Tropical Storm Irene- Recovery Resources

Tropical Storm Irene Recovery Resources

This page provides a list of helpful resources for those dealing with the aftermath of Tropical Storm Irene. We will update this page as new information comes in. You should also check out our Disaster Recoverypages.

I need to report damages. What should I do?
I own a business that was damaged. Where do I report business damages?
I own a farm that was damaged. Where do I report damage to my farm?
Where can I get updated information on recovery resources?
I had to leave my home. When can I go home?
Where can I get more information about road closures?
The power is out. Is there anywhere to look for more information about power outages?
My car was destroyed. How do I get home?
I'm about to start repairing my home. Where can I get information about contractors?
I want to volunteer to help. Where can I volunteer?

You should also check out the Green Mountain United Way Website for additional Tropical Storm Irene Recovery Resources including where you can get help and give help.

I need to report damages. What should I do?

Reporting Damages – If you’ve suffered damages, please report it.
Vermonters who have property affected by the storm should report it to the state. There are several phone lines in addition to the 211 number now in operation. It is critical to acquiring recovery aid that a statewide inventory of the damage is taken. If repairs are made by a property owner, it is important to take pictures of the damage, document the repairs and keep receipts for potential assistance. For more information, go to our Disaster Recovery page.

Individuals: Individuals reporting property damage should call 211.

Fuel Tanks: If you find a fuel tank on your property or floating in flood waters, please contact the Vermont Fuel Dealers Association at 802-223-7750.

I own a business that was damaged. Where do I report business damages?

If you own a business that was damaged by Irene call the Agency of Commerce and Community Development at (ACCD) at 828-3211 to report damage. The reports will be collated for Vermont Emergency Management and FEMA.

ACCD will make referrals for financing and technical assistance. You will need the following information when you call:

• The name of your business;
• The location (complete address) of your business;
• Description of the damage;
• The date the damage happened;
• Name and contact information of the person to contact for follow up;
• Additional information will be needed if you have a historic property.

There is an Emergency Flood Assistance Program for Businesses. This program is administered by VEDA. It provides $10 million of low interest, no first year payment loans to businesses that suffered losses due to flooding. If you own a business and are interested in applying for a loan, go to the VEDA website for more information.

I own a farm that was damaged.  Where do I report farm damages?

To report damages to your farm, including, but not limited, to barns, milking parlors, crops, fields, equipment, etc., call:

• Your county USDA Farm Service Agency OR;
• Your county Natural Resources Conservation Services office.

You can also call the Vermont Farm Bureau at 1-802-434-5646 or the NOFA Vermont at 1-802-434-4122. The Vermont Farm Bureau and NOFA will send the information to the Agency of Agriculture. The Agency of Agriculture will send the information to Vermont Emergency Management.

If you own a farm and lost crops due to flooding contact your crop insurance agent and the USDA Farm Service Agency. The USDA Farm Service Agency number is 1-802-658-2803.

Where can I get updated information on Storm Recovery Resources?

Go to the Vermont Emergency Management Website. This site includes the latest updates and helpful information. You can also find updated information by checking back here and on our Disaster Recovery pages.

The most up to date information for VEM can be found on their Facebook page, including press releases. If you “like” the VEM Facebook page you will get updates on their status. You will need a Facebook account to "like" the page.

I had to leave my home. When can I return home?

For information on cleaning up your home after flooding, go to the Vermont Emergency Management page on returning home.

Where can I find more information about road closures?

Vermont Travel Information Services: For the latest information on road closures, call 511 or visit the Vermont Travel Information Services website.

Where can I find more information about power outages?

There is a website that lists updated information on power outages. Check here for the most recent power outage numbers sorted by electric service provider.

My car was destroyed. How do I get home?

Try Ride Share Vermont. This site is designed for commuters to find car pools, but can be a valuable asset for individuals whose cars are damaged or destroyed: http://www.connectingcommuters.org/.

I'm about to start repairing my home. Where can I get information about contractors?

Don't get scammed! Go to the Consumer Assistance Program website to check out contractors get information about your rights as a consumer and find out more about making sure you are not a victim of home repair fraud. You can also contact the Consumer Assistance Program by phone at 1-800-649-2424.

I want to volunteer to help. Where can I volunteer?

For more information about volunteering, try contacting these organizations:

• Red Cross;
• United Way;
• Vermont211.

20 new lines have been added to 211.  Volunteers are needed to staff the lines.  Anyone interested in volunteering should contact the Governor's office at 1-802-828-3333.

You can also find more information about volunteer opportunities on the Seven Days Blog: After Irene: How You can Help Vermont.

If you are an attorney and would like to help with the recovery effort by providing pro bono legal services, contact the Vermont Bar Associationor the Vermont Volunteer Lawyer’s Project.  The Vermont Bar Association has also put together a page for disaster assistance as well. 

Thank you to the Vermont Democratic party for providing most of this information