Wisconsin Governor Doyle Declares State of Emergency for La Crosse and Sauk Counties

80 National Guard Personnel Called on Duty

August 21, 2007 -- MADISON - Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle today declared a state of emergency for La Crosse and Sauk Counties – bringing the total count to five counties in southwestern Wisconsin. La Crosse and Sauk counties will be included along with Richland, Vernon and Crawford counties in the Governor’s request for a Presidential Disaster Declaration.

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Eighty Wisconsin National Guard personnel have also been activated and assisting in recovery efforts in the affected communities. Approximately 50 soldiers are deploying today to assist with the debris clean-up effort on Highway 35 and in the towns of Clayton and Utica in Crawford County. An additional 30 National Guard personnel are on duty throughout the state to assist as needed. Additional teams are expected to be in the field shortly.

The Governor’s declaration applies to these five counties only and activates the National Guard only if deemed necessary by Wisconsin’s Adjutant General, Major General Al Wilkening.

Widespread flooding has washed out numerous roads and bridges, and downed many power lines and trees. There are no reports of injuries or death.

A copy of the Executive Order is available at: http://www.wisgov.state.wi.us/docview.asp?docid=11732.

Source: Wisconsin Governor