Disaster Preparedness and Response

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The debris left after a major disaster such as an earthquake, fire, or flood can be massive and can create its own set of public health and safety problems. The Board is committed to assuring that solid waste is properly managed in the event of a natural disaster or emergency.

One of the Board's goals is to assist in the expeditious recovery of areas affected by natural disasters or emergencies while providing for the protection of public health and safety. To the greatest degree feasible, the Board will form partnerships with local jurisdictions in the development of debris management plans to recycle, reuse, or otherwise divert disaster debris from disposal. More detailed information for local governments regarding handling of disaster waste/debris is available on the Resources and Contacts page.

The Board prepared a disaster management plan in consultation with the Governor's Office of Emergency Services (OES) with input from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), local enforcement agencies (LEA), local emergency services personnel, local solid waste coordinators, and the public.