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Ramsey County | Multi-Jurisdiction Hazard Mitigation Plan 48 • Loss of vegetation cover contributing to further erosion and destabilization of slopes. Impact on the Economy of the Jurisdiction • Decrease in property values in high-risk areas, impacting homeowners and local tax revenue. • Disruption to local businesses, leading to financial losses, job displacement, and reduced economic activity. • Significant expenses for rebuilding and repairing damaged infrastructure and properties. • Increased insurance premiums and potential difficulty in obtaining coverage for properties in high-risk zones. Impact on Public Confidence in the Jurisdiction's Governance • Public perception of the government's ability to manage and mitigate geologic hazards effectively. • Importance of clear and timely communication with the public regarding risks, mitigation measures, and response efforts. • Potential for increased scrutiny of government officials and policies, leading to political challenges or changes in leadership. 3.9 Hazardous Materials 3.9.1 PROFILE Materials considered hazardous are commonly and safely used across communities on a daily basis. When a chemical or other substance that may harm health or the environment has been released into the air, water or ground, it is considered a hazardous materials incident. Incidents can occur when materials are being produced, stored, transported, used, or disposed of. Most hazardous incidents are quickly, easily and safely contained; however, potential exists for longer-lasting and harmful incidents. This chapter focuses on the following types of incidents: • Spills: Accidental release of hazardous substances can lead to contamination of soil, water, and air. • Pipelines: Leaks or ruptures in pipelines can release hazardous materials into the environment. • Trucking: Transportation accidents involving trucks can result in the release of hazardous cargoes. • Railways: Train derailments or collisions can lead to significant spills of hazardous materials. 3.9.2 LOCATION Due to the unexpected nature of a hazardous materials event, the entirety of Ramsey County would be considered at risk for these types of events. Hazardous materials incidents are classified as either fixed incidents or mobile incidents. Approximately 80%-90% of incidents occur at fixed sites, such as factories and storage facilities. Impacts are typically limited to the site itself, and the immediate surrounding area. Ramsey County is home to a number of chemical plants and facilities, ranging from manufacturing to