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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-27 Adopting the City of Ashland's Representation in the Updates to the Jackson County Multi-Jursidictional Natural Hazards Mitigation PlanI RM140 RutrOOMMUMIWA A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE CITY OF ASHLAND'S REP" RESENTA*rioN IN THE UPDATES TO THE JAC KSON COUNTY MULTI -JURISDICTIONAL NATURAL HAZARDS MITIGATION PLAN RECITALS: A. The City of Ashland recognizes the threat that natural hazards pose to people, property, and infrastructure within our community; and & 1.3ndertaking hazard mitigation actions will reduce the potential for liarin to people, propert), and infrasmicture from future hazard occurrences: and Air adopted Natural Hazards, Mitigation Plan is required as a condition of future funding for mitigation pro . lects under multiple FEMA pre- and post -disaster mitigation grant programs; and D. 'I he City of Ashland has fully participated in the FEMA prescribed mitigation planning process to prepare the Jackson Countl', J'Votuf-cll Hel:C11-e-I'Aliti�7ation plall, which has established a comprehensive, coordinated planning process to eliminate or minnnize these vulnerabilities, and E. The City of Ashland has identified natural hazard risks and prioritized as number of proposed actions and progranis needed to inifigate the vulnerabilities of time City of Ashland to the impacts of firture disasters within the.lackson Count,v, Ha:(711-d AlAtigolion Plon; and FThese proposed pr(:Jects and programs have been incorporated into the Jeicks�oii Counl.),' N(Itul-cil Ha:eircl AIfiti gat on ATlon that has been prepared and promulgated for consideration and iniplementation by the cities of Jackson County; and GThe Oregon Office of Emergency Management and Federal Emergency Management Agency, Region X officials have reviewed the Jrickson County, .lulu-Jui-isdictional Natur-al Hazev­d 11ifigation Plein and pre -approved it as of, January 9, 2024, contingent upon the official adoption of all participating governments, and entities; and H. The.fewkson Countv, 1fulti-Juriselictional Nottwol Ha:mel A,fitigettio?l PIC111 is, comprised of three N"0111111es: Volume 1-Basic Plan, Volume 11 — Appendices, and Volume III — City Addenda, collectively referred to hereinas the ­NHN1P";, and 1. The NHNIP is in an on -going cycle of development and revision to improve its effectiveness, and J. The City of Ashland adopts the NHMP and directs the Mayor to develop, approve, and implement the mitigation strategies and any administrative changes, to the NHMP, Resolution No. 2024-04 Page I of 2 THE CITY OF ASHLAND HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS: SECTION I Now, tlierefort',M.' be it resolved, that the City of Ashland adopts the Jackson Courity Multi - Jurisdictional Natin-al Hazards, Mitigation Plan as, an official plan, A copy of the plan is attached hereto as Exhibit A,- and SECTION 2. Be it further resolved that the City of As,hland will submit this Resolution adopting the Jackson County, Multi -Jurisdictional Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan to the Oregon Office of Emergency Managenwin and Federal Emergency Management Agency. Region X officials to enable final approval, of the Jackson C ounty. Multi -Jurisdictional Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan. This resolution was duly PASSED and ADOPTED this day of 2024, and takes effect upon signing by the Mayor. Alissa Kolodzinski, City Recorder SIGNED and APPROVED this day of 2024. Tony'a G - iam. May Reviewed as to fonn: le(jeary, Aciing City Attorney Resolution No, 2024-04 Page 2 of 2 ..... .. . .... 11111111 1 1' � I �l I I I I I l I I I I I l I I I I I i I'll I I l I I llll flmm Photos courtesy of Oregon State Archives Prepared for City of Ashland 20 E. Main Street Ashland, OR 97520 Prepared by The University of Oregon Institute for Policy Research & Engagement School of Planning, Public Policy, and Management Institute for Policy Research and Engagement INTRODUCTION..............................................................................................................................................................1 Purpose................................................................................................................................................................1 NHMP PROCESS, PARTICIPATION AND ADOPTION...............................................................................................................1 NHMP IMPLEMENTATION AND MAINTENANCE...................................................................................................................3 Implementation through Existing Programs........................................................................................................3 Otherplans: ...................................................................................................................................................................... 4 CapabilitiesAssessment.......................................................................................................................................4 ExistingAuthorities........................................................................................................................................................... 5 Policiesand Programs.......................................................................................................................................................6 Personnel.............................................................................................................................................................. 8 CapitalProjects................................................................................................................................................................. 8 CapitalResources.............................................................................................................................................................. 9 Findings............................................................................................................................................................................. 9 MITIGATIONSTRATEGY.................................................................................................................................................10 MitigationSuccesses..........................................................................................................................................10 ActionItems......................................................................................................................................................10 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE AND Low IMPACT DEVELOPMENT.................................................................................................16 Whatis GI and LID?............................................................................................................................................16 The Overlap of GI and LID with Natural Hazard Mitigation...............................................................................17 FEMAand GI/LID.............................................................................................................................................................17 RISKASSESSMENT........................................................................................................................................................19 HazardAnalysis..................................................................................................................................................20 CommunityCharacteristics................................................................................................................................20 Economy......................................................................................................................................................................... 22 CommunityAssets..............................................................................................................................................25 CriticalFacilities.............................................................................................................................................................. 27 EssentialFacilities...........................................................................................................................................................27 Infrastructure: ................................................................................................................................................................. 29 HazardCharacteristics.......................................................................................................................................30 AirQuality....................................................................................................................................................................... 30 Drought........................................................................................................................................................................... 31 Earthquake(Cascadia).....................................................................................................................................................31 Earthquake(Crustal).......................................................................................................................................................35 EmergingInfectious Disease...........................................................................................................................................37 Flood............................................................................................................................................................................... 38 Landslide......................................................................................................................................................................... 43 SevereWeather.............................................................................................................................................................. 46 ExtremeHeat Event........................................................................................................................................................ 46 Windstorm...................................................................................................................................................................... 47 WinterStorm (Snow/Ice)................................................................................................................................................ 48 VolcanicEvent.................................................................................................................................................................49 Wildfire...........................................................................................................................................................................49 ATTACHMENT A: PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT SUMMARY...........................................................................................54 WebsitePosting.................................................................................................................................................55 AshlandSteering Committee..............................................................................................................................56 ATTACHMENT B: ACTION ITEM CHANGES...........................................................................................................57 *i .: .: •M TABLE AA-1 ASHLAND PRIORITY ACTION ITEMS................................................................................................................11 TABLE AA-2 CO -BENEFITS OF GI AND LID........................................................................................................................18 TABLE AA-3 HAZARD ANALYSIS MATRIX-ASHLAND..........................................................................................................20 TABLE AA-4 COMMUNITY CHARACTERISTICS....................................................................................................................24 TABLE AA-5 ASHLAND COMMUNITY LIFELINES..................................................................................................................26 TABLE AA-6 RAPID VISUAL SURVEY SCORES.....................................................................................................................33 List of Figures: FIGURE AA-1 GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE- LOW IMPACT DEVELOPMENT CONTINUUM...............................................................16 FIGURE AA-2 UNDERSTANDING RISK...............................................................................................................................19 FIGURE AA-3 ASHLAND COMMUNITY LIFELINES AND HISTORIC STRUCTURES...........................................................................25 FIGURE AA-4 CASCADIA SUBDUCTION ZONE PERCEIVED SHAKING AND COMMUNITY LIFELINES..................................................34 FIGURE AA-5 CASCADIA SUBDUCTION ZONE PERCEIVED SHAKING AND HISTORIC STRUCTURES...................................................35 FIGURE AA-6 LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY OF COMMUNITY LIFELINES................................................................................36 FIGURE AA-7 LIQUEFACTION SUSCEPTIBILITY OF HISTORIC BUILDINGS...................................................................................37 FIGURE AA-8 FEMA FLOOD HAZARD ZONES AND COMMUNITY LIFELINES.............................................................................40 FIGURE AA-9 FEMA FLOOD HAZARD ZONES AND HISTORIC BUILDINGS.................................................................................41 FIGURE AA-10 LANDSLIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY EXPOSURE AND COMMUNITY LIFELINES..................................................................45 FIGURE AA-11 LANDSLIDE SUSCEPTIBILITY EXPOSURE AND HISTORIC BUILDINGS.....................................................................46 FIGURE AA-12 BURN PROBABILITY IN ASHLAND AND COMMUNITY LIFELINES..........................................................................52 FIGURE AA-13 BURN PROBABILITY IN ASHLAND AND HISTORIC BUILDINGS.............................................................................53 April 10, 2024 The Honorable Rick Dyer, Chair Jackson County Board of Commissioners 10 South Oakland Ave. Medford, Oregon 97501 U.S. IIDepartment, of Homeland. Security EFM1 Rq,iori 10 130 229th ,S'tmt, SS�r FcAheH,WA 98021-8627 � M FEMA C. w ��11 ��'91YU Reference: Approval of the Jackson County Multi jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan Dear Chair Dyer: In accordance with applicable' laws, regulations, and policy, the United States Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Region 10 has approved the Jackson County multi jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan for the following jurisdictions: City of Butte Falls City of Phoenix Jackson County City of Talent City of Gold Hill City of Shady Cove City of Rogue River City of Eagle Point Jackson County Fire District 43 Medford Water Commission City of Ashland City of Jacksonville City of Central Point The approval period for this plan is from February 12, 2024 through February 11, 2029. In addition, Jackson County met the requirements for addressing all dam risks listed in the multi - jurisdictional hazard mitigation plan. An approved hazard mitigation plan is one of the conditions for applying for and receiving FEMA mitigation grants from the following programs: ■ Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) ■ Hazard Mitigation Grant Program Post -Fire (HMGP-PF) ■ Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIO) ■ Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) ■ High Hazard Potential Dams Grants Program (HHPD) To avoid a lapsed plan, the next plan update must be approved before the end of the approval period, including adoption by the participating jurisdiction(s). Before the end of the approval period, please allow sufficient time to secure funding for the update, including the review and approval process. Please include time for any revisions, if needed, and for participating jurisdictions to formally adopt t Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act, as amended; the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968, as amended; and National Dam Safety Program Act, as amended; Title 44 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 201, Mitigation Planning; and Local Mitigation Planning Policy Guide (FP-206-21-0002). www.fema.gov Chair Dyer April 10, 2024 Page 2 the plan after the review, if not adopted prior to submission. This will enable each jurisdiction to remain eligible to apply for and receive funding from FEMA's mitigation grant programs with a hazard mitigation plan requirement. Local governments, including special districts, with a plan status of "Approvable Pending Adoption" are not eligible for FEMA's mitigation grant programs with a hazard mitigation plan requirement. If you have questions regarding your plan's approval or FEMA's mitigation program, please contact Joseph Murray, Mitigation Planner with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management at (503) 378-2911 or joseph.murray@oem.oregon.gov, who coordinates these efforts for local entities. Sincerely, Wendy Shaw, P.E. Risk Analysis Branch Chief Mitigation Division Enclosures cc: Stephen Richardson, Oregon Department of Emergency Management JF:JG:ws This is an update of the Ashland addendum to the Jackson County Multi -Jurisdictional Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan (MNHMP, NHMP). This addendum supplements information contained in Volume I (Basic Plan) which serves as the NHMP foundation and Volume II (Appendices), which provide additional information. This addendum meets the following requirements: • Multi -Jurisdictional Plan Adoption §201.6(c)(5), • Multi -Jurisdictional Participation §201.6(a)(3), • Multi -Jurisdictional Mitigation Strategy §201.6(c)(3)(iv) and • Multi -Jurisdictional Risk Assessment §201.6(c)(2)(iii). Updates to Ashland's addendum are further discussed throughout the NHMP and within Volume II, Appendix B, which provides an overview of alterations to the document that took place during the update process. Ashland adopted their addendum to the Jackson County Multi -jurisdictional NHMP on February 20, 2024. FEMA Region X approved the Jackson County NHMP on February 12, 2024 and the City's addendum on April 10, 2024. With approval of this NHMP, the City is now eligible for non - disaster and disaster mitigation project grants through February 11, 2029. This section of the NHMP addendum addresses 44 CFR 201.6(c)(5), Plon Adoption and 44 CFR 201.6(a)(3), Participation. In addition to establishing a comprehensive city level mitigation strategy, the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000 (DMA2K), and the regulations contained in Title 44 CFR Part 201, require that jurisdictions maintain an approved NHMP to receive federal funds for mitigation projects. Local adoption, and federal approval of this NHMP ensures that the city will remain eligible for non - disaster and disaster mitigation project grants. Ashland was included as an addendum in the 2012 and 2018 Jackson County NHMP process. The Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience (OPDR) at the University of Oregon's Institute for Policy Research and Engagement (IPRE) collaborated with the Oregon Department of Emergency Management (OEM), Jackson County, and Ashland to update their NHMP. This project is funded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program. Members of the Ashland NHMP steering committee also participated in the County NHMP update process (Volume II, Appendix B). By updating the NHMP, locally adopting it, and having it re -approved by FEMA, Ashland will maintain eligibility for FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance grant program funds. O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA I 1 The Jackson County NHMP and Ashland addendum are the result of a collaborative effort between residents, public agencies, non-profit organizations, the private sector, and regional organizations. A project steering committee guided the process of developing the NHMP. Convener and Committee The Ashland Emergency Management Coordinator served as the designated convener of the NHMP update and will take the lead in implementing, maintaining, and updating the addendum to the Jackson County NHMP in collaboration with the designated convener of the Jackson County NHMP (Emergency Manager). Representatives from the Ashland NHMP steering committee met formally and informally, to discuss updates to their addendum (Volume II, Appendix B). The steering committee reviewed and revised the City's addendum, with a focus on the NHMP's risk assessment and mitigation strategy (action items). This addendum reflects decisions made at the designated meetings and during subsequent work and communication with Jackson County Emergency Management and the OPDR. The changes are highlighted with more detail throughout this document and within Volume II, Appendix B. Other documented changes include a revision of the City's risk assessment and hazard identification sections, NHMP mission and goals, action items, and community profile. The Ashland NHMP steering committee was comprised of the following representatives: • Convener, Kelly Burns, Emergency Management Coordinator • Chris Chambers, Ashland Fire Department • Brian Hendrix, Fire Adapted Communities Coordinator • Marshall Rasor, Deputy Ashland Fire Chief • Ralph Sartain, Ashland Fire Chief The steering committee served as the local review body for the NHMP's development. An expanded steering committee was convened for further revisions and review. Additional members of the steering committee included: • Brandon Golden, Director of Community Development • Scott Fleury, Director of Public Works • Marshall Rasor, Deputy Fire Chief, Operations • Mike Morrison, Deputy Director Public Works • Aaron Anderson, Senior Planner, Flood Plain Manager, Public Works • April Lucas, Development Services Coordinator • Katie Guest, former Washington State Deputy EM • Rebekah Boe, EM US Air Force Academy (ret.) • Sara Jones, Community Engagement Coordinator, Ashland Forest Resiliency Project O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 2 NIHMP Implementation and Maintenance The City Council will be responsible for adopting the Ashland addendum to the Jackson County NHMP. This addendum designates a steering committee and a convener to oversee the development and implementation of action items. Because the City addendum is part of the County's multi -jurisdictional NHMP, the City will look for opportunities to partner with the County. The City's steering committee will convene after re -adoption of the Ashland NHMP addendum on an annual schedule and can meet quarterly based on needs. The County is meeting on a semi-annual basis and will provide opportunities for the cities to report on NHMP implementation and maintenance during their meetings. The City's Emergency Management Coordinator will serve as the convener and will be responsible for assembling the steering committee. The steering committee will be responsible for: • Reviewing existing action items to determine progress and suitability of funding; • Reviewing existing and new risk assessment data to identify issues that may not have been identified at NHMP creation; • Educating and training new steering committee members on the NHMP and mitigation actions in general (new members for the steering committee, if not previously involved, can come from City department heads and their seconds, and other city departments who play a role in mitigating our natural hazards); • Assisting in the development of funding proposals for priority action items; • Discussing methods for continued public involvement; • Evaluating effectiveness of the NHMP at achieving its purpose and goals (use Table 4-1, Volume I, Section 4, as one tool to help measure effectiveness); and • Documenting successes and lessons learned during the year. The convener will also remain active in the County's implementation and maintenance process (Volume I, Section 4). The steering committee will be responsible for activities outlined in Volume I, Section 4 The City will utilize the same action item prioritization process as the County (Volume I, Section 4 and Volume II, Appendix D). Many of the Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan's recommendations are consistent with the goals and objectives of the City's existing plans and policies. Where possible, Ashland will implement the NHMP's recommended actions through existing plans and policies. Plans and policies already in existence have support from residents, businesses, and policy makers. Many land -use, comprehensive, and strategic plans get updated regularly, allowing them to adapt to changing conditions and needs. Implementing the NHMP's action items through such plans and policies increases their likelihood of being supported and implemented. Ashland's acknowledged comprehensive plan is the City of Ashland Comprehensive Plan (1982, updated 2021). The Oregon Land Conservation and Development Commission first O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 13 acknowledged the plan in 1983. The City implements the plan through the Community Development Code. Ashland currently has the following plans that relate to natural hazard mitigation. For a complete list visit the City's website: • Comprehensive Plan (1982, amended 2021) • Municipal Codes o Chapter 2.26 Ashland Wildfire Safety Commission o Chapter 14.06 Water Curtailment o Chapter 15.10 Flood Damage Prevention Regulations o 9.04.011— Prohibited Flammable Plants o 18.3.10 Physical and Environmental Constraints Overla o 18.3.11—Water Resource Protection Zones o Wildfire Safety Ordinance • Fire Adapted Ashland Advisory Committee MAC • Community Development Plans • Building Codes and Standards: Oregon Structural Specialty Code (Commercial) and Oregon Residential Specialty Code. • Capital Improvement Plan • Emergency Management Plan • Transportation System Plan (2012, update ongoing 2024) • Hosler Dam Emergency Action Plan (updated 2024) • Community Wildfire Protection Plan (2004, update ongoing 2024-25) • Ashland Forest Plan (2016) • Ashland Forest Plan Climate Adaptation Addendum (2023) • Ashland Climate and Energy Action Plan (2017) • Water Management Conservation Plan (2013) • Wildfire Mitigation Plan (2022) • City of Ashland Hazard Mitigation, Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development (2017) (Volume II, Appendix G) ! •. • Oregon Shakespeare Festival Long Range Plan (includes information on smoke from wildfires) • Ashland Chamber of Commerce: Business Continuity Plan • Southern Oregon University: Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan (2012) .MO., mo - - The Capability Assessment identifies and describes the ability of Ashland to implement the mitigation strategy and associated action items. Capabilities can be evaluated through an examination of broad categories, including existing authorities, policies, programs, funding, and resources. O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 14 Existing Authorities Hazard mitigation can be executed at a local scale through three (3) methods: integrating hazard mitigation actions into other local planning documents (i.e., plan integration), adopting building codes that account for best practices in structural hardening, and codifying land use regulations and zoning designations that prescribe mitigation into development requirements. The extent to which a municipality or multi -jurisdictional effort leverages these approaches is an indicator of that community's capabilities. Comprehensive Plan Oregon's Statewide Planning Goal 7 requires comprehensive planning within every jurisdiction that is designed to reduce risks to people and property from natural hazards. Ashland addresses Statewide Planning Goal 7 Natural Hazards as part of their Comprehensive Plan, in the Environmental Resources element. The City of Ashland updated their Environmental Resources chapter in 1991 and their Water Resources Map in 2009, but no further changes have been made to the Comprehensive Plan to address the Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan recommendations. Planned updates to the jurisdiction's Goal 7 element or its broader comprehensive plan will reflect the data and findings within this NHMP and integrate analyses of future climate and natural hazard impacts into the community's long-range plans. Land Use Regulations Existing land use policies that define zoning and address hazardous conditions provide another source of mitigation capability. The Land Use Ordinance (Title 18) includes regulations for all zones within the city, as well as regulations for development on steep slopes, within flood plains, near riparian corridors and wetlands, and within wildfire areas. Municipal Code Title 15 includes Provisions for Flood Hazard Protection. This code section is based on the Oregon Model Flood Hazard Prevention code, which includes provisions addressing substantial improvement/substantial damage. The Community Development Department provides both planning and building services for the City of Ashland. It is responsible for the administration of state, county, and local land use policies and regulations as they relate to the preservation and quality development of property lying within the city limits and urban growth boundary (UGB), including the flood hazard code. The Planning Program is also responsible for creating implementing ordinances based on the recommendations described in adopted city plans and technical reports. They work closely with the County and neighboring jurisdictions to ensure plans are aligned. Structural Building Codes The Oregon Legislature recently adopted updated building codes for both residential (2023 adoption) and commercial structures (2022) since the last update of this Plan. These building codes are based on the 2021 version of the International Building Code, International Fire Code, and International Existing Building Code. The Ashland Building Department has adopted and administers the 2023 edition of the Oregon Residential Specialty Code and the 2022 Oregon Fire Code. As a result, both new residential and O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 15 commercial structures will be required to build according to the latest seismic and wind hardening standards in addition to requiring fire resistant building materials for those structures constructed in proximity or within the WUI. Public Works The City of Ashland Public Works Department is responsible for streets, water, wastewater, stormwater, fleet maintenance, public facilities, engineering, and capital improvement projects. Much of their work is associated with the reduction of hazards to the community and the implementation of resilience measures. City Administration The City Council of Ashland has the responsibility of developing and adopting the annual city budget. Integrating hazard mitigation goals and projects into the annual budget is key to implementing the plan. The City Council tries to broadly address resilience planning needs while it determines city and departmental priorities and looks for multiple -impact projects wherever possible. They also work with staff to apply for federal and state grant funding to pursue larger projects that are outside of general fund capacity. This Plan directs Ashland and Jackson County to explore integration into other planning documents and processes. Ashland has made significant progress in integrating the NHMP into its portfolio of planning processes and programs over the last five years. TMDL Plan The City also maintains a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) Plan, which includes actions that are designed to improve water quality and water quantity in Bear Creek. The NHMP actions are incorporated into this document as appropriate. Capital Improvement Plans The Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer Collection System Master Plan was adopted in 2022 to serve as the current planning document for the City's wastewater collection system. Its goals included addressing climate change, extreme heat, and drought. The 2020 Stormwater and Drainage Master Plan was adopted in 2021, to meet the requirements of Ashland's MS4 (municipal separate storm sewer) permit and TMDL Implementation Plan. This plan identifies existing drainage problems in the City of Ashland and proposes a prioritized list of improvement projects to address them. It recommends future actions by the City and private developers to enhance the City's creek corridors, improve water quality, and handle future storm drain capacity problems. A new six -year Capital Improvement Plan that consolidates the projects for water, wastewater, stormwater, parks, and streets into one master plan was adopted on April 4, 2023. Evacuation Study 2021 The City adopted an evacuation study in 2021 that included 10 evacuation zones in the City. As part of its implementation, they created an additional evacuation escape ramp to Interstate 5 on North Mountain Avenue in 2022. There is ongoing work within the City and with regional O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 16 partners to strengthen evacuation routes and community engagement with regard to evacuation planning and practice. Community Wildfire Protection Plan The Jackson County Community Wildfire Protection Plan (CWPP) will be incorporated into this Plan as a functioning annex. The NHMP will also be integrated into the City's Capital Improvement Plan, to be adopted by March, 2024. There is an ongoing update to the CWPP which began in early 2024, plan expected to be completed in 2025. National Flood Insurance Program The City participates in the National Flood Insurance Program. The first Flood Insurance Rate Maps were developed for the City in 1981. The Senior Planner (Aaron Anderson, CFM) is responsible for administering the day-to-day activities of the city's floodplain program. They are assisted by the Building Official, the Engineering Department within Public Works, and by the City Administrator. Specifically, the floodplain manager: • maintains and administers Ashland's floodplain regulations; • reviews and issues floodplain development permits; • maintains elevation certificates for all new and substantially improved structures (and maintains an extensive database of historic elevation certificates); • ensures that encroachments do not occur within the regulated floodway; • implements measures to ensure that new and substantially improved structures are protected from flood losses; • maintains floodplain studies and maps and makes this information available to the public; • maintains a flood information website with digital flood insurance rate map (DFIRM) data; • conducts site visits to assess conditions and provide technical assistance to the public; • maintains a library of historical flood related information; • informs the public of flood insurance requirements; and • conducts outreach and training about flood hazards and development within the floodplain. The City participates in the Community Rating System (CRS) Program, a voluntary program offered by FEMA that exchanges discounts on individual flood insurance policies within the community for expanded efforts to mitigate and prevent flooding by the City. The City is currently at Class 9 in the CRS Program. Their local code is based on the Oregon Model Flood Hazard Prevention code, which includes provisions addressing substantial improvement/substantial damage. Ashland Forest Resiliency Stewardship Project The Ashland Forest Resiliency Stewardship Project (AFR) is a collaborative forestry project designed to reduce the risk of severe wildfire in the City of Ashland's watershed and adjacent lands with a strategy developed by the community and the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA17 The partnership between the National Forest, City of Ashland, Lomakatsi Restoration, and the Nature Conservancy was formalized in 2010. The partnership has grown to include an all -lands strategy with additional funding partners Natural Resources Conservation Services (NRCS), Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), National Forest Foundation and Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District. NFPA Firewise The National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Firewise program has been a great success in the community. There are 32 recognized Firewise communities in good standing within the city. Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Ashland has one Community Emergency Response Team or CERT. Ashland's CERT program has trained over 1500 volunteers to be better prepared to survive a disaster. CERT has been mobilized thirty-four times for activities ranging from managing emergency shelters to evacuating residents during wildfires. They currently have over 100+ volunteers serving the City to educate and support citizens in preparing and responding to emergencies. The following Ashland personnel have assignments related to natural hazard mitigation planning and implementation: Emergency Management: Kelly Burns, Emergency Management Coordinator Public Information Officer: Dorinda Cottle Floodplain Manager: Aaron Anderson, Senior Planner Grant writing (for Public Works or emergency management): Scott Fleury, Public Works Director Capital improvement planning: Scott Fleury, Public Works Director Capital improvement execution: Scott Fleury, Public Works Director These personnel integrate hazards and resilience planning into their greater work programs to the best of their abilities. However, there is limited capacity to expand upon their capabilities or work loads. Ashland has implemented recommendations from the last NHMP into its capital improvement projects over the last 5 years, including: • Water pump stations installed in higher elevation areas (Terrace Street and Park Estates) • Design for new water treatment plant (upsizing for hazard mitigation) • Design of seismic retrofit for portion of waterline shared with cities of Talent and Phoenix O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 18 Ashland maintains several capital resources that have important roles to play in the implementation of the natural hazard mitigation plan, including one communication tower, critical facilities with power generators for use during emergency blackouts (City Hall, Public Works, Police Station, two fire stations, and the City Yard), a severe weather shelter (2200 Ashland Street), a food pantry (560 Clover Avenue), and critical facilities with fueling storage capabilities for city -owned vehicles (City Maintenance Yard, 90 N. Mountain Avenue). S Several important findings from this capability assessment informed the design of the Plan's mitigation strategy and aided in prioritizing action items. Staffing Limitations and Capacity Ashland staff are assigned hazard mitigation responsibilities as a (small) part of their larger job responsibilities. Limited capacity reduces the breadth of the programming the community can undertake in any year. The city relies upon its relationships with the County and other cities within its region to expand its operations. Reliance upon outside funding streams and local match requirements Ashland operates on a limited budget with a small staff. This leaves few opportunities for using local financial resources to implement hazard mitigation work. They lean heavily upon state and federal grant funds as the primary means for securing mitigation funding. Hazard mitigation grants such as HMGP and BRIC require 10-25% local funding match, as well as extra staff capacity and expertise to navigate the application process and manage the funding. Leveraging Partnerships with Public and Nonprofit Entities Regional planning displayed in Community Wildfire Protection Planning process demonstrates the City's ability to effectively share information and identified priority needs. O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 19 This section of the NHMP addendum addresses 44 CFR 201.6(c)(3(iv), Mitigation Strategy. The City's mitigation strategy (action items) was first developed during the 2012 NHMP planning process and revised during the 2018 update. During this process, the steering committee assessed the City's risk, identified potential issues, and developed a mitigation strategy (action items). During the 2023 update process the City re-evaluated their mitigation strategy (action items). During this process action items were updated, noting what accomplishments had been made and whether the actions were still relevant; any new action items were identified at this time (see Attachment B for more information on changes to action items). Ashland has several examples of hazard mitigation including the following projects funded through FEMA Hazard Mitigation Assistance and the Oregon Infrastructure Finance Authority's Seismic Rehabilitation Grant Program.'. FEMA Funded Mitigation Successes • 2021: PDM18 — Wildfire Mitigation Project (vegetative management, retrofitting structures) ($4,000,000) Seismic Rehabilitation Grant Program Mitigation Successes • 2023: Ashland High School Humanities Building ($2,500,000) - Ongoing • 2021: Walker Elementary School Gymnasium ($1,834,325) -Completed • 2019: Walker Elementary Main Building/Library ($2,497,550) - Completed The City of Ashland Public Works Department maintains a seismic vulnerability report of public facilities. In addition, Southern Oregon University (SOU) has information on the seismic vulnerability of their infrastructure. SOU has retrofitted several structures on their campus, see their Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan for more information. Action Items Table AA-1 documents the title of each action along with, the lead organization, partners, timeline, cost, and potential funding resources. 1 The Seismic Rehabilitation Grant Program (SRGP) is a state of Oregon competitive grant program that provides funding for the seismic rehabilitation of critical public buildings, particularly public schools, and emergency services facilities. O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA I so Table AA-1 Action Items Continue City's Community Emergency Local Funding 1.2 Response Team (CERT) trainings and Resources, Ashland Fire Ashland CERT, and Rescue Jackson County EM outreach. DLCD Provide emergency kits to local school Local Funding district staff and continue to maintain Resources, Ashland Fire Ashland School 1.3 emergency kits already distributed to School and Rescue District City employees. Resources Continue to investigate how to improve Local Funding Southern Jackson County 1.4 interoperability for Southern Oregon Resources, Oregon Emergency University's audio alert system. OUS, PDM, University Management HMGP Community Ashland Fire & Continue efforts in community Engagement Rescue, Emergency engagement for wildfires and wildfire Coordinator Local funding, Management, ASD, 2.0 smoke exposure, with the Smokewise with Ashland SOREDI, SOED, Ashland programs and public education grants Forest Rogue Workforce courses. Resiliency Partnership, SOU, Project JCHHS,Asante O1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum O L O L M L O L Page AA I ss Local Funding, Planning 3.0 Implement long-term mitigation efforts State or Ashland Public Department, L M on water conservation Federal Works Community funding Development Address natural gas shut-off valves at the Local Funding City's facilities via ongoing work with Ashland Public 4.2 Avista to install excess flow valves at new Resources, Works AVISTA L L and existing structures. AVISTA Conduct seismic risk assessment of high- Local Funding Ashland Fire 4.3 risk public and private facilities in the Resources, and Rescue city. (Tentative SFA for 2025) PDM, HMG City of Ashland, Chamber of Commerce, Ashland School District, SOU, OSF, ODE M L S n The steering committee, using available local resources, will study this hazard further during the implementation and maintenance OJackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 12 Develop Increased Floodwater Storage Project along Bear and Ashland Creek. Local Funding Restore wetlands and use techniques like Resources, Ashland Public 6.2 floodplain benching along Bear and DLCD, FEMA, DLCD, DEQ Works Ashland Creek to increase floodwater ASFPM storage capacity and reduce flood risk. Develop a City -led "Green Streets' Program. Expand the use of Green Local Funding Infrastructure/Low Impact Development Ashland Ashland Public 6.3 (GI/LID) best management practices Resources, Community Works, Rogue Valley (BMPs) in development codes such as HMGP, Development Sewer Services bioswales in city owned right-of-way to DEQ,PDM minimize local and downstream flooding. Acquire facility to establish a Severe Ashland Weather Shelter in the Ashland area. Local and State Administration, State, Local non- 8.0 Planning, profits providing Partner with athird-party to manage funding Severe Weather Shelter duties. Emergency SWS services Management L H L M O M OJackson County NHMP zozq: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 13 Seek funding and mitigation for helping 8.2 residents weatherize their home from extreme heat. Local Funding Resources, State and Federal Funding Ashland Planning Ashland Public Department Works The steering committee, using available local resources, will study this hazard further during the implementation and maintenance g.0 phase of this NHMP, seeking to identify cost effective actions that might be implemented to reduce community vulnerability. Provide responder trainings and public Local Funding Ashland Fire Ashland EM, Jackson 10.4 education offerings related to wildfire Resources, and Rescue, County EM, JCFD#3, evacuations. HMGP, ON and Emergency Oregon Department Manager of Forestry M OJackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 14 Design and execute Evacuation Zones throughout the City of Ashland. Partner Local and state Ashland funding 10.5 with Jackson County to expand current Emergency zones and establish evacuation zones in Manager our neighboring county areas. Source: Ashland NHMPSteering Committee, updated 2023 Cost: L— Low (less than $50,000), M - Medium ($50,000-$100,000), H - High (more than $100,000) Timing: O-Ongoing (continuous), S-Short (1-2 years), M-Medium (3-5 years), L-Long (5 or more years) Priority Actions: Identified with bold text and orange highlight Jackson County EM, GIS resources, JCSC, KLD Engineering (2021 ETE) 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 115 Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development The Institute for Policy Research and Engagement (IPRE) team worked with the City of Ashland, regional stakeholders, and state agency partners to develop and workshop proposed natural hazard mitigation plan (NHMP) action items that utilize green infrastructure (GI) and low impact development (LID) best management practice (BMPs). The proposed action items are intended to reduce risk from natural hazards while providing important water quality, habitat, and community benefits. Green infrastructure (GI) and low impact development (LID) are cost-effective and resilient approaches to stormwater and associated natural hazard management.? GI and LID techniques can be used to manage weather and climate impacts in ways that also provide many environmental and community benefits. These strategies are traditionally applied to stormwater management for limiting flow, reducing pollution, and increasing the environmental health of receiving waterways. LID and GI represent a wide range of tools and techniques that can be applied at the site, neighborhood, and regional/watershed scales. In general, the goal of GI and LID best management practices is to minimize impervious area, limit the disturbance of undeveloped lands, prevent runoff from landscapes and hardscape area, and protect land and ecosystems. 3 AE#N1cNATw100J[tea1■1111C+F14HVgk!1[74�W9417M1111RPVgW■laUal*7 J11Cal1411OW7114Ill• Management that practices that minimize protects, of natural restores, or mimics the natural water vegetation and drainage, mimic mimi mini pre -development paltterns cycle lo1,17 C1e kW to h,d, CityW (I-EndN. G'®ry ll.�r. NurRlnntl �iUot PvujecC 0—C.,.t,y kil Cameery Ve Dtl id,,' vuu�e I/t w {,.� 9".xy,"'rllrE nv.x.... lisrrl—tler,�rx yi�tV)r�o,Ir,C rrvrt x�w. y„r It .F wrfa,e,�f ra-rnn v�UPAMIA Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. NI-1 Low impact development (LID) refers to systems and practices that use or mimic natural processes that result in the infiltration, evapotranspiration, or use of stormwater to protect Z Using Low Impact Development and Green Infrastructure to Get Benefits from FEMA Programs. EPA. https://www.eiDa.Eov/nos/usinE-low-impact-development-and-Breen-infrastructure-Bet-benefits-fema-iDroErams 3 Low Impact Development in Western Oregon: A Practical Guide for Watershed Health. OR DEQ. http://www.oregon.gov/deg/wq/tmdIs/Pages/TMDLs-LID.aspx 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 16 water quality and associated aquatic habitat. 4 Low impact development is most applied at the site or neighborhood scale. There are an extensive number of LID best management practices whose use depends on topological, environmental, and geological conditions. Common approaches include the use of rain gardens, bioswales, tree boxes, engineered soils, and stormwater planters. Green Infrastructure (GI) uses natural and engineered practices to mimic, protect or restore natural processes required to manage water and create healthier urban environments..5Green infrastructure is most applied at the neighborhood and regional/watershed scale. Green infrastructure best management approaches can include the protection and enhancement of landscapes such as watersheds, wetlands, and floodplains. Constructed wetlands, restored, and reconnected floodplains and stream buffers are all examples of green infrastructure best management practices. The City of Ashland is already a leader in applying GI/LID strategies to stormwater collection, conveyance, storage, and treatment. Collectively, existing GI/LID based projects help reduce flood impacts at the local level. The • of GI and LID with Natural Hazard Mitigation GI and LID stormwater management best practices seek to treat urban stormwater onsite to improve water quality, provide habitat, and manage runoff. While these benefits are perhaps the most widely recognized, there is increasing interest in a much wider range of co -benefits associated with GI and LID. These include natural hazard mitigation, lower lifetime infrastructure costs, improved community livability, reduced energy use, and improved air quality. GI and LID techniques can reduce urban heat island effects, improve plant health during droughts reducing fire risks, stabilize soils in landslide prone areas, mitigate localized flooding, and reduce downstream flooding occurrences and severity. Table AA-2 Co -Benefits of GI and LIDTable AA-2 illustrates some of the co -benefits of a GI or LID project. Full circles indicate strong positive overlaps, while half circles indicate partial overlap. In recent years, FEMA has acknowledged the risks and vulnerabilities associated with changing climate trends. Specifically siting "more intense storms, frequent heavy precipitation, heat waves, drought, extreme flooding and higher sea levels, "_6 FEMA is focusing efforts on providing information that can help communities manage climate related risks. "FEMA's focus on risk management has expanded to anticipate climate changes and to plan and implement strategy for program development in support of climate resilient infrastructure. FEMA now integrates 4 Urban Runoff: Low Impact Development. EPA. https://www.epa.gov/nps/urban-runoff-low-impact-development 5 What is Green Infrastructure? EPA. https://www.epa.gov/green-infrastructure/what-green-infrastructure 6 Climate Change. FEMA. https://www.fema.gov/climate-change 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 17 climate change adaptation into planning for future risk, programs, policies, and operations to strengthen the nation's resilience."? Source: Best Management Practice from Low Impact Development in Western Oregon: A Practical Guide for Watershed Health with CSC additions. Co -Benefit scoring from CSC research and should be interpreted as opportunities for further investigation. Pre -disaster mitigation planning broadly focuses on reducing hazard exposure to people and property. GI and LID best management practices support FEMA goals through the use of strategies and approaches that protect, restore and mimic natural systems. According to a recent FEMA report on innovation in hazard mitigation projects, "Implementation of LID/GI practices can help mitigate flood events by increasing the ability of the landscape to store water on site. Infiltration of these stored waters can also mitigate the effects of drought by 7 Innovative Drought and Flood Mitigation Projects, Final Report, 2017. FEMA. https://www.fema.gov/media- library/assets/documents/129691 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 18 replenishing water supply aquifers and enhancing usable water supply." B The report goes on to state, "GI can be used at a wide range of landscape scales in place of or in addition to, more traditional stormwater control elements to support the principles of LID (USEPA 2014c). Both LID and GI utilize best management practices (BMPs) that can be combined in a BMP Treatment Train to enhance benefits and reduce costs." This section of the NHMP addendum addresses 44 CFR 201.6(b)(2) - Risk Assessment. In addition, this chapter can serve as the factual basis for addressing Oregon Statewide Planning Goal 7 —Areas Subject to Natural Hazards. Assessing natural hazard risk has three phases: Phase 1: Identify hazards that can impact the jurisdiction. This includes an evaluation of potential hazard impacts —type, location, extent, etc. Phase 2: Identify important community assets and system vulnerabilities. Example vulnerabilities include people, businesses, homes, roads, historic places, and drinking water sources • Phase 3: Evaluate the extent to which the identified hazards overlap with or have an impact on, the important assets identified by the community. The local level rationale for the identified mitigation strategies (action items) is presented herein and within Volume I, Sections 2 and 3. The risk assessment process is graphically depicted in Figure AA-2. Ultimately, the goal of hazard mitigation is to reduce the area of risk, where hazards overlap vulnerable systems. UGSS Understanding Risk otsnsrEaufi�diiu� REsiticn�CE ,Pl}Ilv P E fgvti C&5wglr�� wvgvYfl ���1��� Natural Hazard/////O 'vulnerable System Potentiai Catastrophic �� Exposure, Sensitivity and Chronic Physical Events and Resilience of • past Recurrence Intervals d �� Population " EutUre Probability �� + Economic Generation " Speed of Onset / / * Built Environment Magnitude / + Academic and .Research Et Duration 1 • Cultural Assets • Spatial Extent " Infrastructure Ability, Resources and Willingness to: "MitigateRespond Prepare ' Recover Source, GSGS- Oregon Partnership for ErisasterResilience Research Collaboration, 2006 B Ibid. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA I ig The Ashland NHMP steering committee developed their hazard vulnerability assessment (HVA) using their previous HVA and the County's HVA (Volume II, Appendix C) as a reference. Changes from the County's HVA were made where appropriate to reflect distinctions in vulnerability and risk from natural hazards unique to Ashland, which are discussed throughout this addendum. Table AA-3 shows the HVA matrix for Ashland listing each hazard in order of rank from high to low. For local governments, conducting the hazard analysis is a useful step in planning for hazard mitigation, response, and recovery. The method provides the jurisdiction with a sense of hazard priorities but does not predict the occurrence of a particular hazard. Four chronic hazards (wildfire, extreme heat event, emerging infectious disease, and winter storm) and one catastrophic hazard (Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake) rank as the top hazard threats to the City (Top Tier). Drought, windstorm, air quality, landslide, and flood hazards comprise the next highest ranked hazards (Middle Tier), while the crustal earthquake and volcanic event hazards comprise the lowest ranked hazards (Bottom Tier). Wildfire 18 45 100 70 2' Extreme Heat Event is 40 gal 710 208 42 Eniergjing Infectious, Disease 116 40 100 4,91 2015, #a Earthquake ® Casicadia 2 50 10104,9 20114 Winter Storm 20 so 60 7'0 200 05 Wulrad tnruann 201 so 50, 70 190 N7 ,fi l.it 18 4 '' 60 163,d Landslide 10 35 801 56 18 Flood 201 30 60I 7'0 180, 410 arthuquake- Crustal 2 25 70 2 1 118 #11 Viollearilic Event 2 5 501 7 64 #12 Source: Ashland NHMP Steering Committee, 2024. Table AA-4 and the following section provides information on City specific demographics and characteristics. For additional information on the characteristics of Ashland, in terms of geography, environment, population, demographics, employment, and economics, as well as housing and transportation, see Volume III, Appendix 2. Many of these community characteristics can affect how natural hazards impact communities and how communities choose to plan for natural hazard mitigation. Considering the City specific assets during the planning process can assist in identifying appropriate measures for natural hazard mitigation. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 20 Ashland is in Jackson County in southwestern Oregon. It lies along Interstate 5 approximately 16 miles (26 km) north of the California border and near the south end of the Rogue Valley, southeast of the City of Medford. The City and most of Jackson County is within the Rogue watershed. The city is the home of Southern Oregon University and the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. Ashland experiences a relatively mild climate with four distinct seasons that comes from its position on the west coast of North America and within the mountains of the region. The city is at approximately 2000 feet above sea level and is dominated by Mt Ashland, part of the Siskiyou Mountain Range, which rises to 7500 feet above Ashland to the south. The Cascades Range rises to the north and east. As a result of its location, Ashland has a climate somewhat intermediate to central California and northern Oregon. Ashland averages about 19.5 inches of rain-9 Most of the rain (17 inches) falls between October and May. While the surrounding mountains receive plentiful snow, Ashland itself sees less than 0.5 inches annually. Population and Income The City has grown steadily since its incorporation in 1874 and has an area today of 6.64 square miles. Between 2016 and 2023 the City grew by 2,780 people (13%) to a population of 21,544, and median household income increased by about 19%. Most of the population is White/Caucasian (89%) and about 10% of the population is Hispanic or Latino. The poverty rate is 16% (25% of children under 18), 8% do not have health insurance, and 49% of renters pay more than 30% of their household income on rent (36% for owners). Over half (57%) of the population has a bachelor's degree or higher. Approximately 10% of the population lives with a disability (19% of population 65 and older), and 46% are either below 18 (16%) or over 65 (30%) years of age. About 18% of the population are 65 or older and living alone and 6% are single parents. Transportation, Housing, and Infrastructure In the City of Ashland, transportation has played a major role in shaping the community. From the railroad tracks to the development of Interstate 5, Highway 99 and Highway 66, Ashland's commercial areas developed along primary routes and residential development followed nearby. Today, mobility plays an important role in Ashland and the daily experience of its residents and businesses as they move from point A to point B. In addition to Hwy 99, the City also has two other highways within its borders: Highway 66 and Interstate 5. The current railroad system is serviced through the Union Pacific Railroad system and the Central Oregon and Pacific Railroad (CORP) route. This complements the established Rogue Valley Transportation District (RVTD) and the series of transit stops located within Ashland. In addition, the City operates several recreational trails within City limits that provide alternative routes for pedestrians and bicyclists 9 NOAA. National Centers for Environmental Information. Summary of Monthly Normals (1991-2010). Ashland, OR US USC00350304. https://www.ncei.noaa.gov/access/services/data/v1?dataset=normals-monthly-1991-2020&startDate=0001-01- 01&endDate=9996-12-31&stations=USC00350304&format=pdf 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 21 in the northwest and southwest regions of the City (around the Ashland Creek and Bear Creek corridors)._10 By far, motor vehicles represent the dominant mode of travel through and within Ashland. Thirty-six percent (36%) of renters and 67% of owners have two or more vehicles (10% of renters do not have access to a car). Most workers drive alone to work (59%); however, 14% either walk or use a bicycle, and 18% work at home. The City of Ashland includes a diversity of land uses but is zoned primarily residential. The city's Comprehensive Plan and map identifies land use needs within the city and its urban growth boundary). Since the previous NHMP (2018) the city has annexed approximately 13 more acres: residential (2021, 7.91 acres) and commercial (2018, 5.38 acres) zoned land. Three-quarters of all of Ashland's housing units are single-family, 20% are multifamily, and just 2% are mobile homes. One-third of homes (36%) were built before 1970. Newer homes are more likely to be built to current seismic, flood, wildfire, and other hazard standards. Half of housing units are owner occupied, 39% are renter occupied, while 5% are seasonal homes, and 6% are vacant. Due to initial firefighting efforts less than one dozen structures were damaged in the Almeda Fire. New development has complied with the standards of the Oregon Building Code and the city's development code including their floodplain ordinance. A diverse range of businesses have chosen to locate in Ashland. Traditionally, Ashland has built its economy on a resource base of timber, favorable climate, attractive landscape, cultural attractions, a well-educated labor force and education. In addition, Ashland's location on Interstate 5 and the Central Oregon and Pacific Railroad, its proximity to the Medford Airport, and its own local airport give it market access that is more favorable than usual for a rural town. The Oregon Shakespeare Festival and Southern Oregon University each create unique economic opportunities that contribute to the strength of the economy. According to the economic profile of the City's Comprehensive Plan, Ashland finds their main economic drivers in the sectors of tourism, manufacturing, and commercial retail. 11 About 51% of the resident population 16 and over is in the labor force (10,889 people) and are employed in a variety of occupations including professional and related (37%), management, business, and financial (19%), office and administrative (10%), food preparation and serving (9%), and building and sales and related (8%) occupations. Most workers residing in the city (58%, 4,072 people) travel outside of the city for work primarily to Medford and surrounding areas. 12 A significant population of people travel to the city for 10 City of Ashland Park and Recreation Finder, http://gis.ashland.or.us/AshlandParksandRec/ 11 City of Ashland Comprehensive Plan, Economy Element (2016) http://www.ashland.or.us/Files/Ashland Economy Element.pdf 12 U.S. Census Bureau. LEHD Origin -Destination Employment Statistics (2002-2020). Longitudinal -Employer Household Dynamics Program, accessed on August 17, 2023 at https://onthemap.ces.census.gov. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 22 work, (66% of the workforce, 5,599 people) primarily from Medford, Talent, and surrounding areas. 13 13 Ibid. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 23 _ .. SEE_ EM 2016 Population Estimate 20,620 Housing Units 2021 Population Estimate 21,554 Single -Family (includes duplexes) 8,826 2040 Population Forecast* 24,334 Multi -Family 2,233 Race Mobile Homes (includes RV, Van, etc.) 214 American Indian and Alaska Native < 1% Household Type Asian 2% Family Household 4,965 Black/ African American 1% Married couple (w/ children) 1,023 Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander 1% Single (w/ children) 582 White 89% Living Alone 65+ 1,810 Some Other Race 1% Year Structure Built Two or More Races 6% Pre-1970 4,037 Hispanic or Latino/a (of any race) 10% 1970-1989 3,342 Limited or No English Spoken 54 1% 1990-2009 2,916 Vulnerable Age Groups 2010 or later 978 Less than 5 Years 673 3% Housing Tenure and Vacancy Less than 18 Years 2,757 13% Owner -occupied 5,616 65 Years and Older 5,740 27% Renter -occupied 4,436 85 Years and Older 647 3% Seasonal 518 Age Dependency Ratio 66.1 Vacant 703 Disability Status (Percent age cohort) Vehicles Available (Occupied Units) Total Disabled Population 2,032 10% No Vehicle (owner occupied) 90 Children (Under 18) 42 2%1 Two+vehicles (owner occupied) 3,779 Working Age (18 to 64) 908 7%1 No Vehicle (renter occupied) 437 Seniors (65 and older) 1,082 19%1 Two+vehicles (renter occupied) 1,597 Households by Income Category Labor Force (Population 16+) Less than $15,000 1,174 12% In labor Force (%Total Population) 10,889 5 $15,000-$29,999 1,711 17% Unemployed (% Labor Force) 531 $30,000-$44,999 1,103 11% Occupation (Top 5) (Employed 16+) $45,000-$59,999 833 8% Professional & Related 3,790 3 $60,000-$74,999 903 9% Management, Business, & Financial 2,003 1 $75,000-$99,999 1,174 12% Office & Administrative 1,059 1 $100,000-$199,999 2,182 22% Food Preparation & Serving 917 $200,000 or more 972 10% Sales & Related 841 Median Household Income $63,641 Health Insurance Gini Index of Income Inequality 0.43 No Health Insurance 1,640 Poverty Rates (Percent age cohort) Public Health Insurance 9,113 4 Total Population 3,332 16% Private Health Insurance 14,258 6 Children (Under 18) 664 25% Transportation to Work (Workers 16+) Working Age (18 to 64) 2,287 19% Drove Alone 6,067 5 Seniors (65 and older) 381 7% Carpooled 594 Housing Cost Burden (Cost > 30% of household income) Public Transit 163 Owners with a Mortgage 1,348 24% Motorcycle 0 Owners without a Mortgage 684 12% Bicycle/Walk 1,381 1 Renters 2,166 49% Work at Home 1,877 1 Source: U.S. Census Bureau, 2017-2021 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates; Portland State University, Population Research Center, "Annual Population Estimates, Table 4", 2016 and 2021; and"Population Forecasts, Summary Tab", 2022. Note 1: * = Population forecast within UGB Note 2: ACS 5-year estimates represent average characteristics from 2017-2021. Sampling error may result in low reliability of data. This information or data is provided with the understanding that conclusions drawn from such information are the responsibility of the user. Refer to the original source documentation to better understand the data sources, results, methodologies and limitations of each dataset presented. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 24 Communityss s This section outlines the resources, facilities, and infrastructure that, if damaged, could significantly impact the public safety, economic conditions, and environmental integrity of Ashland. Community lifelines and historic structures in Ashland are shown in Figure AA-3 and Table AA-5. FEMA developed the Community Lifelines construct for objective -based response to prioritize the rapid stabilization of these facilities after a disaster. Mitigating these facilities will increase the community's resilience. Figure AA-3 Ashland Community Lifelines and Historic Structures Jurisdiction Boundaries i __, Urban Growth Boundary 1p City Limits u� Community u ty Lifelines ool Police Station ��„TM- ��., °i is "yam 0 Fire Station A Public wanks 0 Community Center �i, ��„ i ww Treatment Plant © Medical Center " L I � n Communication Structure T, - J u ° Airport t� Hazardous waste Generator �. Electric Transmission Lines a Electric Substations Historic Structures ~� eligiblelcontributing r eligiblelsignificant I.rt b A, not eligible/non-contributing °-•••- --.,I ` __v �� _ m � �: �' 4 A, not eligiblelout of period r undetermined�i r 0 0.55 1.3 Miles Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience, Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 25 Table AA-5 Ashland Community Lifelines Affierts,c­ F.adA`V.tetShiell- Food none minimal I— InWHZ A. h Land Food Cai p FoodAlViatierlSinelter Food (grocery t.-) ,on. Fri to- ion WHZ Market of CIn ii— Food/Water/Sheller Fo o d (grooery store) none mini —It tow jri Shop NI Kart F..dAV.t.,JSheIt., F. ad (gT.cei stare.) none minini tow iinWHZ .Angus B.w-.,Th—,t., hasardous materials Hai ... w. ste pir.d.c., no.,. nrunintall moderate ion WHZ Area Prod u ot s Co 4479 11 .... rd u s -a te,i a Lis In a..,d U s w ..te I none minimal tow in V1HZ A. Ft. A. th Lan,d C—m:. . ity H .. pi Eat h...a,d..s materials ha—ird ... ­teprcidace, .1.ne -mi—ll law 'in WHZ. Ashland S.h..IiI 45 - Maintenance fi—rd.Uss rn.iteli.L. hazardous —te I II.ne nninimal tow in WHZ C—lip""s Clean— hii material, in—ind.us waste pvtdace, none -mirrall moderate in WHZ Clh ­o n UISA Ina, hazardous d.­ Fri hazardous waste prodUCer FF.d.r.te minimal tow in WHZ MiLt., Faint Company Eric. (hazardous materials hazardous waste proolu— I— rnini—I tow 'in WHZ ShenainWittianns Paint III nr.teli.Ls hazardous W3E,te PrOdUter I— minimal low in WHZ Union PaeFfic Rai Lroadl Ihrazardous materiats In.—ird..s waste produce, none rrunimall moderate 'in IOIHZ USUO I FWS IN ation at Fa ren a iota a Lob h...,d.us materials hazardous waste pradL—r none rninirnal tow in WHZ Ashland Center -'Warns— Health health and retied ica t nradii—Ilf,rollity inone mini —it low jnWHZ ,Ash Land Cs,- u n irry H..pitail heatith and mi -edicakfacility n.n. -iini—ii. rn.d.r.ta ii n WHZ Ashland Orthupedl.A­.imiss health and rnedi­t, mi,di—lif"dility inane minimal tow jnWHZ Sv.kiy.,, I Health health and miedii-L ntedii.alfacility ,one minimal tow 'in WHZ Center For In tern a I Mech d n e, (AAGH) health and medivcat nvadi.alfaollity in.ne minimal t— inWHZ Manned Parenthood-AshLand Health Center health and Fri rinedi..1facility none -iri I— iinWHZ Retina & Viiti—us Center - South 11, — It 1, andmed i­ L —di..11fadility inane minimal t— iri AishLand F.rnRIyYMICA afety an"T ei .—MI-ity,center F.Fie, minimal moderate. in WHZ Southern Oregon University safety amd sier.rity sc,hanl none minimal moderate it WHZ. Ashland FvreAnd Rescuis safety and sec. nty fire st.tFon none rininimal tow iri AshLqnd FireAnd Rescue Stataon 2 safety ands security fire station inane nri tow u,WHZ A. h Land I School safety aFid recu rity, ..h..1. a,.00ne minimal moderate in WHZ ,Ashland Middle S.1 .. I s a fiery and sea u rity s.h..1 none minirrual rnods,rate jri Ashland IP.Lite Dep.,trnent safety.ndl ....'ity police station none -iri to. ii n WHZ BeLM ew ELelrnem a ry School. a[ —6ity.ndl aiecuritv a.h..1 inane minimal moderate iri C1hiJIdFen'itW.,Id IBith,lgutilMori P,e& I(inderg.rde,' safety and a—unty —hicial n­ _jri —d—te in WHZ Heisnar, Elementary Schoct s a fery, and sieru rity sc,h­4 nione minimal rn.derare it WHZ T,ai,t. Outdoor S.1i safety and security ­hool none rininimal tow iri Liithia Springs School c.fety.nictecurity ­hcicil inane minimal t— u,WHZ Pilot R­k Chrl.ti.n School safety aFid recu rity, ..h..1. a,.00ne minimal I.- in WHZ Southern Oregon UniversityCarnpus Public Safety 5 a kety and sec u city sc,haol mane minimal moderate inWHZ The Svs kiyu Sh .. I afety.ndl ... unity t.1,.ol none -iri moderate ii n WHZ W.Ik-Ete­,i,iI, '. fiety and: — uri ty ­1H..1 inane minimal Io­ in WMZ As In Land Munici p at Al Apart trariap.irtiati-ni il,p.,t n­ minimal tow in WHZ As In tan d Serice Center (90 NE Ma u irta In T—sp.m.,atioini p u h Liic w a rks rnader.re minimal I.. jri Ashland PubUicW.,ks Department trn.,p.rt.ti.ri p.bli­,kc none minimal to- in WHZ Source: Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries, Ashland NH MP Steering Committee; WHZ - Wildland Hazard Zone (chick link for more information) 0 1 Jackson County NHIMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 26 Critical Facilities Facilities that are critical to government response and recovery activities (i.e., life, safety, property, and environmental protection). These facilities include: 911 Centers, Emergency Operations Centers, Police and Fire Stations, Public Works facilities, sewer and water facilities, hospitals, bridges, roads, shelters, and more. Facilities that, if damaged, could cause serious secondary impacts may also be considered "critical." A hazardous material facility is one example of this type of critical facility. Fire Stations: • Ashland Fire & Rescue Stations 1 & 2 Law Enforcement: • Ashland Police Department Public Works: • Public Works and Street Division Building • Parks and Recreation Building • Ashland Water Treatment Plant • Ashland Waste Water Treatment Plant Private/Public Other: • SOU Lithia Pavilion (EOC site) • Food Bank Essential Facilities Hospitals/Immediate Medical Care Facilities: • Asante Ashland Community Hospital • Southern Oregon University — Health Center City Buildings: • Ashland Senior Center (Gathering Point) • Ashland Library (County) • Ashland Community Development (ComDev) • Municipal Court • Ashland City Hall • 2200 Ashland St Facilities that are essential to the continued delivery of key government services and/or that may significantly impact the public's ability to recover from the emergency. These facilities may include City buildings such as the Public Services Building, the City Hall, and other public facilities such as schools. Hospitals/Immediate Medical Care Facilities: • Rogue Community Health - Ashland • Asante Physician Partners • Valley Immediate Care • La Clinica Mobile Unit (Based in Phoenix) Public Schools: • Ashland High School • Ashland Middle School • Bellview School • Helman Elementary School • Trails Outdoor School 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 27 • Walker Elementary School • Willow Wind Community Learning Center (CLC) Private Schools: • Children's World Bilingual Montessori Pre -School and Kindergarten • Lithia Springs School • Pilot Rock Christian School • The Siskiyou School Potential Shelter Sites: • All Ashland Schools (Red Cross designates Middle and High Schools) • 2200 Ashland St • Southern Oregon University buildings • Ashland Bible Church • Ashland Christian Fellowship • Church of Christ • First Baptist Church of Ashland • First Methodist Church • First Presbyterian Church • Grace Lutheran Church • Newman Center • Trinity Episcopal Church • Temple Emek Shalom • Ashland Havurah • Ashland SDA Church • Our Lady of the Mountain Parish • Church of Jesus Christ Latter-day Saints • First Congressional United Church of Christ • Green Springs Christian Fellowship • Alliance Bible Chapel • Faith Tabernacle Church • National Guard Armory • YMCA 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 28 Infrastructure: Infrastructure that provides services for the City includes: Transportation Networks: • Highway 99 • Highway 66 • Eagle Mill Rd • Ashland St • S Mountain Ave • Interstate 5 • E Main St • Tolman Creek Rd • Walker Ave • Oak St • Hersey St • Maple St • Wildfire/Flood Evacuation Zones and Routes Special Service Districts: • Southern Oregon Education Service District • Jackson County Library, Ashland Branch Water Facilities: • 6 Pump Stations • 57 Pressure Reducing Stations • Water Treatment Plant • 4 Water Reservoirs (above ground with 6.7 million gallons when full) • 1,236 Fire Hydrants • Reeder Reservoir • Hosler Dam • Wastewater Treatment Plant Private Utilities: • Avista Natural Gas • 3 Electric Substations • Communication Towers • Recology Ashland 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 zg The following sections briefly describe relevant information for each profiled hazard. More information on Jackson County Hazards can be found in Volume 1, Section 2 Risk Assessment and in the Risk Assessment for Region 4, Southwest Oregon, Oregon SNHMP (2020). The steering committee determined that the City's probability for poor air quality is high (which is the same as the County's Rating) and that their vulnerability to poor air quality is also high (which is the same as the County's Rating). This hazard was not assessed in the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of air quality hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event. Increases in wildfire smoke conditions have shown an increasing potential and frequency for air quality hazards. The City of Ashland produced a Community Response Plan for Smoke that was adopted by the Jackson County Board of Commissioners in 2020. This plan provides information and planning for protecting smoke -vulnerable populations from wildfire and prescribed fire smoke. It also details methods for communication and notification about smoke and air quality to the community at large and groups that conduct prescribed burning from Ashland's public health authority. This plan is a living document that the city continues to update in partnership with the Ashland Forest Resiliency Stewardship Project. The Community Response plan can be found here. Additional information on poor air quality can be found in Volume I, Section 2. Future Projections: According to the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute "Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, "14 climate change is expected to reduce outdoor air quality. Warmer temperatures may increase ground -level ozone concentrations, while increases in the number and size of wildfires may increase concentrations of smoke and fine particulate matter. Moreover, increases in pollen abundance and the duration of the pollen season may increase aeroallergens. Such poor air quality is expected to exacerbate allergy and asthma conditions and increase the incidence of respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses and death. In Jackson County, the number of smoke wave days is projected to decrease by 20%, but the intensity of smoke on those days is projected to increase by 81%. Increasingly poor outdoor air quality will have exponentially high impacts upon those living in older homes, manufactured housing, RVs, and campgrounds, or the unhoused. The need to install new or upgraded air conditioning systems or HVAC filtration systems will impact the cost of housing. 14 Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, Oregon. February 2023. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 13o The steering committee determined that the City's probability for drought is high (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to drought is high (which is higher than the County's rating). These ratings hove not changed since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of drought hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event. Due to the climate of Jackson County, past and present weather conditions have shown an increasing potential for drought. Ashland draws its main water supply from Reeder Reservoir. Additionally, the Talent Ashland Phoenix (TAP) Intertie and the Talent Irrigation District (TID) are backup resources available for residential use during times of drought. For more information on the future of Ashland's water supply visit their website. Future Projection According to the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute "Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, "15 drought, as represented by low summer soil moisture, low spring snowpack, low summer runoff, and low summer precipitation, is projected to become more frequent in Jackson County by the 2050s. Increasingly frequent droughts will have economic and social impacts upon those who depend upon predictable growing periods (ranches, farms, vineyards, gardeners) as well as upon the price and availability of fresh vegetables. It may also stress local jurisdiction's ability to provide water for irrigation or commercial and household use. The steering committee determined that the City's probability for a Cascadia Subduction Zone (CSZ) earthquake is moderate (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to a CSZ earthquake is high (which is the same as the County's rating). The probability rating decreased, and the vulnerability rating stayed the some since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of earthquake hazards, history, and the location, extent, and probability of a potential event. Generally, an event that affects the County is likely to affect Ashland as well. The causes and characteristics of an earthquake event are appropriately described within Volume I, Section 2 as well as the location and extent of potential hazards. Previous occurrences are well documented within Volume I, Section 2 and the community impacts described by the County would generally be the same for Ashland as well. Figure AA-4 and Figure AA-5 display perceived shaking hazards from a Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake event. The areas of greatest concern within the city are darker shades of orange. 15 Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, Oregon. February 2023. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 1 3i The local faults, the county's proximity to the Cascadia Subduction Zone, potential slope instability, and the prevalence of certain soils subject to liquefaction and amplification combine to give the County a high -risk profile. Due to the expected pattern of damage resulting from a CSZ event, the Oregon Resilience Plan divides the State into four distinct zones and places Jackson County predominately within the "Valley Zone" (Valley Zone, from the summit of the Coast Range to the summit of the Cascades). Within the Southwest Oregon region, damage and shaking is expected to be strong and widespread - an event will be disruptive to daily life and commerce and the main priority is expected to be restoring services to business and residents. 16 As noted in the community profile, approximately 66% of residential buildings were built prior to 1990, which increases the City's vulnerability to the earthquake hazard. Information on specific public buildings' (schools and public safety) estimated seismic resistance, determined by DOGAMI in 2007, is shown in Table AA-6; each "X" represents one building within that ranking category. Of the facilities evaluated by DOGAMI using their Rapid Visual Survey (RVS), one (1) has a very high (100% chance) collapse potential and six (6) have a high (greater than 10% chance) collapse potential. 16 Ibid. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 132 Table AA-6 Rapid Visual Survey Scores Ashland High School (Ashland SD 5) (201 S Mountain Ave) - See Mitigation Successes Ashland Middle School (Ashland SD 5) (100 Walker Ave) Bellview Elementary School (Ashland SD 5) (1070 Tolman Creek Rd) Helman Elementary School (Ashland SD 5) Jack_sch07 X, X, X X, X, X, X X Jack_sch06 X Jack_sch03 X Jack sch04 2007 RVS report did not include (705 Helman St) — structural appendix for this facility. Walker Elementary School (Ashland SD 5) Jack sch05 X (364 Walker Ave) - See Mitigation Successes Public Safety Ashland Fire & Rescue (City of Ashland) Jack fir11 X (455 Siskiyou Blvd) Ashland Police Department (City of Ashland) (1155 E Main St) Jack_po108 X Hospital Ashland Community Hospital (NFP - Ashland) Jack hos01 X (280 Maple St) Various (see SOU NHMP) Source: DOGAMI 2007. Open File Report 0-07-02. Statewide Seismic Needs Assessment Using Rapid Visual Assessment. "*" Site ID is referenced on the RVS Jackson County Map In addition to building damages, utility (electric power, water, wastewater, natural gas) and transportation systems (bridges, pipelines) are also likely to experience significant damage. There is a low probability that a major earthquake will result in failure of upstream dams. Utility systems will be significantly damaged, including damaged buildings and damage to utility infrastructure, including water treatment plants and equipment at high voltage substations (especially 230 kV or higher which are more vulnerable than lower voltage substations). Buried pipe systems will suffer extensive damage with approximately one break per mile in soft soil areas. There would be a much lower rate of pipe breaks in other areas. Restoration of utility services will require substantial mutual aid from utilities outside of the affected area. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 133 Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. 0 1 Jackson County INHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 134 Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. Earthquake (Crustal) The steering committee determined that the City's probability for a crustal earthquake is low (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to crustal earthquake is moderate (which is higher than the County's rating). These ratings hove not changed since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of earthquake hazards, history, as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event. Generally, an event that affects the County is likely to affect Ashland as well. The causes and characteristics of an earthquake event are appropriately described within Volume I, Section 2 as well as the location and extent of potential hazards. Previous occurrences are well -documented within Volume I, Section 2 and the community impacts described by the County would generally be the same for Ashland as well. Earthquake -induced damages are difficult to predict and depend on the size, type, and location of the earthquake, as well as site -specific building and soil characteristics. Presently, it is not 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 135 possible to accurately forecast the location or size of earthquakes, but it is possible to predict the behavior of soil at any site. In many major earthquakes, damages have primarily been caused by the behavior of the soil. Figure AA-6 and Figure AA-7 show the liquefaction risk to the community lifelines that are identified Table AA-5 in more detail in as well as the state historic building inventory buildings. Figure AA-6 Liquefaction Susceptibility and (_orMrMuOitu Lifelines Liquefaction N Susceptibility None Very Low 14 Low "00F, Moderate High Very High Active Faults Urban Growth Boundary City Limits, Community Lifelines School Police Station Fire Station Public Works 0 Community Center WW Treatment Plant Medical Center 7- FAIJ Communication Structure IR 0 Hazardous Waste Generator — Electric Transmission Lines 4 Electric Substations Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: Toview detail click this link toaccess Oregon Hazvu 0 1 Jackson County wVmp2o24Ashland Addendum Page xx|ss Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. Vulnerability Assessment Due to insufficient data and resources, Ashland is currently unable to perform a quantitative risk assessment, or exposure analysis, for this hazard. Identified Community Lifelines that are exposed to this hazard are shown in Table AA-5. Note that even if a facility has exposure, it does not mean there is a high risk (vulnerability). No development changes affected the jurisdiction's overall vulnerability to this hazard. Future Projection Future development (residential, commercial, or industrial) within Jackson County will be at risk to earthquake impacts, although this risk can be mitigated by the adoption and enforcement of high development and building standards. Reducing risks to vulnerable populations should be considered during the redevelopment of existing properties. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 137 The steering committee determined that the City's probability for emerging infectious disease is moderate (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability is high (which is the same as the County's rating). These ratings hove not changed since the previous version of this NHMP. Emerging infectious diseases are those that have recently appeared in a population or those whose incidence or geographic range is rapidly increasing or threatens to increase. Emerging infections may be caused by biological pathogens (e.g., virus, parasite, fungus, or bacterium) and may be: previously unknown or undetected biological pathogens, biological pathogens that have spread to new geographic areas or populations, previously known biological pathogens whose role in specific diseases was previously undetected, and biological pathogens whose incidence of disease was previously declining but whose incidence of disease has reappeared (re-emerging infectious disease). 17 Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of emerging infectious disease and local history, as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event within the region. Generally, an event that affects the County is likely to affect the City as well. Vulnerability Assessment Low immunization rates within Jackson County, specifically in Ashland with the large foreign contingency that visits Ashland due to tourism and Southern Oregon University, contribute to the City's vulnerability. Future Projection Vulnerable populations within Jackson County, including children, elderly, those living with disabilities, and unhoused individuals, will be a greater risk to emerging infectious diseases in the future. Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. The steering committee determined that the City's probability for flood is high (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to flood is moderate (which is the same as the County's rating). These ratings hove not changed since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of flood hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event. Portions of Ashland have areas of mapped FEMA flood hazard zones, including areas along the Bear Creek, Clay Creek, and Ashland Creek (Figure AA-8 and Figure AA-9). Furthermore, other portions of Ashland, outside of the mapped floodplains, are also subject to flooding from local storm water drainage. 17 Baylor College of Medicine, Emerging Infectious Disease, URL: https://www.bcm.edu/departments/molecular-virology-and- microbiology/emerging-infections-and-biodefense/emerging-infectious-diseases, accessed September 17, 2017. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 138 Ashland Creek is the chief source of flooding in Ashland. The creek, which has its origins in the Rogue River National Forest south of the City, is very steep and has a drainage area of approximately 27.5 square miles. The creek flows into Reeder Reservoir south of the City; from the reservoir, the creek flows northward and empties into Bear Creek. Clay Creek rises in the hills to the southeast of Ashland, flows northward at the eastern edge of the City and enters Bear Creek to the north. 18 Floods in the past, including the 1974 and 1997 floods on Ashland Creek, have caused failures with the Ashland water -supply system. Reeder Reservoir is created by Hosler Dam and is one of the City's chief concerns for flooding. The City maintains a Holser Dam Emergency Action Plan (updated 2024) and has an early warning siren system including cameras. A failure study inundation map is maintained by the City and shows the commercial and residential properties are at risk during a failure event. The City is at risk from two types of flooding: riverine and urban. Riverine flooding occurs when streams overflow their banks and inundate low-lying areas. This is a natural process that adds sediment and nutrients to fertile floodplain areas. It usually results from prolonged periods of precipitation over a wide geographic area. Most areas are generally flooded by low velocity sheets of water. Urban flooding occurs as land is converted to impervious surfaces and hydrologic systems are changed. Precipitation is collected and transmitted to streams at a much faster rate, causing floodwaters that rise rapidly and peak with violent force. During urban flooding, storm drains can back up and cause localized flooding of streets and basements. These flooding events and subsequent damages are commonly caused by the behavior of Ashland Creek and Bear Creek and their tributaries. Additional risks of flood are posed from Clay Creek, Hamilton Creek, Gaerky Creek, and Kitchen Creek. These urban creeks flow through many subsurface pipe systems that can be plugged by debris during flood events. 18 FEMA, Flood Insurance Study: Jackson County, Oregon and incorporated Areas, January 19, 2018. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 139 Figure AA-8 FEMA Flood Hazard Zones and Community Lifelines N Flood Hazard Zones Floodway 1% Chance Flood (100-yr) Q.2°Jo Chance Flood (5Qa-yr) .z �.. Jurisdiction Boundaries 7.1 i---= Urban Growth Boundary � I . � �•• " � � rti � t "m» City Limits s. � r r Community Lifelines School Police Station Fire Station A Public Works uA ���„" .:ou �C' ����� �, i' ✓° � ��� ) � ,.,, � �tr� .). tl ). i C) Community Center " VrW Treatment Plant I ,p I� Medical Center hJ Communication Structure r ,4: �� Airport # Hazardous Waste GeneratorK�� a — Electric Transmission Lines Electric Substations 0 0.55 1.3 Miles Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 140 RilliIi IRWIN III NO 1apar-T-I 1 • . • . • • 1=0 Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. Vulnerability Assessment Due to insufficient data and resources, Ashland is currently unable to perform a quantitative risk assessment, or exposure analysis, for this hazard. Identified community lifelines that are exposed to this hazard are shown in Table AA-5. Note that even if a facility has exposure, it does not mean there is a high risk (vulnerability). No development changes affected the jurisdiction's overall vulnerability to this hazard. Floods can have a devastating impact on almost every aspect of the community, including private property damage, public infrastructure damage, and economic loss from business interruption. It is important for the City to be aware of flooding impacts and assess its level of risk. The City has been proactive in mitigating flood hazards by purchasing floodplain property. The economic losses due to business closures often total more than the initial property losses that result from flood events. Business owners and their employees are significantly impacted by flood events. Direct damages from flooding are the most common impacts, but indirect damages, such as diminished clientele, can be just as debilitating to a business. Following the 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 141 January 1997 flood, businesses in Ashland suffered direct damage from high water and reduced water service resulting from damage to the public water system. The FEMA Flood Insurance Study (January 19, 2018) has a brief history of flooding in Jackson County and Ashland (Volume I, Section 2). Following the 1997 floods, the City of Ashland was without a functional drinking water system for several weeks while repair and sanitization work was performed. Businesses that depended on the Ashland water supply were unable to operate and their employees were without work. The City's central business district is located adjacent to Ashland Creek, which was a chief source of flood problems in the past. Both the 1974 and 1997 flood events caused significant damage to the City and water reservoir. 19 Currently, there is no financial impact data available of this infrastructure. It should be noted that major improvements in the culvert at Ashland Creek and Winburn Way will substantially decrease the likelihood of future flooding in the downtown business district. Highway 99 and Interstate 5 are major transportation routes in the Rogue Valley. If major flooding affected all of the bridges in Ashland, traffic flow in and out of the City would be significantly affected, but would not cut all off all avenues. The amount of property in the flood plain is not a large area but damage could be significant as it would affect residential, commercial, and public property. Floodwaters can affect building foundations, seep into basements or cause damage to the interior, exterior and contents of buildings, dependent upon the velocity and depth of the water and by the presence of floating debris. The City sewer system can overflow during flood events and cause further property damage. For mitigation planning purposes, it is important to recognize that flood risk for a community is not limited only to areas of mapped floodplains. Other portions of Ashland outside of the mapped floodplains may also be at relatively high risk from over bank flooding from streams too small to be mapped by FEMA or from local storm water drainage. National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) FEMA updated the Flood Insurance Study (FIS) and Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMS) in 2018 (effective January 19, 2018). Ashland's Class Rating within the Community Rating System (CRS) is a 9. The City complies with the NFIP through enforcement of their flood damage prevention ordinance and their floodplain management program. Their code is based on the Oregon Model Flood Hazard Prevention code, which includes provisions addressing substantial improvement/substantial damage. The Community Repetitive Loss record for Ashland identifies zero (0) Repetitive Loss Properties 20 and zero (0) Severe Repetitive Loss Properties 21. 19 Ibid. 20 A Repetitive Loss (RL) property is any insurable building for which two or more claims of more than $1,000 were paid by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) within any rolling ten-year period, since 1978. A RL property may or may not be currently insured by the NFIP. 21 A Severe Repetitive Loss (SRL) property is a single family property (consisting of 1 to 4 residences) that is covered under flood insurance by the NFIP and has incurred flood -related damage for which 4 or more separate claims payments have been paid under flood insurance coverage, with the amount of each claim payment exceeding $5,000 and with cumulative amount of such 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 142 Future Climate Projection: According to the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute (OCCRI report) "Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, "22 winter flood risk at mid -elevations in Jackson County, where temperatures are near freezing during winter and precipitation is a mix of rain and snow, is projected to increase as winter temperatures increase. The temperature increase will lead to an increase in the percentage of precipitation falling as rain rather than snow. The projected increases in total precipitation, and in rain relative to snow, likely will increase flood magnitudes in the region. Vulnerable populations adjacent to floodways (including the unhoused, manufactured home communities, and campground occupants) will be more at risk as the winter flood risk increases. Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. The steering committee determined that the City's probability for landslide is high (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to landslide is moderate (which is higher than the County's rating). The probability rating stayed the some and the vulnerability rating decreased since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of landslide hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event within the region. The potential for landslide in Ashland is high and the City's water treatment plant is vulnerable to landslide. The last major landslide event occurred in 1997 associated with the flooding rain events of that year. Landslide susceptibility exposure for Ashland is shown in Figure AA-10 and Figure AA-11. Most of Ashland demonstrates a moderate to high susceptibility to landslide exposure, with corridors of moderate susceptibility concentrated around the outer edges of Highway 99 and Interstate-5. Approximately 18% of Ashland has very high or high and approximately 43% moderate landslide susceptibility exposure ._23 Note that even if on area has o high percentage of land in o high or very high landslide exposure susceptibility zone, that does not mean there is o high risk (vulnerability), because risk is the intersection of o hazard and assets. Potential landslide -related impacts are adequately described within Volume I, Section 2 and include infrastructural damages, economic impacts (due to isolation and/or arterial road closures), property damages, and obstruction to evacuation routes. Rain -induced landslides and debris flows can potentially occur during any winter in Jackson County and thoroughfares beyond City limits are susceptible to obstruction as well. During the 1997 flood, the landslide and claims payments exceeding $20,000; or for which at least 2 separate claims payments have been made with the cumulative amount of such claims exceeding the reported value of the property. 22 Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, Oregon. February 2023. 23 DOGAMI Open -File Report, 0-16-02, Landslide Susceptibility Overview Map of Oregon (2016) 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 143 debris flow that occurred in the canyon near Hosler Dam impacted the Ashland Water Treatment Plant and a failure of the Ashland water system. The most common type of landslides in Jackson County are slides caused by erosion. Slides move in contact with the underlying surface, are generally slow moving, and can be deep. Rainfall - initiated landslides tend to be smaller; while earthquake induced landslides may be quite large. All soil types can be affected by natural landslide triggering conditions. Vulnerability Assessment Due to insufficient data and resources, Ashland is currently unable to perform a quantitative risk assessment, or exposure analysis, for this hazard. Identified community lifelines that are exposed to this hazard are shown in Table AA-5. Note that even if a facility has exposure, it does not mean there is a high risk (vulnerability). No development changes affected the jurisdiction's overall vulnerability to this hazard. Future Projections: Landslides are often triggered by rainfall when the soil becomes saturated. As a surrogate measure of landslide risk, the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute (OCCRI report) report presents a threshold based on recent precipitation (cumulative precipitation over the previous 3 days) and antecedent precipitation (cumulative precipitation on the 15 days prior to the previous 3 days). By the 2050s under the higher emissions scenario, the average number of days per year in Jackson County on which the landslide risk threshold is exceeded is projected to remain about the same, with an increase of 0.2 days. However, landslide risk depends on multiple factors, and this metric, which is based on precipitation, does not reflect all aspects of the hazard. Additional triggers, such as earthquakes, wildfires, or development, can increase risks of landslides. Future development along slopes or adjacent to river banks will be a greater risk of impact from this hazard. Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 144 Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 145 Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. Oregon Department of Geology and Mineral Industries. Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon HazVu. Severe Weather Severe weather can account for a variety of intense and potentially damaging weather events. These events include extreme heat events, windstorms, and winter storms. The following section describes the unique probability and vulnerability of each identified weather hazard. Other more abrupt or irregular events such as hail are also described in this section. Extreme Heat Event The steering committee determined that the City's probability for an extreme heat event is high (which is the same as the County's Rating) and that their vulnerability to an extreme heat event is high (which is higher than the County's Rating). This hazard was not assessed in the previous version of this NHMP. Jackson County's NHMP Volume I, Section 2 adequately describes the causes and characteristics of extreme heat, as well as the history, location, extent, and probability of a potential event and 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 146 how it relates to future climate projections (see OCCRI report). Generally, an event that affects the County is likely to affect the City as well. A severe heat episode or "heat wave" occurs about every two to three years, and typically lasts two to three days but can last as many as five days. A severe heat episode can be defined as consecutive days of temperatures in the high 90s and above 100. Severe heat hazard in Southern Oregon can be described as the average number of days with temperatures greater than or equal to 90-degrees Fahrenheit..24 Extreme heat events can and have occurred in the city, and while historically in our area they do not cause loss of life, they are becoming more frequent and have the potential to impact economic activity as well as quality of life and have caused threat to life in some cases. Future Projections: According to the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute (OCCRI report) "Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, "25 average temperature is expected to continue increasing during the twenty-first century if global emissions of greenhouse gases continue. The number, duration, and intensity of extreme heat events will increase as temperatures continue to warm. In Jackson County, the number of extremely hot days (days on which the temperature is 90°F or higher) and the temperature on the hottest day of the year are projected to increase by the 2020s and 2050s. The number of days per year with temperatures 90°F or higher is projected to increase by an average of 28 days (range 12-38 days) by the 2050s, relative to the 1971-2000 historical baselines. The temperature on the hottest day of the year is projected to increase by an average of about 7°F (range 3-8°F) by the 2050s. Higher temperatures and longer/more extreme heat events will have negative impacts upon vulnerable populations such as those over 65+, children, those living in older or temporary housing, and field workers. See the Risk Assessment (Volume I, Section 2) for additional information on this hazard. Windstorm The steering committee determined that the City's probability for windstorms is high (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to windstorms is high (which is higher than the County's rating). The probability rating stayed the some and the vulnerability rating increased since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of windstorm hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event within the region. Because windstorms typically occur during winter months, they are sometimes accompanied by ice, freezing rain, flooding, and very rarely, snow. Other severe weather events that may accompany windstorms, including thunderstorms, hail, lightning strikes, and tornadoes are generally negligible for Ashland. 24 DLCD. Oregon State Noturol Hazard Mitigation Plon. 2020. 25 Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, Oregon. February 2023. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 147 Volume I, Section 2 describes the impacts caused by windstorms, including power outages, downed trees, heavy precipitation, building damages, and storm -related debris. Additionally, transportation and economic disruptions result as well. Damage from high winds generally has resulted in downed utility lines and trees usually limited to several localized areas. Electrical power can be out anywhere from a few hours to several days. Outdoor signs have also suffered damage. If the high winds are accompanied by rain (which they often are), blowing leaves and debris clog drainage -ways, which can lead to localized urban flooding. Future Projections: Limited research suggests little if any change in the frequency and intensity of windstorms in the Northwest as a result of climate change. Those impacted by windstorms at present, including older residential or commercial developments with above -ground utilities, poor insulation or older construction, heavy tree canopies, or poor storm drainage, will continue to be impacted by windstorms in the future. Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. Winter Storm (Snow/Ice) The steering committee determined that the City's probability for winter storms is high (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to winter storms is high (which is higher than the County's rating). The probability rating stayed the some and the vulnerability rating decreased since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of winter storm hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event within the region. Severe winter storms can consist of rain, freezing rain, ice, snow, cold temperatures, and wind. They originate from troughs of low pressure offshore that ride along the jet stream during fall, winter, and early spring months. Severe winter storms affecting the City typically originate in the Gulf of Alaska or in the central Pacific Ocean. These storms are most common from November through March. Major winter storms can and have occurred in the Ashland area, and while they typically do not cause significant damage, they are frequent and have the potential to impact economic activity. Road and rail closures due to winter weather are an uncommon occurrence but can interrupt commuter and commercial traffic. Future Projections According to the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute (OCCRI report) "Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, "26 cold extremes will become less frequent and intense as the climate warms. In Jackson County, the number of cold days (maximum temperature 32°F or lower) per year is projected to decrease by an average of 3 days (range -2— -5 days) by the 2050s, relative to the 1971-2000 historical baselines, under the higher emissions scenario. The 26 Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, Oregon. February 2023. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 148 temperature on the coldest night of the year is projected to increase by an average of 6°F (range 3-9°F) by the 2050s. The intensity of extreme precipitation is expected to increase as the atmosphere warms and holds more water vapor. In Jackson County, the number of days per year with at least 0.75 inches of precipitation is not projected to change substantially. However, by the 2050s, the amount of precipitation on the wettest day and wettest consecutive five days per year is projected to increase by an average of 15% (range-3-32%) and 11% (range-3-34%), respectively. If these precipitation events occur in the winter, heavier winter storms with larger impacts upon transportation routes, vulnerable populations, and economic activity can be expected. Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. Volcanic Event The steering committee determined that the City's probability for a volcanic event is low (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to a volcanic event is low (which is the same as the County's rating). These ratings did not change since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of volcanic hazards, and their local history, as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event within the region. Generally, an event that affects the County is likely to affect Ashland as well. Ashland is very unlikely to experience anything more than volcanic ash during a volcanic event. Ashland's water supply has a high concentration of sulfur which could increase during a volcanic event. Future Projections Although the science of volcano predictions is improving, it remains challenging to predict a potential volcanic event. Ash fall, which will be the greatest impact, will impact the entire County. Impacts will be felt hardest by property managers (ranches, farmers, etc.) and by those relying upon clean surface water (for drinking water production and irrigation). Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. Wildfire The steering committee determined that the City's probability for wildfire is high (which is the same as the County's rating) and that their vulnerability to wildfire is high (which is higher than the County's rating). These ratings have not changed since the previous version of this NHMP. Volume I, Section 2 describes the characteristics of wildland fire hazards, history, and how they relate to future climate projections (see OCCRI report), as well as the location, extent, and probability of a potential event within the region. The location and extent of a wildland fire vary depending on fuel, topography, and weather conditions. Weather and urbanization conditions are primarily at cause for the hazard level. Notable wildland fires have occurred in Ashland and it remains a concern due to an increased amount of development along the Wildland-Urban Interface. In addition, the City's watershed is particularly vulnerable and a wildfire in that area would impact its water supply and potentially lead to landslides and increased flooding concerns. Please review Page 17 of the 2016 Ashland Forest Plan for more fire related details. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 149 Ashland, along with Talent, Phoenix, and Medford Ashland, was severely affected by the Almeda Fire in September 2020. Due to initial firefighting efforts less than one dozen structures were damaged by fire within the city limits. The potential community impacts and vulnerabilities described in Volume I, Section 2 are generally accurate for the City as well. Ashland developed a Community Wildfire Protection Plan in 2004. The Rogue Valley Integrated Fire Plan (RVIFP, updated 2019) assesses wildfire risk, maps wildland urban interface areas, and includes actions to mitigate wildfire risk. The City is included in the RVIFP and will update the City's wildfire risk assessment if the fire plan presents better data during future updates (an action item is included within Volume I, Section 4 to participate in updates to the integrated fire plan and to continue to maintain and update their RVIFP). Ashland is within an area of high wildfire prone urban landscape. The City hereby incorporates the RVIFP into this addendum by reference to provide greater detail to sensitivity and exposure to the wildfire hazard. Property can be damaged or destroyed with fire as structures, vegetation, and other flammables easily merge to become unpredictable and hard to manage. Other factors that affect the ability to effectively respond to a wildfire include access to the location and to water, response time from the fire station, availability of personnel and equipment, and weather (e.g., heat, low humidity, high winds, and drought). The City is involved in an ongoing project known as the Ashland Forest Resiliency (AFR) Stewardship Project. AFR is a collaboration between the City, the Nature Conservancy, the U.S. Forest Service, and Lomakatsi Restoration Project, which is working to enhance and protect over 58,000 acres of landscape from Emigrant Lake to Wagner Creek irrespective of ownership. Ashland also participates in Firewise and Fire Adapted Communities Programs and has a Wildfire Hazard Zone Overlay that dates back to 1992 that, as of 2018, includes all structures within city limits. The City is also considering adopting a wildfire ordinance that would address: • Fire prone vegetation within 5 ft of a structure • 10 ft spacing from tree branches to a chimney • Spacing requirements for existing fire prone trees and shrubs • Additional fuel break size for lots with more than 20% slope Figure AA-12 and Figure AA-13 show burn probability in Ashland for community lifelines and historic buildings. Vulnerability Assessment Due to insufficient data and resources, Ashland is currently unable to perform a quantitative risk assessment, or exposure analysis, for this hazard. Identified community lifelines that are exposed to this hazard are shown in Table AA-5. Additionally, all structures in the city are considered exposed to wildfire, directly or indirectly, and are within the Wildfire Hazard Zone. Structures within the city have to comply with the requirements of the zone. Note that even if a facility has exposure, it does not mean there is a high risk (vulnerability). No development changes affected the jurisdiction's overall vulnerability to this hazard. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 150 Future Projections According to the Oregon Climate Change Research Institute "Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, "27 wildfire frequency, intensity, and area burned are projected to continue increasing in the Northwest. Wildfire risk, expressed as the average number of days per year on which fire danger is very high, is projected to increase in Jackson County by 13 days (range -6— 29) by the 2050s, relative to the historical baseline (1971-2000), under the higher emissions scenario. Similarly, the average number of days per year on which vapor pressure deficit is extreme is projected to increase by 29 days (range 12-42) by the 2050s. Communities at risk to wildfire include those within the urban wildfire interface or along river or creek corridors, like Bear Creek, where fire can travel quickly. Communities will need to address growing wildfire risks if populations are not restricted from expanding further into higher risk areas. Please review Volume I, Section 2 for additional information on this hazard. 27 Oregon Climate Change Research Institute, Future Climate Projections, Jackson County, Oregon. February 2023. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 151 41 41 ma- 1 1 � • . • . 1 • • IMM�' Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. USFS Pacific Northwest Region Wildfire Risk Assessment (PNRA) Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon Explorer's CWPP Planning Tool. Note: All structures within the city are in the Wildfire Hazard Zone (link). 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 152 Source: Oregon Partnership for Disaster Resilience. USFS Pacific Northwest Region Wildfire Risk Assessment (PNRA) Note: To view detail click this link to access Oregon Explorer's CWPP Planning Tool. Note: All structures within the city are in the Wildfire Hazard Zone (link). 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 153 1FIA , Owlnv// i 'xx; ,III HI Members of the steering committee provided edits and updates to the NHMP prior to the public review period as reflected in the final document. In addition, a survey was distributed that included responses from residents of Ashland (Volume III, Appendix F). To provide the public information regarding the draft NHMP addendum, and provide an opportunity for comment, an announcement (see below) was provided from September 13 through October 2 on the City's website. The plan was also posted and announced on the County's website. There was one comment provided that has been reviewed and integrated into the NHMP as applicable. Additional opportunities for stakeholders and the public to be involved in the planning process are addressed in Volume III, Appendix B. A diverse array of agencies and organizations were provided an opportunity to provide input to inform the plan's content through a variety of mechanisms including the opportunity for comment on the draft plan. The agencies and organizations represent local and regional agencies involved in hazard mitigation activities, those that have the authority to regulate development, neighboring communities, representatives of businesses, academia, and other private organizations, and representatives of nonprofit organizations, including community - based organizations, that work directly with and/or provide support to underserved communities and socially vulnerable populations. For more information on the engagement strategy see Volume II, Appendix B. Furthermore, after adoption of the Ashland Addendum in February 2024, an expanded steering committee was formed (see page 2 for members) to review and make further necessary edits to the Ashland Addendum. Members of this committee along with Ashland's Emergency Manager completed edits and will seek local council approval and local re -adoption in September 2024. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 154 Public comment on the 2023 Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan Update is open, ,00 The City off Asihllaind seeks public iiinp,ut on,ulpolate to tlhe flackson County M ulltii-Jlurisdictimniall Naturall Hlaaaind Mitigation Plain - Huib iic caimmmeint o n the Ashland adldenduimfortlheplanwilll.....heaeceptedthrough Monday. Octalber2„21023. The City of Ashland iincoordination with. Ja:,ckson, County is in the process of updating. the existing Naturai Hazard Mlitigation Phan (RH:M1P) forJackson County. llh,iswork is being performed incooperation with. the UnArersityof Oregon's Institute for Policy Research, and Engagement -Oregon Partnership For Disaster Resilience a,nd th,e 'Oregon Department of Emergency Pa1'<anagement,utiilizinig funds obtained from the Federal Emergency iManagem:ent. Agency's (FE'MA) Hazard Witigation. Cwrant Progrann. The NHIMP its rep,ui red to be,up,dated aind reaidDptE!deveryfiweC5ayeairE. Withi ieaddoption ofthe plan,.Ashland will regain its eligibility to appd,y for federal funding toward natural hazard m'it'ig3don prtroects. This. local planning, pa,ocess induces a'wide range of rep a'esenitativ+es'fromi cityand ccuntygoverniment emergency mainaigement personnel, and outreach to members of the public in the (Form of an electronic survey A. natural hazard mitigatiion plan provides communities with a set. ofgoalp, action items and resources designed to reduce risk from futuire natural disaster events.. Engaging iin mitigation activities provi,desyunusdictions with a number of benefits, including reduced loss of Ilifie, property, essential services, crit:ioal Facilities and economic ha-.rdship� reduced shoroterm arid long-term recovery arid reconstruction cmts�: iiincreased cooperationand communication within the, communitythrciugh, the planning process,,and increased potentiaX for state and federal) funding for recovery and reconstruction, projects. An electronk:version of the updated draft Ash,.land RH.MYP addendum its available for formal public comment beginning :Wednesday. September 13. 2023, through )Monday, Octabea 2, 2023. View the draft. To provide public comment, please describe the feedback and reference page number, to-.b4 or figure of conc:ern:. 1. Send an, email to IacksonEm@Ja�clksencoiunty.org.. 2. Fax to 541.774.53tt5 3. Mail or drop-off hard copies: 10 S Oakdale„ Rm 2t4„ ME'dford, OR: 97501 More, on th,e 2023 Natural Hazard 10 tigation. Plan, Update acJacNtsencatun�tyor crgfemetgency:. Questions regarding the Ashland NHUP addendum or the update, process in general,should be directed to belly Burns, Emergency Management Coordiriabor, aft. 541.080.2299, keNlly.b urrie@ashlan,d.cr.us; Dr Michael Howard. Directorforth,e,Oregon Partnership for Disaster resilience, ntrh,oward@uonegc�n.edu,. arre better 1togethienr Info on the C:iipy of Ashland Emergency Preparedness, including signing up for Everbribge C:iitizen, Alert at ashllard or. uslBetterPrepared or gn ,directly to the Citizen. A.Ilert registration page. tend .'M kpt. t' PX 2023 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 155 Steering committee members possessed familiarity with the community of Ashland and how it is affected by natural hazard events. The steering committee guided the update process through several steps including goal confirmation and prioritization, action item review and development, and information sharing, to update the NHMP and to make the NHMP as comprehensive as possible. The steering committee met formally on the following date: Meeting #1: Ashland steering committee, February 14, 2023 (via Zoom) During this meeting, the steering committee reviewed the previous NHMP, and were provided updates on hazard mitigation planning, the NHMP update process, and project timeline. The steering committee: • Updated recent history of hazard events in the city. • Reviewed and confirmed the County NHMP's mission and goals. • Discussed the NHMP public outreach strategy. • Reviewed and provided feedback on the draft risk assessment update including community vulnerabilities and hazard information. • Reviewed and updated their existing mitigation strategy (actions). • Reviewed and updated their implementation and maintenance program. Meeting Attendees: • Kelly Burns, Emergency Management Coordinator • Chris Chambers, Ashland Fire Department Follow up meetings occurred throughout 2024 and 2024 Expanded Steering Committee was formed post -adoption 2024 met and reviewed/recommended edits. Edits finalized and addition of Appendix C (tracking sheet) Record of Plan Changes added. 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 156 Table AA-7 is an accounting of the status (complete or not complete) and major changes to actions since the previous NHMP. All actions were renumbered in this update to be consistent with other jurisdictions that are participating in the multi -jurisdictional NHMP. Actions identified as still relevant are included in the updated action plan (Table AA-1). Previous NHMP Actions that are Complete: Wildfire #4, "Wildfire Mitigation Ordinance." Complete. Ashland developed their Wildfire Safety Ordinance (effective October 18, 2018). Linl< Previous NHMP Actions that are Not Complete and No Longer Relevant: None identified. Multi -Hazard 1.1 Not Complete Yes Multi -Hazard 1.2 Not Complete Yes Multi -Hazard 1.3 Not Complete Yes Air Quality Mitigation Items Air Quality 2.0 New Yes ►Mq, Earthquake #1 4.1 Not Complete Yes Earthquake #2 4.2 Not Complete Yes Earthquake #3 4.3 Not Complete Yes Earthquake #4 4.4 Not Complete Yes InfectiousEmerging - Mitigation Items - 5.0 New - Flood Mitigation Items Flood #1 6.1 Not Complete Yes Flood #2 6.2 Not Complete Yes 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 157 Flood#3 Flood#4 Landslide #1 Severe Weather Severe Weather 6.3 Not Complete Yes 6.4 Not Complete Yes 7.1 Not Complete Yes 8.0 Not complete Yes 8.1 Not Complete Yes Wildfire #1 10.1 Not Complete Yes Wildfire #2 10.2 Not Complete Yes Wildfire #3 10.3 Not Complete Yes Wildfire #4 10.4 Completed Yes Wildfire #5 10.5 Completed Yes 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 158 The City of Ashland Emergency Manager will coordinate review, revision, and re -promulgation of this plan whenever changes occur, such as lessons -learned from exercises or actual events, or changes in existing facilities. Changes to the appendices, and non -substantive changes to the plan may be made without formal City Council approval. All updates and revisions to the plan will be tracked and recorded in the following table. This process will ensure that the most recent version of the plan is disseminated and implemented by emergency response personnel. 2024 000 Update and bring overall information and formatting in line with County and State recommendations. 2024 2024-001 Adoption of updated plan by City Council Feb 201", 2024 2024 2024-002 Update all areas to reflect current City offices and officers, steering committee members. 2024 2024-003 Re-establish document links, removed committees and plans that no longer exist, add current committees and current plans. 2024 2024-004 Updated table AA-3 Hazard Analysis Matrix. 2024 2024-005 Updated Community Lifelines AA-5, Critical & Essential Facilities, 2024 2025-006 Updated Mitigation Action Items AA-1, AA-7 0 1 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 159 Jackson County NHMP 2024: Ashland Addendum Page AA 16o