Iowa firms launch disaster response team

Iowa firms launch disaster response team

	Published : Tue, 30 Jan 2007 17:28 By : Agencies Print this Story

DES MOINES, Iowa (AFX) - Some of Iowa's largest businesses have formed an organization to help the state prevent and recover from catastrophic events.

The Safeguard Iowa Partnership is a voluntary coalition intended to integrate resources from businesses and government agencies during all phases of disaster management.

'We have needed this kind of partnership,' said Lt. Gov. Patty Judge, noting that Iowa's business community has resources beyond what the state could provide during a crisis.

First-year efforts will focus on improving communication during crises, cataloging business resources and expertise that could be used during a disaster, and exercising capabilities between business and agency partners.

The Iowa Business Council will provide initial sponsorship.

'By working across industry sectors, and with our government partners, we can help protect Iowa's future, its economy, and the quality of life Iowans enjoy,' said Iowa Business Council Chairman Max Phillips, president of Qwest Iowa.

The Iowa Business Council teamed up with several state agencies and the nonprofit Business Executives for National Security, a national nonprofit organization, which has helped organize similar partnerships in New Jersey, Georgia, Massachusetts, California and Missouri.

Founding business partners include Alliant Energy Corp., Deere & Co., Hy-Vee Inc., Iowa Health System, MidAmerican Energy Co., Pella Corp., Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc., Principal Financial Group Inc., Rockwell Collins Inc., Ruan Transportation Management Systems, Vermeer Manufacturing Co., Wellmark Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Iowa

The three state-run universities and the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics also are partners.

Public agencies supporting the partnership include the Iowa Department of Public Defense, Iowa Homeland Security and Emergency Management, the Iowa Department of Public Health, the Iowa Department of Public Safety, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.

An executive director for the Safeguard Iowa Partnership is expected to be named in February.