No one can accuse this government agency of dragging its feet.

After a little more than a week since coming to southern Ohio, the Federal Emergency Management Agency is already signing checks.

FEMA has distributed more than $600,000 to approximately 1,000 applicants from Adams, Jackson, Lawrence, Pike and Scioto counties, said Dick Gifford, public information officer for FEMA. About 150 people from Lawrence County have been helped.

President George W. Bush made the major disaster declaration two weeks ago to help 15 Ohio counties recover from February's winter storms. Only these five counties were eligible for individual assistance.

No limit has been set on how much funding is available for disaster relief, and FEMA will continue efforts in this part of the state for at least another 30 days, Gifford said.

"We will be here until everyone is covered," he said. "FEMA will stay as long as it takes."

According to The Associated Press, more than 300 houses and businesses were damaged or destroyed in southern Ohio alone and government expenses have totaled nearly $17 million.

Anyone seeking assistance can begin the application process by calling 1-800-621-FEMA (3362), or 1-800-462-7585 (TTY) for the hearing and speech impaired. The toll-free telephone numbers will be available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. seven days a week until further notice.

"Everyone is encouraged to call the 800 number," Gifford said. "Even if they have insurance there may still be some services that FEMA can provide."

A Disaster Recovery Center has been set up at the New Boston Community Center, 3980 Rhodes Avenue. It is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Applicants should call the toll-free number first, Gifford said.

Because many areas off of state routes 141 and 93 suffered severe tree damage, FEMA and the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will host a free seminar explaining what people can do to repair, restore and prevent damages.

Ann Bonner, urban forester for ODNR's Division of Forestry, will conduct the seminar at 6:30 p.m. Monday at the FEMA Disaster Recovery Center.

"Falling trees became a major hazard in February's winter storm," said Ron Sherman, FEMA's coordinating officer for Ohio's relief efforts. "People can learn ways to lessen a storm's effect on trees at this workshop and that will help in saving the trees and preventing damage in the next ice storm that hits the area."