Gov. Walker asks for flooding damage assessment

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker is taking steps to determine whether Wisconsin should ask for federal help for last month’s flooding in northern Wisconsin.

Walker requested on Friday that the Federal Emergency Management Agency conduct a preliminary damage assessment. Officials will begin looking at Ashland, Bayfield, Douglas counties and tribal land of the Red Cliff Bank of Lake Superior Chippewa on July 17.

Officials have estimated $11 million in debris clearance, emergency protective measures and damage to roads and other public infrastructure. The University of Wisconsin-Superior had over $8.5 million in flood damage.

FEMA teams will begin assessing damage on July 17. Information gathered will help determine if the state will request a federal disaster declaration.