Owners Of Flood-damaged ND Homes Left Wondering

DAVE KOLPACK

FARGO, N.D. (AP) — Craig and Marcia Strehlow's 4,400-square-foot dream home had been their sanctuary for 23 years, a wooded paradise in North Dakota river country. But after record-breaking spring floods, they and thousands of others are left wondering: Will the federal government help?

The floods left the Strehlows' home in shambles — torn out carpets, drawers and appliances — near the confluence of the Red River and Wild Rice River in eastern North Dakota's Cass County. The water came up 16 inches, and repairs could cost $250,000.

The couple, now living in an apartment, are among more than a hundred local homeowners waiting to find out if the federal government will buy them out of their home. Months after the flood, they still don't have a clear answer about what will become of their dream home. ...