Damage from Spring Flooding nearing $30 Million

GOGEBIC COUNTY – As surveys of damage due to one of the heaviest snow season on record and then the resulting rapid snowmelt and associated flooding are completed, estimates of damage in six counties in the Western U.P. are beginning to flow in. Steve Derusha, 8th District Coordinator of the Michigan State Police’s Emergency Management and Homeland Security Division says estimated costs of just under $30 million reported thusfar now qualifies the region to apply for federal aid. Gogebic, Ontonagon, Houghton, Baraga, Marquette and Iron counties have banded together to make sure the area qualifies for the almost $18.5 million dollar threshold. So far, the state has validated $20 million of the $30 million reported. Teams of officials from FEMA and the state are now being scheduled to study the damage and needs of the community.