Updated 5-17-24
January storms have had a large impact on our members, working waterfronts, and coastal communities. Below are some links to resources and they will be updated as more information becomes available.
MAINE BUSINESS RECOVERY AND RESILIENCE FUND
This program provides grants to businesses and nonprofit organizations impacted by the December 18, 2023 storm, the January 10, 2024 storm or the January 13, 2024 storm for recovery, rebuilding and investments in more resilient infrastructure. Infrastructure project types may include infrastructure upgrades, improvements, or installation of drainage systems, moving electrical or business equipment, relocating the business to a more protected location within Maine and investing in additional insurance. Application deadline is June 25. This grant program is a competitive program and will NOT be first-come, first-served. Applications will be scored based on specific criteria related to the requirements specified in the Supplemental Budget. Link to program overview and detailed instructions: https://www.maine.gov/decd/business-development/financial-incentives-resources/resources/business-recovery-resilience-fund
WORKING WATERFRONT RESILIENCY GRANT PROGRAM
These funds are available for the purpose of rebuilding wharves and piers of importance to Maine’s commercial fishing and aquaculture industries that were damaged in the winter 2024 storms, with the intent of improving their resilience to the impacts of climate change. Applications are due by June 10. Link for eligibility requirements and more information: https://www.maine.gov/dmr/resilience
APPLY FOR DISASTER ASSISTANCE LOANS BY MAY 20, 2024
RESOURCE PAGE FROM MAINE DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION
https://www.mainemarinetrades.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Jan-2024-Storm-Guidance.pdf
RESOURCE PAGE FROM MAINE DEPT OF MARINE RESOURCES
STORM RECOVERY AND RESOURCES ZOOM RECORDING
In the webinar you can hear directly from key State officials about what to do now and what to expect in the coming weeks and months. In summary, the process is going to be slow and we are still in the Damage Assessment Phase. It could take months before we know if Maine qualifies for FEMA funding.
Maine Department of Marine Resources Commissioner Patrick Keliher, Department of Economic and Community Development Commissioner Heather Johnson, and Anne Fuchs, Director of Mitigation, Planning and Recovery at Maine Emergency Management. to discuss impacts of the storms that are affecting island and coastal communities, and resources for recovery. The discussion was moderated by Island Institute President Kim Hamilton, PhD.
INITIAL DAMAGE ASSESSMENT SURVEY TO REPORT DAMAGE
For now, the information that we have from the Department of Marine Resources and MEMA can be accessed HERE. Reporting damage is not an application for assistance, but it can help the State determine how much assistance may be needed for the January 10 and January 13 storm recovery.
MAINE FLOODING RESOURCE PAGE
From the Governor’s Office
https://www.maine.gov/governor/mills/flood
FEDERAL DEPT OF TRANSPORTATION RAISE GRANTS
Some local governments might want to consider an application for a federal RAISE grant for help rebuilding public port/harbor infrastructure. There is a deadline of Feb 28 for grant applications. This may not be a perfect fit for storm recovery needs, but MMTA feels no stone should be left unturned as an option for our battered coastline. Maine DOT would probably offer a letter of support. Please reach out if we can help. Link for more information
Please keep us in mind if we can help in any way. We have also heard from some members who are willing to help if anyone needs anything. Just ask.
Stacey