Senate Democratic Caucus
End of Week Report (Week 11)
March 19, 2009
Last week, legislators received the most comprehensive presentation to date on the stimulus money that is coming to North Dakota from the federal government. With more clarity now available from the federal government on the amount of money North Dakota is receiving and what the money can be used for, it looks like there is more money available but less flexibility in how it’s used than originally thought. Last week’s presentation, given by Legislative Council and various state government department heads, revealed that North Dakota’s stimulus share has grown to $650 million from an original estimate of about $575 million. However, worries continue to grow over how this money will interact with the state’s own pot of funding. For example, much of the education funding available from the federal government is for Title I schools with disadvantaged students, but not every school district in North Dakota qualifies for this funding. So how will the infusion of this money affect our equity-based school funding distribution formula? How will the transportation funding affect cities and counties that are being used as pass-through entities? Will it prevent them from getting the funding from the state that they otherwise would have received because the stimulus money can be viewed as a replacement?
In addition to answering these questions over the next month, lawmakers will also have to grapple with whether the state should add all the stimulus funding on top of its previously-proposed budget, or pull back some of those proposed budget increases to make way for the stimulus. The Democratic Caucus has come down firmly against the latter plan because the stimulus money is meant to stimulate our economy and create jobs, not to fill a bank vault somewhere while crucial needs exist and people need jobs.
In other matters:
--SB 2388, a bill to help bridge the “pay gap” faced by our soldiers in combat, passed the House last week and is headed to Gov. John Hoeven’s desk. Sponsored by Sen. Mac Schneider, (D-42 Grand Forks), the bill offers a tax credit to employers who agree to make up the difference between a soldier’s private sector wage and their combat pay. Without such support, many National Guard and Reserve members have to take a pay cut when deploying overseas. Schneider said he introduced the bill with the idea that nobody should have to take a pay cut to serve our nation in the armed forces.
--SB 2369, a bill that would have studied how property tax relief could benefit renters, failed to pass the House. Sponsored by Sen. Carolyn Nelson, (D-21 Fargo) and co-sponsored by Sens. Tracy Potter (D-35 Bismarck) and Bob Horne (D-3 Minot), the bill started as a proposal to allow tenants to legally collect a portion of the property tax relief being given out from their landlords. It was later amended into a study of how renters can benefit from property tax relief. However, the House last week decided to reject the bill even in study form.
---HB 1399, a bill to create an American Indian Language Teaching and Preservation Committee, moved closer to passage last week as the Senate took a procedural vote to accept amendments on the bill. Co-sponsored by Sen. Richard Marcellais, (D-9 Belcourt), Sen. John Warner, (D-4 Ryder) and Sen. Joan Heckaman (D-23 New Rockford), the bill instructs the Superintendent of Public Instruction to appoint the committee, to be made up of tribal college representatives, an Indian Affairs Committee member, a school board member, a school district superintendent and a teacher of American Indian languages. The intent of the bill is to preserve our heritage and make sure that these valuable languages are not lost to the ages.
--Sen. Tim Mathern, (D-11 Fargo), received a national mental health advocacy award in Washington, D.C. last week. Mathern received the National Association of Psychiatric Health System’s Grassroots Leadership Award for his long record of advocacy for mental health patients, greater access to mental health care and adequate funding of such care. The organization’s President/CEO Mark Covell said change happens because of individuals like Mathern. He was further congratulated on the Senate floor with a speech given by Sen. Carolyn Nelson, (D-21 Fargo)
--Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson has set April 3rd as his official date of departure. He offered his official letter of resignation to Gov. John Hoeven last Tuesday morning. Johnson announced earlier this month he’s leaving his job to become President of the National Farmers Union. Johnson has served for 12 years as North Dakota’s Agriculture Commissioner, and has spent that time fighting for North Dakota farmers on both the state and national level. He testified before Congress on many occasions and was chosen by his fellow agriculture commissioners to lead their national association.
Professor Emeritus -- Dr. Tom Seymour from West Fargo, North Dakota -- Professor, Minot State University, MSU Faculty Regents Award (2015) -- PAST Peer Reviewer (Higher Learning Commission - Chicago); - Author and Presenter Board of Directors, SRT Communications, Inc and Minot City Alderman - Ward 5 (2010-June, 2016) PAST - Editor-in-Chief (North Dakota State Senator (2002-2010) 2017-Cass County Electric Cooperative- Board of Directors
Friday, March 20, 2009
Thursday, March 19, 2009
North Dakota Srping Flooding sites
09-003, Spring Flooding
March 18, 2009
6:00 p.m. CDT
Incident Summary Report #7
Incident Overview
Updated information is in red.
The following is a summary of key issues related to the 2009 spring flood for the Red River of the North, Souris, Devils Lake, James and Missouri River Basins. Record flooding is possible at many locations on the Red River of the North and its tributaries. The magnitude of the expected flooding has not been seen in several years.
State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) Activation – Level III (Monitoring)
Significant Events
Deaths/Injuries
None Reported
Increased Dam Releases
Lake Traverse/Orwell Dam: By the end of March, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), St. Paul District, will draw down Lake Traverse by 2.8 feet, which will increase flows into the Bois de Sioux River.
The Orwell Reservoir will be drawn down by 14 feet, which will impact the Ottertail River.
• Both rivers are tributaries of the Red River of the North south of Wahpeton.
Jamestown/Pipestem Dams: The USACE, Omaha District, releases from the dams could be as high as a combined 1,800 cubic feet per second (cfs) through the city of Jamestown. The river channel in many areas of the city still cannot efficiently handle a release of 1,800 cfs. The USACE is assisting the city to complete flood preparedness efforts before releases from the two dams will be required.
• Jamestown Dam pool could rise from 1,445 to 1,450 feet this spring; the record pool level measured 1,445.9 feet in 1997. The Pipestem pool could rise from 1,478 to 1,492 feet; the record pool level was 1,487 feet in 1997.
Flooding
Billings County
o Flooding occurred along the Little Missouri River south of Medora on March 6 and March 16, forcing the evacuation of two residents.
Burleigh County:
o City and county residents have begun experiencing ground seepage as well as overland flooding from snowmelt runoff, clogged/blocked culverts and overflowing drainage ditches.
Richland County
o A home in the Colfax area and another home two miles west and two miles north of Wahpeton are surrounded by snowmelt that is backing up in fields. The county is using a trackhoe to open a ditch near the Colfax area; a private contractor will be used to assist at the other home.
Standing Rock Reservation:
o The EM reported snow is melting fast and they are beginning to experience some flooding in housing areas in Fort Yates.
Walsh County:
o One farmstead located one mile south and one mile west of the junction of N.D. Highway 17 and 32 is experiencing water backing up into the yard. Local personnel are enroute to assess the situation.
Williams County:
o The County EM reported a rail car from a train derailment one-half mile west of Williston (138th Ave NW and Riverside Drive) fell into Sand Creek and is resulting in some flooding at Sand Creek and Bell Subdivision area. The EM indicated no homes are threatened and they are working with BNSF to remove the car.
Roads
Cavalier County
o Ice created by springs in hillsides is melting and causing water to flow across roads in the hill areas of the county. Culverts are still frozen, and with the active springs, some township roads have had to be closed.
o All roads are soft due to the saturation levels at freeze up and rains throughout the winter. County and township roads are rutted. Load limits are being issued early due to these conditions.
Pembina County
o Water is alongside the road on County Road 3, which runs west and east on the north side of the city of Mountain. Culverts are still frozen around this area.
Sargent County
o On March 16, a Sargent County resident notified State Radio that a road approximately five miles south of the city of Rutland was impassable due to high water over the road.
o Snowmelt is causing washouts and hazardous road conditions, creating an unsafe environment for the public and emergency responders needing access to rural areas and homesteads.
Sioux County/Standing Rock Reservation
o The County Sheriff reported BIA Road 7 between State Highway 6 and 24 is closed due to flooding. The road is closed; barricades and signage have been installed.
Walsh County
o On March 16, water was coming over N.D. Highway 32 near Fordville. NDDOT placed high water markers along the road. There are a couple of county roads in the Lankin area that have water over them due to field runoff because culverts are still frozen.
Damages to Homes/Businesses
Grant County
The EM received several reports across the county of water in basements. Officials are concerned about overland flooding because ditches are full and culverts still frozen.
Pembina County
One city of Pembina resident reported six inches of water in the basement. One resident in the city of Cavalier and another in the city of Backoo reported water in their basements.
Red River Surveillance
The State Water Commission (SWC) provided the following analysis based on March 16 observations:
o Fargo to Hillsboro: Snow cover is less about 10 miles north of Fargo with some tilled field bare. Water is standing in the ditches and is not flowing through culverts.
o Grand Forks/Traill County line and east to the Red River: Drains and ditches are filled with snow. Water is flowing and a few culverts are opening. Water entering the Buffalo Coulee, approximately one to two miles upstream of the county line, is two feet deep.
o West from I-29 about 11 miles: Water is flowing through the drain located on the south side of the highway extending approximately four miles west of Reynolds.
o South to Casselton on N.D. Highway 18: There is no sign of flow on the north branch of the Goose River. Fields have more snow cover extending south to the Arthur area. There are still some open areas in the tilled fields. It appears some of the drifts in these fields are around one foot deep.
o East from Casselton to West Fargo: Snow cover is reduced in the area from Mapleton to West Fargo. There was some standing water in this area and a little flow through small culverts. As in all locations, there is much deeper snow drifts in shelter belts and protected areas.
Declarations (See map)
Governor John Hoeven issued a statewide emergency declaration on March 13.
County Declarations – Cass, Cavalier, Grand Forks, Oliver, Nelson, Pembina, Ramsey, Richland, Stutsman.
City Declarations – Argusville, Casselton, Fargo, Frontier, Grafton, Grand Forks, Harwood, Jamestown, Neche and Pembina.
Forecasts:
Flood Warning: Issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) until 9:45 p.m. MDT, Thursday, March 19, for the following counties: northwestern Grant County and Stark County. Ice jams have formed on the Heart River near the eastern Stark County line resulting in elevated water levels upstream. When the ice jam does break, temporary high water levels are possible downstream of the jam.
Flood Advisory: Issued until 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 19, due to ice jam snow melt for the following counties: northern Adams, southern Burleigh, southern Dunn, Emmons, Grant, Hettinger, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sioux, and Stark. High water levels resulting from snow melt and ice jams continue on several rivers and streams across south central and southwest North Dakota.
Flood Advisory: Extended by the NWS for an ice jam and snow melt until 2:15 p.m. CDT, Thursday, March 19, for the following counties: Dickey, central LaMoure, and southeastern Stutsman. Snowmelt is causing the James River and its tributaries to rise. High temperatures will remain well above freezing into early next week across the James River Valley causing additional snow melt.
Flood Advisory: Issued until 10:00 a.m. CDT Thurdsay, March 19, for an ice jam and snowmelt for the following counties: northern Dunn and central McKenzie. An ice jam present yesterday on the Little Missouri River at the north unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park has broken up. As a result, ice will be moving downstream and has the potential to create another ice jam between the north unit of the park and the Little Missouri Bay north of Killdeer.
Flood Warning: Issued for theWild Rice and Buffalo Rivers, tributaries of the Red River, which remain above flood stage and will affect the Red River in Richland and Cass Counties. Recent snowmelt over the past several days will cause the Red River at Wahpeton to rise over it 10-foot flood stage tonight. Temperatures will warm well above freezing Friday and through the weekend. Additional runoff will occur and river levels will continue to rise. Additional rises are possible next week after a significant storm moves into the area producing the potential for locally heavy rain.
Red River Forecast: The Grand Forks Office of the National Weather Service (NWS) indicated snowmelt conditions will remain favorable across the Red River Valley for the next few days as a slight cooler polar air mass settles across the area today and Thursday. Temperatures will be above freezing during the day and below freezing at night, producing conditions ideal for a freeze/thaw cycle, which will slow the flooding process. However, warmer temperatures are expected to return Friday and Saturday with daytime highs climbing into the middle 40s over the northern portion and lower 50s across the southern portion of the valley. Many rural drainage channels, rivers and streams remain clogged with ice, which will increase overland movement of water and ponding in low spots.
Potential Storm: Forecasts indicate the potential for a powerful storm system to impact the Red River Valley and the Devils Lake Basin late this weekend into the early part of next week. The forecast calls for showers and possible thunderstorms, which could produce locally heavy rainfall, aggravating flood conditions.
Long Range Probabilistic Forecasts: The NWS outlook indicated the following:
Red River Basin
Record flooding is possible at many locations on the Red River of the North and its tributaries. Also, significant overland flooding is likely for points located distant from river locales.
o Locations that have a 50 percent chance or greater of record flooding are Oslo, High Landing, Valley City, Abercrombie, Lisbon, Kindred and Harwood.
o Locations with a 20 to 50 percent probability of record flooding are Fargo, Sabin, Hawley, Dilworth, Hendrum, Hallock and Mapleton.
o Locations that have a near 100 percent chance of reaching major flood stage are Fargo, Grand Forks, Oslo, Drayton, Pembina, Abercrombie and Harwood.
o Locations forecasted to have a 50 percent or greater chance of major flooding are Valley City, Lisbon, Kindred, Grafton, Crookston and High Landing.
(http://www.crh.noaa.gov/fgf/scripts/localdata.php?loc=appahps&data=lpofar)
Pembina River: At the request of the Neche Mayor, the Grand Forks NWS changed the major flood stage for the Pembina River at Neche from 23 to 20.5 feet. The change is made due to the recent removal of upstream agricultural dikes and other hydrological changes in the basin that have been made since the establishment of the higher major flood stage. Current river stage at Neche is 4.3 feet.
Devils Lake Basin -- The NWS Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS) indicates there is a 90 percent chance that Devils Lake will rise above three feet and a better than even chance it will rise above four feet surpassing historic high water levels. Devils Lake at Creel Bay and Stump Lake both have a 90 percent chance of reaching 1,450.5 feet and a 50 percent chance of reaching 1,451.4 feet. Fall and winter precipitation across the Devils Lake Basin averaged above normal and soils across much of the basin were saturated going into freeze-up. Frost depths in eastern North Dakota remain about two to three feet, so significant runoff rates could occur, particularly with a rapid snowmelt. The current level of Devils Lake is 1,447 feet.
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/fgf/scripts/localdata.php?loc=appahps&data=lpodvl
Missouri River Basin – While the recent dry weather in western North Dakota has lowered the threat of flooding and forecasts call for warmer and drier conditions, the NWS cautions adequate moisture exists in the snowpack to cause localized flooding. The Little Muddy Creek near Williston has a 40 percent probability of rising to moderate flood stage; Spring Creek near Zap has a 70 percent chance of rising above flood stage; and Apple Creek near Menoken has 90 percent chance it will rise to its flood stage of 15 feet with a 10 percent chance it will rise to 17.5 feet.
http://www.weather.gov/water/textprods/view.php?wfo=bis&prod=ESF&page=1
Souris River Basin -- In the Souris River Basin, minor to major flooding is expected. The recent dry weather in the basin has lowered the threat of flooding in several areas. However, adequate moisture already exists in the snowpack across much of western North Dakota, which could create localized flooding.
http://www.weather.gov/water/textprods/view.php?wfo=bis&prod=ESF
James River Basin – The NWS reported James River Basin this week (3-9 to 3-11, 2009) received substantial snow fall which will add to the risk of high water events. At Pingree, the chance for moderate flooding is 20 percent and 90 percent for minor flooding. At Grace City, the chance for major flooding is 30 percent, 50 percent for moderate flooding and 80 percent for minor flooding. For Ludden, the chance for major flooding is 35 percent, moderate flooding is 80 percent and minor flooding is 98 percent.
http://www.weather.gov/water/textprods/view.php?wfo=bis&prod=ESF&page=1
Resource/Assistance Requests
Cass County/City of Fargo:
The city of Fargo submitted a request letter to the N.D. Department of Emergency Services requesting state and federal assistance for flood protection measures including construction of emergency flood protection levees.
o ACCEPTED
The City of Fargo has requested 200 N.D. National Guard members to be on site by Saturday, March 21, to assist with sandbagging operations.
On-scene USACE representatives are providing technical assistance to the cities of Argusville and Fargo for the construction of emergency levees in several locations including immediately south of the Fargo city limits..
City of Grand Forks:
The city of Grand Forks officials requested the USACE provide technical assistance, such as stability assessment, during the city’s work to raise its levee system.
o ACCEPTED
The USACE, St. Paul District, is providing technical assistance to the city of Grand Forks.
Nelson County:
Nelson County officials are requesting state and USACE assistance with protecting the Stump Lake Park.
o PENDING
On March 13, the Governor requested the St. Paul District of the USACE provide technical assistance, advance measures and emergency operations assistance for the cities of Fargo and Grand Forks, Nelson County and other communities in the Devils Lake and Souris and Red River Basins.
Pembina County
Officials requested the USACE provide technical and emergency operations assistance and advance measures.
o ACCEPTED
The USACE, St. Paul District, is providing technical assistance to the cities of Drayton and Pembina.
Stark County
The EM requested aerial reconnaissance of the Heart River from Belfield to east of Gladstone and the Green River four miles west of New Hradec down to Gladstone.
o ACCEPTED
The Civil Air Patrol has accepted the mission.
Stutsman County:
In response to anticipated high releases from the Jamestown and Pipestem Dams, the Stutsman County Emergency Manager sent a letter in March 6 to the Director of the N.D. Division of Homeland Security (NDHLS) requesting technical and material assistance from the USACE for the city of Jamestown.
o PENDING
On March 12, 2009, Governor Hoeven requested the Omaha District of the USACE assist with flood mitigation measures in communities along the Missouri and James River Basins.
Detailed Reports
Local
Billings County
On March 16, flooding occurred on the Little Missouri River due to water backing up from an ice jam at the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad bridge in Medora. Two homes were flooded with approximately four feet of water in the basements; also flooded were surrounding corrals and garages. The residents at both homes evacuated when the flooding started but returned after ice jam was released and waters receded. Flooding was reported at the same location on March 6.
Burleigh County/City of Bismarck
The County Highway Department is monitoring roads and culverts and has begun clearing culverts when possible to provide water flow and prevent pooling and overflowing.
The Bismarck Public Works Department is monitoring streets to prevent street flooding and working to ensure the water is draining. At this time there is no danger of Missouri River or stream flooding.
Officials made sandbags and sand available at the Missouri Valley Fairgrounds for citizens experiencing residential flooding. Retail locations are out of sandbags. A news release will be issued.
Cass County
The Emergency Manager (EM) reported large quantities of ice on rivers have raised ice jam concerns.
The Sheyenne and Wild Rice Rivers pose a threat of overland flooding to rural subdivisions south of Fargo north to Harwood and the city of Harwood.
City of Argusville and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad discussed removing railroad track to close opening in its ring dike, if necessary.
Dickey County
The EM reported overland flooding due to rapid snowmelt in the western portion of the county. County crews are working to open frozen culverts to relieve water from the roads. Township and county crews are working to locate, flag and mitigate these areas.
Divide County
Sewage lagoons in the city of Crosby may pose problems.
Eddy County
Members of the Bowdon Lutheran Church have been advised to remove snow around the church to prevent seepage.
Grand Forks
The EM stationed sand and sandbags at the cities of Manvel and Grand Forks; and will have sand delivered to property that is in imminent danger of flooding.
The County Emergency Operations Center opened March 13, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., to monitor flood forecasting, levee construction and address queries from the public.
Construction crews began moving snow and hauling for the Grand Forks levee area on March 14.
Grant County
Sandbags are available at various locations in the county. A local supplier has opened a sand pit and made it available for residents to fill sandbags.
Oliver County
Square Butte Creek and the city of Center are areas of concern.
Ninety percent of flooding is expected to be confined to agricultural land.
Evacuation and sandbagging plans are in place and contractors have been identified.
All local creeks are full; ice jams will present problems. Two roads will be inundated but plans are in place to detour traffic. Snow hauling operations continue.
Pembina County
County officials are assessing the situation in the city of Mountain to determine a possible solution to keeping the water from coming into the city limits and affecting homes.
A construction company cleaned a ditch just north of the city of Cavalier to relieve water backup into the north part town affecting one resident.
The city of Crystal has requested sand and sandbags from the county to be delivered March 18.
North Border School sent permission slips asking parents to allow students to help with sandbagging efforts in Neche and Walhalla.
The city of Mountain received sand and sandbags from the county.
City of Neche has concerns that its uncertified dike surrounding the city may not be strong enough to hold the water pressure on the north and west sides.
The Highway Department has cleaned snow from ditches to relieve water flows one-half mile north of Backoo and also cleared one-half mile of ditch one mile north of the Walsh County line to one-half mile east of County Road 12 (parallel with 79th St).
The Highway Department has sand and sand bags stationed at the county shop in Cavalier and will charge for delivery. Unused sand and/or bags can be returned for no cost.
The Highway Department has opened culverts located by County Roads12 and 1 and the junction of County Road 1 and 2 north of Cavalier. Workers attempted to open another culvert in Walhalla by the ethanol plant but it was frozen solid.
The Neche Fire Department is spearheading the city evacuation plan, if needed.
The county is awaiting USACE evaluation of dikes in the City of Drayton, City of Pembina, and City of Neche for possible reinforcement.
City of Pembina is attempting to open up culverts and break up ice in ditches.
Pierce County
The EM has asked County Commissioners for a policy on sand and sandbag issues. The county does not have any sand available.
The SEOC directed the EM to locate resources for sand and to contact contractors if they are needed.
Ransom County
The EM and spotters throughout the county are monitoring areas of concern, including Fort Ransom, Lisbon and McCloud.
The Water Board members are meeting on March 18 to discuss potential issues related to the Baldhill Dam.
Richland County
County resources are hauling material for sandbagging to threatened communities to protect infrastructure.
The EM met with City of Wahpeton Mayor and Council regarding the use the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and volunteers to preload four dump trucks full of sandbags and also two trucks with clay material on Thursday, March 19, for emergency distribution.
Local volunteers and fire departments helped with sandbagging at two farmsteads.
The Richland County officials have begun moving sand, sandbags and other resources to locations they have identified as areas of concern. The main concern is overland flooding because the closed culverts, which could result in potential problems for Fairmount, Lidgerwood, Great Bend and Christine.
The SWC received a report from the Richland County Water Resource District indicating a fair amount of standing water is unable to flow. There are open areas in fields. The winds cleared much of the snow from field and piled it up in shelterbelts.
Sargent County
Township officers are monitoring road conditions throughout the county.
The EM will participate in a flyover of the Gwinner area and the Wild Rice River area to identify potential problems.
Areas of concern include the low lying area of the west side of the city of Milnor where several homes are located. Officials area also concerned about overland flooding from Ransom County and the Gwinner area.
The city of Milnor has had meetings to discuss potential flooding as well a dike that may be constructed the week of March 23. There are three to four homes outside the diked area.
Standing Rock Reservation
The EM is checking the Cannonball River daily, concerned water has not yet started flowing. All creeks are one half to three quarters full.
Tribal officials are conducting planning and working with the American Red Cross (ARC) to discuss how they would evacuate, if necessary. A listing of private sandbag suppliers was provided to the tribal emergency management office upon request.
Traill County
A SWC engineer participating in a surveillance of the Red River reported a farmstead had water backing up behind the access road. A backhoe was on site trying to open the culvert.
Walsh County
The communities of Lankin and Fordville are experiencing drainage due to frozen culverts and drainage systems. The County is working in Fordville to help open drains and currently Lankin is maintaining on its own.
The Townships of Golden, Rushford, Vernon, and Oakwood have all requested road closure signs.
Workers for the City of Grafton are filling in areas of the city dike and are waiting on the USACE before moving forward with other areas. A contractor has begun moving equipment into town for dike construction, if requested.
County officials have stationed sand and sandbags at the Grafton shop and at the Hoople Fire Hall.
Primary concerns are the cities of Grafton and possibly Forest River and Minto, as well as overland flooding and local drainage issues due to ditches being full of water and ice and frozen culverts.
Another concern is ice jams on the south branch of the Park River between Grafton and the city of Park River due to releases from Homme Dam. The EM has identified contractors and vendors for sand, and sandbags.
Ward County
The Flood Strike Planning team met on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 and reviewed current plans for flood operations.
Volunteer fire fighters will be recruited through their respective fire chiefs to serve as manpower pool for shelter and sandbag operations.
Ward County Engineer received permission from County Commission to take necessary actions to preserve life and property without Commission approval when time is critical to action.
Wells County
The EM indicated areas of concern in the Upper James River include and Fessenden which typically have overland flooding.
County officials are pre-staging equipment in potential areas of flooding. Flood response will depend on culverts opening. Most of the flooding is expected to be on agricultural lands.
Williams County
The city of Tioga contacted the EM regarding concerns about overtopping of the Tioga Dam and potential flooding in the town. The EM attempted to go to the site but was unable to do so because of muddy conditions and snowpack.
The Blacktail Dam north of Williston is also a concern where overtopping could result in the flooding of 20+ houses. Local agencies continue to monitor the situation.
State
Office of the Governor
The Governor issued an activation letter directing the N.D. National Guard to provide forces, supplies and equipment in anticipation of potential flooding around the state.
The Governor’s March 13 emergency declaration activated state resources.
N.D. Civil Air Patrol
The CAP is providing aerial photography.
N.D. Department of Health (NDDoH)
The NDDoH has been preparing public information resources to address health issues related to flooding and posting it to: www.ndhealth.gov/flood.
Staff members are coordinating potential support from ambulance services and hospital and nursing home bed availability in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.
N.D. Department of Human Services (NDDHS)
Staff has been coordinating with voluntary agencies.
N.D. Division of Homeland Security (NDHLS)
SEOC staff is coordinating state assistance.
N.D. Highway Patrol
On March 17, the Highway Patrol conducted aerial reconnaissance flight over Sioux County and the Dickinson and Medora areas as well as the Knife River to the Missouri River.
N.D. State Plumbing Board
Personnel are coordinating with the NDDoH to prepare to assist local government with potable water supply and waste water disposal systems.
N.D. State Water Commission
The Red River Valley engineer conducted a surveillance of the Red River Valley on March 16.
SWC personnel have been analyzing forecast data and identifying potential problem areas.
The SWC has taken snow water samples in the Devils Lake and Pembina River Basins.
N.D. Department of Transportation
NDDOT is positioning an old sign truck in Fargo. The sign truck was scheduled for replacement but is being put back into service to assist with additional signing of road closures that may occur due to flooding.
The Dickinson District is sending two of its roadside message boards to Grand Forks and the Bismarck District is sending two to Fargo.
The Department has begun prepositioning equipment to include barricades as well as an extra backhoe to the Fargo District to prepare for possible flooding.
Federal
Federal Emergency Management Agency
The Regional Operations Center is monitoring the flood potential.
Two FEMA Region VIII are providing technical assistance to the North Dakota SEOC.
National Weather Service
Meteorologists are providing forecast information and conducting conference calls with local, state and federal responders.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Engineers are providing technical assistance to local and state governments.
Ward County received 100,000 sandbags from the USACE for storage. These sandbags are available, upon approval by USACE, to counties in the region.
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
The Bureau is initiating Response Level 1 to evaluate, assess and monitor the situation due to pool elevation of the Jamestown Dam forecast of 1,440.0 msl with expected gate releases of 750 cubic feet per second (cfs) or greater and local weather forecasts indicating potential for heavy precipitation.
Voluntary Agencies
The Salvation Army
The Northern Division plans to stage five of its mobile canteens in the Fargo area as well as several trailers. Volunteers will be preparing sandwiches and hydration for sandbag crews.
United Methodist Disaster Response
Local congregations in North and South Dakota have been requested to prepare flood cleanup buckets.
Church World Service Emergency Response Program (CWSERP)
CWSERP is offering both response and preparedness training to help N.D. Voluntary Organization Active in Disaster (VOAD), local churches, local communities, and local, area, or state long term recovery committees respond to the needs of their communities following a disaster event.
American Red Cross
ARC chapters in North Dakota have conducted community disaster education and are preparing to provide mass care, damage assessment if necessary, cleanup kits and possibly deploying canteens in support of large sandbag operations.
Division of Homeland Security Division of State Radio
Greg M. Wilz, Director Mike Lynk, Director
March 18, 2009
6:00 p.m. CDT
Incident Summary Report #7
Incident Overview
Updated information is in red.
The following is a summary of key issues related to the 2009 spring flood for the Red River of the North, Souris, Devils Lake, James and Missouri River Basins. Record flooding is possible at many locations on the Red River of the North and its tributaries. The magnitude of the expected flooding has not been seen in several years.
State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) Activation – Level III (Monitoring)
Significant Events
Deaths/Injuries
None Reported
Increased Dam Releases
Lake Traverse/Orwell Dam: By the end of March, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), St. Paul District, will draw down Lake Traverse by 2.8 feet, which will increase flows into the Bois de Sioux River.
The Orwell Reservoir will be drawn down by 14 feet, which will impact the Ottertail River.
• Both rivers are tributaries of the Red River of the North south of Wahpeton.
Jamestown/Pipestem Dams: The USACE, Omaha District, releases from the dams could be as high as a combined 1,800 cubic feet per second (cfs) through the city of Jamestown. The river channel in many areas of the city still cannot efficiently handle a release of 1,800 cfs. The USACE is assisting the city to complete flood preparedness efforts before releases from the two dams will be required.
• Jamestown Dam pool could rise from 1,445 to 1,450 feet this spring; the record pool level measured 1,445.9 feet in 1997. The Pipestem pool could rise from 1,478 to 1,492 feet; the record pool level was 1,487 feet in 1997.
Flooding
Billings County
o Flooding occurred along the Little Missouri River south of Medora on March 6 and March 16, forcing the evacuation of two residents.
Burleigh County:
o City and county residents have begun experiencing ground seepage as well as overland flooding from snowmelt runoff, clogged/blocked culverts and overflowing drainage ditches.
Richland County
o A home in the Colfax area and another home two miles west and two miles north of Wahpeton are surrounded by snowmelt that is backing up in fields. The county is using a trackhoe to open a ditch near the Colfax area; a private contractor will be used to assist at the other home.
Standing Rock Reservation:
o The EM reported snow is melting fast and they are beginning to experience some flooding in housing areas in Fort Yates.
Walsh County:
o One farmstead located one mile south and one mile west of the junction of N.D. Highway 17 and 32 is experiencing water backing up into the yard. Local personnel are enroute to assess the situation.
Williams County:
o The County EM reported a rail car from a train derailment one-half mile west of Williston (138th Ave NW and Riverside Drive) fell into Sand Creek and is resulting in some flooding at Sand Creek and Bell Subdivision area. The EM indicated no homes are threatened and they are working with BNSF to remove the car.
Roads
Cavalier County
o Ice created by springs in hillsides is melting and causing water to flow across roads in the hill areas of the county. Culverts are still frozen, and with the active springs, some township roads have had to be closed.
o All roads are soft due to the saturation levels at freeze up and rains throughout the winter. County and township roads are rutted. Load limits are being issued early due to these conditions.
Pembina County
o Water is alongside the road on County Road 3, which runs west and east on the north side of the city of Mountain. Culverts are still frozen around this area.
Sargent County
o On March 16, a Sargent County resident notified State Radio that a road approximately five miles south of the city of Rutland was impassable due to high water over the road.
o Snowmelt is causing washouts and hazardous road conditions, creating an unsafe environment for the public and emergency responders needing access to rural areas and homesteads.
Sioux County/Standing Rock Reservation
o The County Sheriff reported BIA Road 7 between State Highway 6 and 24 is closed due to flooding. The road is closed; barricades and signage have been installed.
Walsh County
o On March 16, water was coming over N.D. Highway 32 near Fordville. NDDOT placed high water markers along the road. There are a couple of county roads in the Lankin area that have water over them due to field runoff because culverts are still frozen.
Damages to Homes/Businesses
Grant County
The EM received several reports across the county of water in basements. Officials are concerned about overland flooding because ditches are full and culverts still frozen.
Pembina County
One city of Pembina resident reported six inches of water in the basement. One resident in the city of Cavalier and another in the city of Backoo reported water in their basements.
Red River Surveillance
The State Water Commission (SWC) provided the following analysis based on March 16 observations:
o Fargo to Hillsboro: Snow cover is less about 10 miles north of Fargo with some tilled field bare. Water is standing in the ditches and is not flowing through culverts.
o Grand Forks/Traill County line and east to the Red River: Drains and ditches are filled with snow. Water is flowing and a few culverts are opening. Water entering the Buffalo Coulee, approximately one to two miles upstream of the county line, is two feet deep.
o West from I-29 about 11 miles: Water is flowing through the drain located on the south side of the highway extending approximately four miles west of Reynolds.
o South to Casselton on N.D. Highway 18: There is no sign of flow on the north branch of the Goose River. Fields have more snow cover extending south to the Arthur area. There are still some open areas in the tilled fields. It appears some of the drifts in these fields are around one foot deep.
o East from Casselton to West Fargo: Snow cover is reduced in the area from Mapleton to West Fargo. There was some standing water in this area and a little flow through small culverts. As in all locations, there is much deeper snow drifts in shelter belts and protected areas.
Declarations (See map)
Governor John Hoeven issued a statewide emergency declaration on March 13.
County Declarations – Cass, Cavalier, Grand Forks, Oliver, Nelson, Pembina, Ramsey, Richland, Stutsman.
City Declarations – Argusville, Casselton, Fargo, Frontier, Grafton, Grand Forks, Harwood, Jamestown, Neche and Pembina.
Forecasts:
Flood Warning: Issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) until 9:45 p.m. MDT, Thursday, March 19, for the following counties: northwestern Grant County and Stark County. Ice jams have formed on the Heart River near the eastern Stark County line resulting in elevated water levels upstream. When the ice jam does break, temporary high water levels are possible downstream of the jam.
Flood Advisory: Issued until 5:00 p.m. Thursday, March 19, due to ice jam snow melt for the following counties: northern Adams, southern Burleigh, southern Dunn, Emmons, Grant, Hettinger, Mercer, Morton, Oliver, Sioux, and Stark. High water levels resulting from snow melt and ice jams continue on several rivers and streams across south central and southwest North Dakota.
Flood Advisory: Extended by the NWS for an ice jam and snow melt until 2:15 p.m. CDT, Thursday, March 19, for the following counties: Dickey, central LaMoure, and southeastern Stutsman. Snowmelt is causing the James River and its tributaries to rise. High temperatures will remain well above freezing into early next week across the James River Valley causing additional snow melt.
Flood Advisory: Issued until 10:00 a.m. CDT Thurdsay, March 19, for an ice jam and snowmelt for the following counties: northern Dunn and central McKenzie. An ice jam present yesterday on the Little Missouri River at the north unit of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park has broken up. As a result, ice will be moving downstream and has the potential to create another ice jam between the north unit of the park and the Little Missouri Bay north of Killdeer.
Flood Warning: Issued for theWild Rice and Buffalo Rivers, tributaries of the Red River, which remain above flood stage and will affect the Red River in Richland and Cass Counties. Recent snowmelt over the past several days will cause the Red River at Wahpeton to rise over it 10-foot flood stage tonight. Temperatures will warm well above freezing Friday and through the weekend. Additional runoff will occur and river levels will continue to rise. Additional rises are possible next week after a significant storm moves into the area producing the potential for locally heavy rain.
Red River Forecast: The Grand Forks Office of the National Weather Service (NWS) indicated snowmelt conditions will remain favorable across the Red River Valley for the next few days as a slight cooler polar air mass settles across the area today and Thursday. Temperatures will be above freezing during the day and below freezing at night, producing conditions ideal for a freeze/thaw cycle, which will slow the flooding process. However, warmer temperatures are expected to return Friday and Saturday with daytime highs climbing into the middle 40s over the northern portion and lower 50s across the southern portion of the valley. Many rural drainage channels, rivers and streams remain clogged with ice, which will increase overland movement of water and ponding in low spots.
Potential Storm: Forecasts indicate the potential for a powerful storm system to impact the Red River Valley and the Devils Lake Basin late this weekend into the early part of next week. The forecast calls for showers and possible thunderstorms, which could produce locally heavy rainfall, aggravating flood conditions.
Long Range Probabilistic Forecasts: The NWS outlook indicated the following:
Red River Basin
Record flooding is possible at many locations on the Red River of the North and its tributaries. Also, significant overland flooding is likely for points located distant from river locales.
o Locations that have a 50 percent chance or greater of record flooding are Oslo, High Landing, Valley City, Abercrombie, Lisbon, Kindred and Harwood.
o Locations with a 20 to 50 percent probability of record flooding are Fargo, Sabin, Hawley, Dilworth, Hendrum, Hallock and Mapleton.
o Locations that have a near 100 percent chance of reaching major flood stage are Fargo, Grand Forks, Oslo, Drayton, Pembina, Abercrombie and Harwood.
o Locations forecasted to have a 50 percent or greater chance of major flooding are Valley City, Lisbon, Kindred, Grafton, Crookston and High Landing.
(http://www.crh.noaa.gov/fgf/scripts/localdata.php?loc=appahps&data=lpofar)
Pembina River: At the request of the Neche Mayor, the Grand Forks NWS changed the major flood stage for the Pembina River at Neche from 23 to 20.5 feet. The change is made due to the recent removal of upstream agricultural dikes and other hydrological changes in the basin that have been made since the establishment of the higher major flood stage. Current river stage at Neche is 4.3 feet.
Devils Lake Basin -- The NWS Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service (AHPS) indicates there is a 90 percent chance that Devils Lake will rise above three feet and a better than even chance it will rise above four feet surpassing historic high water levels. Devils Lake at Creel Bay and Stump Lake both have a 90 percent chance of reaching 1,450.5 feet and a 50 percent chance of reaching 1,451.4 feet. Fall and winter precipitation across the Devils Lake Basin averaged above normal and soils across much of the basin were saturated going into freeze-up. Frost depths in eastern North Dakota remain about two to three feet, so significant runoff rates could occur, particularly with a rapid snowmelt. The current level of Devils Lake is 1,447 feet.
http://www.crh.noaa.gov/fgf/scripts/localdata.php?loc=appahps&data=lpodvl
Missouri River Basin – While the recent dry weather in western North Dakota has lowered the threat of flooding and forecasts call for warmer and drier conditions, the NWS cautions adequate moisture exists in the snowpack to cause localized flooding. The Little Muddy Creek near Williston has a 40 percent probability of rising to moderate flood stage; Spring Creek near Zap has a 70 percent chance of rising above flood stage; and Apple Creek near Menoken has 90 percent chance it will rise to its flood stage of 15 feet with a 10 percent chance it will rise to 17.5 feet.
http://www.weather.gov/water/textprods/view.php?wfo=bis&prod=ESF&page=1
Souris River Basin -- In the Souris River Basin, minor to major flooding is expected. The recent dry weather in the basin has lowered the threat of flooding in several areas. However, adequate moisture already exists in the snowpack across much of western North Dakota, which could create localized flooding.
http://www.weather.gov/water/textprods/view.php?wfo=bis&prod=ESF
James River Basin – The NWS reported James River Basin this week (3-9 to 3-11, 2009) received substantial snow fall which will add to the risk of high water events. At Pingree, the chance for moderate flooding is 20 percent and 90 percent for minor flooding. At Grace City, the chance for major flooding is 30 percent, 50 percent for moderate flooding and 80 percent for minor flooding. For Ludden, the chance for major flooding is 35 percent, moderate flooding is 80 percent and minor flooding is 98 percent.
http://www.weather.gov/water/textprods/view.php?wfo=bis&prod=ESF&page=1
Resource/Assistance Requests
Cass County/City of Fargo:
The city of Fargo submitted a request letter to the N.D. Department of Emergency Services requesting state and federal assistance for flood protection measures including construction of emergency flood protection levees.
o ACCEPTED
The City of Fargo has requested 200 N.D. National Guard members to be on site by Saturday, March 21, to assist with sandbagging operations.
On-scene USACE representatives are providing technical assistance to the cities of Argusville and Fargo for the construction of emergency levees in several locations including immediately south of the Fargo city limits..
City of Grand Forks:
The city of Grand Forks officials requested the USACE provide technical assistance, such as stability assessment, during the city’s work to raise its levee system.
o ACCEPTED
The USACE, St. Paul District, is providing technical assistance to the city of Grand Forks.
Nelson County:
Nelson County officials are requesting state and USACE assistance with protecting the Stump Lake Park.
o PENDING
On March 13, the Governor requested the St. Paul District of the USACE provide technical assistance, advance measures and emergency operations assistance for the cities of Fargo and Grand Forks, Nelson County and other communities in the Devils Lake and Souris and Red River Basins.
Pembina County
Officials requested the USACE provide technical and emergency operations assistance and advance measures.
o ACCEPTED
The USACE, St. Paul District, is providing technical assistance to the cities of Drayton and Pembina.
Stark County
The EM requested aerial reconnaissance of the Heart River from Belfield to east of Gladstone and the Green River four miles west of New Hradec down to Gladstone.
o ACCEPTED
The Civil Air Patrol has accepted the mission.
Stutsman County:
In response to anticipated high releases from the Jamestown and Pipestem Dams, the Stutsman County Emergency Manager sent a letter in March 6 to the Director of the N.D. Division of Homeland Security (NDHLS) requesting technical and material assistance from the USACE for the city of Jamestown.
o PENDING
On March 12, 2009, Governor Hoeven requested the Omaha District of the USACE assist with flood mitigation measures in communities along the Missouri and James River Basins.
Detailed Reports
Local
Billings County
On March 16, flooding occurred on the Little Missouri River due to water backing up from an ice jam at the Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF) railroad bridge in Medora. Two homes were flooded with approximately four feet of water in the basements; also flooded were surrounding corrals and garages. The residents at both homes evacuated when the flooding started but returned after ice jam was released and waters receded. Flooding was reported at the same location on March 6.
Burleigh County/City of Bismarck
The County Highway Department is monitoring roads and culverts and has begun clearing culverts when possible to provide water flow and prevent pooling and overflowing.
The Bismarck Public Works Department is monitoring streets to prevent street flooding and working to ensure the water is draining. At this time there is no danger of Missouri River or stream flooding.
Officials made sandbags and sand available at the Missouri Valley Fairgrounds for citizens experiencing residential flooding. Retail locations are out of sandbags. A news release will be issued.
Cass County
The Emergency Manager (EM) reported large quantities of ice on rivers have raised ice jam concerns.
The Sheyenne and Wild Rice Rivers pose a threat of overland flooding to rural subdivisions south of Fargo north to Harwood and the city of Harwood.
City of Argusville and Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad discussed removing railroad track to close opening in its ring dike, if necessary.
Dickey County
The EM reported overland flooding due to rapid snowmelt in the western portion of the county. County crews are working to open frozen culverts to relieve water from the roads. Township and county crews are working to locate, flag and mitigate these areas.
Divide County
Sewage lagoons in the city of Crosby may pose problems.
Eddy County
Members of the Bowdon Lutheran Church have been advised to remove snow around the church to prevent seepage.
Grand Forks
The EM stationed sand and sandbags at the cities of Manvel and Grand Forks; and will have sand delivered to property that is in imminent danger of flooding.
The County Emergency Operations Center opened March 13, Monday - Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., to monitor flood forecasting, levee construction and address queries from the public.
Construction crews began moving snow and hauling for the Grand Forks levee area on March 14.
Grant County
Sandbags are available at various locations in the county. A local supplier has opened a sand pit and made it available for residents to fill sandbags.
Oliver County
Square Butte Creek and the city of Center are areas of concern.
Ninety percent of flooding is expected to be confined to agricultural land.
Evacuation and sandbagging plans are in place and contractors have been identified.
All local creeks are full; ice jams will present problems. Two roads will be inundated but plans are in place to detour traffic. Snow hauling operations continue.
Pembina County
County officials are assessing the situation in the city of Mountain to determine a possible solution to keeping the water from coming into the city limits and affecting homes.
A construction company cleaned a ditch just north of the city of Cavalier to relieve water backup into the north part town affecting one resident.
The city of Crystal has requested sand and sandbags from the county to be delivered March 18.
North Border School sent permission slips asking parents to allow students to help with sandbagging efforts in Neche and Walhalla.
The city of Mountain received sand and sandbags from the county.
City of Neche has concerns that its uncertified dike surrounding the city may not be strong enough to hold the water pressure on the north and west sides.
The Highway Department has cleaned snow from ditches to relieve water flows one-half mile north of Backoo and also cleared one-half mile of ditch one mile north of the Walsh County line to one-half mile east of County Road 12 (parallel with 79th St).
The Highway Department has sand and sand bags stationed at the county shop in Cavalier and will charge for delivery. Unused sand and/or bags can be returned for no cost.
The Highway Department has opened culverts located by County Roads12 and 1 and the junction of County Road 1 and 2 north of Cavalier. Workers attempted to open another culvert in Walhalla by the ethanol plant but it was frozen solid.
The Neche Fire Department is spearheading the city evacuation plan, if needed.
The county is awaiting USACE evaluation of dikes in the City of Drayton, City of Pembina, and City of Neche for possible reinforcement.
City of Pembina is attempting to open up culverts and break up ice in ditches.
Pierce County
The EM has asked County Commissioners for a policy on sand and sandbag issues. The county does not have any sand available.
The SEOC directed the EM to locate resources for sand and to contact contractors if they are needed.
Ransom County
The EM and spotters throughout the county are monitoring areas of concern, including Fort Ransom, Lisbon and McCloud.
The Water Board members are meeting on March 18 to discuss potential issues related to the Baldhill Dam.
Richland County
County resources are hauling material for sandbagging to threatened communities to protect infrastructure.
The EM met with City of Wahpeton Mayor and Council regarding the use the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) and volunteers to preload four dump trucks full of sandbags and also two trucks with clay material on Thursday, March 19, for emergency distribution.
Local volunteers and fire departments helped with sandbagging at two farmsteads.
The Richland County officials have begun moving sand, sandbags and other resources to locations they have identified as areas of concern. The main concern is overland flooding because the closed culverts, which could result in potential problems for Fairmount, Lidgerwood, Great Bend and Christine.
The SWC received a report from the Richland County Water Resource District indicating a fair amount of standing water is unable to flow. There are open areas in fields. The winds cleared much of the snow from field and piled it up in shelterbelts.
Sargent County
Township officers are monitoring road conditions throughout the county.
The EM will participate in a flyover of the Gwinner area and the Wild Rice River area to identify potential problems.
Areas of concern include the low lying area of the west side of the city of Milnor where several homes are located. Officials area also concerned about overland flooding from Ransom County and the Gwinner area.
The city of Milnor has had meetings to discuss potential flooding as well a dike that may be constructed the week of March 23. There are three to four homes outside the diked area.
Standing Rock Reservation
The EM is checking the Cannonball River daily, concerned water has not yet started flowing. All creeks are one half to three quarters full.
Tribal officials are conducting planning and working with the American Red Cross (ARC) to discuss how they would evacuate, if necessary. A listing of private sandbag suppliers was provided to the tribal emergency management office upon request.
Traill County
A SWC engineer participating in a surveillance of the Red River reported a farmstead had water backing up behind the access road. A backhoe was on site trying to open the culvert.
Walsh County
The communities of Lankin and Fordville are experiencing drainage due to frozen culverts and drainage systems. The County is working in Fordville to help open drains and currently Lankin is maintaining on its own.
The Townships of Golden, Rushford, Vernon, and Oakwood have all requested road closure signs.
Workers for the City of Grafton are filling in areas of the city dike and are waiting on the USACE before moving forward with other areas. A contractor has begun moving equipment into town for dike construction, if requested.
County officials have stationed sand and sandbags at the Grafton shop and at the Hoople Fire Hall.
Primary concerns are the cities of Grafton and possibly Forest River and Minto, as well as overland flooding and local drainage issues due to ditches being full of water and ice and frozen culverts.
Another concern is ice jams on the south branch of the Park River between Grafton and the city of Park River due to releases from Homme Dam. The EM has identified contractors and vendors for sand, and sandbags.
Ward County
The Flood Strike Planning team met on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 and reviewed current plans for flood operations.
Volunteer fire fighters will be recruited through their respective fire chiefs to serve as manpower pool for shelter and sandbag operations.
Ward County Engineer received permission from County Commission to take necessary actions to preserve life and property without Commission approval when time is critical to action.
Wells County
The EM indicated areas of concern in the Upper James River include and Fessenden which typically have overland flooding.
County officials are pre-staging equipment in potential areas of flooding. Flood response will depend on culverts opening. Most of the flooding is expected to be on agricultural lands.
Williams County
The city of Tioga contacted the EM regarding concerns about overtopping of the Tioga Dam and potential flooding in the town. The EM attempted to go to the site but was unable to do so because of muddy conditions and snowpack.
The Blacktail Dam north of Williston is also a concern where overtopping could result in the flooding of 20+ houses. Local agencies continue to monitor the situation.
State
Office of the Governor
The Governor issued an activation letter directing the N.D. National Guard to provide forces, supplies and equipment in anticipation of potential flooding around the state.
The Governor’s March 13 emergency declaration activated state resources.
N.D. Civil Air Patrol
The CAP is providing aerial photography.
N.D. Department of Health (NDDoH)
The NDDoH has been preparing public information resources to address health issues related to flooding and posting it to: www.ndhealth.gov/flood.
Staff members are coordinating potential support from ambulance services and hospital and nursing home bed availability in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.
N.D. Department of Human Services (NDDHS)
Staff has been coordinating with voluntary agencies.
N.D. Division of Homeland Security (NDHLS)
SEOC staff is coordinating state assistance.
N.D. Highway Patrol
On March 17, the Highway Patrol conducted aerial reconnaissance flight over Sioux County and the Dickinson and Medora areas as well as the Knife River to the Missouri River.
N.D. State Plumbing Board
Personnel are coordinating with the NDDoH to prepare to assist local government with potable water supply and waste water disposal systems.
N.D. State Water Commission
The Red River Valley engineer conducted a surveillance of the Red River Valley on March 16.
SWC personnel have been analyzing forecast data and identifying potential problem areas.
The SWC has taken snow water samples in the Devils Lake and Pembina River Basins.
N.D. Department of Transportation
NDDOT is positioning an old sign truck in Fargo. The sign truck was scheduled for replacement but is being put back into service to assist with additional signing of road closures that may occur due to flooding.
The Dickinson District is sending two of its roadside message boards to Grand Forks and the Bismarck District is sending two to Fargo.
The Department has begun prepositioning equipment to include barricades as well as an extra backhoe to the Fargo District to prepare for possible flooding.
Federal
Federal Emergency Management Agency
The Regional Operations Center is monitoring the flood potential.
Two FEMA Region VIII are providing technical assistance to the North Dakota SEOC.
National Weather Service
Meteorologists are providing forecast information and conducting conference calls with local, state and federal responders.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Engineers are providing technical assistance to local and state governments.
Ward County received 100,000 sandbags from the USACE for storage. These sandbags are available, upon approval by USACE, to counties in the region.
U.S. Bureau of Reclamation
The Bureau is initiating Response Level 1 to evaluate, assess and monitor the situation due to pool elevation of the Jamestown Dam forecast of 1,440.0 msl with expected gate releases of 750 cubic feet per second (cfs) or greater and local weather forecasts indicating potential for heavy precipitation.
Voluntary Agencies
The Salvation Army
The Northern Division plans to stage five of its mobile canteens in the Fargo area as well as several trailers. Volunteers will be preparing sandwiches and hydration for sandbag crews.
United Methodist Disaster Response
Local congregations in North and South Dakota have been requested to prepare flood cleanup buckets.
Church World Service Emergency Response Program (CWSERP)
CWSERP is offering both response and preparedness training to help N.D. Voluntary Organization Active in Disaster (VOAD), local churches, local communities, and local, area, or state long term recovery committees respond to the needs of their communities following a disaster event.
American Red Cross
ARC chapters in North Dakota have conducted community disaster education and are preparing to provide mass care, damage assessment if necessary, cleanup kits and possibly deploying canteens in support of large sandbag operations.
Division of Homeland Security Division of State Radio
Greg M. Wilz, Director Mike Lynk, Director
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Teacher Education Update - STEM
AACTE Weekly News Briefs | March 17, 2009
. . . delivered to your inbox so you can enjoy up-to-date news on Colleges of Education, Teaching and the Classroom, Campaigns, Legislation, STEM Teacher Issues, International Teacher Issues, Grants, and Upcoming Events. Please click on linked headlines for full story.
AACTE ANNOUNCEMENTS
AACTE Applauds Obama Education Platform; Urges Reform in Teacher Preparation
On March 10, President Obama outlined his goals for education in a speech to the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. One of the pillars of his initiative is "recruiting, preparing and rewarding outstanding teachers" with incentives for a new generation of teachers and for new levels of excellence among all teachers. "President Obama has rightly targeted teacher quality as a centerpiece of his policy reforms. We are thrilled to see this focus and look forward to working with him and Secretary Duncan to make real progress," said Sharon P. Robinson, President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.
Study of Teacher Preparation Models Seriously Flawed
The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), after reviewing analyses of several research experts, indicated today its disappointment with a recent study of models of teacher preparation.
AACTE Wants YOU!
Now is the perfect time to help lead your professional association!
AACTE invites you to consider these exciting ways to engage in leadership opportunities Share your expertise – Gain national visibility – Develop your network – Enhance the profession:
We are currently accepting applications for:
- Nominations to the AACTE's Board of Directors (by May 1st)
- Volunteers to serve on an AACTE Standing Committee (by May 1st)
- Session proposals for the 2010 Annual Meeting & Exhibits (by May 1st)
We are also accepting in our Call for Comments:
- New or Amended Resolutions for 2010 (by May 15th)
Getting Ready: The Teacher Quality Partnership Grant Competition
The U.S. Department of Education intends to open a grant competition for the Teacher Quality Partnership Grants (Title II, Higher Education Opportunity Act) in the spring that could include up to $145 million in funds. Featuring presenters Richard Mellman and Kathy Price from the U.S. Department of Education, this webinar will closely review the legislative language that will provide the basis of the grant application so that participants become familiar with the many requirements of the grant. It will take place on Thursday, March 19 2009 from 1:30pm to 3:00pm. Click here to register for the webinar. This will lead you through creating an account which you can use for future meetings. Click here to use an existing account.
Help Identify Postsecondary Education Options for Students With Intellectual Disabilities
The Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) at the University of Massachusetts and TransCen, Inc. have received a federal grant to identify college programs or services that support students with intellectual disabilities. As an organizational member of the Executive Committee that guides this initiative's project activities, AACTE is asking its member institutions to fill out a short form on programs and services that your institution or others provide to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Click here to submit your information.
You Spoke ... and AACTE Listened!
In a recent AACTE membership survey, an overwhelming majority of survey respondents indicated they prefer to receive AACTE news updates online. We will continue to bring you the latest news in our popular monthly Briefsnewsletter, but beginning with the March 2009 issue it will be available online only at www.aacte.org . Representatives will be notified by e-mail when each issue is posted. If you currently receive AACTE's weekly NewsBriefs e-mails, you will receive Briefs information at the same address. To confirm or update your e-mail address, please click here. To view the current or archived issues of Briefs on the web, click here
AACTE Announces Member News
Has your institution recently received a grant? Is a former student now recognized as a teacher of the year? Have you recently received a prestigious award? Well here is your chance to showcase your accomplishments! AACTE has developed a "Member News" section on our website where members are encouraged to submit news stories including the recognition of awards, grants, and other notable achievements. All submissions postings are subject to the discretion of AACTE staff. Please email your accomplishments to Alyssa Mangino at amangino@aacte.org .
NATIONAL NEWS
Remarks by the President to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on a Complete and Competitive American Education
From the White House
Read about the President's speech on education which was delivered last week.
Pushback on Mathematica Routes-to-Teaching Study
From Education Week
Some academics and policy folks are pushing back on the findings of this Mathematica study that used an experimental design to compare the student-achievement results of kids taught by graduates of several-alternate route programs with those coming from traditional teachers' colleges.
Education Department: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
From the United States Department of Education
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th, 2009. It is an unprecedented effort to jumpstart our economy, create or save millions of jobs, and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century.
Interest surges in leaving other jobs for teaching
From the Associated Press
Plenty of people dream of leaving their jobs to become teachers. Today, more people are actually doing it. Peter Vos ran an Internet startup. Now he teaches computer science to middle school kids in Maryland. Jaime McLaughlin used to do people's taxes. Now he teaches math to sixth graders in Chicago. Alisa Salvans was a makeup artist at Saks department store. Now she teaches high school chemistry in suburban Dallas.
In a Washington Minute: Arne Duncan's Big Week
The Chronicle of Higher Education
Education Secretary Arne Duncan visited Capitol Hill last week to tout President Obama's budget plan. Sara Hebel, The Chronicle's politics editor, and Kelly Field, its chief Washington reporter, discuss how Mr. Duncan was received by lawmakers. (2:00)
Secretary Duncan Announces Appointment of Jo Anderson Jr. as Senior Advisor
From the United States Department of Education
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today announced the appointment of Jo Anderson Jr. as senior advisor to the department, where he will conduct outreach to teachers and teacher organizations.
Obama backs teacher merit pay, charter schools
From the Associated Press
President Barack Obama called for tying teachers' pay to students' performance and expanding innovative charter schools Tuesday, embracing ideas that have provoked hostility from members of teachers unions. He also suggested longer school days - and years - to help America's children compete in the world.
Obama Ed Budget Passes First Test
From Inside Higher Ed
The higher education agenda that President Obama outlined in his 2010 budget blueprint and a speech this week contained several proposals that, in normal times, might have started a war on Capitol Hill. Just ask his predecessors: Previous proposals to end the lender-based guaranteed student loan program bruised President Clinton; President Bush was repeatedly pummeled for daring to mess with the Perkins Loan Program; and many a president has taken a pounding for seeking to expand federal entitlements, as Obama has done by calling for making Spell Grant funding mandatory and ensuring annual increases tied to inflation.
Duncan: Schools must improve to get stimulus money
From the Associated Press
Education Secretary Arne Duncan says schools must make drastic changes to get money from a special $5 billion fund in the economic stimulus bill. "We're going to reward those states and those districts that are willing to challenge the status quo and get dramatically better," Duncan said Monday at the White House.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY
Vanderbilt Will Offer First Postsecondary Education Opportunity in Tennessee for Students With Intellectual Disabilities
From Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (VC CEDED) has received a 3-year grant from the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (Council) to develop and coordinate a Postsecondary Education Program for students with intellectual disabilities at Vanderbilt University. The program will be the first of its kind in the state of Tennessee. AACTE is an organizational member of the Executive Committee that guides this initiative's project activities.
New fed funding for ed tech nears $1 billion
From eschoolnews.com
Nearly $1 billion -- $920 million, to be more precise -- in new federal funding has been appropriated specifically for education technology since February. Via the Enhancing Education Through Technology (ETTA) program, ed-tech will receive nearly $270 million more for fiscal year 2009, thanks to the $410 billion omnibus spending measure signed by President Obama on March 11.
USCC Joins NASA In Tech-Education Partnership
From MSNBC
Two local colleges have joined forces with NASA in an effort to create a sustainable community that will allow for education and research at Moffet Field. The University of California-Santa Cruz and the Foothill-De Ana Community College announced that they have joined NASA Ames Research Center to create an educational opportunity on 75 acres of land in the NASA Research Park.
Other Announcements
EARA – ABS Graduate Student Education Research Workshop
The American Educational Research Association (EARA) and the Association of Black Sociologists (ABS) announce a joint professional development training workshop for advanced graduate students who are examining an education research topic from a sociological perspective. This workshop will provide advanced graduate students with mentoring and guidance on their dissertation and give them insight into publishing their work.
Dates: The workshop will be part of the 2009 ABS Conference, in New Orleans - June 17th- June 20th. All workshop activities will be held the afternoon and evening of Wednesday, June 17th.
Partnership for Global Learning Forum
From the Asia Society
In 2009, as new leadership comes to Washington D.C. The Asia Society Partnership for Global Learning is hosting its second annual national forum. Join teachers, leaders and policymakers from across K-16 education to share best practices, build partnerships, and advance policies to ensure that all students are prepared for work and citizenship in the global 21st century. The forum will take place from July 9-11, 2009 in Arlington, VA. Click here to register.
Great Teachers for our City Schools
The second annual Great Teachers for Our City Schools: A National Summit on Recruiting, Preparing and Retaining Quality Urban Teachers will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 with a reception and dinner and end at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2009.
Early Bird Registration
Fee: $275
Deadline: Feb. 27, 2009
Regular Registration
Fee: $300
Deadline: March 27, 2009
To register, go to www.mscd.edu/~up
Blogwatch: Grading the Graders
NCQT started February off with a bang by declaring, in its 2008 State Teacher Policy Yearbook , that the vast majority of states are barely passing in their efforts to identify and retain effective teachers and "exit" their sub-par colleagues. Over at Advancing the Teaching Profession , Barnett Berry takes the NCQT graders to task for failing to fully measure the types of skills, assessment systems, and evaluation models that 21st century teachers need to make our students competitive in a global marketplace.
Funding Opportunities at NSF
Are you looking for math and science funding opportunities? The National Science Foundation (NFS) wants to see what teacher education has been working on with regard to the preparation of STEM teachers.
NSF has two partnership programs of interest. The Math and Science Partnership Program (MP Program) is run through NFS' Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE ) within the Directorate for Education and Human Resources. This research and development effort seeks to build capacity and integrate the work of higher education with that of K-12 to strengthen and reform mathematics and science education. Partnerships need to consist of an HE, at least one high needs school districts, and a non-profit organization to develop evidence-based outcomes that contribute to the understanding of how students effectively learn mathematics and science.
NSF's Division for Research and Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DL ) within the Directorate for Education and Human Resources, funds projects that: enhance content and pedagogical knowledge and practical teaching skills of pre-service STEM teachers, develop effective paths for induction into the STEM teaching profession by early career teachers, and develop engaging and effective strategies for continuing professional development of STEM teachers.
Alyssa DJ. Mangino
Communications Manager
AACTE
1307 New York Ave., NW Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 478-4596 -Direct
(202) 457-8095 -Fax
amangino@aacte.org
. . . delivered to your inbox so you can enjoy up-to-date news on Colleges of Education, Teaching and the Classroom, Campaigns, Legislation, STEM Teacher Issues, International Teacher Issues, Grants, and Upcoming Events. Please click on linked headlines for full story.
AACTE ANNOUNCEMENTS
AACTE Applauds Obama Education Platform; Urges Reform in Teacher Preparation
On March 10, President Obama outlined his goals for education in a speech to the US Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. One of the pillars of his initiative is "recruiting, preparing and rewarding outstanding teachers" with incentives for a new generation of teachers and for new levels of excellence among all teachers. "President Obama has rightly targeted teacher quality as a centerpiece of his policy reforms. We are thrilled to see this focus and look forward to working with him and Secretary Duncan to make real progress," said Sharon P. Robinson, President and CEO of the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education.
Study of Teacher Preparation Models Seriously Flawed
The American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), after reviewing analyses of several research experts, indicated today its disappointment with a recent study of models of teacher preparation.
AACTE Wants YOU!
Now is the perfect time to help lead your professional association!
AACTE invites you to consider these exciting ways to engage in leadership opportunities Share your expertise – Gain national visibility – Develop your network – Enhance the profession:
We are currently accepting applications for:
- Nominations to the AACTE's Board of Directors (by May 1st)
- Volunteers to serve on an AACTE Standing Committee (by May 1st)
- Session proposals for the 2010 Annual Meeting & Exhibits (by May 1st)
We are also accepting in our Call for Comments:
- New or Amended Resolutions for 2010 (by May 15th)
Getting Ready: The Teacher Quality Partnership Grant Competition
The U.S. Department of Education intends to open a grant competition for the Teacher Quality Partnership Grants (Title II, Higher Education Opportunity Act) in the spring that could include up to $145 million in funds. Featuring presenters Richard Mellman and Kathy Price from the U.S. Department of Education, this webinar will closely review the legislative language that will provide the basis of the grant application so that participants become familiar with the many requirements of the grant. It will take place on Thursday, March 19 2009 from 1:30pm to 3:00pm. Click here to register for the webinar. This will lead you through creating an account which you can use for future meetings. Click here to use an existing account.
Help Identify Postsecondary Education Options for Students With Intellectual Disabilities
The Institute for Community Inclusion (ICI) at the University of Massachusetts and TransCen, Inc. have received a federal grant to identify college programs or services that support students with intellectual disabilities. As an organizational member of the Executive Committee that guides this initiative's project activities, AACTE is asking its member institutions to fill out a short form on programs and services that your institution or others provide to individuals with intellectual disabilities. Click here to submit your information.
You Spoke ... and AACTE Listened!
In a recent AACTE membership survey, an overwhelming majority of survey respondents indicated they prefer to receive AACTE news updates online. We will continue to bring you the latest news in our popular monthly Briefsnewsletter, but beginning with the March 2009 issue it will be available online only at www.aacte.org . Representatives will be notified by e-mail when each issue is posted. If you currently receive AACTE's weekly NewsBriefs e-mails, you will receive Briefs information at the same address. To confirm or update your e-mail address, please click here. To view the current or archived issues of Briefs on the web, click here
AACTE Announces Member News
Has your institution recently received a grant? Is a former student now recognized as a teacher of the year? Have you recently received a prestigious award? Well here is your chance to showcase your accomplishments! AACTE has developed a "Member News" section on our website where members are encouraged to submit news stories including the recognition of awards, grants, and other notable achievements. All submissions postings are subject to the discretion of AACTE staff. Please email your accomplishments to Alyssa Mangino at amangino@aacte.org .
NATIONAL NEWS
Remarks by the President to the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce on a Complete and Competitive American Education
From the White House
Read about the President's speech on education which was delivered last week.
Pushback on Mathematica Routes-to-Teaching Study
From Education Week
Some academics and policy folks are pushing back on the findings of this Mathematica study that used an experimental design to compare the student-achievement results of kids taught by graduates of several-alternate route programs with those coming from traditional teachers' colleges.
Education Department: American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009
From the United States Department of Education
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (Recovery Act) was signed into law by President Obama on February 17th, 2009. It is an unprecedented effort to jumpstart our economy, create or save millions of jobs, and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges so our country can thrive in the 21st century.
Interest surges in leaving other jobs for teaching
From the Associated Press
Plenty of people dream of leaving their jobs to become teachers. Today, more people are actually doing it. Peter Vos ran an Internet startup. Now he teaches computer science to middle school kids in Maryland. Jaime McLaughlin used to do people's taxes. Now he teaches math to sixth graders in Chicago. Alisa Salvans was a makeup artist at Saks department store. Now she teaches high school chemistry in suburban Dallas.
In a Washington Minute: Arne Duncan's Big Week
The Chronicle of Higher Education
Education Secretary Arne Duncan visited Capitol Hill last week to tout President Obama's budget plan. Sara Hebel, The Chronicle's politics editor, and Kelly Field, its chief Washington reporter, discuss how Mr. Duncan was received by lawmakers. (2:00)
Secretary Duncan Announces Appointment of Jo Anderson Jr. as Senior Advisor
From the United States Department of Education
U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan today announced the appointment of Jo Anderson Jr. as senior advisor to the department, where he will conduct outreach to teachers and teacher organizations.
Obama backs teacher merit pay, charter schools
From the Associated Press
President Barack Obama called for tying teachers' pay to students' performance and expanding innovative charter schools Tuesday, embracing ideas that have provoked hostility from members of teachers unions. He also suggested longer school days - and years - to help America's children compete in the world.
Obama Ed Budget Passes First Test
From Inside Higher Ed
The higher education agenda that President Obama outlined in his 2010 budget blueprint and a speech this week contained several proposals that, in normal times, might have started a war on Capitol Hill. Just ask his predecessors: Previous proposals to end the lender-based guaranteed student loan program bruised President Clinton; President Bush was repeatedly pummeled for daring to mess with the Perkins Loan Program; and many a president has taken a pounding for seeking to expand federal entitlements, as Obama has done by calling for making Spell Grant funding mandatory and ensuring annual increases tied to inflation.
Duncan: Schools must improve to get stimulus money
From the Associated Press
Education Secretary Arne Duncan says schools must make drastic changes to get money from a special $5 billion fund in the economic stimulus bill. "We're going to reward those states and those districts that are willing to challenge the status quo and get dramatically better," Duncan said Monday at the White House.
NEWS FROM AROUND THE COUNTRY
Vanderbilt Will Offer First Postsecondary Education Opportunity in Tennessee for Students With Intellectual Disabilities
From Vanderbilt Kennedy Center
The Vanderbilt Kennedy Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (VC CEDED) has received a 3-year grant from the Tennessee Council on Developmental Disabilities (Council) to develop and coordinate a Postsecondary Education Program for students with intellectual disabilities at Vanderbilt University. The program will be the first of its kind in the state of Tennessee. AACTE is an organizational member of the Executive Committee that guides this initiative's project activities.
New fed funding for ed tech nears $1 billion
From eschoolnews.com
Nearly $1 billion -- $920 million, to be more precise -- in new federal funding has been appropriated specifically for education technology since February. Via the Enhancing Education Through Technology (ETTA) program, ed-tech will receive nearly $270 million more for fiscal year 2009, thanks to the $410 billion omnibus spending measure signed by President Obama on March 11.
USCC Joins NASA In Tech-Education Partnership
From MSNBC
Two local colleges have joined forces with NASA in an effort to create a sustainable community that will allow for education and research at Moffet Field. The University of California-Santa Cruz and the Foothill-De Ana Community College announced that they have joined NASA Ames Research Center to create an educational opportunity on 75 acres of land in the NASA Research Park.
Other Announcements
EARA – ABS Graduate Student Education Research Workshop
The American Educational Research Association (EARA) and the Association of Black Sociologists (ABS) announce a joint professional development training workshop for advanced graduate students who are examining an education research topic from a sociological perspective. This workshop will provide advanced graduate students with mentoring and guidance on their dissertation and give them insight into publishing their work.
Dates: The workshop will be part of the 2009 ABS Conference, in New Orleans - June 17th- June 20th. All workshop activities will be held the afternoon and evening of Wednesday, June 17th.
Partnership for Global Learning Forum
From the Asia Society
In 2009, as new leadership comes to Washington D.C. The Asia Society Partnership for Global Learning is hosting its second annual national forum. Join teachers, leaders and policymakers from across K-16 education to share best practices, build partnerships, and advance policies to ensure that all students are prepared for work and citizenship in the global 21st century. The forum will take place from July 9-11, 2009 in Arlington, VA. Click here to register.
Great Teachers for our City Schools
The second annual Great Teachers for Our City Schools: A National Summit on Recruiting, Preparing and Retaining Quality Urban Teachers will begin at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, April 1, 2009 with a reception and dinner and end at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 3, 2009.
Early Bird Registration
Fee: $275
Deadline: Feb. 27, 2009
Regular Registration
Fee: $300
Deadline: March 27, 2009
To register, go to www.mscd.edu/~up
Blogwatch: Grading the Graders
NCQT started February off with a bang by declaring, in its 2008 State Teacher Policy Yearbook , that the vast majority of states are barely passing in their efforts to identify and retain effective teachers and "exit" their sub-par colleagues. Over at Advancing the Teaching Profession , Barnett Berry takes the NCQT graders to task for failing to fully measure the types of skills, assessment systems, and evaluation models that 21st century teachers need to make our students competitive in a global marketplace.
Funding Opportunities at NSF
Are you looking for math and science funding opportunities? The National Science Foundation (NFS) wants to see what teacher education has been working on with regard to the preparation of STEM teachers.
NSF has two partnership programs of interest. The Math and Science Partnership Program (MP Program) is run through NFS' Division of Undergraduate Education (DUE ) within the Directorate for Education and Human Resources. This research and development effort seeks to build capacity and integrate the work of higher education with that of K-12 to strengthen and reform mathematics and science education. Partnerships need to consist of an HE, at least one high needs school districts, and a non-profit organization to develop evidence-based outcomes that contribute to the understanding of how students effectively learn mathematics and science.
NSF's Division for Research and Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DL ) within the Directorate for Education and Human Resources, funds projects that: enhance content and pedagogical knowledge and practical teaching skills of pre-service STEM teachers, develop effective paths for induction into the STEM teaching profession by early career teachers, and develop engaging and effective strategies for continuing professional development of STEM teachers.
Alyssa DJ. Mangino
Communications Manager
AACTE
1307 New York Ave., NW Suite 300
Washington, DC 20005
(202) 478-4596 -Direct
(202) 457-8095 -Fax
amangino@aacte.org
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
North Dakota Public Employees Association
President’s Corner
The Time is Now!
Senate Bill 2311 (State Employee Pay Bill) was voted on in the House Government Veteran Affairs Committee on Friday. The vote was 7 yeas and 6 nays and it was recommended that it be placed on the calendar without recommendation and be referred to the House Appropriations Committee. This pay bill is very important to state employees and must be passed now! The pay package included in SB 2311 provides for a 5% appropriation each year with a $100 monthly minimum for each employee. Our legislators need to hear from us now. Please email or call your legislator and ask them to support state employees by voting for SB 2311. State employees are the state’s greatest asset and must be a priority. Make your voice heard. Call or email your legislator today!
We also need you to contact your senator and representatives’ and ask them to support the salary equity dollars included in each agencies budget. State employees have been told when times are good we will take care of you. Well, I believe we have waited and now is the time for state employee’s salaries to be a priority. We need the 5% and 5% appropriation and the equity pool that was included in the governor budget to make state employee salaries competitive and enable the state to recruit and retain quality employees.
You can make a difference, call or email your legislator today.
NDPEA Needs You:
Are you a member of NDPEA? If not, we need you to join today to make the voice of public employees and NDPEA stronger. If you are a member, please ask a fellow co-worker to join. With more members we will have more muscle in passing legislation that is important to public employees and all working families. If you have any questions about NDPEA, please call our office at (701) 223-1964 or email us comments@ndpea.org.
Gary Feist
NDPEA President
Employee Free Choice Act
The Employee Free Choice Act has been introduced in the US House of Representative and the US Senate. This legislation is very important to workers. The Employee Free Choice Act will:
1) Restore workers’ freedom to make their own decision about how to join together to bargain for better benefits and fair wages;
2) Create real penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights.
3) Provide mediation and arbitration to help workers and employees come to an agreement on a first contract.
The Employee Free Choice Act does apply to public employee but a stronger union work force in the private sector will help public employees gain the right to collectively bargain and have voice in the workplace.
Please call Senators Conrad and Dorgan, and Representative Pomeroy and ask them to co-sponsor and support the Employee Free Choice Act. They need to hear from working families. Please call our representative’s toll free at 1-866-207-2060.
From the Desk of the Executive Director
Have you called your legislators this session?
I don’t mean figuratively. I don’t mean metaphorically. I mean literally. Have you called your legislators this session? All legislators have agendas. They all have priorities and political beliefs. However, most of them realize that in order to execute their political agenda, they need to get re-elected. Because of this, most legislators will take some direction from their constituents. So, I’ll ask again.
Have you called your legislators this session?
Please do. Call them, or e-mail them. Or better yet, send them a hand-written note asking them to support the “5 & 5” and the $100/month minimum and the equity dollars. Tell them your story. They won’t know it unless you tell them. If you are curious about how a particular legislator has been voting this session, send me an e-mail and I will be happy to share with you what I know.
NDPEA has fought tirelessly for you this session. As you all know, our effectiveness as a lobbying organization will grow as our membership grows, so please, help us grow our membership by either signing up yourself (if you’re not already a member) or sign up a friend (if you’re awesome and already a member). However, a solid lobbying effort requires more than lobbyists, it requires contact from the voters. That’s where you come in.
Please contact your legislators - today.
In Solidarity,
Stuart Savelkoul
Executive Director
How to Reach State Legislators
North Dakota Legislative Hotline: 1-888-635-3447
Bismarck: 328-3373
Hearing Impaired: 1-800-366-6888
Legislative Web Site: http://www.legis.nd.gov
(Legislators’ e-mail addresses can be reached from this site)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visit the web address below to tell your friends about this.
Tell-a-friend!
If you received this message from a friend, you can sign up for North Dakota Public Employees Association.
This message was sent to tom@minot.com. Visit your subscription management page to modify your email communication preferences or update your personal profile. To stop ALL email from North Dakota Public Employees Association, click to remove yourself from our lists (or reply via email with "remove or unsubscribe" in the subject line).
The Time is Now!
Senate Bill 2311 (State Employee Pay Bill) was voted on in the House Government Veteran Affairs Committee on Friday. The vote was 7 yeas and 6 nays and it was recommended that it be placed on the calendar without recommendation and be referred to the House Appropriations Committee. This pay bill is very important to state employees and must be passed now! The pay package included in SB 2311 provides for a 5% appropriation each year with a $100 monthly minimum for each employee. Our legislators need to hear from us now. Please email or call your legislator and ask them to support state employees by voting for SB 2311. State employees are the state’s greatest asset and must be a priority. Make your voice heard. Call or email your legislator today!
We also need you to contact your senator and representatives’ and ask them to support the salary equity dollars included in each agencies budget. State employees have been told when times are good we will take care of you. Well, I believe we have waited and now is the time for state employee’s salaries to be a priority. We need the 5% and 5% appropriation and the equity pool that was included in the governor budget to make state employee salaries competitive and enable the state to recruit and retain quality employees.
You can make a difference, call or email your legislator today.
NDPEA Needs You:
Are you a member of NDPEA? If not, we need you to join today to make the voice of public employees and NDPEA stronger. If you are a member, please ask a fellow co-worker to join. With more members we will have more muscle in passing legislation that is important to public employees and all working families. If you have any questions about NDPEA, please call our office at (701) 223-1964 or email us comments@ndpea.org.
Gary Feist
NDPEA President
Employee Free Choice Act
The Employee Free Choice Act has been introduced in the US House of Representative and the US Senate. This legislation is very important to workers. The Employee Free Choice Act will:
1) Restore workers’ freedom to make their own decision about how to join together to bargain for better benefits and fair wages;
2) Create real penalties for companies that violate workers’ rights.
3) Provide mediation and arbitration to help workers and employees come to an agreement on a first contract.
The Employee Free Choice Act does apply to public employee but a stronger union work force in the private sector will help public employees gain the right to collectively bargain and have voice in the workplace.
Please call Senators Conrad and Dorgan, and Representative Pomeroy and ask them to co-sponsor and support the Employee Free Choice Act. They need to hear from working families. Please call our representative’s toll free at 1-866-207-2060.
From the Desk of the Executive Director
Have you called your legislators this session?
I don’t mean figuratively. I don’t mean metaphorically. I mean literally. Have you called your legislators this session? All legislators have agendas. They all have priorities and political beliefs. However, most of them realize that in order to execute their political agenda, they need to get re-elected. Because of this, most legislators will take some direction from their constituents. So, I’ll ask again.
Have you called your legislators this session?
Please do. Call them, or e-mail them. Or better yet, send them a hand-written note asking them to support the “5 & 5” and the $100/month minimum and the equity dollars. Tell them your story. They won’t know it unless you tell them. If you are curious about how a particular legislator has been voting this session, send me an e-mail and I will be happy to share with you what I know.
NDPEA has fought tirelessly for you this session. As you all know, our effectiveness as a lobbying organization will grow as our membership grows, so please, help us grow our membership by either signing up yourself (if you’re not already a member) or sign up a friend (if you’re awesome and already a member). However, a solid lobbying effort requires more than lobbyists, it requires contact from the voters. That’s where you come in.
Please contact your legislators - today.
In Solidarity,
Stuart Savelkoul
Executive Director
How to Reach State Legislators
North Dakota Legislative Hotline: 1-888-635-3447
Bismarck: 328-3373
Hearing Impaired: 1-800-366-6888
Legislative Web Site: http://www.legis.nd.gov
(Legislators’ e-mail addresses can be reached from this site)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visit the web address below to tell your friends about this.
Tell-a-friend!
If you received this message from a friend, you can sign up for North Dakota Public Employees Association.
This message was sent to tom@minot.com. Visit your subscription management page to modify your email communication preferences or update your personal profile. To stop ALL email from North Dakota Public Employees Association, click to remove yourself from our lists (or reply via email with "remove or unsubscribe" in the subject line).
Monday, March 16, 2009
Campaign for America's Future
Dear Tom,
Early Bird Registration Extended!
Early Bird registration for America's Future Now! has been extended. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the largest annual progressive gathering in Washington, and this historic opportunity for change. Register now. GO»
The corporate interests, conservative hacks and their media enablers are pushing a new, laughable line to obstruct change: President Obama is doing too much. Seriously.
Here's the reality: there is much to do, with crises threatening our health care, our climate and the foundations of our economy. The well-funded forces of obstruction may be swarming Washington, but they can't stop a united progressive grassroots!
Washington will see, up close, the strength of our progressive movement when America's Future Now! — the largest annual gathering of progressive activists and leaders in the nation's capital — convenes from June 1st to 3rd.
And to make it even easier for you to take part, we are extending Early Bird Registration for America's Future Now! through April 4th.
There is no better time to register. Click here NOW to secure your spot for America's Future Now!
Thousands of progressives will come together at America's Future Now! to determine how to build on our recent successes, and keep our nation moving forward.
Our job is far from over. We must mobilize to unleash the clean energy economy, restructure the banking system, secure health care for all, guarantee the right to join a union, reform our immigration laws and restore America's moral authority abroad.
To do all this, we need a vibrant, inclusive progressive movement that will solidify the majority for reform. And we can't do that without you!
Register now to take advantage of Early Bird discounts and secure your spot at America's Future Now!
Just as when our annual gathering was called Take Back America, at America's Future Now! we will fortify our movement, share ideas, hone strategies, learn from the expanding ranks of progressive leaders, and prepare us for the battles we need to win.
You won't want to miss connecting with your fellow progressive thinkers, activists, organizers and bloggers. So take advantage of extended Early Bird registration today.
Register now to take advantage of Early Bird discounts and secure your spot at America's Future Now!
We face the greatest opportunity for progressive reform in a generation. But only if we seize this moment, and stand up to the forces of obstruction.
Let's do it together.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Gonçalves, Events Manager
Campaign for America's Future
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visit the web address below to tell your friends about this.
Tell-a-friend!
If you received this message from a friend, you can sign up for Campaign for America's Future.
You received this message from the Campaign for America's Future. We apologize if you received this message in error. To change your email address, update your contact info, or remove yourself - Tom Seymour - from our email list, please visit your subscription management page at http://ga3.org/caf/smp.tcl?nkey=xsiw8i34ojtimnkk&
OurFuture.org | Donate | Contact Us Subscribe to E-Publications
Early Bird Registration Extended!
Early Bird registration for America's Future Now! has been extended. Don't miss this opportunity to be part of the largest annual progressive gathering in Washington, and this historic opportunity for change. Register now. GO»
The corporate interests, conservative hacks and their media enablers are pushing a new, laughable line to obstruct change: President Obama is doing too much. Seriously.
Here's the reality: there is much to do, with crises threatening our health care, our climate and the foundations of our economy. The well-funded forces of obstruction may be swarming Washington, but they can't stop a united progressive grassroots!
Washington will see, up close, the strength of our progressive movement when America's Future Now! — the largest annual gathering of progressive activists and leaders in the nation's capital — convenes from June 1st to 3rd.
And to make it even easier for you to take part, we are extending Early Bird Registration for America's Future Now! through April 4th.
There is no better time to register. Click here NOW to secure your spot for America's Future Now!
Thousands of progressives will come together at America's Future Now! to determine how to build on our recent successes, and keep our nation moving forward.
Our job is far from over. We must mobilize to unleash the clean energy economy, restructure the banking system, secure health care for all, guarantee the right to join a union, reform our immigration laws and restore America's moral authority abroad.
To do all this, we need a vibrant, inclusive progressive movement that will solidify the majority for reform. And we can't do that without you!
Register now to take advantage of Early Bird discounts and secure your spot at America's Future Now!
Just as when our annual gathering was called Take Back America, at America's Future Now! we will fortify our movement, share ideas, hone strategies, learn from the expanding ranks of progressive leaders, and prepare us for the battles we need to win.
You won't want to miss connecting with your fellow progressive thinkers, activists, organizers and bloggers. So take advantage of extended Early Bird registration today.
Register now to take advantage of Early Bird discounts and secure your spot at America's Future Now!
We face the greatest opportunity for progressive reform in a generation. But only if we seize this moment, and stand up to the forces of obstruction.
Let's do it together.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Gonçalves, Events Manager
Campaign for America's Future
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Visit the web address below to tell your friends about this.
Tell-a-friend!
If you received this message from a friend, you can sign up for Campaign for America's Future.
You received this message from the Campaign for America's Future. We apologize if you received this message in error. To change your email address, update your contact info, or remove yourself - Tom Seymour - from our email list, please visit your subscription management page at http://ga3.org/caf/smp.tcl?nkey=xsiw8i34ojtimnkk&
OurFuture.org | Donate | Contact Us Subscribe to E-Publications
Sunday, March 15, 2009
North Dakota Legislative Actions
Senate Democratic Caucus
End of Week Report (Week 10)
March 13, 2009
Week 10 in the Legislature was dominated by a debate over how the state should spend $575 million in stimulus money coming down from the federal government.
The debate is over whether the state should spend all the stimulus money on top of current spending proposals to stimulate the economy, or whether the state should hold back its own spending in the wake of the stimulus money. This latter approach—recommended by Gov. John Hoeven—would cut the stimulus’s effect almost in half by holding back $233 million in state spending.
Democrats believe this money should be spent as it was intended: to stimulate the economy. There are many crucial needs out in our state including underfunding schools, dilapidated roads and bridges and social service needs such as healthcare. The great news is that our state can solve these problems, while not spending a dime of state money and creating jobs and economic activity for our state.
Most states are using the stimulus money to fill holes in their budgets. North Dakota has the flexibility of having this debate because we are not yet facing the recessionary winds, and accompanying budget gaps, of many other states. Spending the stimulus as intended will help keep us as a happy exception.
In other matters:
-- HB 1572, which passed the House earlier this year, is the much-hyped abortion bill that would grant human rights to a fetus. If passed and signed by the Governor, it could set North Dakota up for a court challenge to Roe v. Wade.
The battle over whether North Dakota should go down this road took an interesting turn last week when the North Dakota Catholic Conference— a staunch abortion foe-- came out and said it could not support the bill as currently written. The Catholic Conference said it could only support the bill if it were amended to be more of a general statement that human life begins at conception, which would not trigger a court challenge. The group believes that opposing Roe v. Wade with a measure granting human rights to the unborn would not be an effective strategy in the quest to have this law overturned. The law has been vigorously opposed by abortion rights groups such as Planned Parenthood.
--HB 1400, this year’s main K-12 education funding bill, was stripped of preschool funding last week.
The $3.5 million in early childhood funding was cut out in the Senate Education Committee, affecting about 7,000 children across North Dakota. The funding originated in the Governor’s executive budget recommendation and passed the State House.
These funding cuts jeopardize the benefits that accompany widespread preschool education—a head start on learning, better health and earlier socialization. At a time when our state has a budget surplus and a windfall of stimulus money from the federal government, there is no excuse for cutting the funding that supports our children’s pre-school programs.
--SB 2184, a bill to exempt vehicle manufacturer’s rebates from the state excise tax, cleared the House last week after prior Senate approval. The change seeks to remedy the surprised look that many vehicle buyers have on their face when they find out they have to pay taxes on the amount of the rebate they receive when buying a car. For example, if somebody bought a $30,000 vehicle and received a $5,000 manufacturer’s rebate, they would have to pay sales tax on the full $30,000—not on the $25,000 they actually paid for the vehicle. After this change, they will pay tax on the post-rebate amount.
---SB 2217, a bill co-sponsored by Sen. JoNell Bakke, (D-43 Grand Forks), would punish parents of students who habitually skip school. The punishment would be a $500 fine.
Supporters of the bill say it is a necessary step to get parents on the school’s side in making sure their children attend regularly. It would help break the truancy pattern early, and could lead to higher graduation rates.
House members heard testimony on the bill last week. It has already passed the Senate and will be coming up for a vote in the full House.
--HB 1496, a bill to relieve companies of asbestos litigation liability from firms they purchased, passed the Senate on a narrow party-line vote last week. The vote was 24-22, with all Democrats opposed.
The change is supported by the company Crown Cork & Seal and national groups such as the American Legislative Exchange Council. Crown is an example of the situations that this change would indemnify: the company has faced more than $600 million in asbestos liability because it owned an asbestos manufacturer for less than a year in the early 1960s. If the bill is signed by Gov. John Hoeven, workers will lose an avenue to be compensated for asbestos-related health problems.
End of Week Report (Week 10)
March 13, 2009
Week 10 in the Legislature was dominated by a debate over how the state should spend $575 million in stimulus money coming down from the federal government.
The debate is over whether the state should spend all the stimulus money on top of current spending proposals to stimulate the economy, or whether the state should hold back its own spending in the wake of the stimulus money. This latter approach—recommended by Gov. John Hoeven—would cut the stimulus’s effect almost in half by holding back $233 million in state spending.
Democrats believe this money should be spent as it was intended: to stimulate the economy. There are many crucial needs out in our state including underfunding schools, dilapidated roads and bridges and social service needs such as healthcare. The great news is that our state can solve these problems, while not spending a dime of state money and creating jobs and economic activity for our state.
Most states are using the stimulus money to fill holes in their budgets. North Dakota has the flexibility of having this debate because we are not yet facing the recessionary winds, and accompanying budget gaps, of many other states. Spending the stimulus as intended will help keep us as a happy exception.
In other matters:
-- HB 1572, which passed the House earlier this year, is the much-hyped abortion bill that would grant human rights to a fetus. If passed and signed by the Governor, it could set North Dakota up for a court challenge to Roe v. Wade.
The battle over whether North Dakota should go down this road took an interesting turn last week when the North Dakota Catholic Conference— a staunch abortion foe-- came out and said it could not support the bill as currently written. The Catholic Conference said it could only support the bill if it were amended to be more of a general statement that human life begins at conception, which would not trigger a court challenge. The group believes that opposing Roe v. Wade with a measure granting human rights to the unborn would not be an effective strategy in the quest to have this law overturned. The law has been vigorously opposed by abortion rights groups such as Planned Parenthood.
--HB 1400, this year’s main K-12 education funding bill, was stripped of preschool funding last week.
The $3.5 million in early childhood funding was cut out in the Senate Education Committee, affecting about 7,000 children across North Dakota. The funding originated in the Governor’s executive budget recommendation and passed the State House.
These funding cuts jeopardize the benefits that accompany widespread preschool education—a head start on learning, better health and earlier socialization. At a time when our state has a budget surplus and a windfall of stimulus money from the federal government, there is no excuse for cutting the funding that supports our children’s pre-school programs.
--SB 2184, a bill to exempt vehicle manufacturer’s rebates from the state excise tax, cleared the House last week after prior Senate approval. The change seeks to remedy the surprised look that many vehicle buyers have on their face when they find out they have to pay taxes on the amount of the rebate they receive when buying a car. For example, if somebody bought a $30,000 vehicle and received a $5,000 manufacturer’s rebate, they would have to pay sales tax on the full $30,000—not on the $25,000 they actually paid for the vehicle. After this change, they will pay tax on the post-rebate amount.
---SB 2217, a bill co-sponsored by Sen. JoNell Bakke, (D-43 Grand Forks), would punish parents of students who habitually skip school. The punishment would be a $500 fine.
Supporters of the bill say it is a necessary step to get parents on the school’s side in making sure their children attend regularly. It would help break the truancy pattern early, and could lead to higher graduation rates.
House members heard testimony on the bill last week. It has already passed the Senate and will be coming up for a vote in the full House.
--HB 1496, a bill to relieve companies of asbestos litigation liability from firms they purchased, passed the Senate on a narrow party-line vote last week. The vote was 24-22, with all Democrats opposed.
The change is supported by the company Crown Cork & Seal and national groups such as the American Legislative Exchange Council. Crown is an example of the situations that this change would indemnify: the company has faced more than $600 million in asbestos liability because it owned an asbestos manufacturer for less than a year in the early 1960s. If the bill is signed by Gov. John Hoeven, workers will lose an avenue to be compensated for asbestos-related health problems.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Medicare Update
Hello Everyone,
Please enjoy the information contained in this edition of Frontier Focus. Please be sure to share it with your members, colleagues, providers and office billing staff. Thank you for your continued efforts to broadcast Medicare information to the providers in Region VIII.
Table of Contents
1. Special ODF on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) With the American College of Cardiology
2. 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Question & Answer Session
3. “Ask the Contractor” Call for Section 1011 Providers to Examine the Provider Payment Determination (PPD) Form
4. National Patient Safety Awareness Week
5. New CMS Web Page for the Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing)
6. Update on Final Rules Regarding ICD-10 Code Sets and Standards Governing Electronic Transactions
7. DMEPOS Supplier Accreditation Reminder
8. Update to Inpatient PPS (IPPS) PC Pricer for Fiscal Year (FY) 2007
9. New From the Medicare Learning Network
10. March Flu Shot Reminder
11. Extra Help for Beneficiaries Paying for Prescription Drugs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Special ODF on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) With the American College of Cardiology
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Special Open Door Forum:
2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative
With the American College of Cardiology
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
3:30pm-5pm ET
Conference Call Only
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will co-host a Special Open Door Forum on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Program with the American College of Cardiology (ACC).
The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) made the PQRI program permanent, but only authorized incentive payments through 2010. Eligible professionals who meet the criteria for satisfactory submission of quality measures data for services furnished during the reporting period, January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009, will earn an incentive payment of 2.0 percent of their total allowed charges for Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) covered professional services furnished during that same period. The 2009 PQRI consists of 153 quality measures and 7 measures groups.
This Special ODF will be geared towards cardiology-specific topics related to participation in PQRI. Following the presentation, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of the ACC presenters as well as CMS PQRI subject matter expert, Sylvia Publ.
PQRI information and educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at, http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI , on the CMS website.
We look forward to your participation.
Special Open Door Forum Participation Instructions:
Dial: 1-800-837-1935 Conference ID 89036042
Note: TTY Communications Relay Services are available for the Hearing Impaired.
For TTY services dial 7-1-1 or 1-800-855-2880 and for Internet Relay services click here http://www.consumer.att.com/relay/which/index.html
A Relay Communications Assistant will A Relay Communications Assistant will help.
An audio recording and transcript of this Special Forum will be posted to the Special Open Door Forum website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/OpenDoorForums/05_ODF_SpecialODF.asp and will be accessible for downloading beginning March 26, 2009.
For automatic emails of Open Door Forum schedule updates (E-Mailing list subscriptions) and to view Frequently Asked Questions please visit our website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/opendoorforums/
Thank you for your interest in CMS Open Door Forums.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Question & Answer Session
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Provider Communications Group will host the first in a series of national provider conference calls on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). This toll-free call will take place from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., EDT, on Thursday, March 19, 2009.
The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) made the PQRI program permanent, but only authorized incentive payments through 2010. Eligible professionals who meet the criteria for satisfactory submission of quality measures data for services furnished during the reporting period, January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009, will earn an incentive payment of 2.0 percent of their total allowed charges for Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) covered professional services furnished during that same period. The 2009 PQRI consists of 153 quality measures and 7 measures groups.
Following a short presentation on what’s new for the 2009 PQRI, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of CMS PQRI subject matter experts.
Educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at, http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI , on the CMS website, in the Educational Resources section. Feel free to download the resources prior to the call so that you may ask questions of the presenters, Dr. Michael Rapp and Dr. Daniel Green.
Conference call details:
Date: March 19, 2009
Conference Title: 2009 PQRI- National Provider Call
Time: 1:30 p.m. EDT
In order to receive the call-in information, you must register for the call. It is important to note that if you are planning to sit in with a group, only one person needs to register to receive the call-in data. This registration is solely to reserve a phone line, NOT to allow participation. If you cannot attend the call, replay information is available below.
Registration will close at 1:30 p.m. EDT on March 18, 2009, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
To register for the call participants need to go to: http://www2.eventsvc.com/palmettogba/031909
Fill in all required data.
Verify your time zone is displayed correctly the drop down box.
Click "Register".
You will be taken to the “Thank you for registering” page and will receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Note: Please print and save this page, in the event that your server blocks the confirmation emails. If you do not receive the confirmation email, please check your spam/junk mail filter as it may have been directed there.
For those of you who will be unable to attend, a replay option will be available shortly following the end of the call. This replay will be accessible from 4:30 p.m. EDT 3/19/2009 until 11:59 p.m. EDT 3/26/2009. The call in data for the replay is (800) 642-1687 and the passcode is 84546375.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. “Ask the Contractor” Call for Section 1011 Providers to Examine the Provider Payment Determination (PPD) Form
The National Contractor for the Section 1011 program, TrailBlazer Health Enterprises®, is hosting the first of two “Ask the Contractor” Teleconferences (ACT) for 2009 on Thursday, March 26, 2009 from 1-2:30 p.m. (CT).
This ACT is designed for Section 1011 providers and will examine the Provider Payment Determination (PPD) form.
Ask the Contractor Teleconference – Section 1011 Providers
Thursday, March 26, 2009
1-2:30 p.m. (CT)
You may register for the event on the calendar of events page of the Section 1011 Web site, http://www.trailblazerhealth.com/Calendar/Default.aspx
A confirmation e-mail with the dial-in information will be sent to the e-mail address provided when your registration is approved.
A question-and-answer session concludes the teleconference and you may e-mail your questions in advance through the close of business Thursday, March 19, 2009 to section.1011@trailblazerhealth.com with Ask the Contractor in the subject line.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
4. National Patient Safety Awareness Week
This week is National Patient Safety Awareness Week! As part of National Patient Safety Week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reminds beneficiaries and health care professionals what patients and their local healthcare providers can do to improve the safety of care. CMS is also working to make health care safer through its Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) Program.
What can patients/consumers do to make health care safer?
According to the National Patient Safety Foundation, consumers can help bring patient safety to the forefront of healthcare providers’ agendas:
· Ask your hospital or health care professional about patient safety, and how communication and partnership between you and your providers can be improved.
· Ask your hospital or health care organization what they are doing for Patient Safety Awareness Week, and attend events to learn more about patient safety.
· Communicate with your provider about your health care safety concerns.
· Let your health care provider know who they should talk with in the case that you are unable to speak for yourself.
Consumers can also work with the Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) in their state to raise concerns about the quality or safety of care they or a loved one have received under the Medicare program. QIOs will work to find the reason why things happened to cause the concern and to determine the likelihood that it will happen again. The purpose of a quality of care review is not to punish the doctor, but to help improve care delivery for future patients. In cases where chances are high that the scenario will happen again, the QIO will help health care providers make changes in procedures to prevent future problems.
CMS has published two guides for consumers about working with QIOs about quality/safety of care problems.
· Quality of Care Concerns: What Can Your Quality Improvement Organization Address? (Publication CMS-11362), available online at http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11362.pdf; and
· Frequently Asked Questions: What to Do If You Have a Quality of Care Concern (Publication CMS-11348), available online at http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11348.pdf.
Consumers can learn more about how the QIO works with them in their state by visiting the directory of QIOs online at http://www.medicare.gov/Contacts.
What is CMS doing to make health care safer?
In addition to working with consumers on quality of care problems, QIOs are working nationwide with select hospitals and nursing homes to improve patient safety by:
• Improving surgical safety/infection rates.
• Reducing rates of certain infections in hospitals.
• Intensively working with “nursing homes in need.”
• Improving care for patients with heart failure.
• Preventing pressure ulcers (or “bed sores”) in patients from nursing homes and hospitals.
• Eliminating physical restraints in nursing homes.
• Combating drug-drug interactions and potentially inappropriate medication errors.
Health care professionals can learn more about how QIOs are making care safer at http://www.qualitynet.org/medqic. Our website contains more information about each of these tasks, as well as tools designed to help providers improve quality in each of these areas. Professionals can also contact the Patient Safety QIO Support Center at psqiosc@okqio.sdps.org.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
5. New CMS Web Page for the Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing)
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Announces New Web Page on the Electronic
Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing)
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce the new Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing) web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERXIncentive on the CMS website. All information about the E-Prescribing Incentive Program has been moved from the CMS PQRI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERXIncentive. This new web page provides information about the new E-Prescribing incentive program that was authorized by the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA).
Please note that many new resources have also been added to the E-Prescribing Incentive web page as part of the migration to the new URL. Included on this page in the Downloads section is:
• A 2009 Electronic Prescribing (E-Prescribing) Incentive Program Made Simple Fact Sheet;
• A Spanish version of the Introduction to E-Prescribing Incentive Fact Sheet;
• A Sample Electronic Prescribing Claim; and
• Information on how to access the audiotapes and slides from the National E-Prescribing Conference that was held in October 2008 for continuing education credit.
New and updated information will continually be added, so please visit the Electronic Incentive Program web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERXIncentive on the CMS website on a frequent basis.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
6. Update on Final Rules Regarding ICD-10 Code Sets and Standards Governing Electronic Transactions
On January 15, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released two final rules that will facilitate the United States’ ongoing transition to an electronic health care environment through adoption of an updated set of diagnosis and procedure codes and updated standards for electronic health care and pharmacy transactions.
In accordance with the White House Chief of Staff’s memorandum of January 20, 2009 entitled “Regulatory Review,” a determination has been made that the effective date will not be extended and the comment period will not be reopened for either of these rules.
The first rule finalizes new code sets to be used for reporting diagnoses and procedures on health care transactions. This final rule replaces the ICD-9-CM code sets, developed nearly 30 years ago, with greatly expanded ICD-10 code sets. The second final rule adopts updated versions of the standards governing electronic transactions under the authority of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. The updated versions replace the current standards and will promote greater use of electronic transactions. In response to public comments suggesting that more time would be needed for effective industry implementation, the final rules include later compliance dates. More specifically, the final rules provide compliance dates of Jan. 1, 2012, for the transaction standards and Oct. 1, 2013, for the ICD-10 code set.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
7. DMEPOS Supplier Accreditation Reminder
Deadline is September 30, 2009
CMS wants to remind suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) who bill Medicare under Part B that they must obtain accreditation by September 30, 2009. In order to retain or obtain a Medicare Part B billing number, all DMEPOS suppliers (except for exempted professionals and other persons as specified by the Secretary) must comply with Medicare’s supplier and quality standards and become accredited. DMEPOS suppliers should contact an accreditation organization right away to obtain information about the accreditation process and submit an application.
DMEPOS suppliers who submitted a completed application to an accrediting organization, on or before January 31, 2009, will have an accreditation decision (either full accreditation or denied accreditation) on or before the September 30, 2009 deadline.
DMEPOS suppliers submitting applications to an accrediting organization, on or after February 1, 2009, may or may not have their accreditation decision by the September 30, 2009 deadline.
The accreditation requirement applies to suppliers of durable medical equipment, medical supplies, home dialysis supplies and equipment, therapeutic shoes, parenteral/enteral nutrition, transfusion medicine and prosthetic devices, prosthetics and orthotics. Pharmacies, pedorthists, mastectomy fitters, orthopedic fitters/technicians and athletic trainers must also meet the September 30, 2009 deadline for DMEPOS accreditation.
Certain eligible professionals and other persons as specified by the Secretary are exempt from the accreditation requirement.
Further information on the DMEPOS accreditation requirements along with a list of the accreditation organizations and those professionals and other persons exempted from accreditation may be found at www.cms.hhs.gov/medicareprovidersupenroll.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
8. Update to Inpatient PPS (IPPS) PC Pricer for Fiscal Year (FY) 2007
To correct pricing issues, the Inpatient PPS (IPPS) PC Pricer for Fiscal Year (FY) 2007 has been updated with the January 2008 Provider data. If you use the IPPS PC Pricers, please go to the “Inpatient PPS PC Pricer” web page (http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PCPricer/03_inpatient.asp), under the “Downloads” section and download the FY 2007 version of the PC Pricer (posted 03/05/2009).
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
9. New From the Medicare Learning Network
A revised MLN Matters Special Edition Article (SE0837) is now available @ http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0837.pdf on the CMS website. This revised article entitled: “Preparing for a Transition from an FI/Carrier to a Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC)” is intended to assist all providers that will be affected by Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) implementations. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is providing this information to make you aware of what to expect as your FI or carrier transitions its work to a MAC. Knowing what to expect and preparing, as outlined in this article, will minimize disruption in your Medicare business.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
10. March Flu Shot Reminder
It’s Not Too Late to Give and Get the Flu Shot!
In the US, the peak of flu season typically occurs anywhere from late December through March; however, flu season can last as late as May. Each office visit presents an opportunity for you to talk with your patients about the importance of getting an annual flu shot and a one time pneumococcal vaccination. Protect yourself, your patients, and your family and friends by getting and giving the flu shot. Don’t Get the Flu. Don’t Give the Flu.
Remember - Influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations plus their administration are covered Part B benefits. Note that influenza and pneumococcal vaccines are NOT Part D covered drugs.
Health care professionals and their staff can learn more about Medicare’s Part B coverage of adult immunizations and related provider education resources, by reviewing Special Edition MLN Matters article SE0838 http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0838.pdf on the CMS website.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
11. Extra Help for Beneficiaries Paying for Prescription Drugs
Do You Know Someone Who Is Having Trouble Paying For Prescription Drugs?
Medicare Can Help!
· If an individual has limited income and resources, they may qualify for extra help from Medicare. It could be worth over $3,300 in savings on prescription drug costs per year.
· Encourage people with Medicare to file for Extra Help online: https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps6z/i1020/main.html or by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.
· State Health Insurance Information Program (SHIP) offices can assist with the application. Find contact information for a local SHIP Counselor at http://www.medicare.gov/contacts/static/allStateContacts.asp or by calling
1-800-MEDICARE.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Lucretia James
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Region VIII
1600 Broadway, Suite 700
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 844-1568
lucretia.james@cms.hhs.gov
Please enjoy the information contained in this edition of Frontier Focus. Please be sure to share it with your members, colleagues, providers and office billing staff. Thank you for your continued efforts to broadcast Medicare information to the providers in Region VIII.
Table of Contents
1. Special ODF on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) With the American College of Cardiology
2. 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Question & Answer Session
3. “Ask the Contractor” Call for Section 1011 Providers to Examine the Provider Payment Determination (PPD) Form
4. National Patient Safety Awareness Week
5. New CMS Web Page for the Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing)
6. Update on Final Rules Regarding ICD-10 Code Sets and Standards Governing Electronic Transactions
7. DMEPOS Supplier Accreditation Reminder
8. Update to Inpatient PPS (IPPS) PC Pricer for Fiscal Year (FY) 2007
9. New From the Medicare Learning Network
10. March Flu Shot Reminder
11. Extra Help for Beneficiaries Paying for Prescription Drugs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
1. Special ODF on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) With the American College of Cardiology
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Special Open Door Forum:
2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative
With the American College of Cardiology
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
3:30pm-5pm ET
Conference Call Only
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) will co-host a Special Open Door Forum on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI) Program with the American College of Cardiology (ACC).
The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) made the PQRI program permanent, but only authorized incentive payments through 2010. Eligible professionals who meet the criteria for satisfactory submission of quality measures data for services furnished during the reporting period, January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009, will earn an incentive payment of 2.0 percent of their total allowed charges for Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) covered professional services furnished during that same period. The 2009 PQRI consists of 153 quality measures and 7 measures groups.
This Special ODF will be geared towards cardiology-specific topics related to participation in PQRI. Following the presentation, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of the ACC presenters as well as CMS PQRI subject matter expert, Sylvia Publ.
PQRI information and educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at, http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI , on the CMS website.
We look forward to your participation.
Special Open Door Forum Participation Instructions:
Dial: 1-800-837-1935 Conference ID 89036042
Note: TTY Communications Relay Services are available for the Hearing Impaired.
For TTY services dial 7-1-1 or 1-800-855-2880 and for Internet Relay services click here http://www.consumer.att.com/relay/which/index.html
A Relay Communications Assistant will A Relay Communications Assistant will help.
An audio recording and transcript of this Special Forum will be posted to the Special Open Door Forum website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/OpenDoorForums/05_ODF_SpecialODF.asp and will be accessible for downloading beginning March 26, 2009.
For automatic emails of Open Door Forum schedule updates (E-Mailing list subscriptions) and to view Frequently Asked Questions please visit our website at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/opendoorforums/
Thank you for your interest in CMS Open Door Forums.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
2. 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative National Provider Question & Answer Session
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ (CMS) Provider Communications Group will host the first in a series of national provider conference calls on the 2009 Physician Quality Reporting Initiative (PQRI). This toll-free call will take place from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m., EDT, on Thursday, March 19, 2009.
The Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA) made the PQRI program permanent, but only authorized incentive payments through 2010. Eligible professionals who meet the criteria for satisfactory submission of quality measures data for services furnished during the reporting period, January 1, 2009 - December 31, 2009, will earn an incentive payment of 2.0 percent of their total allowed charges for Physician Fee Schedule (PFS) covered professional services furnished during that same period. The 2009 PQRI consists of 153 quality measures and 7 measures groups.
Following a short presentation on what’s new for the 2009 PQRI, the lines will be opened to allow participants to ask questions of CMS PQRI subject matter experts.
Educational products are available on the PQRI dedicated web page located at, http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI , on the CMS website, in the Educational Resources section. Feel free to download the resources prior to the call so that you may ask questions of the presenters, Dr. Michael Rapp and Dr. Daniel Green.
Conference call details:
Date: March 19, 2009
Conference Title: 2009 PQRI- National Provider Call
Time: 1:30 p.m. EDT
In order to receive the call-in information, you must register for the call. It is important to note that if you are planning to sit in with a group, only one person needs to register to receive the call-in data. This registration is solely to reserve a phone line, NOT to allow participation. If you cannot attend the call, replay information is available below.
Registration will close at 1:30 p.m. EDT on March 18, 2009, or when available space has been filled. No exceptions will be made, so please be sure to register prior to this time.
To register for the call participants need to go to: http://www2.eventsvc.com/palmettogba/031909
Fill in all required data.
Verify your time zone is displayed correctly the drop down box.
Click "Register".
You will be taken to the “Thank you for registering” page and will receive a confirmation email shortly thereafter. Note: Please print and save this page, in the event that your server blocks the confirmation emails. If you do not receive the confirmation email, please check your spam/junk mail filter as it may have been directed there.
For those of you who will be unable to attend, a replay option will be available shortly following the end of the call. This replay will be accessible from 4:30 p.m. EDT 3/19/2009 until 11:59 p.m. EDT 3/26/2009. The call in data for the replay is (800) 642-1687 and the passcode is 84546375.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
3. “Ask the Contractor” Call for Section 1011 Providers to Examine the Provider Payment Determination (PPD) Form
The National Contractor for the Section 1011 program, TrailBlazer Health Enterprises®, is hosting the first of two “Ask the Contractor” Teleconferences (ACT) for 2009 on Thursday, March 26, 2009 from 1-2:30 p.m. (CT).
This ACT is designed for Section 1011 providers and will examine the Provider Payment Determination (PPD) form.
Ask the Contractor Teleconference – Section 1011 Providers
Thursday, March 26, 2009
1-2:30 p.m. (CT)
You may register for the event on the calendar of events page of the Section 1011 Web site, http://www.trailblazerhealth.com/Calendar/Default.aspx
A confirmation e-mail with the dial-in information will be sent to the e-mail address provided when your registration is approved.
A question-and-answer session concludes the teleconference and you may e-mail your questions in advance through the close of business Thursday, March 19, 2009 to section.1011@trailblazerhealth.com with Ask the Contractor in the subject line.
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4. National Patient Safety Awareness Week
This week is National Patient Safety Awareness Week! As part of National Patient Safety Week, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) reminds beneficiaries and health care professionals what patients and their local healthcare providers can do to improve the safety of care. CMS is also working to make health care safer through its Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) Program.
What can patients/consumers do to make health care safer?
According to the National Patient Safety Foundation, consumers can help bring patient safety to the forefront of healthcare providers’ agendas:
· Ask your hospital or health care professional about patient safety, and how communication and partnership between you and your providers can be improved.
· Ask your hospital or health care organization what they are doing for Patient Safety Awareness Week, and attend events to learn more about patient safety.
· Communicate with your provider about your health care safety concerns.
· Let your health care provider know who they should talk with in the case that you are unable to speak for yourself.
Consumers can also work with the Quality Improvement Organization (QIO) in their state to raise concerns about the quality or safety of care they or a loved one have received under the Medicare program. QIOs will work to find the reason why things happened to cause the concern and to determine the likelihood that it will happen again. The purpose of a quality of care review is not to punish the doctor, but to help improve care delivery for future patients. In cases where chances are high that the scenario will happen again, the QIO will help health care providers make changes in procedures to prevent future problems.
CMS has published two guides for consumers about working with QIOs about quality/safety of care problems.
· Quality of Care Concerns: What Can Your Quality Improvement Organization Address? (Publication CMS-11362), available online at http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11362.pdf; and
· Frequently Asked Questions: What to Do If You Have a Quality of Care Concern (Publication CMS-11348), available online at http://www.medicare.gov/Publications/Pubs/pdf/11348.pdf.
Consumers can learn more about how the QIO works with them in their state by visiting the directory of QIOs online at http://www.medicare.gov/Contacts.
What is CMS doing to make health care safer?
In addition to working with consumers on quality of care problems, QIOs are working nationwide with select hospitals and nursing homes to improve patient safety by:
• Improving surgical safety/infection rates.
• Reducing rates of certain infections in hospitals.
• Intensively working with “nursing homes in need.”
• Improving care for patients with heart failure.
• Preventing pressure ulcers (or “bed sores”) in patients from nursing homes and hospitals.
• Eliminating physical restraints in nursing homes.
• Combating drug-drug interactions and potentially inappropriate medication errors.
Health care professionals can learn more about how QIOs are making care safer at http://www.qualitynet.org/medqic. Our website contains more information about each of these tasks, as well as tools designed to help providers improve quality in each of these areas. Professionals can also contact the Patient Safety QIO Support Center at psqiosc@okqio.sdps.org.
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5. New CMS Web Page for the Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing)
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Announces New Web Page on the Electronic
Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing)
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is pleased to announce the new Electronic Prescribing Incentive Program (E-Prescribing) web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERXIncentive on the CMS website. All information about the E-Prescribing Incentive Program has been moved from the CMS PQRI web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PQRI to http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERXIncentive. This new web page provides information about the new E-Prescribing incentive program that was authorized by the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act of 2008 (MIPPA).
Please note that many new resources have also been added to the E-Prescribing Incentive web page as part of the migration to the new URL. Included on this page in the Downloads section is:
• A 2009 Electronic Prescribing (E-Prescribing) Incentive Program Made Simple Fact Sheet;
• A Spanish version of the Introduction to E-Prescribing Incentive Fact Sheet;
• A Sample Electronic Prescribing Claim; and
• Information on how to access the audiotapes and slides from the National E-Prescribing Conference that was held in October 2008 for continuing education credit.
New and updated information will continually be added, so please visit the Electronic Incentive Program web page at http://www.cms.hhs.gov/ERXIncentive on the CMS website on a frequent basis.
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6. Update on Final Rules Regarding ICD-10 Code Sets and Standards Governing Electronic Transactions
On January 15, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released two final rules that will facilitate the United States’ ongoing transition to an electronic health care environment through adoption of an updated set of diagnosis and procedure codes and updated standards for electronic health care and pharmacy transactions.
In accordance with the White House Chief of Staff’s memorandum of January 20, 2009 entitled “Regulatory Review,” a determination has been made that the effective date will not be extended and the comment period will not be reopened for either of these rules.
The first rule finalizes new code sets to be used for reporting diagnoses and procedures on health care transactions. This final rule replaces the ICD-9-CM code sets, developed nearly 30 years ago, with greatly expanded ICD-10 code sets. The second final rule adopts updated versions of the standards governing electronic transactions under the authority of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. The updated versions replace the current standards and will promote greater use of electronic transactions. In response to public comments suggesting that more time would be needed for effective industry implementation, the final rules include later compliance dates. More specifically, the final rules provide compliance dates of Jan. 1, 2012, for the transaction standards and Oct. 1, 2013, for the ICD-10 code set.
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7. DMEPOS Supplier Accreditation Reminder
Deadline is September 30, 2009
CMS wants to remind suppliers of durable medical equipment, prosthetics, orthotics and supplies (DMEPOS) who bill Medicare under Part B that they must obtain accreditation by September 30, 2009. In order to retain or obtain a Medicare Part B billing number, all DMEPOS suppliers (except for exempted professionals and other persons as specified by the Secretary) must comply with Medicare’s supplier and quality standards and become accredited. DMEPOS suppliers should contact an accreditation organization right away to obtain information about the accreditation process and submit an application.
DMEPOS suppliers who submitted a completed application to an accrediting organization, on or before January 31, 2009, will have an accreditation decision (either full accreditation or denied accreditation) on or before the September 30, 2009 deadline.
DMEPOS suppliers submitting applications to an accrediting organization, on or after February 1, 2009, may or may not have their accreditation decision by the September 30, 2009 deadline.
The accreditation requirement applies to suppliers of durable medical equipment, medical supplies, home dialysis supplies and equipment, therapeutic shoes, parenteral/enteral nutrition, transfusion medicine and prosthetic devices, prosthetics and orthotics. Pharmacies, pedorthists, mastectomy fitters, orthopedic fitters/technicians and athletic trainers must also meet the September 30, 2009 deadline for DMEPOS accreditation.
Certain eligible professionals and other persons as specified by the Secretary are exempt from the accreditation requirement.
Further information on the DMEPOS accreditation requirements along with a list of the accreditation organizations and those professionals and other persons exempted from accreditation may be found at www.cms.hhs.gov/medicareprovidersupenroll.
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8. Update to Inpatient PPS (IPPS) PC Pricer for Fiscal Year (FY) 2007
To correct pricing issues, the Inpatient PPS (IPPS) PC Pricer for Fiscal Year (FY) 2007 has been updated with the January 2008 Provider data. If you use the IPPS PC Pricers, please go to the “Inpatient PPS PC Pricer” web page (http://www.cms.hhs.gov/PCPricer/03_inpatient.asp), under the “Downloads” section and download the FY 2007 version of the PC Pricer (posted 03/05/2009).
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9. New From the Medicare Learning Network
A revised MLN Matters Special Edition Article (SE0837) is now available @ http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0837.pdf on the CMS website. This revised article entitled: “Preparing for a Transition from an FI/Carrier to a Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC)” is intended to assist all providers that will be affected by Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) implementations. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is providing this information to make you aware of what to expect as your FI or carrier transitions its work to a MAC. Knowing what to expect and preparing, as outlined in this article, will minimize disruption in your Medicare business.
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10. March Flu Shot Reminder
It’s Not Too Late to Give and Get the Flu Shot!
In the US, the peak of flu season typically occurs anywhere from late December through March; however, flu season can last as late as May. Each office visit presents an opportunity for you to talk with your patients about the importance of getting an annual flu shot and a one time pneumococcal vaccination. Protect yourself, your patients, and your family and friends by getting and giving the flu shot. Don’t Get the Flu. Don’t Give the Flu.
Remember - Influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations plus their administration are covered Part B benefits. Note that influenza and pneumococcal vaccines are NOT Part D covered drugs.
Health care professionals and their staff can learn more about Medicare’s Part B coverage of adult immunizations and related provider education resources, by reviewing Special Edition MLN Matters article SE0838 http://www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/SE0838.pdf on the CMS website.
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11. Extra Help for Beneficiaries Paying for Prescription Drugs
Do You Know Someone Who Is Having Trouble Paying For Prescription Drugs?
Medicare Can Help!
· If an individual has limited income and resources, they may qualify for extra help from Medicare. It could be worth over $3,300 in savings on prescription drug costs per year.
· Encourage people with Medicare to file for Extra Help online: https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps6z/i1020/main.html or by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 to apply over the phone.
· State Health Insurance Information Program (SHIP) offices can assist with the application. Find contact information for a local SHIP Counselor at http://www.medicare.gov/contacts/static/allStateContacts.asp or by calling
1-800-MEDICARE.
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Lucretia James
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Region VIII
1600 Broadway, Suite 700
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 844-1568
lucretia.james@cms.hhs.gov
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