Be Ready Nevada County: Free Storm Green Waste Event Begins This Weekend
Today, the Nevada County Board of Supervisors took action on seven items moving the County forward on its wildfire preparedness initiative. The Board unanimously approved nearly $850,000 in grant-funded contracts and programs for defensible space and community green waste events, up to $900,000 for storm-related cleanup, and grant applications for over $1 million towards hazardous vegetation removal along County-maintained roadways if awarded.
"I'm grateful to live in an area that makes preparedness a priority. From our crews with the equipment to move trees out of the road to the weekend gardeners creating defensible space around their homes, we are all doing our part. It is really the spirit of Ready Nevada County," said Sue Hoek, Board of Supervisors Chair.
Defensible Space Assistance
With today's Board approval, the County will contract with the Fire Safe Council of Nevada County for Phase I of an Abatement Program and Access and Functional Needs Program, funded by FEMA grants. The two programs will provide critical defensible space assistance to Nevada County residents with disabilities, older adults, and property owners who meet specific low-income thresholds.
"These grant programs will help address an urgent need and funding gap in our community," said Paul Cummings, Office of Emergency Services Manager. "We know that hazardous vegetation is a major challenge in Nevada County. We're looking forward to working with the Fire Safe Council to provide defensible space treatment to 123 eligible properties and identify another 775 eligible properties for Phase II of these programs."
Residential Green Waste Events Beginning This Weekend
This year, winter storms added to the challenge by creating unprecedented debris on public and private properties. Today, the Board accepted $150,000 in grant funding from the Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District to support the green waste events beginning this weekend from 9:00 am- 3:00 pm at 12625 Brunswick Rd, Grass Valley. Residents can learn more about the three free green waste weekend events at www.MyNevadaCounty.com/GreenWaste.
"Over 200 miles of county roads have been cleared, with over 600 tons of debris removed by just County crews alone. We anticipate a record amount of green waste will be collected at upcoming events, and they provide an important alternative to burn piles which can impact air quality," adds Craig Griesbach, Director of Building. "This is a community event that will hopefully make challenging storm clean up a little easier for our residents."
Storm Cleanup Efforts Continue
Contract amendments with the Fire Safe Council of Nevada County and Robinsons Enterprises were approved today to support roadside and community green waste processing.
"County departments are working proactively to tackle this challenging community issue," added Alison Lehman, County Executive Officer. "Each year, we see more fires and green waste from the recent storms added to the challenge. We are committed to stepping up to the challenge and will continue to actively pursue opportunities to support our community in this mission."