BALSAM LAKE, Wis. — Northern Wisconsin was severely affected by storms that swept across the state in late July, but the communities are joining efforts with the National Guard on the road to recovery.
Elements of the Wisconsin Army and National Guard mobilized Polk, Barron and Langlade Counties in response to a statewide emergency issued July 21.
Crews are supporting damage assessment and debris removal in Polk and Barron Counties. Troops have concluded a debris removal mission in Langlade County.
"For Polk County the damage was severe — about 350 homes have been affected,” said Chad Rogers, chief deputy of the Polk County Sheriff's Office. “From what people have told me, this is the worst they’ve seen in 30-40 years.”
Officials estimate thousands of trees were downed during the storms, many of which fell across roadways. Additional state assistance was requested to clear the roads and ensure emergency vehicles could operate properly.
“I think it’s times like this where communities come together,” Rogers continued. “I think that’s a very positive effect that comes from it. And it also helps people understand why we have the Guard in the first place. Instead of just seeing the troops get on and off the planes to Afghanistan, they see the other purpose, the dual purpose, of the National Guard.”
