The Fairmont area is well aware of what it means to have damaging storms sweep through. Heavy rains early last summer caused all sorts of problems — just ask the city of Blue Earth and area farmers. And then Fairmont, Granada and Ceylon were punished by strong winds or tornadoes in September. The resulting damage was met with federal or state disaster relief, which goes to help restore public infrastructure. The alternative would be that local taxpayers are stuck with the bill entirely.

But to be eligible for disaster relief, entities such as Martin County must have a multi-hazard mitigation plan. So it is imperative that this planning be completed on a regular basis.

County Emergency Management director Abigail Nesbit is working on updating the mitigation plan, and needs the public’s help. Hazard mitigation involves reduce future vulnerabilities from things such as flooding, ice storms and severe winds. If citizens feel they know of some issues that could be addressed in the plan, they may contact Nesbit by email at EOC@co.martin.mn.us or by phone at (507) 238-3193. We encourage them to do so.