From the Office of Governor Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge:

Governor Chet Culver and Lt. Governor Patty Judge are inviting Iowans to apply for a position on one of the nine new Rebuild Iowa task forces, which will help create a vision for Iowa's recovery efforts.

"As the flood waters rose, we saw the strength, resilience and determination of Iowans shine through as our state joined together to save our homes, businesses, and communities," said Governor Chet Culver.  "Now, we must tap into this same spirit of service as Iowans begin down the road to recovery.  I call on Iowans from across the state to help our friends and neighbors in need, and serve on one of these nine Rebuild Iowa task forces.  By locking arms and working together, I am confident that we can rebuild our state, stronger and better than before."

Last month, Governor Culver signed his seventh executive order, which created the Rebuild Iowa Advisory Commission.  To be chaired by Gen. Ron Dardis of the Iowa National Guard, the 15 member commission is designed to help guide our state's recovery efforts.  The Executive Order specifically calls for the creation of task forces to help guide the commission's work.

"These task forces are an important step in helping Iowans recover from this year's historic and severe flooding," said Lt. Governor Patty Judge.  "The Governor and I look forward to working with the Rebuild Iowa Commission, the nine task forces, and all Iowans as we begin the difficult work of rebuilding our state and returning life to normal for all Iowans.

The nine task forces created are:

    * Housing
    * Flood Plain Management and Hazard Mitigation
    * Infrastructure and Transportation
    * Economic and Workforce Development
    * Cultural Heritage and Records Retention
    * Public Health and Health Care
    * Long-Term Recovery Planning
    * Agriculture and Environment
    * Education

Iowans interested in applying should complete and return the application form available on-line at www.flood2008.iowa.gov