Beyond the Sirens: Why Long-Term Recovery Is the Backbone of Disaster Resilience

When disaster strikes, the images that dominate our screens are immediate and dramatic: flooded streets, burning neighborhoods, helicopters lifting survivors to safety. First responders such as firefighters, EMTs, and law enforcement rightly take center stage as lives are saved and urgent needs are met.

But when the sirens fade and the news cycle moves on, a quieter, longer emergency begins. This phase determines whether communities will truly recover or remain vulnerable to the next time disaster hits.  

The Work That Begins After the Headlines Subside

According to ACE National Crew Program Director Adam Scherm, recovery involves intense labor.

“Long-term recovery is the unglamorous, essential work that follows disaster response. It includes mucking out flooded homes, removing hazardous debris, stabilizing eroded hillsides, restoring damaged trails and parks, rebuilding natural infrastructure, and managing invasive species that surge after disturbance. It can take months or years and it often receives far less attention than the initial response.” Scherm said.

Without this recovery support, communities remain exposed. Damaged ecosystems fail to buffer future floods and fires. Public lands that support tourism and local economies remain unsafe or inaccessible. Neighborhoods struggle to rebuild, not just physically, but socially and economically.

ACE’s Senior Director of Disaster Mitigation and Response, Megan Bahari, who has worked in disaster response for over 10 years, cites an increasing need for long-term support.

“As disasters grow more frequent and severe, long-term recovery is foundational to resilience,” says Bahari. “If we want communities that are not just able to survive disasters but truly recover and thrive, we must recognize, fund, and support the long-term work that follows the headlines. Conservation corps are an ideal fit for communities seeking to continue their recovery process and begin rebuilding.”

 

American Conservation Experience (ACE), a national nonprofit conservation corps, has been involved in the recovery efforts of multiple notable natural disasters. 

Hurricane Helene - In Western North Carolina, following Hurricane Helene, ACE crews based in Asheville supported communities as floodwaters receded. They mucked and gutted homes, cleared debris-clogged roads vital to local economies, and helped organize and distribute donations to residents in need. The crews are also supporting trail and habitat restoration efforts in the nearby Pisgah National Forest - an important economic driver for the community.

Typhoon Mawar - ACE crews supported recovery efforts in Guam by removing extensive vegetative debris from homes and yards. They utilized their chainsaw and hand tool expertise to break down large debris into manageable portions for local authorities to facilitate the removal.  

Maui Wildfires - ACE supported other disaster response teams in distributing donations to community members who lost everything they owned in the fires.

Iowa Flooding - After widespread flooding, ACE assisted residents in Spencer with debris removal, mold mitigation, and home cleanouts, with a focus on elderly and other vulnerable community members. They also helped to create the community’s new Standard Operating Procedure guide for muck and guts. 

Hurricane Ian - In Florida, ACE safely removed cabinets, appliances, flooring and walls in homes to remove mold and also installed new drywall to support home owners.

“The work we do rarely makes the headlines,” says Scherm. “But it's the backbone of recovery and the foundation for future preparedness. These opportunities also provide a life changing experience for our crew members who make a strong impact in communities.”

Investing in Recovery Is Investing in People

Long-term recovery isn’t just about repairing landscapes; it’s also about strengthening communities and preparing a workforce for increased weather events.

Conservation corps like ACE deploy trained young adults who are ready to work in difficult conditions, adapt quickly, and stay for the long haul. In the process, these individuals gain hands-on skills in disaster recovery, natural resource management, and public service - skills that are essential as disasters continue to reshape our country.

This dual impact including restoring land while building a resilient workforce makes long-term recovery one of the smartest investments we can make.

A Call to Look Beyond the Sirens

“Disasters are where resilience is truly built,” said Bahari. “With thoughtful policies, sustained investment, and strong community partnerships, we can ensure recovery efforts are not only effective in the short term, but also strengthen communities for the future.”

To learn more about ACE’s disaster mitigation and response work or to make a donation, visit www.usaconservation.org.