Gov. Dave Heineman was notified last week that his request for a federal disaster declaration for Nebraska was approved by President Barack Obama for winter storms in December and January. The current approval covers 34 of the 48 counties in the original request, including Otoe and surrounding counties. The 14 remaining counties are still under consideration.
   Nebraska Emergency Management Agency will coordinate with federal officials to determine the full scope and impact of storm damages and begin recovery efforts. NEMA is scheduling applicant briefings in the affected counties beginning March 8 in order to complete project worksheets. The declaration means federal aid is available to help supplement state and local recovery efforts in 34 counties struck by severe winter storms from Dec. 22 to Jan. 8.
   The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) will make funding available to state and eligible local governments on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and repairs of facilities damaged.
   Al Berndt, NEMA assistant director, said, “These storms produced large amounts of snow and ice throughout the eastern part of the state resulting in an estimated $11 million in damages. This declaration will help the counties affected in their recovery.”