Gov. Tim Pawlenty announced Tuesday that President Barack Obama approved a major disaster declaration for Minnesota.
The declaration clears the way for 18 counties to receive federal funding and assistance for damage from spring flooding.
The federal government will cover 75 percent of eligible costs, which an early damage estimate set at $14.8 million.
The declaration covers work by state and local governments for emergency work and repairs of disaster-damaged facilities, as well as action to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from natural hazards.
Clay, Norman, Polk and Wilkin counties are covered in the declaration.
