Arkansas HAZUS User Group (ARHUG)

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Contact ARHUG

Ed Leachman, Interim Head
Department of Emergency Administration and Management
Arkansas Tech University
402 West O Street
Dean Hall 110
Russellville, AR 72801
p: 479.964.0536
f: 479.356.2091
e: eleachman@atu.edu

What We Do

The purpose of the Arkansas HAZUS User Group (ARHUG) is to facilitate the use of the HAZUS-MH models for flooding and earthquake risk assessment in Arkansas and to form the basis for both pre- and post-disaster decision-making. ARHUG should create a framework through which professionals, volunteer organizations and individuals can collaborate to more effectively conduct risk management. This group has support from FEMA Headquarters, FEMA Region VI, Arkansas State and local governments, academia, non-profits, and the public sector.

HAZUS-MH uses GIS technology to combine hazard layers with building inventory and demographic databases and applies a standardized loss estimation and risk assessment methodology. This software currently addresses the risk associated with three natural hazards; flooding, earthquakes and hurricanes. Key goals of this group are to expand the application of and to improve and refine the capability of HAZUS to support the threats specific to Arkansas.

To fulfill these goals ARHUG will:

Assist government agencies, regional organizations, counties, communities, and businesses in Arkansas using HAZUS-MH
Ensure continued technical and planning support
Provide opportunities for training and education
Serve as a focal point for collecting "best practices", and
Provide feedback to FEMA in the areas of software enhancements and user support.

By bringing together technical, policy, and emergency management specialists, the ARHUG will establish a solid risk assessment resource base for Arkansas.

News from Region VI

Federal Aid Programs for Louisiana Disaster Recovery: Following is a summary of key federal disaster aid programs that can be made available as needed and warranted under President Bush's major disaster declaration issued for Louisiana.

President Declares Major Disaster For Louisiana: WASHINGTON – The head of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today announced that federal disaster aid has been made available for the state of Louisiana to help people and communities recover from the effects of Hurricane Gustav on September 1, 2008, and continuing.

Officals To Evacuees: Stay Away, Be Patient, Be Safe: BATON ROUGE – The Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working with its federal, state and local partners to remind those that fled Hurricane Gustav to remain in place until state and local officials announce it is safe to return.

Last updated: Wed, 03 Sep 2008 09:41:14 EST

HUG Announcements

University Clearinghouse Member: The Arkansas HUG and Arkansas Tech University are proud to participate in the formation of the HAZUS University Clearinghouse.

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