Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan Steering Committee

Natural hazard mitigation is defined as permanently reducing or alleviating the losses of life, property, and injuries resulting from natural hazards through long and short-term strategies. Example strategies include planning, policy changes, programs, projects, and other activities. Mitigation is the responsibility of individuals, private businesses and industries, state and local governments, and the
federal government.

Engaging in mitigation activities provides jurisdictions with a number of benefits including reduced loss of life, property, essential services, critical facilities and economic hardship; reduced short-term and long-term recovery and reconstruction costs; increased cooperation and communication within the community through the planning process; and increased potential for state and federal funding for recovery and reconstruction projects.

Planning for natural hazards is an integral element of Oregon's statewide land use planning program, which began in 1973. All Oregon cities and counties have comprehensive plans and implementing ordinances that are required to comply with the statewide planning goals. The challenge faced by state and local governments is to keep this network of local plans coordinated in response to the changing conditions and needs of Oregon communities.