Washington, DC – The Arkansas Congressional Delegation today announced that President Bush has issued a major disaster declaration for the state as it recovers from damage caused in September by Tropical Storm Ike.

“The federal government has a critical role to play in our state’s recovery efforts, and I’m pleased it has taken this step to provide much-needed assistance,” said U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln. “I remain committed to ensuring that Arkansas receives the funding and resources we need to keep our state strong.”

“The heavy winds and flooding caused by Tropical Storm Ike weakened infrastructure across Arkansas,” said U.S. Senator Mark Pryor.  “I’m glad FEMA responded to our congressional delegation’s request for assistance.  These federal funds are critical to the recovery process.”

“These federal relief funds will give the affected communities the resources they need to move forward and recover. Through several disasters this year, the people of Arkansas have shown a great deal of courage and spirit while working together. The delegation will remain diligent in securing funding that will help Arkansas communities rebuild their homes and businesses,” said U.S. Representative Marion Berry (AR-01).

“Van Buren County has been hit hard by natural disasters this year,” said U.S. Representative Vic Snyder (AR-02). “I am so thankful our federal government has supported Arkansas in its disaster recovery work, and I am hopeful that the municipalities and nonprofits in Van Buren County will utilize the grant resources offered to help our communities recuperate.”

“These funds are vital to the needs of Arkansans and the ongoing recovery efforts,” said U.S. Representative John Boozman (AR-03). “This is a crucial step towards helping communities that have been affected by Mother Nature.”

“We all know the unpredictability of Arkansas weather, and unfortunately, many Arkansas farms, families and businesses suffered because of this year’s numerous severe weather events,” said U.S. Representative Mike Ross (AR-04).  “Making federal assistance available is critical to rebuilding our communities and I will continue working in our nation’s capitol to ensure that we have the necessary resources to recover from whatever natural disasters come our way.”

The state will receive two types of assistance under this federal designation: public assistance and hazard mitigation.

Public assistance will be available for state and local governments and certain nonprofit organizations for emergency and repair work in the following counties: Carroll, Clay, Craighead, Greene, Hempstead, Howard, Izard, Lafayette, Lawrence, Little River, Madison, Miller, Newton, Randolph, Sharp, and Van Buren.

All counties in the state will be eligible to apply for the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, which provides assistance to state and local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations for projects that prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards.