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DETROIT LAKES, Minn. (AP) A Minnesota company will begin removing emergency clay levees from Minnesota communities this week after winning a contract from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The corps awarded Hough Inc. of Detroit Lakes the $472,000 contract for removing levees in Breckenridge, Georgetown, Halstad, Oakport, Perley and St. Vincent. They are along the state's western border.

The Red River began to flood the towns along its banks in late March, and didn't fall back below flood stage from South Dakota to Canada until last week.

The contractor has 14 days to finish the work.

Information from: The Forum, http://www.in-forum.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 05-26-09 1224CDT | save this article / add to your favorites list