B09_Attachment_EVER_DRTO_2023_Hurricane_Plan_FINAL_Amendment06_0006.pdf

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Everglades & Dry Tortugas

National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior

Everglades National Park 40001 State Road 9336 Homestead, FL 33034

Hurricane Plan Version 2023

Prepared by:

Aerin Land, Planning Section Chief Date

Recommended by:

James Sullivan, Incident Commander Date

Concurred by:

Sabrina Diaz, Deputy Superintendent Date

Approved by:

Pedro Ramos, Superintendent Date

NASA Worldview

Hurricane Ian 09/27/2022 NASA Earth Observatory image by Lauren Dauphin, using MODIS data from NASA OSDIS LANCE and GIBS/Worldview https://earthdata.nasa.gov/lance https://worldview.earthdata.nasa.gov/

Date: 5/15/2023

Date_2: 5/16/23

Date_3:

Date_4:

2023-05-15T17:47:17-0400

AERIN LAND

2023-05-16T14:08:03-0400

JAMES SULLIVAN

2023-05-24T17:08:58-0400

SABRINA DIAZ

2023-05-25T15:49:57-0400

PEDRO RAMOS

Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks Hurricane Plan – 2023 version

Table of Contents

Introduction_______________________________________________________ 3

Summary of Incident Objectives by Operational Period__________________ 4

• General Hurricane Season (June 1 – November 30) 4 100 Hours before Landfall 5

• Preliminary Hurricane Prep (72-48 Hours Before Storm) 7

• Advance Hurricane Prep (48-24 Hours Before Storm) 8

• Final Hurricane Prep (24 Hours Before – Storm Duration) 9

• Post Hurricane Recovery (Aftermath of Storm) 10

• Hurricane Breakdown (Return to normal operations) 11

Organization Assignment List ICS-203________________________________ 13

Summary of Changes 14

Saffir-Simpson Hurricane Scale_______________________________________18

Command and General Staff Roles____________________________________18

EVER Operations Section Incident Checklists 24

Gulf Coast Division 25 Northeast Division 29 Pine Island Division 35 Aviation Group 40 Maintenance Group 42 Flamingo Division 45 Key Largo Division 50 Research Group 53 Museum, Archives, & Library 58

Dry Tortugas Operations Section 65 South Florida Collections Management Center Items 72 NPS M/V Fort Jefferson 72 DRTO & Poinciana Housing and Nancy Foster Complex Evacuation Plan 75 DRTO Medical Plans 80

Planning Section 82

Logistics Section Support Branch

• Facilities Unit Plan 87 o Hurricane Evacuation Info Sheet & Checklist 90

• Property Storage Plan 91

• Missile Base Storage Plan 92

• Property Storage Inventory 95

• Ground Support Plan 95

• Supply Unit Plan 96

Service Branch

• Medical Unit Plans 98

• Communications Unit Plan 103

• Incident Command Post Phone List 105

Finance Section 107

Information Officer 109

Liaison Officer 115

Appendices:

A. Employee Responsibilities 118 B. Personnel Policy/Information 119 C. Delegation of Authority Letter 121 D. Transition Plan 123 E. Resource Planning Grid 124 F. Employee Emergency Contact Information 126 G. Personal Property Storage Request Memo 128 H. Checklist for Computer Users and IT Task Force 129 I. FDEP Guidance for Wastewater Treatment Operators 133 J. eVoice User’s Guide 136 K. Status Check In / Check Out Sheets 139 L. Surrounding County Hotel Listings and Federal Tax Exempt Form 141 M. Sample Media Products and Media Interview Tips 1

INTRODUCTION

In accordance with Homeland Security Presidential Directive-5, Everglades (EVER) and Dry Tortugas (DRTO) National Parks have prepared a Hurricane Management Plan to serve as a guiding document during the threat of severe tropical weather. This plan is designed to conform to the standards of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and its actions will be executed following the Incident Command System (ICS).

The Hurricane Plan for EVER and DRTO National Parks has been implemented dozens of times since August of 1992, when Category 5 Hurricane Andrew left its mark on south Florida. The most recent event was Hurricane Ian in September of 2022.

Incident Management Team While the official hurricane season runs from June 1 until November 30, severe tropical weather is possible anytime of the year. For this reason, EVER and DRTO National Parks shall maintain a standing core Incident Management Team (IMT) comprised of the following:

• Incident Commander (IC) James Sullivan Deputy Incident Commander Mike Machupa o Planning Section Chief Aerin Land o *EVER Operations Section Chief Bruce Gantt & Michael Gue o *DRTO Operations Section Chief TBD o Logistics Section Chief Janelle De La Torre o Finance Section Chief Anna Lee o NPS Agency Representative Sabrina Diaz

*EVER and DRTO have two separate Safety Officers and Operations Sections due to the remoteness of DRTO, communications challenges and the need for independent decision making.

Given the short planning window before an actual storm, EVER and DRTO will be prepared to manage all weather related events through the duration of the storm, but will be prepared to turn over post storm operations to an outside IMT when necessary.

Forecasting EVER and DRTO National Parks shall make hurricane preparations based on the NHC/NWS Track Forecast Cone. It should be noted that NHC tropical cyclone forecast tracks can be in error. Historical data indicate that the entire 5-day path of the center of the tropical cyclone will remain within the cone about 60-70% of the time. For this reason, the IMT may use other data to inform their recommendations to the NPS Agency Representative about when to take hurricane related actions.

SUMMARY OF INCIDENT OBJECTIVES BY OPERATIONAL PERIOD

General Incident Objectives At the broadest level, incident objectives as outlined on ICS Form-202 should include:

• Provide for park personnel and public safety (includes concession & cooperating association during pre-storm operations)

• Protect irreplaceable collections housed in South Florida Museum Collection Centers

• Minimize impacts to park facilities and equipment

• Manage storm related costs effectively and in conformance with the incident business management handbook.

• Minimize financial impacts to neighboring communities by restoring park operations as quickly as possible consistent with public safety

• Provide training opportunities to strengthen our organizational capabilities

• Ensure continuity of operations

Hurricane Planning and Preparedness Objectives (December 1 – May 31) Under the direction and support of the Office of the Superintendent (and the PMT) the IMT will complete the following (dates listed are targets, not mandates):

• Provide training to new employees and applicable IMT members on roles and responsibilities related to ICS to ensure everyone is capable of functioning under ICS

• By January 1st submit an annual hurricane preparedness budget to the Superintendent

• Monthly meetings will commence no later than March and continue until the end of hurricane season. Meetings will take place at 1300 on the second Wednesday.

• By March 15th, recruit new IMT members to fill vacancies. Plans Section Chief will assemble a roster (ICS203).

• By April 1st the IC and Deputy IC will schedule a working team meeting where all

C&GS members will review their roles and responsibilities.

• Before May 1st, review, revise, and edit the Hurricane Management Plan and associated documents, and submit to the Superintendent’s Office for approval. (The summary section will be submitted to the Regional Director. The entire plan will be submitted to the Regional All-Risk Manager)

• By May 1st, identify individuals with special needs that may need additional assistance during or after storm events

• By May 15th, ensure all employees have entered or updated their emergency contact information (link provided by EVER/DRTO IMT).

• Before June 1st, conduct a 1 to 2-day all employee preparation event (with delegated authority); to include an orientation meeting for all new employees, clean-up, equipment check, and supply cache inventories

General Hurricane Season (June 1 – November 30) During hurricane season, the Command & General Staff will meet monthly to:

• Systematically begin preparations for hurricane season

• Review the Hurricane Plan

• Identify and seek resolutions to identified problems; possibly through PMT

• Review Unit Logs submitted by Division/Group Supervisors

Division/Group Meetings:

Division/Group Supervisors will conduct monthly meetings (prior to the 15th) with IMT Supervisors to:

• Review their Division Assignment Lists (ICS-204/check lists).

• Revise and update assignments as needed.

• Prepare local checklists.

• Identify and resolve problems locally if possible.

• Identify anticipated staffing problems for the coming month.

• During the monthly meetings, Division/Group leaders are to inquire as to individual intents to remain in the area, how much time is needed to prepare personal residences, etc. should a hurricane watch/warning be issued.

• Submit ICS-214 Unit Log, to EVER Operations Section Chief that summarizes the meeting, changes needed to the plan, and unresolved problems or long-term projects that the Division/Group needs the IMTs assistance with. Meeting results need to be submitted to the EVER and DRTO Operations Section Chiefs before the next Command and General (C&G) Staff meeting.

The Superintendent will attend the initial phase of each meeting to comment and assist as needed.

100 Hours Before Landfall (BLF) Using the NHC/NWS; the Dispatch Center, Plans Section Chief and the IC will monitor tropical weather throughout the season. The zone of threat is determined by plotting the current compass direction of movement of the storm, plotting the main vector and allowing 45 degrees either side of the main vector of movement (total of 90 degrees). Depending on storm conditions and forecasted impacts, the park may begin shutdown procedures before 100 hours BLF (e.g. Monroe County Evacuation may dictate earlier shutdown of Key Largo) When a tropical storm or hurricane crosses the threshold of being within 100 hours of any portion of either park:

• The IC will immediately notify the Agency Representative

• The Plans Section Chief will notify the Command & General Staff and arrange for a meeting. The C&G will examine the NWS forecasted cone, and in conjunction with the Agency Representative, determine whether or not to begin preparations for a major storm. Note: The 90-degree cone is used to activate the C&G for the purpose of conducting meetings while monitoring the storms progress.

Advancement into Preliminary Hurricane Preparations Objectives (72-48 hours BLF) is based on the NWS cone. On a case-by-case basis the IMT, with Superintendent’s approval, may decide to initiate response based on the expanded forecast (90 degree) cone. For more information, see Weather Prediction Methodology (pg. 17).

• The IC, Command & General Staff, and the Superintendent will meet within 12 hours. If it appears that the storm will continue to threaten the park and the 72-hour threshold will be crossed, the Superintendent will delegate authority to fulfill the remainder of the plan (see Appendix B-Delegation of Authority).

• The Liaison Officer will notify the Southeast Regions (SER) Emergency Coordinator that the park’s IMT has been activated and initial preparations have begun.

• The Information Officer will activate the Employee Hotlines with a recorded message of all pertinent details.

• The IC will notify park employees of the implementation of the Hurricane Plan. If this occurs on a weekend, the EVER/DRTO Operations Section Chiefs will notify Division/Group Supervisors, who will begin contacting their personnel. Division/Group Supervisors will be instructed to notify their employees:

o The park will begin implementing the Hurricane Plan o When and where to meet o Remind employees to dress accordingly o Tell the employee the name of the person they will report to o Remind employees they are now part of the IMT for supervisory instructions

• Once employees have been notified, Division/Group Supervisors will inform the EVER/DRTO Operations Section Chiefs of all employees accounted for. The Ops Section Chief will forward this information to Plans Section / Resource Unit Leader to identify available resources.

• The EVER Operations Section Chief will direct expanded staffing of the Dispatch Center to accommodate the volume of communications that will be needed to begin implementing the plan. The Dispatch Center will notify neighboring parks and associated agencies as needed.

• Ensure that property and staff are accounted for during this operational period.

• Protect park resources and park visitors.

• Ensure all actions are conducted safely.

Less Than 72 hours Preparation Time Occasionally tropical systems develop rapidly, almost unexpectedly, and at much less than "100 hour" distances from the Park. These are usually not Cape Verde type hurricanes that are renowned for their intensity, but are generally Gulf storms of more moderate levels. There may also be a sudden shift in a Cape Verde type storm that unexpectedly places EVER or DRTO in the path of the storm.

In the event of these types of storms, the Superintendent and IMT will meet as soon as possible.

The Agency Representative must clearly define to the IMT an acceptable level of risk to the Park, since all preparations may not be completed in the shorter time span. After a delegation of authority is signed, the IMT will immediately convene a Planning Meeting. An IAP will be produced and distributed that reflects the abbreviated time frame.

Operational Period Priorities Protection of Life

• Evacuation of the park

• Evacuation of park employees

Protection of Property

• Secure facilities

• Remove and store vessels, vehicles, and other equipment

• Complete other property protection tasks if time allows Division/Group Supervisors will establish priorities for their Division/Group. They will communicate these priorities to the EVER/DRTO Operations Section Chiefs with a timeframe in which they can be accomplished.

Operational Period Objectives

• Systematically begin preparations of EVER and DRTO NP for a major storm.

• Ensure that property and staff are accounted for during this operational period.

• Protect park visitors and resources

Park/District Closure Recommendations

• The IC and the Park Superintendent, in consultation with the IMT, will advise Agency Administrator on park/district closure recommendations following each Preliminary, Advanced, and Final operational period’s Tactics Meetings.

Preliminary Hurricane Preparations Objectives (72-48 hours BLF) Operational Period Briefing:

The Operations Section Chiefs will brief Division/Group Supervisors in person, or via phone for remote areas, to assure they are aware of all operational concerns including:

• Times of the Preliminary Hurricane Preparation Period.

• Hurricane specific information prior to implementation of this phase of the plan.

Division Supervisors / Group Supervisors will be reminded to:

• Notify Ops Section Chiefs of changes in personnel assignments before morning Briefing.

• Submit personnel resource assignments and needs for the next operational period to

Operations Section Chiefs before the afternoon planning meeting.

• Complete and transmit Unit Logs to Planning Section at the end of each operational period.

• Commence the operational period by briefing their group supervisors and/or entire division/group staff.

• Complete/review a CTR for each employee in their Division or Group.

C&G staff will fulfill the established ICS responsibilities of their jobs throughout the Preliminary Hurricane Preparation Period.

Planning Meeting:

A Planning Meeting for the next operational period will be held midway through the current operational period. The following items will be included in the normal Plans meeting agenda:

• Work hours of the next operational period will be determined.

• Determine when to move into the Advanced Hurricane Preparation Period

• Modifications and revisions to the pre-plan will be addressed.

• Time/location/attendees for next briefing will be identified.

Once the Incident Action Plan (IAP) is consolidated for the next operational period, Plans will prepare the Release Plan that will identify resources to be released during/at end of the Advanced

Hurricane Preparation Period.

Operational Period Objectives:

• Systematically begin preparations of EVER and DRTO NP for a major storm.

• Ensure that staff and property are accounted for during this operational period.

• Define work assignments for the next operational period.

• Protect park visitors and resources.

Advanced Hurricane Preparations Objectives (48-24 hours BLF)

The Operations Section Chiefs will brief Division/Group Supervisors in person or via phone for remote areas to assure they are aware of all operational concerns including:

• Times of the Advanced Hurricane Preparation Period.

Division/Group Supervisors will be reminded to:

• Notify Operations Section Chiefs of any change to personnel assignments prior to morning Briefing.

• Submit personnel resource assignments and needs for the next operational period to Operations Section Chiefs before the afternoon planning meeting. Complete and transmit Unit Logs to Plans at the end of each operational period.

• Commence the operational period by briefing their group supervisors and/or entire staff.

• Complete/review CTRs for employees in their Division/Group.

• Notify the Operations Section Chiefs when employees can be released.

• Division/Group Supervisors will assure that all employees are informed about procedures to follow after the storm.

C&G staff will fulfill the established ICS responsibilities of their jobs throughout the Advanced Hurricane Preparation Period.

Planning Meeting:

A Planning Meeting for the next operational period will be held midway through the current

• Determination when to move into the Final Hurricane Preparation Period.

• Modifications and revisions to the preplan will be addressed.

• If necessary, place outside resource orders on standby including an outside IMT

All efforts should be made to release non-essential employees at the end of this operational period, but not before, to allow them time to complete their personal preparations. If necessary, Planning Section will prepare a Release Plan, indicating which resources will be released from the incident.

During the final hours of this period, the IMT will begin to make preparations for when the storm actually hits. A small group of essential personnel (LE and Dispatch) may remain on site in the HQ shelter during the storm up to a Category II (see “Storm Duration” below). The EVER/DRTO IC will designate a representative within this group who will act as the on-site IC to provide on-site direction, resolve issues and make decisions for the IMT, in the event that communications with the IC are not possible during the actual storm and the immediate aftermath.

The IMT will compile and order resources for mobilization immediately after the storm has passed based on the determination of needs to assist staff and protect park resources and assets. These resources may consist of communications kits, law enforcement/emergency service strike teams, maintenance strike teams, Critical Incident Stress Debriefing (CISD) strike teams, or Type I /2 IMT depending upon the given storm situation. The Resource Order Planning Grid (Appendix E) will be used to assist the IMT in deciding on what types of resources are required.

• Ensure that staff and property are accounted for during this operational period.

• Systematically continue preparations of EVER NP for a major storm.

• Protect park visitors and resources.

• Provide for smooth transition to off-site IC (e.g. establish a conference call schedule).

Final Hurricane Preparations Objectives (24 hours BLF through duration of storm)

The Operations Section Chiefs will brief Division/Group Supervisors in person, or via phone for remote areas, to assure they are aware of all operational concerns including:

• Times of the Final Hurricane Preparation Period.

Division/Group Supervisors will be reminded to:

• Notify Operations Section Chiefs of any change personnel assignments prior to morning Briefing.

• If applicable, submit list of personnel that will staff “Damage Assessment Task Force” to Operations Section Chiefs.

• Complete and transmit Unit Logs to Plans at the end of each operational period.

• Commence the operational period by briefing their group supervisors or entire staff.

• Complete/review CTRs for each employee in their Division/Group.

• Assure that all park residents in their Division/Group have safely evacuated to a Shelter well before the storm reaches landfall.

Final actions are completed as outlined in the IAP for the Final Hurricane Preparation Period under the guidance of the IC.

Planning Meeting:

A planning meeting for Post Hurricane Recovery Period will be held within the first hours of this

• Determination when to move into the Hurricane Recovery Period

• Modifications and revisions to the preplan will be addressed.

• Establish staging areas to meet in the event that phone service is down following the storm.

• Time/phone number/attendees for next briefing via conference call will be identified.

In addition to reviewing/finalizing the IAP, the purpose of this meeting is to write the IAP for the first operational period immediately after the storm. This allows for the preparation of an IAP based on the best available information about the storm and expected results.

C&G Staff will be released during this operational period. During the Planning Meeting a conference call line will be established and C&G staff will be instructed to call in at a designated time to assess weather conditions, receive report of conditions from on-site IC and determine a date/time for the 1st post-storm operational period.

• Provide for well-being of park employees.

• Protect park resources.

• Ensure that property and staff are accounted for during this operational period.

• Maintain contact with Southeast Regional Office (SERO).

• Pre-establish a time and method to reassemble the IMT for Post-Hurricane Recovery Period.

Storm Duration Communications Center During the storm, safety of staff is the primary objective, addressing damage is secondary.

Dispatch will continue to function throughout the storm up to a Category II Hurricane and an EMT qualified LE will remain with Dispatch on site. Dispatch will maintain records of radio/telephone communications throughout the storm and provide copies of these records to the Plans Section immediately after the storm. At a forecasted Category III Hurricane or higher, Dispatch will cease all operations and no staff will remain in the Park. Dispatch must be staffed immediately after a storm as soon as plausible with the expectation of receiving numerous telephone/radio calls from employees reporting their current status.

Command/General Staff:

C&G staff will call into conference line at a designated time to assess weather conditions and determine a date/time for the 1st post-storm operational period.

Post-Hurricane Recovery Objectives (immediate aftermath) Every storm situation is different and the plans for operations during any particular storm must be made during Final Hurricane Preparation Period and revised as needed following the storm.

Post Hurricane Planning Priorities:

• Identify immediate life and safety hazards in occupied areas of the park. Provide immediate assistance. Rectify hazards and/or quarantine these areas.

• Secure park access points.

• Locate and assess the well-being of all park employees and their immediate families.

• Provide initial assessment of resource damages to park facilities.

• Provide assessment of damages/needs to the SER All-Risk Incident Coordinator in accordance with the NPS SER Emergency Operations Plan.

• Begin process of requesting additional resources or a higher level (Type I or II) IMT.

• Coordinate with Emergency Operations Centers (EOC) for Miami-Dade, Monroe, and

Collier counties and Florida State EOC in Tallahassee to identify resources available for community assistance or to request additional resources to assist the park. Establish liaison with any state emergency response team (SERT) that may have been pre-positioned from State EOC to streamline local area needs in support of FEMA Emergency Support Functions (ESF).

Recommendations for additions to the ICS-203 Organizational Chart The following Divisions or Groups are suggested for most storms that require this recovery phase:

• Employee Assistance – contact employees to determine post-storm status and immediate needs, coordinate emergency assistance to employees and families, and provide other assistance as appropriate

• Facility Management Software System (FMSS) – conduct thorough damage assessments, enter needs into FMSS, determine project priorities, track projects, etc.

• Ensure the safety of all park employees evacuated to commercial lodging.

• Locate all park employees.

• Contact SERO and advise of current situation and needs.

• Begin assessment of damages to park resources and facilities.

• Protect park resources and facilities.

Hurricane Breakdown Objectives This section of the Plan was developed to assist the park in returning to normal operations. Post-storm activities will continue to be managed under the delegated authority until normal park operations are restored.

Operational Period Briefing:

EVER Operations Section Chief will establish Staging Area at Pine Island.

The Operations Section Chiefs will brief Division and Group Supervisors in person or via phone for remote areas in advance of this operational period to assure they are aware of all operational concerns including:

• Times of the Hurricane Breakdown Period.

Division/Group Supervisors and Group Supervisors will be reminded to:

• Instruct employees to return to work and to report to their incident supervisor, not their normal job. All employees working in the Pine Island Division, Flamingo Division, Research Group, and Maintenance Group will be directed to report to a Staging Area established in Pine Island to receive assignments. Gulf Coast Division and Key Largo Division employees will report to their respective Division/Group Supervisors as established upon release from the prior operational period.

• Submit initial personnel resource assignments and needs to Ops Chiefs ASAP. All subsequent personnel resource assignments and needs will be submitted to Ops Chief prior to afternoon Planning Meetings. Complete and transmit Unit Logs to Plans at the end of each operational period.

• Commence the operational period by briefing group supervisors and/or entire staff.

• Complete/review CTRs for each employee in his or her Division.

• Division/Group Supervisors will assure that all employees are informed about returning to normal work operations.

• C&G staff will fulfill the established Incident Command Staff responsibilities of their jobs throughout the Hurricane Breakdown Period.

Planning Meeting:

A Planning Meeting for the period will be held once the decision is made by the IMT that the storm is no longer a threat to EVER or DRTO National Parks. The following items will be included in the normal Planning meeting agenda:

• Work hours of the next operational period (if any) will be determined.

• Determination when to transition back to normal park operations.

• Modifications and revisions to the preplan will be addressed.

Once the IAP is consolidated for the next operation period, Planning Section will prepare the Release Plan that will identify when resources can be released back to normal park operations.

At the end of the Hurricane Breakdown Period the IMT will provide a Transition Plan to the Superintendent. The IC will meet with the Superintendent to agree upon the Transition Plan and terminate the Delegation of Authority (see Appendix D).

• Systematically restore park facilities and park operations to "normal" conditions.

• Protect park resources and park visitors.

• Ensure accountability for park property and staff.

The following organizational chart may change throughout the hurricane season and by incident as needed.

2023 ORGANIZATION ASSIGNMENT LIST

1. Incident Name 2023 Hurricane Season

2. Date 3. Time

4. Operational Period

June 1st – November 30th 2023 Position Name

5. Incident Commander and Staff Incident Commander James Sullivan Deputy IC Mike Machupa Information Officer Allyson Gantt / Gabe Curbelo PIO Assist – EVER Denise Diaz / Federico Aceveda

PIO Assist – DRTO Curtis Hall Liaison Officer Randie Burton/K. Carrington

Liaison Assist—DRTO

Liaison Assist—Contractors Richard Robertson Liaison Assist - VIP Coordinator Byrony Forbes Liaison Assist - Researchers Tonya Howington Liaison Assist – Python Coordinator Kevin Donmoyer EVER Safety Officer Henry del Valle Flamingo Field Safety DRTO Safety Officer Brett Koch Resource Advisors Tylan Dean / Bonnie Ciolino Engineering Advisor Bill Shelley

6. Agency Representative

NPS Agency Administrator Pedro Ramos/Sabrina Diaz

CISM / Family Liaison Y. Cano (t)

NPS Agency Safety Representative Travis Kilpack

NPS Agency Aviation Representative

NPS Agency Administrative Assistant

7. Planning Section Chief Aerin Land / Chris Beers Situation Unit Caryl Alarcon / Troy Mullins Resource Unit Denise Gazawie / Maya Tupaj Technical Specialist – CTSP Allan Morrison/Carlos Mateo

8. Logistics Section Chief Janelle De La Torre / C. Powell Ordering Manager Ground Support Unit Medical Unit—EVER Austin Jones Communications Unit Base/Housing Manager Olivia Forerro Technical Specialist – FMSS Nicole Fratto

9. Finance Section Chief Anna Lee / Talesha Harvin Time/Cost Unit Gabriel Curbelo

Procurement Unit Will Vazquez

10. Everglades Operations Section EVER Operations Section Chief Michael Gue / Bruce Gantt

Deputy Ops – Facilities (Post-storm) Rob Neuman Dispatch

a. Gulf Coast Division Gulf Coast Division Supervisor William H. Herrin/C. Martinez Gulf Coast Maintenance Group Dan Rees Gulf Coast Visitor Services Group Greg Reed

b. NE Division NE Division Supervisor Jeff Gonzalez / Luke Conrad Tamiami/SV/Loop Rd. Group East Ever Group April Deming

c. Pine Island Division Pine Island Division Supervisor Rudy Beotegui Pine Island Visitor Services Division Entrance Station Group Fire TF Pat Edwards/Dylan Scott Headquarters Group HQ/RP/HL/LPK Shutter TF Office TF

d. Aviation Group Aviation Group Supervisor JR Sullivan

e. Maintenance Group Maintenance Division Supervisor Jonathan Campos Task Force 1—Utilities Randy Borden Shark Valley Damien Hardgrove Flamingo WTP-WWTP Tracey Zastrow Support (Runner, etc.) Bret Johnson / John Hogan Task Force 2—Special Equipment Miguel Gonzalez Auto Shop Jose Carrion AC and District Support Rodney Wiliams

f. Key Largo Division Key Largo Division Supervisor Sean Perchalski / Zach Fratto Cooperator Liaison

g. Research Group Research Group Supervisor Maria Vasquez / Hillary Cooley

Trailering Task Force Adam Thime DBC Outside Task Force Jonathan Taylor DBC Indoor Task Force Museum/Archives/Library Bonnie Ciolino Krome Task Force Jackie Bell-Willock/A. Atkinson

h. Flamingo Division Flamingo Division Supervisor Steve Olijnyk Flamingo Visitor Services Group Tyler Gagat

Flamingo Maintenance Group Jericho Hicks

11. Dry Tortugas Operations Section DRTO Operations Section Chief Clay Pollock Dry Tortugas Group Tree Gottshall / D. Fuellner

DRTO Medical Unit Leader Joe Minetree Key West Group Cindy Hull Fort Jefferson Group Brian Lariviere MVFJ Medical Unit Leader Curtis Hall Prepared by Aerin Land, Planning Section Chief

2023 SUMMARY OF CHANGES

1. Pages 3-14

a. .. Most recent hurricane updated.

b. . Incident Management Team updated

2. Division/Group Checklists have been updated to address current needs and conditions.

a. .. Research Group

i. .. SFNRC and Cultural checklists updated.

3. Planning Section:

a. .. Minor updates to Tactics and Planning meeting agendas

b. . Situation Unit updated to reflect inclusion of Technical Specialists assigned to post storm assessments with the GIS Damage Assessment tool.

4. Logistics Section:

a. .. ICS 206 Medical Plans verified; Flamingo Disctict 206 updated to reflect that NPS Flamingo Ambulance is Out of Service.

5. Finance Section:

a. .. Hurricane Incident Command Post Phone List updated

b. . Point of contact for MVFJ travel assistance updated

6. Public Information SWEAP Checklist

a. 2023 Update included

7. Dry Tortugas Operations Section

a. Recommends expanding assigning a deputy Operations Chief to the organization

b. Removed references to former pest rodent issues in Shelters 1 and 2

c. Evacuation Methods updated to clarify

i. .. that Seaplane provides commercial flights and must remain open to provide service.

ii. .. That all Garden Key will be fully evacuated for forecasted Category 3-5 Hurricanes.

8. Appendices

a. Appendix L. Tax Exempt Form Updated

Plan Overview The parks’ highest priorities are to provide for the safety of all individuals involved in park operations and park visitors, followed by the securing of over 200 buildings and government-owned equipment spread over 1.5 million acres (approx. 2400 square miles). The plan provides the parks’ IMT with a blueprint for progressive preparations to be done in a manner that weighs the risks and needs of people and property during each operational period.

This plan is designed using the ICS. Once a threat is identified and a need for action determined, the Park Superintendent delegates specific authority to the IC and IMT to prepare for, and manage, an incident consistent with overall agency goals. Preparation is the responsibility of all park staff and cooperators who must maintain readiness throughout the year.

This document serves as a guideline for park operations during hurricane season and as a format for the development of IAPs for individual hurricanes. This plan specifically addresses the following six distinct periods:

1. General Hurricane Season (June 1 – November 30)

2. Preliminary Hurricane Preparation (72-48 Hours before hurricane landfall)

3. Advanced Hurricane Preparation (48-24 hours before hurricane landfall)

4. Final Hurricane Preparation (24 hours - duration of storm)

5. Post-Hurricane Recovery (immediate aftermath)

6. Hurricane Breakdown (breakdown when a storm does not hit the parks) *For detailed information, see Operational Period Descriptions (pg. 4)

In ICS terms, this plan is based on geographic divisions and functional grouping. Many Groups and Divisions function within their normal geographic zones of operation (e.g. Key Largo). Within those areas various work groups are divided according to the normal type of work performed (e.g. Maintenance) or specific tasks that need to be accomplished (e.g. Equipment Storage). Some Division/Groups will have shared responsibilities requiring collaborative efforts.

This plan was developed to provide general information and direction for all phases of hurricane preparation and recovery after a storm. Checklists of tasks to be completed for each operational period are included for each Division/Group as well as some of the command staff. Division or Group Supervisors are encouraged to maintain these checklists and review/revise them annually and throughout the season.

This plan provides information for Section Chiefs, Command Staff, and Division/Group Supervisors as well as all employees. Information such as the parks’ leave policy and housing plans are included to provide individuals with information that may answer questions before an event takes place. This may diminish fears and make the preparation for hurricanes less stressful.

Other information such as the Missile Base Plan, Ground Support Plan, Information Officer Plan, was developed to provide direction for individuals who may be called upon to assist with areas unfamiliar to them.

Weather Prediction Methodology

In the past, park preparations were based on a Hurricane Watch or Warnings issued by the National Weather Service (NWS). In 2001 the National Hurricane Center (NHC) began producing 120-hour predictions of storm track and intensity, giving a 5-day advance of their predictions. This is valuable information, but includes a great deal of predictive error.

This technology combined with the simple VECTOR SYSTEM is used to make the decision to implement the next preparation period of the EVER and DRTO National Parks Hurricane Plan.

Estimates of possible landfall of a hurricane or tropical storm that shows potential to develop to hurricane level is based on a formula using current position, direction, and speed of movement;

combined with interpretation of information from the NHC.

The location of a tropical system is monitored by dispatch, the Plans Section, and the IC. When it appears that a hurricane/tropical storm is within 100 hours of striking South Florida, using the VECTOR SYSTEM described below, the IC then notifies the Superintendent.

The Superintendent and the IMT C&G Staff convene a Planning Meeting within 12 hours of the storm crossing the 100-hour threshold. The specific dates/hours of the next preparation period are determined at this meeting. The Superintendent provides any additional policy guidance at this time and signs a delegation of authority to the IC for the duration of the specific storm, or until changes are deemed necessary.

Vector System The Vector System can be used to estimate the approximate time the tropical storm force winds will hit EVER or DRTO based on the current position of the storm center, speed, and direction of travel (see image).

The time estimate is based on taking the current position of nearest tropical storm force winds divided by the forward speed and determining the expected hours to landfall.

The zone of threat is initially determined by plotting the current compass direction of movement of the storm, plotting the main vector and allowing 45 degrees either side of the main vector of movement (total of 90 degrees).

Throughout the hurricane incident, the Plans Section computes the landfall estimate with each NHC update of the storm position to determine if the parks remain at risk.

Plan Implementation The implementation of this plan requires activities and a series of meetings and actions at specific times each year in order to facilitate successful implementation of the plan should a hurricane threaten landfall. This includes staffing the IMT, pre-cleanup actions, orienting staff to protocols, and acquiring appropriate supplies.

Once a storm is on the horizon, the key decision points are then based on a timeframe from when the storm is expected to make landfall. These key time periods and their objectives are listed below. Detailed operations guidelines and checklists for each of these time periods can be found in the body of the plan.

SAFFIR-SIMPSON HURRICANE SCALE

All hurricanes are dangerous, but some more so than others. NOAA hurricane forecasters use a disaster-potential scale which assigns storms five categories. Category 1 is a minimum hurricane; category 5 is the worst case. For reference, the criteria for each category are shown below.

CATEGORY ONE (minimal) Winds 74-95 mph: No substantial damage to building structures. Damage primarily to unanchored mobile homes, shrubbery and trees. Also some coastal road flooding and minor pier damage.

CATEGORY TWO (moderate) Winds 96-110 mph: Considerable damage to vegetation, mobile homes, and piers. Small craft in unprotected anchorages break moorings.

CATEGORY THREE (extensive) Winds 111-130 mph: Structural damage to small homes and utility buildings. Major erosion of beach areas. Terrain lower than 10 feet above sea level may be flooded inland 8 miles or more.

CATEGORY FOUR (extreme) Winds 131-155 mph: Complete roof structure damage on small residences. Major erosion of beach areas. Terrain lower than 10 feet above sea level may be flooded requiring massive evacuation of many residential areas far inland.

CATEGORY FIVE (catastrophic) Winds greater than 155 mph: Complete roof failure on many residences and industrial buildings. Some complete building failures with structures being completely destroyed.

Command and General Staff - ICS Organizational Roles

Incident Commander (IC):

• Present clear authority and knowledge of agency policy

• Ensure incident safety

• Assess situations appropriately

• Establish immediate priorities

• Determine incident objectives and strategies

• Establish the level of organization needed and continually monitor operations and organizational effectiveness

• Attend planning meetings

• Approve and implement the IAP

• Coordinate C&G Staff activities

• Approve requests for additional resources and the release of resources

• Authorize the release of information to the media

• Order demobilization of the incident when appropriate

• Ensure incident after-action reviews are completed

Command Staff:

Public Information Officer

• Interface with public, media, and/or other agencies regarding incident related information requirements

• Provide accurate & complete information regarding the current situation—resources committed and matters of general interest for both internal and external consumption

Safety Officer

• Develop and recommend measures for assuring personnel safety, and monitor and/or anticipate hazardous and unsafe situations.

General Responsibilities

• Responsible for system and procedure necessary to ensure ongoing assessment of hazardous environments

• Coordinate multi-agency safety efforts

• Implement measures to promote emergency responder safety, as well as general safety of incident personnel

• Exercise emergency authority to stop and/or prevent unsafe acts during incident operations

• Ensure coordination of safety management functions and issues across jurisdictions & functional agencies, within the private-sector, and non-governmental organizations

Specific Responsibilities

• Identify safety and health hazards associated with the incident.

• Review JHA’s/Risk Analysis for pre and post hurricane operations

• Continuously monitor workers for exposure to safety or health hazardous conditions.

• Alter, suspend, or terminate activities that may pose immanent safety or health danger to personnel.

• Take appropriate actions to mitigate or eliminate unsafe condition, operations or hazards.

• Perform assessment of work practices during hurricane prep and post hurricane recovery.

• Document both safe and unsafe acts, corrective actions taken on the scene, accidents or injuries, and ways to improve safety on future incidents.

• In the event of staff injury or illness, incident supervisors will ensure that mishap reporting and OWCP protocols are followed.

• Participate in planning meetings.

• Review the Incident Action Plan (IAP) for safety implications.

• Exercise emergency authority to stop and prevent unsafe acts.

• Investigate accidents that have occurred within the incident area.

• Assign assistants, as needed.

• Review and approve the medical plan.

• Maintain Unit Log (ICS 214)

• Develop Incident Safety Message/Plan (ICS208) for each incident.

Resource Advisor

• Inform the IC and Planning Section Chief of planning requirements and the need to direct resources during post storm impacts.

• Assist with and/or direct the assessment of archeological resources, hydro stations and storm impacts to natural resources.

Agency Representative An Agency (or Park) Representative is an individual assigned to an incident from an assisting or cooperating agency who has been delegated authority to make decisions on matters affecting that agency's participation at the incident. This role is particularly important when the incident is being managed by an outside agency and/or IMT.

• Obtain briefing from the IC.

• Inform assisting or cooperating agency personnel on the incident that the Agency

Representative position for that agency has been filled.

• Attend briefings and planning meetings as required.

• Provide input on the use of agency resources unless resource Technical Specialists are assigned from the agency.

• Cooperate fully with the IC and the General Staff on agency involvement at the incident.

• Ensure the well-being of agency personnel assigned to the incident.

• Advise the LO of any special agency needs or requirements.

• Report to home agency dispatch or HQ on a pre-arranged schedule.

• Ensure that all agency personnel and equipment are properly accounted for and released prior to departure.

• Ensure that all required agency forms, reports and documents are completed prior to demobilization.

• Have a debriefing session with the LO or IC before demobilization.

Technical Specialist - Engineering Advisor Technical specialist that provides expertise and advice related to structural and mechanical engineering activities during pre and post storm operations.

Liaison Officer

• Provide a point of contact for representatives of other governmental agencies, non-governmental organizations, and/or private entities

• Present agency policy or operational issues to the attention of the IC

• Establish and maintain communication with cooperating and assisting agency managers

• DRTO Liaison Assistant will stage at the ICP and will act as the liaison between the IMT and Monroe County EOC. The DRTO assistant will also be able to assist the PIO with DRTO/Monroe County public information needs.

General Staff:

Planning Section Chief:

The planning section chief is responsible for providing planning services for the incident. Major responsibilities of the Planning Section Chief are to:

• Collect and manage all incident-relevant operational data

• Provide input to the IC and Operations Section Chiefs for use preparing the IAP

• Supervise preparation of the IAP

• Conduct and facilitate planning meetings

• Establish information requirements and reporting schedules for Planning Section Unit

• Determine the need for specialized resources to support the incident

• Establish specialized data collection systems as necessary (e.g., weather)

• Assemble information on alternative strategies and contingency plans

• Provide periodic predictions on incident potential

• Report any significant changes in incident status

• Compile and display incident status information

• Oversee preparation of the demobilization plan

• Incorporate Traffic, Medical, Communications Plans, and other supporting material into the IAP

Logistics Section Chief:

The Logistics Section Chief provides all incident support needs with the exception of logistical support of air operations. The Logistics Section Chief is responsible for:

• Facilities

• Transportation

• Communications

• Supplies

• Equipment maintenance and fueling

• Food services (for responders)

• Medical Services (for responders)

• All off-incident resources

• Management of all incident logistics

• Logistical input to the IC in preparing the IAP

• Providing briefings for Logistics Unit Leaders as needed

• Identifying anticipated and known incident service and support requirements

• Requesting additional resources, both internal and external, as needed

• Developing the Communication, Medical, and Traffic Plans, as required

• Oversight of demobilization of the logistics Section

Finance Section Chief:

The Finance/Administration Section Chief is responsible for managing all financial aspects of an incident. Major responsibilities of the Finance/Administration Section Chief are to:

• Manage all financial aspects of an incident

• Provide financial and cost analysis information as requested

• Ensure compensation and claims functions are being addressed relative to the incident

• Develop operating plan for the Finance/Administration Section, fill section supply and support needs

• Meet with assisting and cooperating agency representatives as needed

• Maintain daily contact with agency administration HQ on finance matters

• Ensure that all personnel and equipment time records are accurately completed and transmitted according to policy

• Brief agency administrative personnel on all incident-related financial issues needing attention or follow up

Operations Section Chief:

The Operations Section Chief is responsible for managing tactical operations and implementation of the IAP. All Division/Group Supervisors report to the Operations Section Chief. EVER Operations Divisions/Groups required for typical hurricane incidents are as follows:

1) Gulf Coast Division

a) Maintenance Group

b) Visitor Services Group

2) Northeast Division

a) Shark Valley/Tamiami/Loop Road Group

b) East EVER Group

3) Pine Island Divisoin

a) Visitor Services Group

i) Entrance Station Task Force

ii) Royal Palm, Hidden Lake, Long Pine Key Task Force

b) Fire Group

c) Headquarters Group

i) Shutter Task Force

ii) Office Task Force

4) Vehicle Task Force Aviation Group

5) Maintenance Group

Utilities Task Force Special Equipment Task Force Shutter Task Force Missile

6) Key Largo Division

7) Research Group

a) DBC Division

i) Trailering Task Force

ii) DBC Office Task Force

iii) DBC Outside Task Force

iv) Museum/Archives/Library Task Force

b) Krome Center Division

i) Response Team Coordinator

8) Flamingo Division

a) Visitor Services Group

b) Maintenance Group

Hurricane response at DRTO is managed within the Incident Command structure as a separate Operations Section with a separate DRTO Operations Section Chief. DRTO Operations Groups required for typical hurricane incidents are as follows:

1) Dry Tortugas Group

2) Key West Group

3) M/V Fort Jefferson Group

Additional divisions/groups will be added on an as-needed basis. IAP developed for each incident will provide the necessary guidance needed to complete required tasks. Major responsibilities of the Operations Section Chief include (but are not limited to):

• Ensures operation activities are conducted in a safe and efficient manner

• Ensures all operations section (ICM) positions are adequately staffed, request backfills on a as needed basis

• Identify shortfalls within the Operations Section. Communicate and problem-solve the shortfalls. Submit appropriate documentation to mitigate the shortfall.

• Works with the Planning Section and Division/Group Supervisors in the development of the operations portion of the IAP o Supervises and tracks the execution of the operations portion of the IAP o Ensure unit logs are completed and submitted in a timely manner

• Ensure personnel assigned complete CTRs in a timely manner

• Reviews and approves operations section’s CTRs.

• Establish and maintains daily communications with subordinate Division/Group

Supervisors, as well as the IC and all members of the C&G Staff.

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