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RICK PERRY GOVERNOR

THE Govnnnon

September 8, 2011

The Honorable Barack Obama President of the United States The White House 1 600 Pennsylvania Avenue Washington, D.C. 20500 Dear Mr. President:

I am pleased we had the opportunity yesterday to discuss the catastrophic wildfire

season that we this week demonstrate the are fcing this year in Texas. The fires that have developed magnitude of this disaster, and responding to these unprecedented fires requires an efficient, timely and well coordinated local, state and federal effort. We appreciate the federal assets we have received so far that are helping with our response and recovery.

Unforlunately, even as we continue to battle these current fires, weather forecasts indicate we will face more of the same conditions as temperatures climb and Tropical Storm Nate brings more days of significant wind gusts.

I respectfully ask for your assistance so that we will not face any unnecessary delays as fires burnin the days and weeks ahead. I urge you to grant the Major Disaster Declaration I have repeatedly requested since April (which Lieutenant Govemor David Dewhurst requested on my behalf againyesterday). I also request that you ensure an expedient response to our requests for all available additional assistance, including those we have recently made to the U.S. Forest Service and the Defense Coordinating Officer at FEMA for resources.
Sincerely,

Rick Peny Governor

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