Geologic Hazard Abatement Districts: California's Experience with Hazard Mitigation through Special Purpose Districts

Abstract This month, we feature two perspectives on the use of special purpose districts by California communities to mitigate landslides and other geologic hazards. Daniel Curtin, Jr. and Shawn Zovod have been involved in establishing many such districts, and advocate them as an important community tool in addressing those hazards. Sanjay Jeer, a senior researcher for APA, recognizes the potential usefulness of such districts, but takes a more cautionary view of when and where they can be effective. APA will publish a Planning Advisory Service Report by Mr. Jeer on “Landslide Hazards and Planning” later this summer.