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Extension agent reports $1.5M in storm losses; FEMA representative to support Bland County recovery
Summary
An Extension agent told the Bland County supervisors that 59 farms and 25 buildings were damaged in the recent storm with reported losses of about $1.5 million; FEMA's county representative said she will be in the county for 30 days to assist residents with recovery and damage reporting.
Hunter Romano, Extension Agent — Agriculture and Natural Resources, told the Bland County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 22 that 59 farms reported mostly fencing and timber damage, 25 buildings were damaged, forage and hay were lost, and two livestock losses were reported, with total reported losses of about $1.5 million.
Romano advised residents that they could fill out a damage survey online or submit a report in person at the Extension Office to ensure damage is documented for recovery and assistance purposes.
Bob Gordon, human resources representative for Mount Rogers Community Services, thanked the board for support to MRCS. Public commenter Dreama Hatcher requested uniforms for county maintenance workers.
Maura Hannigan-Pierce, a FEMA representative, told the board she would be in Bland County for 30 days to provide FEMA services and had already been in the county for two weeks at the time of the meeting, establishing a near-term federal presence to assist with disaster recovery coordination.
The board adopted a resolution certifying a local state of emergency that had been declared Sept. 27, 2024; the declaration and FEMA presence are the immediate mechanisms available to coordinate recovery resources and public information.
The meeting minutes direct residents seeking recovery support to the Extension Office for surveys and note the FEMA representative's local availability. The next board meeting is set for Nov. 26, 2024.
