Debris Management

The Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency (RIEMA) recommends that local governments, tribal authorities, and private non-profit organizations take a proactive approach to coordinating and managing debris removal operations as part of their overall emergency management plan. Communities with a debris management plan are better prepared to restore public services and ensure the public's health and safety in the aftermath of a disaster. They are also better positioned to receive the maximum amount of assistance that is made available to them from FEMA and other participating entities.

The core components of a comprehensive debris management plan incorporates best practices in debris removal, reflects FEMA's eligibility criteria, and addresses the specific needs and unique circumstances of each municipality.  Debris Management Plans should consist of programmatic and operational considerations for the removal of debris that stems from an emergency or disaster. 

We encourage local officials to review their community's vulnerability to varying disasters and to consider how to manage large-scale debris clearance, removal, and disposal operations should the need arise.  RIEMA is available to provide additional technical assistance in your area if requested.

An electronic version of all Debris Management resources and policies are available on FEMA's website at fema.gov.

Debris Management Resources

In anticipation of a storm event with the potential to generate debris, visit FEMA's Public Assistance website for additional resources and publications.

If you have questions regarding debris management in your jurisdiction, please contact the Rhode Island Emergency Management Agency at (401) 946-9996 for more information.

Additional Resources