FEMA's Public Assistance (PA) Program integrates Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) considerations into its review process. Here's a breakdown of what constitutes "Historic Properties" under FEMA PA EHP requirements:

Broad Definition:

• FEMA's EHP regulations define historic properties broadly to encompass a wide range of cultural resources.
• This includes properties that may or may not be formally listed on any historic register.

Specific Examples:

• Properties listed in or eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP) are prime examples of historic properties under FEMA's EHP purview.  The NRHP is the official federal list of districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects deemed worthy of preservation.
• However, FEMA's definition extends beyond the NRHP.  It can encompass:
  • Older buildings or structures with historical or cultural significance, even if not formally listed.
  • Archaeological sites containing artifacts or evidence of past human activity.
  • Tribal lands or cultural resources with significance to specific Native American groups.
  • Historic battlefields or cemeteries.
  • Traditional cultural places significant to a community's heritage.

Identification Process:

• The onus of identifying potential historic properties falls on both the applicant (seeking PA funding) and FEMA.
  • Applicants should consider the history and age of their damaged facilities and consult with their State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) for guidance.
  • FEMA also conducts its own review process, utilizing expertise from federal agencies and consulting tribes as needed.

EHP Review and Mitigation Strategies:

• Once a potential historic property is identified, FEMA performs an EHP review to assess the potential impacts of the proposed PA project (repairs or replacements) on the historic property.
• The goal is to minimize or avoid adverse effects on these cultural resources.
• FEMA works with applicants to explore mitigation strategies like:
  • Repair methods that preserve the historic character of the property.
  • Documentation of the historic property before, during, and after repairs.
  • Relocation of historic features if necessary.

Importance of Early Consultation:

• If your PA project involves a potentially historic property, it's crucial to consult with your SHPO and FEMA EHP specialists early in the process.
• Early engagement can help identify potential issues, explore mitigation strategies, and ensure your project complies with EHP requirements while facilitating a smoother path to  FEMA PA grant approval.

Resources:

• FEMA Environmental and Historic Preservation (EHP) Guidance for FEMA Grant Applications: https://www.fema.gov/emergency-managers/practitioners/environmental-historic
• National Register of Historic Places: https://www.nps.gov/nationalregister
• State Historic Preservation Offices (SHPOs): https://ncshpo.org/

By understanding the scope of "historic properties" under FEMA PA EHP requirements and the importance of early consultation, applicants can ensure their disaster recovery efforts are implemented while  protecting valuable cultural heritage.

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