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AUGUST 31, 2000

President Clinton declared Montana a national disaster on Wednesday, a decision which affects residents in 28 counties.

Federal grants low-interest loans will now be available for businesses, unemployment, agriculture, housing and crisis counseling. Govenor Mike Racicot had estimated $13.6 million in unemployment benefits for workers and $36 million in Small Business Administration loans would be needed, along with money to rebuild the state.

The fire has cost the state so far $120 million. About 700,000 acres of land have burned.

Rain fell on Red Lodge on Wednesday, enabling firefighters to build a fire line around the Willie fire.

Get the Story:
Clinton quickly approves governor’s disaster request (The Billings Gazette 8/31)
‘God sent’ rain allows building of fire line around Willie fire (The Billings Gazette 8/31)