Ask Mr. Answer Person: "What about flood damage from underground springs?"

Not all of the damage from last month's heavy rains came to property along rivers and streams.  Lee e-mails Mr. Answer Person: "We all know about the Upper Iowa river and how many people are affected by the water,  but for those of us who live on the other side of town away from the river and have natural springs under the property, is there anything we can do or is there any relief for those of us who have lost items?   or is there any program/ help to divert the water, pump the water away?"

Mr. Answer Person talked with Winneshiek County Emergency Government Directo Bruce Goetsch, who had this answer: "In 2008, there were several homes that had similar conditions of not being damaged by actual "flood" waters but by high water table/springs.  Several of these property owners received some relief.

Individuals should continue to report damage by calling Winneshiek County Emergency Management at (563) 382-7983.  Some people may be eligible for help under the Iowa Individual Assistance program. The IIA program is based on the poverty level, so those with higher income may be excluded.  If Winneshiek County receives a Presidential Declaration, that would open other doors of relief."