The Missouri River isn’t expected to fall back into its banks until October, but flood victims are beginning to focus on the cleanup effort. A free flood restoration seminar is planned for later this month in Sioux City. Chris McGowan, with the Siouxland Chamber of Commerce, says the event will feature flood recovery expert Ken Hellevang.

“This has been an extremely challenging summer, but it’s also been a summer where we’ve seen tremendous regional cooperation,” McGowan said. Hellevang is an engineering specialist and professor at North Dakota State University. McGowan says the seminar will cover mold removal, appliance guidelines and the use of appropriate chemicals.

“The presentation will cover the hazards associated with flood cleanup, recommended personal protective equipment, water damage restoration and accepted mold removal standards and procedures,” McGowen said. “We’re very excited to bring someone in of this caliber to support our community during this challenging recovery.”

The chamber and city are paying Hellevang to visit Sioux City for two days. The first flood restoration seminar will be held Monday, August 29th from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. for home and business owners at the Sioux City Convention Center.

Another seminar will be held for contractors on Tuesday, August 30th from 8 to 11 a.m. at the convention center.

By Josie Cooper, KSCJ, Sioux City