Disaster declaration means money for Montana floods

BILLINGS — Montana's request for a presidential disaster declaration was approved by federal officials Friday following flooding that has caused at least $8.6 million in damage.

The declaration makes the state eligible for federal assistance to repair and replace damaged roads, bridges and other infrastructure washed out by weeks of high water.

It also means 31 counties and four tribes can be reimbursed for flood-fighting expenses ranging from overtime, to sandbagging and setting up temporary shelters.

Courtesy photo

An emergency declaration signed by President Barack Obama on Friday will help...