DES MOINES (AP) – Gov. Terry Branstad is asking President Barack Obama to issue a Major Disaster Declaration for Public Assistance for six western Iowa counties due to flooding along the Missouri River.

In a statement released Saturday, Branstad says he signed a letter that will be delivered to Obama.

It seeks the declaration for Fremont, Harrison, Mills, Monona, Pottawattamie and Woodbury counties.

If granted, the declaration enables the use of long-term federal recovery programs that help public organizations and some non-profits.

Some of the efforts are matched by state programs.

Public money can be used for tasks such as repairs to damaged public buildings and loans needed for essential government functions.

Branstad also is seeking Direct Federal Assistance, which helps with services such as temporary housing.