New Mexico County, Navajo Nation Added To Declaration

One New Mexico county and the Navajo Nation have been added to a federal disaster declaration that stemmed from severe storms and flooding this past summer.

Federal officials say Sierra County and the Navajo Nation are now eligible to apply for reimbursements under the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Public Assistance Grant Program.

The grants are designed to cover expenses incurred while taking emergency measures to protect lives and property as well as the cleanup of downed trees, power poles and other debris.

The eligible expenses also include repairs to roads, bridges and public utilities.

Officials say damage assessments are underway in counties that are not covered by the declaration. Additional counties may be added at a later date.