Cottage Grove Declares 'State Of Emergency' After Storm

COTTAGE GROVE, MN — Cottage Grove Mayor Myron Bailey declared a state of emergency after a powerful storm swept through the area Thursday evening, causing widespread damage.

The storm uprooted trees, downed powerlines, and flooded roads, leaving several neighborhoods temporarily without power.

In response to the extensive damage, the city announced plans for curbside pickup of private tree debris. Residents are instructed to leave tree debris at the curb for removal by October 1.

The Cottage Grove Public Works Department will be conducting periodic pickups. The city also plans to remove or trim damaged boulevard trees located in the right-of-way.

"If there is damage to an individual property, the owner should contact their insurance company," the city said.

"The city will not enter private property to remove trees or debris, it is the responsibility of the homeowners to remove debris from their property."