Colorado seeks federal funds to aid in wildfire recovery

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(The Center Square) – Colorado hopes to unlock federal funds by declaring recent fires in Rio Blanco County major disasters.

“The Elk and Lee fires ripped through Rio Blanco County, damaging property and critical infrastructure,” said Colorado Gov. Jared Polis. “I formally requested federal FEMA support to supplement our ongoing recovery efforts.”

The state submitted the request for a Major Disaster Declaration to President Donald Trump last week. It will require Trump’s approval to move forward.

The Elk fire was first ignited by lightning on Aug. 2, eventually going on to burn 14,518 acres. The larger Lee fire became the fifth-largest wildfire in Colorado history, burning 137,758 acres.

The fires, which were exacerbated by drought conditions, led to evacuations and the deployment of the Colorado National Guard.

“Damage from these fires and the subsequent flash flooding puts Colorado families, major energy production, and the local economy at risk,” Polis explained. “This is why Colorado is asking the federal government to continue supporting the state through these recovery efforts. By joining us in partnership, we can help communities in Rio Blanco recover from this disaster as fast as possible.”

Rio Blanco County’s economy is driven largely by energy production. It currently produces approximately 2% to 5% of the U.S. daily consumption of natural gas. The fires causes significant damage, totaling over $24 million, to the infrastructure of the local utility providers.

“Without support to recover local utility infrastructure, stalled production risks the local economy, major rate increases on Coloradans, and local economic collapse,” Polis’ office said in a statement.

So far, the Federal Emergency Management Agency has already validated an initial $27,491,064 in damages. An emergency declaration would allow for additional loans, insurance claims and other taxpayer-funded assistance.

“Federal assistance is urgently needed to help communities rebuild, restore essential services, and protect livelihoods tied to agriculture, energy, and outdoor recreation,” said U.S. Rep. Jeff Hurd, R-Colorado. “I will continue working with local, state, and federal partners to ensure Rio Blanco County gets the help it needs.”

No announcement has yet been made by the Trump administration regarding whether it plans to approve the declaration.

U.S. Sen. Michael Bennett, D-Colorado, is urging a speedy response.

“This year, Colorado has experienced some of the worst fires in our state’s history,” said Bennet. “Without federal support, Coloradans are at risk for increased electricity costs, damage to the local economy, loss of farming and grazing lands, and ongoing safety hazards from the fires. I am urging the president to declare a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration and public assistance for this community.”