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Debris cleanup a big challenge in South Florida, Treasure Coast

Posted at 5:30 PM, Sep 19, 2017
and last updated 2017-09-19 18:57:10-04

Hurricane Irma will long be remembered for its massive power outages, destruction of homes due to wind and rising waters, and the tremendous amount of debris.

There is a new sense of urgency to clean up after Irma. The governor ordered all counties to submit a debris cleanup plan.

In Martin County there are trees and branches everywhere.

"Piles and piles," said Jami Kraft.

From Palm Beach County to the Treasure Coast there are millions of cubic yards of debris.

Crews are working hard to clear it.

Jim Gorton with Martin County says he plans to put pressure on their contractors to shave off several days from their 71-day estimated completion date, but that could be tough.

"The challenge with us as with all the counties is that Irma impacted every county in Florida so the resources that normally do this are very limited so it's a challenge getting those resources in town," said Gorton.

He's also asking homeowners to sort debris properly.