In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene and Superstorm Sandy, the U.S. Agriculture Department has authorized assistance through the Emergency Watershed Protection Floodplain Easements Program.
The program, managed by USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service, or NRCS, aims to buy permanent land rights to properties to mitigate the effects of future storms. Participation in the program is voluntary.
Federal Emergency Management Agency and Sandy Surge flood maps indicate that some properties in the Beach Street neighborhood of West Haven may have been flooded during one or both of those weather events, and that some landowners may be eligible to enroll in the program.
Eligible landowners will be paid a one-time purchase price fee, based on neighborhood historic comparable sales as of Oct. 29, 2012, while the sponsor — in this case, the city — will pay the “fee simple” and become the property owner. Once the property is purchased, all on-site structures will be demolished and removed, restoring the area to its natural condition.
To apply for the program, contact city grants writer Eileen M. Krugel at 203-937-3620, ext. 3010, or ekrugel@westhaven-ct.gov. Applications must be postmarked or received by Nov. 26 at City Hall, 355 Main St., West Haven 06516.
Those with questions can contact program coordinator Kristin Walker at (860) 871-4033 or kristin.walker@ct.usda.gov. They can also contact State Conservation Engineer Arthur Ramthun at (860) 871-4030 or arthur.ramthun@ct.usda.gov.