schott (406) 727-0283

Click for Flyer!

Final signed version of Multiple Patient Incident Plan available

2010-04-26T16:24:00.000-06:00

The final signed version of the Gallatin County Multiple Patient Incident Plan (redacted) is now available on ReadyGallatin.com. This plan is an update to the original MPI Plan written in the 1990's and involved representatives from mulitple agencies working to update it. The MPI Plan outlines the framework that Gallatin County emergency response agencies work under during an incident that has multiple patients and the potential to overload the normal medical system. The redacted version is available in our plan section.

Spring Run Off Safety

2010-04-23T18:05:00.000-06:00

With spring upon us, and the mountain snowpack quickly melting, the possibility of flooding is always present. While there is presently no flooding, flooding can quickly occur and become an issue. Residents are encouraged to treat any situation with swift moving water, or flooding, with caution and follow these safety tips:

Do Not Walk Through Flowing Water

Drowning is the number one cause of flood deaths. Most occur during flash floods. Six inches of moving water can knock you off your feet. Use a pole or stick to make sure that the ground is still there before you go through an area where the water is not flowing.

Do Not Drive Through a Flooded Area

Most people drown in their cars than anywhere else. Don't drive around road barriers; the road or bridge may be washed out.

Stay Away From Power Lines and Electrical Wires

Electrocution is also a major killer in floods. Electrical current can travel through water. Report downed power lines to your utility company or local emergency manager.

Turn Off Your Electricity When You Return Home

Some appliances, such as television sets, can shock you even after they have been unplugged. Don't use appliances or motors that have gotten wet unless they have been taken apart, cleaned, and dried.

Watch for Animals, Especially Snakes

Small animals that have been flooded out of their homes may seek shelter in yours. Use a pole or stick to poke and turn items over and scare away small animals.

Look Before You Step

After a flood, the ground and floors are covered with debris including broken bottles and nails. Floors and stairs that have been covered with mud can be very slippery.

Be Alert for Gas Leaks

Use a flashlight to inspect for damage. Don't smoke or use candles, lanterns, or open flames unless you are sure that the gas has been turned off and the area has been aired out.

Carbon Monoxide Exhaust Kills

Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machine outdoors. The same goes for camping stoves. Fumes from charcoal are especially deadly -- cook with charcoal only outdoors.

Clean Everything That Get Wet

Floodwaters have picked up sewage and chemicals from roads, farms, factories, and storage buildings. Spoiled food and flooded cosmetics and medicines are health hazards. When in doubt, throw them out.

Take Good Care of Yourself

Recovering from a flood is a big job. It is tough on both the body and the spirit. And the effects a disaster has on you and your family may last a long time. Learn how to recognize and care for anxiety, stress, and fatigue.

If residents observe clogged ditches or culverts they are encourged to let their local public works agency know of the situation.

Additional information is available on flooding and river levels at ReadyGallatin.com.

Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan review in Bozeman

2010-04-10T21:27:00.000-06:00

The State of Montana is in the process of updating and revising the State's Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan. Each state is required to have a FEMA approved plan that addresses the State's risks, assessment of its hazards, and mitigation strategies. This plan must be in place in order for the state, or local jurisdictions, to be eligible for a variety of federal programs. These programs include:

Public Assistance
Fire Management Assistance Grants
Hazard Mitigation Grants
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants
Flood Mitigation Grants

Information on the project, and contact information, is available at http://mt-hmpupdate.com/.

Top Ten Reasons to Buy Flood Insurance Now

2010-02-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

As a participant in the National Flood Insurance Program, Gallatin County has agreed to follow floodplain management regulations that reduce the risk and dangers of flooding. As a result Gallatin County residents can purchase flood insurance that compensates owners and renters for all covered flood-related losses to a home or business that are not covered by homeowners and business insurance.

The Top Ten Reasons to Buy Flood Insurance Now:

Spring flooding is almost here and there is a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins.
Coverage is relatively inexpensive – nationally premiums average $565 a year.
If your community participates in the NFIP, you are eligible to get flood insurance even if you are located outside the 100-year flood plain.
You can receive payments for flood-related losses for over-land flooding – even if no disaster was declared.
You can depend on being reimbursed for flood damages because NFIP flood insurance is backed by the federal government.
You do not have to repay flood insurance benefits (as you do with disaster-related assistance loans).
Renters can purchase flood insurance contents coverage for personal belongings or business inventory.
Basement coverage includes cleanup expense and repair or replacement of items such as furnaces, water heaters, washers, dryers, air conditioners, freezers, utility connections, and pumps.
You can request a partial payment immediately after the flood, which can help you recover even faster.
Buying flood insurance is the best thing you can do to protect your home and business, and your family's financial security from a flood.

To contact a flood insurance agent serving your area, check out: http://www.floodsmart.gov/.

Gallatin County Flooding Information

Saddle Peak Avalanche: Q & A

2010-02-24T13:44:00.000-07:00

Presented by the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center

When: Thursday, March 4th, 6:30-7:30 p.m.
Where: Bozeman Public Library Meeting Room
Cost: Free
Who: All ages.

Come join the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center to discuss the snowpack, weather and circumstances leading up to the avalanche on Saddle Peak. The GNFAC will show videos, pictures and share stories about this popular sidecountry destination. Topics will include:

A detailed history of the snowpack and avalanches
A weather summation
How human traffic plays a role in our decision making
A timeline the day of the avalanche
Answering common questions about how it avalanched
Moving forward: making decisions for the future

The 30-minute presentation will be followed by a 30-minute question and answer period.

Questions? Contact the GNFAC at 587-6984 or mtavalanche@gmail.com

Gallatin County Announces Online Burn Permits

2010-02-22T17:02:00.002-07:00

BOZEMAN, MT. - The citizens of Gallatin County will soon be able to obtain a burn permit online without standing in line or even leaving home.

The Gallatin County Burn Permit service - found at http://www.burnpermits.mt.gov/ - will be available starting March 1st at 8am and will provide citizens with instant access to county burn permits. Permit holders will be able to add multiple burn locations to a single permit and can even print their permit at home or send it to themselves electronically by entering an email address.

The online service will allow citizens to purchase a burn permit using a debit/credit card or an electronic check. Citizens will also be able to activate their permit online or by calling the county's new automated phone system at 1-877-306-BURN (2876). To activate a permit, the permit holder simply enters the start and stop times of their burn and county fire and emergency personnel are immediately notified of the burn. An interactive map will also be available to allow citizens and county personnel to view all current burn activity within the county.

"This online service will streamline the burn permit process for the citizens and will create huge efficiency gains for the county," Fire Chief Brett Waters, Central Valley Fire District, said. "We anticipate a significant reduction in non-emergency call volume which will allow fire personnel to better focus on true emergencies."
Burn permits will be available online at http://www.burnpermits.mt.gov/ starting March 1st at 8am. Citizens may also purchase a burn permit in person at the following locations: Hebgen Basin Fire District/West Yellowstone Station, Central Valley Fire Station 1, Big Sky Fire Station 1, Manhattan Fire Station, Bozeman Fire Station 1 and the Three Forks Library. Burn permits will cost $15.00 each and can be used throughout the entire 2010 burn season.

The Gallatin County Burn Permit Service is the result of an alliance between state and county government and the private sector. It was cooperatively developed and is supported by Gallatin County, the Montana Department of Administration's Information Technology Services Division, and Montana Interactive, LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of eGovernment provider NIC (Nasdaq: EGOV).

Contact: Brett Waters, Gallatin County Rural Fire Chief (406) 388-4480

Click Here for Burn Permit Flyer

"Triangle of Life" not appropriate for Earthquakes in Montana

2010-02-08T10:56:00.000-07:00

With the recent activity taking place in Yellowstone National Park we have started seeing the circulation of an email from Doug Copp encouraging the concept of "Triangle of Life." While this concept may be applicable to building techniques in some countries, it is not considered to be an appropriate action for the United States. The commonly accepted practice of Drop, Cover, and Hold On is still considered the most appropriate action to take in Montana during an earthquake due to the construction methods used here.

The "Triangle of Life" concept does not take into account building standards employed throughout the United States. The Earthquake Country Alliance does a good job of summarizing the issuees presented by the "Triangle of Life" concept and why Drop, Cover, and Hold On is still appropriate for the United States (Click Here). When this concept first appeared a couple years ago, numerous organizations responded with their concerns over many key concepts that are over looked in the "Triangle of Life." Some of their responses can be read below:

Information on Earthquake preparedness is available at:

Montana Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan Update

2010-02-01T11:50:00.000-07:00

Public Assistance
Fire Management Assistance Grants
Hazard Mitigation Grants
Pre-Disaster Mitigation Grants
Flood Mitigation Grants

As part of the State's revision process, a public meeting will be held in Bozmean on April 26th, 2010 from 10:00 am until 12:00 pm at the Bozeman Public Library. This meeting is open to everyone to learn about the State's Pre Disaster Mitigation Plan, or provide feedback to the State.

Information on the project, and contact information, is available at http://mt-hmpupdate.com/. The current 2007 state plan is available here.

Preliminary FEMA Floodplain Map Reviews

2010-01-04T15:35:00.003-07:00

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released drafts of revised floodplain maps (Flood Insurance Rate Maps) for Gallatin County. Areas in Gallatin County with substantial revisions to the FEMA maps include: the Big Sky Area; the entire length of the East Gallatin River; the West Gallatin River downstream of Interstate 90; and the Jefferson and Madison rivers in the vicinity of Three Forks. The preliminary maps can be viewed on the web at http://www.gallatin.mt.gov/Public_Documents/gallatincomt_plandept/preliminaryfemafloodplain , in the Gallatin County Planning Department, the Bozeman Engineering Department, or at Three Forks City Hall.

During January a series of open houses will be held around the County where the public can review the preliminary floodplain maps and ask questions. The dates and locations of the open houses are as follows:

Date	Time	Meeting Location
Wednesday January 13th	7:00 to 9:00 p.m.	Bozeman* County Courthouse 311 W. Main St.
Thursday January 14th	7:00 to 9:00 p.m.	Three Forks* City Hall 206 N. Main St.
Tuesday January 19th	7:00 to 9:00 p.m.	Belgrade City Hall 91 E. Central Ave.
Wednesday January 20th	6:00 to 8:00 p.m.	Big Sky Water and Sewer District 561 Little Coyote Rd.
*Representatives from FEMA will be in attendance at the Bozeman and Three Forks open houses

Local Rivers Experiencing Ice Jams

2009-12-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

The Gallatin River is currently experiencing ice jams, most noteably in the Big Sky area, due to current weather patterns. These ice jams prevent the water from flowing in it's normal channel resulting in water flowing out of the river banks. People recreating around rivers are encouraged to exercise caution due to these ice jams. When an ice jams breaks the potential for debris, and increased water, being carried down river exists.
It is expected that these ice jams will remain for the near future. Property owners along rivers should monitor river levels on a regular basis to ensure they have time to prepare their houses if water levels do continue to rise. Often times river levels can change quickly and without notice. People recreating along the rivers should also utilize caution due to the unpredictable and potential danger presented by the ice jams.

Communities & Wildfire Conference February 25-27

2009-12-18T16:30:00.000-07:00

Registration has now opened for the annual Communities and Wildfire Conference. This year the conference is being held at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort on February 25-27. To learn more about the conference, or to register, visit FireSafeMT.org.

Cellular and Internet Phones now capable of Reverse 911

2009-12-16T10:23:00.000-07:00

Gallatin County recently received the ability for cellular and internet phone users to associate their phone number with an address for use during an activation of the County's Emergency Preparedness Notification System (a.k.a. Reverse 911). Previously the county only had the ability to call land line telephones when the system was activated due to no way to associate a cellular phone with an address. The County's notification provider, Intrado, has now introduced a method where individuals can enter their cellular and internet phone numbers with their address into Intrado's database through a website. When an individual does this, their numbers will then be associated with the address that was entered.

This still requires that people enter their own information, and keep it current if numbers or addresses change. Gallatin County recommends that people who do not own a land line telephone register their cellular or internet telephone into the system. The Emergency Preparedness Notification System is often utilized for a variety of situations from wildfires and dangerous law enforcement incidents to missing kids and water system problems. Notifying residents of situations in their community is often a time intensive process and having cellular and internet phone numbers in our system helps improve this tool towards expediting public notification.

Individuals can learn more about Gallatin County's Emergency Preparedness Notification System, and register their numbers, at http://ReadyGallatin.com/epns.

Emergency Action Plans for Gallatin County High Hazard Dams now available

2009-12-16T09:04:00.000-07:00

Emergency Action Plans for four high hazard dams that affect Gallatin County are now available on ReadyGallatin.com. A high hazard dam is one of 3 classifications that are used to categorize dams. A dam which is categorized as a high hazard dam is considered to have the potential to cause loss of life and serious infrastructure damage if it were to fail. A common misperception is that the term "high hazard" refers to the stability of the dam itself, which it does not. Emergency Action Plans, as well as inundation maps, are available for viewing on ReadyGallatin.com on our Plans Page.

Final Multiple Patient Incident Plan Released

2009-12-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

Gallatin County has completed a multi-month project of revising our Multiple Patient Incident Plan. Numerous groups and agencies have worked over the past several months on revising and updating the 2006 revision of the previous plan. A new, more comprehensive version of the plan is now complete and in the process of being adopted by the participating agencies. A redacted version of the plan is available on ReadyGallatin.com.

Preliminary draft floodplain maps released by FEMA

2009-12-02T17:03:00.000-07:00

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has released drafts of revised floodplain maps for Gallatin County. These preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Maps are intended to replace maps that were published in the 1980s with better data from more recent studies. Areas in Gallatin County with substantial revisions to the FEMA floodplain maps include: the Big Sky Area; the entire length of the East Gallatin River; the West Gallatin River downstream of Interstate 90; and the Jefferson and Madison rivers in the vicinity of Three Forks. Please note there are no mapped floodplains located within the city limits of Belgrade, Manhattan, or West Yellowstone.

Representatives from FEMA will be in Bozeman in mid-January to participate in meetings with community officials and the general public. Community officials will also hold open houses in January where members of the public can view the preliminary maps and ask questions. Additional notification will be given when these meetings are scheduled. In the mean time, the preliminary maps can be viewed at several locations. For properties in the City of Bozeman, floodplain maps can be viewed at the Engineering Department, 20 E. Olive Street in Bozeman. For properties in the City of Three Forks floodplain maps can be viewed at City Hall, 206 Main Street in Three Forks. For properties in Gallatin County, floodplain maps can be viewed at the Planning Department, 311 W. Main Street, Room #108, in Bozeman.

For additional information, please visit:

New Public Information Tool

2009-11-21T18:18:00.000-07:00

Gallatin County is pleased to announce the deployment of several new Public Information tools. Public information will now be available through BlogSpot, RSS Feeds, and Twitter. Information posted will continue to be available on ReadyGallatin.com, as well as on the new tools.