New Madrid Seismic Zone Catastrophic Planning
Project Overview
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)’s Response Directorate and Planning Division sought expert assistance to strengthen preparedness efforts for catastrophic incidents nationwide. One of their key priorities was to develop comprehensive operational plans for the New Madrid Seismic Zone (NMSZ), a fault line in the central United States (US) that poses a significant risk to multiple states.
Understanding the Mission
The Agency requested program management, readiness planning, and technical assistance in developing joint region-state Operational Plans (OPLANs) based on a 7.8 magnitude earthquake along the NMSZ fault. This fault covers eight states and FEMA Regions IV, V, VI, and VII.
The Hagerty Approach
Hagerty developed an integrated response across the impacted regions and states, applying a capabilities-based approach. In addition to regional support, the team helped FEMA develop a standardized planning process. We developed key project management tools, including a standardized quality review process, project work plan, and spend plan templates. The team also developed recommendations for resolving interregional planning issues, an After-Action Report (AAR), and an improvement matrix.
Achieving Results
Ultimately, the four joint region-state operational plans were successfully delivered, outlining coordinated, strategic responses to an NMSZ earthquake event.
Contracts
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Active Threat Cohort Training
Hagerty developed an active threat cohort-based training for Cook County, Illinois, integrating the whole community. -
Complex Coordinated Terrorist Attack Exercise Series
Hagerty developed and facilitated exercises in the Kansas City metropolitan area to validate response capabilities for complex coordinated attacks. -
Full-Scale Exercise for Complex Coordinated Attacks
Hagerty conducted a full-scale CCTA exercise to enhance response capabilities, engaging over 1,500 participants from nearly 80 agencies.
