Borough Declares Emergency for Talkeetna

The Matanuska-Susitna Borough Assembly has formally declared a local emergency in response to imminent flooding threats in Talkeetna and is requesting State support to protect residents, infrastructure, and property while leveraging critical federal funding opportunities.

On July 21, 2026, the Borough Assembly adopted Resolution No. 26-065, declaring a Local Emergency in Response to Imminent 2026 Talkeetna Flooding and requesting State assistance. The resolution has been submitted to the State Emergency Operations Center (SEOC) and the Alaska Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.

“Talkeetna continues to face significant and recurring flood risks that threaten public safety, critical infrastructure, private property, and the long-term viability of the community,” said Borough Manager Mike Brown. “Recent rainfall and elevated river conditions have heightened concerns, and local resources alone are not sufficient to meet the challenges ahead.”

The Borough has secured two major federal funding opportunities that could deliver long-term flood mitigation solutions, but both require substantial non-federal matching funds:

• FEMA FFY26 Congressionally Directed Spending Grant: $2 million in federal funding with a required $500,000 non-federal match to complete planning and design for a comprehensive flood protection system.
• NRCS Buyout Program: $1,812,504 in federal funding with a required 25% local match of $604,168 (total project value $2,416,672) for voluntary property acquisition in flood-prone areas.

The Borough’s Talkeetna Flood Special Service Area generates approximately $80,000 annually and currently has less than $100,000 available for matching requirements. Without additional support, the Borough cannot fully leverage these federal funds.

In addition to long-term mitigation, immediate State assistance may be needed for emergency response, recovery efforts, and potential repairs to existing flood protection facilities impacted by river conditions.

The Borough is seeking State funding to meet the required non-federal matches and to support ongoing emergency operations. A coordinated, long-term strategy involving the State of Alaska, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, FEMA, and NRCS is viewed as essential to reducing flood risk in Talkeetna.

Media contact Public Affairs Director/Stefan Hinman/This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it./(907) 861-8520