Standing Dead Tree Removal Deadline Extended to June 30

From: FEMA      Filed 2/26/07

The deadline for 90 percent federal funding of standing dead tree removal in Hancock, Harrison and Jackson counties has been extended to June 30. The extension by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) covers the whole of each of the coastal counties, not just areas affected by storm surge.

The previous extension allowed about 27,000 standing dead trees to be removed from public rights of way, private homes and small businesses.

Removal of dead standing trees is limited to those posing a threat to improved property or limiting access for emergency vehicles. Only trees that are completely dead will be removed and must be more than 12 inches in diameter. Property owners must complete a right-of-entry form available at their local building department by the deadline set by their local jurisdiction.

The deadline for debris removal from the street curb and demolitions remains February 28.

FEMA will continue to fund marine debris removal at 100 percent until May 15, 2007.

FEMA and the Mississippi Emergency Management Agency jointly coordinate and monitor debris removal operations while ensuring appropriate guidelines are followed for the removal of debris from public and private lands.