NORTH MANKATO — North Mankato has adopted an updated hazard mitigation plan aimed at reducing long-term risks from flooding, severe storms and other natural disasters, while strengthening infrastructure and emergency preparedness across the community.
Although Mayor Scott Carlson was absent and not able to vote, the plan was adopted unanimously at the North Mankato City Council meeting Monday evening.
The resolution affirms the city’s participation in a county-wide planning effort to address hazards such as flooding, winter storms, tornadoes and extreme weather. According to the plan, adoption is required for communities seeking access to Federal Emergency Management Agency hazard mitigation grants and city administrator Kevin McCann said following approval, it can be used and referred to when applying for grants locally.
“The plan identifies strategies to reduce risk to life, property, and infrastructure, which aligns with the city’s goals to prepare for and respond to changing climate conditions,” the report reads. “While the Hazard Mitigation Plan does not directly address greenhouse gas reduction, it complements the Climate Action Plan by focusing on adaptation and implementation of projects that improve long-term system reliability, emergency preparedness and community safety.”
The updated plan replaces the previous 2019 version and reflects current data, revised hazard definitions from the 2024 Minnesota State Hazard Mitigation Plan and expanded focus on climate adaptation and resilience. It applies to multiple jurisdictions across Nicollet County, including North Mankato.
The 83-page report highlights public planning, risk assessment and vulnerability analysis, hazards and mitigation strategies. The document identifies flooding, winter storms, windstorms and tornadoes as the highest priority risks. Flooding remains the most frequent and costly hazard, with most federal disaster declarations in the county linked to flood events.
The document cites national data showing disaster damages exceeding $2.7 trillion since 1980 and notes that mitigation investments can significantly reduce future costs.
“Minnesota alone has experienced 59 separate billion-dollar disasters since 1980,” the report reads.
It was developed with input from local governments, agencies and the public. To encourage public participation, Nicollet County released two announcements informing residents about the plan update and inviting them to review and comment on the draft.
It also incorporates climate data indicating Minnesota seasonal patterns are changing.
Projected climate impacts outlined in the report include more intense rainfall, increased flooding, longer heat waves and continued stress on infrastructure and public health systems. Adaptation measures such as infrastructure improvements, emergency preparedness, public education and coordination across agencies are emphasized.
Local vulnerabilities include mobile home parks in Nicollet, St. Peter and North Mankato, which have limited shelter options during severe wind or tornado events. Flooding has caused road and culvert damage along bluffs and in North Mankato and St. Peter, with some rural homes continuing to experience impacts, potentially leading to buyouts. Landslides frequently occur along river bluffs from Le Sueur to North Mankato and along County Road 21 after heavy rainfall.
Although the plan primarily addresses natural hazards, the planning process recognized that natural disasters can trigger secondary, non-natural hazards, such as power outages caused by downed power lines during severe weather events.
In North Mankato, several infrastructure concerns heighten flood risk including stormwater lift stations and vulnerable power lines, as areas of concern.
Over the past five years, North Mankato has implemented several mitigation measures. These include replacing two outdoor warning sirens and emergency notification systems. The city has also advanced flood mitigation efforts through drainage improvements and a comprehensive flood protection study focused on rehabilitating outdated infrastructure.
Floodplains have been enforced and staff training to become certified floodplain managers has been initiated. Additionally, outdoor warning sirens are tested monthly, with maintenance coordinated as needed to ensure reliability.
The plan is intended to serve as a living document, with updates required every five years. It includes implementation strategies ranging from capital investments and regulatory measures to regional cooperation and public outreach.
It is available through the county’s Emergency Management website, where users can access a downloadable PDF and an interactive platform. This platform allows the public to learn about the planning process, understand local vulnerabilities, review national best practices and submit feedback. All feedback received will be evaluated and considered for future updates or addressed as needed.
“Although mitigation efforts will not eliminate all disasters,” the report reads, “governments at all levels should strive to be as prepared as possible for a disaster for the well-being of its residents.”