Summit County Citizens Voice

Federal aid for Colorado’s wildfire disasters has been approved by the Obama administration.

*Read: Colorado Western Slope firefighting resources stretched

Federal funds will help with emergency work and rehabilitation efforts

By Summit Voice

SUMMIT COUNTY — Gov. John Hickenlooper announced Thursday evening that Colorado’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration has been received, reviewed and accepted by the White House.

“This evening we learned from the White House that our disaster declaration request has been accepted. We appreciate the quick review and response,” said Hickenlooper. “With this funding we will be able to provide much needed assistance to our communities affected by wildfires.”  

“This news, combined with President Obama’s visit, makes clear that the whole country is with us in fighting these fires and recovering from their devastation.”
Colorado’s recent wildfires have had a significant impact on local communities, which have suffered loses, damages and resource needs in both public and private property.

“The presidential major disaster declaration will bring additional federal assistance to Colorado communities in El Paso and Larimer counties impacted by the High Park and Waldo Canyon Fires. 

”Brave fire fighters and emergency response workers are on the fire lines tonight in a number of our communities. We are grateful for all they are doing.”

The major disaster declaration will bring additional federal assistance to Colorado to provide resources for crisis counseling and disaster unemployment assistance; public assistance for emergency work; and a hazard mitigation grant program.

Filed under: climate and weather, Colorado, Drought, forest fires Tagged: | Colorado fires, federal disaster declaration, Gov Hickenlooper, High Park Fire, President Obama, Waldo Canyon Fire