Obama approves disaster funds for NW Minn.
(AP) - President Barack Obama has approved a major disaster declaration for parts of northwestern Minnesota hit by flooding in the past few weeks.
Gov. Tim Pawlenty says Thursday that the declaration clears the way for federal assistance in Traverse, Wilkin, Clay, Norman, Polk, Marshall and Kittson counties.
Pawlenty requested an expedited major disaster declaration on March 25.
The declaration will start the flow of funds to state and local governments and some private non-profit groups for the repair and replacement of damaged facilities.
He says it will also will help pay for things that prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards.
The move does not include assistance to individuals and households.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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