Walz Addresses Wildfire Recovery and Economic Damage

Governor Tim Walz says Minnesota’s wildfire response must also address the economic damage facing northern communities.

Evacuations, closures and canceled Boundary Waters trips have hurt resorts, outfitters, restaurants and other businesses during the region’s busiest tourism season.

Walz has authorized the use of Minnesota’s Disaster Contingency Account. Counties and local governments can seek reimbursement for up to 75 percent of eligible emergency-response costs.

That funding does not provide direct relief to businesses for lost revenue. Walz says broader assistance for affected communities and businesses is being discussed, but no specific economic-aid package has been announced.

Minnesota’s extended peacetime emergency allows state agencies and the National Guard to continue supporting firefighting, evacuations and recovery operations. Wildfire assistance details Emergency declaration update