The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced this week its intent to reimburse state and local Iowa governments, agencies, and eligible non-profit organizations for costs incurred to repair or replace facilities damaged by the derecho. The severe storms struck on August 10. Such organizations and local governments in Washington, Iowa, and Johnson counties are eligible.

In a public notice issued Monday, FEMA explained the public assistance is for activities that may affect historic properties; activities that are located in, or affect, wetland areas or the 100-year floodplain; and critical actions within the 500-year floodplain. Items that are included and may be considered include restoring eligible damaged facilities like removing debris, non-emergency protective measures, repairing or replacing roads, dams, public buildings, water control facilities, and related equipment.

The deadline to apply for a letter of intent and interest for this Public Assistance is Friday and there’s another 30 days after that to submit the official application.