Because of bad weather throughout June, the Governor has already proclaimed disaster emergencies in 48 counties, including Black Hawk. This proclamation allows state resources to be used to respond to and recover from the storms. Black Hawk is also among 25 counties in which the proclamation has activated the Iowa Individual Assistance Program. More counties may be added to this list as damage is assessed.

The Individual Assistance Program provides up to $5,000 for households with incomes up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level. That works out to a maximum annual income of $39,580 for a family of three. Grants are available for home or car repairs, replacement of clothing or food, and for the expense of temporary housing. Applications and instructions are available through the Iowa Department of Human Services at dhs.iowa.gov/disaster-assistance-programs.

If you are impacted by storms or flooding in Iowa and have questions, contact the Iowa Concern Hotline at 1-800-447-1985.

Many of our state parks have seen some damage in recent weeks because of strong winds and flooding. According to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR), staff is clearing downed limbs, cleaning up and making repairs. A few state parks are closed or partially closed. For the latest information, go to www.iowadnr.gov/parks and click on the Closure Information link on the left. The latest update from the DNR shows that George Wyth State Park in Black Hawk County will be closed likely through the weekend due to flooding.

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Sen. Steve Sodders, D-State Center, represents Marshall and Tama counties, as well as La Porte City and southern parts of Black Hawk County. Contact him at 641-483-2383 or email steve.sodders@legis.iowa.gov.