Hazard Mitigation Grant Program

The Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management (OEM) has announced a new funding cycle under the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program–Post Fire (HMGP-PF), in response to the Euchee Creek Fire (Declaration 5543-PF-OK). Funded by FEMA and administered by OEM, this program supports mitigation efforts specifically following wildfire disasters. Unlike typical disaster recovery or individual assistance programs, HMGP-PF is aimed at implementing long-term hazard mitigation measures that reduce the risk of loss to life and property in the future. The program adheres to FEMA regulations under 44 CFR § 206 Subpart N and Section 404 of the Stafford Act, with modifications authorized by Section 1204 of the Disaster Recovery Reform Act. The available funding totals $1,927,846, with a required 75 percent federal and 25 percent local/state match unless otherwise adjusted for repetitive loss properties. Funding is prioritized for jurisdictions located within the disaster-declared areas, notably Creek County and Payne County in Oklahoma, with additional priority given to large-scale flood-risk mitigation and projects serving vulnerable populations. Eligible activities span from wildfire mitigation like defensible space and ignition-resistant construction, to post-fire flood prevention measures such as soil stabilization and erosion control. The program also supports the 5% Initiative, which allows investment in novel but hard-to-quantify mitigation strategies. Eligible subapplicants include state and local governments, tribal governments, and private nonprofit organizations that own or operate qualifying facilities. Subapplicants must have a FEMA-approved Hazard Mitigation Plan at the time of award unless an exemption applies. To apply, all prospective applicants must register in the OK EMGrants portal and submit a Notice of Intent (NOI) by October 31, 2025. Once invited, they must complete and submit full subapplications by February 2, 2026. Required documentation includes a detailed scope of work, project maps, environmental and historical impact narratives, Benefit-Cost Analysis (BCA), and compliance with procurement and environmental standards outlined in federal regulations such as 2 CFR Part 200. The award process includes OEM and FEMA reviews, with Requests for Information (RFIs) due by March 17, 2026, and final submissions to FEMA by March 31, 2026. The anticipated award announcement is scheduled for Summer 2026, with contracts expected to begin in Fall 2026. The project period of performance will end on March 31, 2030. Selected subrecipients will be responsible for implementing and documenting all project work, complying with reporting and audit requirements, and ensuring the effective use of federal funds. OEM will offer technical assistance throughout the process but will not complete applications on behalf of subrecipients. For further inquiries, applicants are advised to contact Michael D’Arcy, State Hazard Mitigation Officer, at michael.darcy@oem.ok.gov or via phone at (405) 618-3717. Additional resources and guidance materials are available via the OEM website. Amendments to the NOFO may occur, and applicants are advised to check regularly for updates.

Submit NOI early. Use OEM technical assistance. Maintain clear documentation.