WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced plans to distribute $2 million during Fiscal Year 1999 to 45 states and Puerto Rico for state dam safety programs.
"We applaud the states' efforts to protect lives and property through comprehensive programs to assure the safety of dams," FEMA Director James Lee Witt said. "That these grants are going to 45 states and Puerto Rico shows the widespread commitment to improving the safety of the nation's dams."
The funding comes under the State Assistance Grants provision of the National Dam Safety Program. The program was established under the Water Resources Development Act of 1996. The program coordinates the activity of 10 federal departments and agencies, and fosters state efforts to give consistent attention to dam safety. The act names Witt as the coordinator for the program.
A major goal of the National Dam Safety Program is to assist states in developing and implementing programs to ensure safe operation and regular maintenance of dams. To be eligible for the grants, a state must appropriate funds to carry out dam safety legislation.
National Dam Safety Program State Assistance Grants FY1999
| STATE | AMOUNT | STATE | AMOUNT |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alaska | $16,042.00 | North Dakota | $28,683.00 |
| Arkansas | $23,009.00 | Nebraska | $57,094.00 |
| Arizona | $18,921.00 | New Hampshire | $27,828.00 |
| California | $40,198.00 | New Jersey | $31,186.00 |
| Colorado | $49,230.00 | New Mexico | $23,969.00 |
| Connecticut | $29,205.00 | Nevada | $25,784.00 |
| Florida | $26,430.00 | New York | $103,089.00 |
| Georgia | $84,315.00 | Ohio | $51,524.00 |
| Hawaii | $17,106.00 |