WASHINGTON D.C. (Northwestiowanow) – Several communities in Northwest Iowa have been awarded more than $27 million in FEMA funding.
Announced Tuesday June 30 by Congressman Randy Feenstra, the money awarded through the federal disaster recovery funding will support recovery and mitigation efforts tied to damage from flooding, storms, and other natural disasters in the region, including the widespread flooding seen in 2024.
A significant portion of the funding will be used through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant program to facilitate voluntary buyouts of 247 flood-affected properties across Northwest Iowa, aimed at reducing future flood risk.
Rock Valley will receive the largest share of the funding, with more than $22 million allocated for the purchase of 104 properties and an additional $3.5 million for debris removal and repairs. Sioux Rapids will receive more than $149,000 for the purchase of one property, and Hawarden will receive over $360,000 for two properties.
Palo Alto County’s Drainage District will also receive more than $208,000 to support recovery efforts.
The funding is intended to help impacted communities continue rebuilding while improving long-term resilience against future flooding and severe weather events.
