DENVER, Colorado – On Sunday, Governor Jared Polis submitted a comprehensive request to the federal government for a Major Disaster Declaration to support recovery from the devastating Aspen Acres and Gold Mountain wildfires. The fires, which have scorched more than 102,000 acres, destroyed over 800 structures, including 324 homes, and caused significant damage to critical infrastructure across Pueblo, Custer and surrounding counties.
Request details and assistance categories
The governor’s request is organized into three assistance categories: Individual Assistance, Public Assistance, and FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Funding.
Individual Assistance would provide eligible homeowners with temporary housing, home repairs, essential personal property replacement, crisis counseling, disaster care management, unemployment assistance and legal services.
Public Assistance is aimed at state and local governments, public utilities and qualifying nonprofit organizations to cover costs for debris removal, emergency protective measures, and repairs to roads, water systems, electric grids and other essential services.
FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant Funding would fund long‑term projects designed to reduce the impact of future disasters in the affected communities.
Local officials stress urgency
Pueblo County Sheriff David Lucero emphasized that the combination of the wildfire and subsequent flash flooding created a “continuous and compounding disaster” that exceeds local resources. Custer County Commissioner Lucas Epp added that the Major Disaster Declaration is crucial for residents to recover costs, improve wildfire mitigation, and enhance evacuation routes.
Impact on utilities and water districts
The governor’s office noted that the San Isabel Electric Association suffered millions of dollars in damages, while the Pine Drive Water District recently restored water service after the fire’s impact.
Governor’s appeal to the President
Governor Polis urged President Biden to approve the request, stating, “We have been working to assess the damage correctly and by the book and ensure we get it right to do all we can to support our communities affected by these disasters.” He highlighted that federal support is essential for Coloradans to rebuild and recover.
What comes next?
If approved, the Major Disaster Declaration would unlock federal resources to assist homeowners, repair infrastructure, and fund mitigation projects aimed at preventing similar devastation in the future. The governor’s office has provided links for residents to apply for assistance and stay informed about ongoing recovery efforts.
Colorado’s response underscores the importance of coordinated state‑federal efforts in addressing large‑scale natural disasters and protecting the safety and livelihoods of its citizens.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
