03.28.11

Hoeven, Berg, Cass County Officials Review Flood Preparation Efforts

Senator, Congressman Pressing for Action on Presidential Disaster Declaration, Continued FEMA Support

FARGO, N.D. – U.S. Senator John Hoeven, Representative Rick Berg, and Cass County officials today reviewed flood preparation and prevention efforts in the Cass County area in anticipation of a possible spring flood. The National Weather Service’s (NWS) latest forecast predicts a 50 percent chance that the Red River will exceed 40.5 feet, and a 30 percent chance it will exceed 41.8 feet.

Hoeven also told local officials that his office contacted the White House last week to press for approval of a Presidential Emergency Declaration requested by the state. He also said he would continue efforts to get Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) support for the work local communities are doing. 

“It’s clear from what we saw today that local officials have done a remarkable job in the most sensitive areas of the county to mitigate the impact of flooding, but we still need a timely disaster declaration from the President and continued federal support from FEMA,” Hoeven said. “We appreciate the hard work local officials and volunteers have already provided, and urge support from the Administration for their efforts.”

“It’s encouraging to see so many people come together and work to ensure that communities in the Red River Valley are preparing for this spring,” Congressman Berg stated.  “Cass County residents know how to fight a flood, but it is evident that timely and consistent support from FEMA and the President will be critical so that the communities in Cass County and the whole valley have the resources and support they need.” 

The officials reviewed five flood preparation areas: Chrisan Estates, Forest River, Round Hill, Heritage Hills and Oxbow. The tour preparation sites demonstrated Trap Bag deployment, new flood protections, and other new technologies.  

          Officials in attendance were County Commission Chair Darrell Vanyo, County Commissioner Scott Wagner, County Commissioner Vern Bennett, County Commissioner Ken Pawluk, County Commissioner Robyn Sorum, County Administrator Bonnie Johnson, County Engineer Keith Berndt, County Auditor Michael Montplaisir, Cass County Emergency Manager Dave Rogness, Oxbow Mayor Jim Nyhof and Cass County Chief Deputy Jim Thoreson.