Hennepin and Ramsey counties will be eligible for federal funds for emergency relief and reconstruction following flooding in June, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced Thursday.

That brings the number of Minnesota counties receiving flood assistance to 37, plus three tribal governments. Dakota County is still assessing its damages, according to state officials.

"I very much appreciate the FEMA officials returning to Minnesota and making a careful assessment of the considerable flood damage in Hennepin, Ramsey and Dakota counties," Gov. Mark Dayton said in a statement after FEMA's announcement.

"I am very pleased that Hennepin and Ramsey counties have now been included in the FEMA emergency designation, and I am hopeful that Dakota County will also qualify. However, if it does not, it is eligible for the state emergency disaster assistance program, which the Legislature passed last spring."

Flood damage to public structures during Minnesota's rainiest June on record reached at least $32 million, state officials said in early July. That initial assessment by local governments was expected to qualify the state for federal reimbursements for damaged public roads, bridges, parks and schools.

Insurance is expected to cover much of the private loss to homes, businesses and flood-damaged crops, farm equipment and livestock, officials have said.

JOY POWELL