Clean-up efforts begin in Joplin, Missouri as the search for survivors comes to end

The massive clean-up effort in Joplin, Missouri begins Wednesday. 

Residents there say months of clean up and years of rebuilding wait in the wings.

Crews are clearing debris on the public right of way. Once the forms are signed by property owners, they will demolish partially standing buildings and take away that debris as well.

Volunteers are making sure all involved are hydrated and fed.

Mother nature forced one business owner into early retirement. "There were things in life that I wanted to do that I couldn't do working, and so now I can do them," said Joplin Resident Brenda Orban.

Missouri officials say everyone who had been reported missing since last week's massive tornado has been accounted for. The death toll now sits at 134.

Joplin's city manager announced Tuesday that the federal government will pay 90 percent of the debris removal cost.

The Missouri National Guard will lead the clean-up effort.  

Meanwhile, Joplin officials are also stopping the search for survivors after a sixth and final sweep through the path of destruction.

As many as 5,000 families have signed up for help.

2NEWS reporter Beth Hawkins spoke with a small business owner who's cleaning up.

Watch her report tonight at 6 p.m.