You asked … about the Goodhue County hazard mitigation plan

Q. Why does Goodhue County have to make a new hazard plan? We already have one. We already have know-how because of the nuclear plant and all the emergency drills. What gives?

A. The Federal Emergency Management Agency started the process because there had been so many disasters throughout the nation. The goal is to have local governments know in advance what potential hazards exist — natural, technological and human-caused hazards - and know how to reduce or eliminate the loss of life and property.

In fact, Goodhue County was one of the first in Minnesota to have a plan approved and adopted by FEMA and the Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. The first plan was approved in early 2005, according to the county’s Web site.

Hazards change because communities change. Do you know of a hazard in Goodhue County? If so, now’s the time to let county officials know.

Everyone is encouraged to help update the plan. The contact Diane Richter-Biwer at (651) 267-2639 on diane.richter-biwer@co.goodhue.mn.us.

An open house is planned for 7 p.m. July 30 in Zumbrota City Hall. A public meeting is set for 7 p.m. Aug. 27 in Zumbrota City Hall.

Tags: you asked, goodhue county hazard mitigation plan, opinion