President Bush has issued a major disaster declaration for Aroostook County because of last week’s flooding.

Federal assistance is available for businesses and individuals for temporary housing, repairs and other disaster-related expenses that are not covered by insurance or other programs.

Assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency typically does not cover all costs related to storm damage. Assistance to individuals will be in the form of grants. Businesses are eligible for Small Business Association loans for economic injury or damage not covered by insurance.

FEMA teams have been in Maine making damage assessments.

“It’s important for people to apply for assistance even if they have insurance claims pending,” Gov. John Baldacci said in a statement. “The only way to know for sure if they qualify for assistance is to apply.”

The application process can be initiated by calling 1-800-621-3362; 1-800-462-7585 (TYY) or registering at www.fema.gov.

FEMA and the state are assessing damage to public infrastructure, which could lead to additional assistance for local governments.