Relief Assistance Available For Missourians Suffering From Drought Conditions

JEFFERSON CITY — As of Aug. 17, 2018, a drought alert has been issued for 86 counties across the state, affecting more than 3.8 million Missourians.

“Since May 2017, every county in Missouri has been affected by dry to exceptionally dry conditions,” said Sen. Denny Hoskins. “Weather forecast models show grave situations which can only be remedied by additional rainfall, which I continue to pray comes soon. In the meantime, I have been in frequent contact with the Department of Natural Resources and the local farm service offices to ensure resources are available for my constituents in affected areas.”

Reports from the Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Drought Assessment Committee indicate that all Missouri counties who are experiencing severe, extreme or exceptional drought conditions are eligible to receive state and federal resources.

Jennifer Hoggatt, Water Resource Director at DNR, said the department has seen the number of counties experiencing exceptionally dry conditions increase from three last week to 24 this week. Eighty-six counties are now rated at D2 or above, an increase of 15 counties from last week. Despite receiving beneficial levels of rainfall this week, current levels of precipitation are not enough to reverse the damage caused by extended periods of drought across the affected areas.

According to the department, agricultural and public water supply resources are frequently requested. The department strongly encourages those who are seeking assistance to contact their local county office. To find out what resources are available, please visit the Department of Natural Resources’ website.

For those living in Caldwell, Carroll, Howard, Johnson, Lafayette, Livingston, Ray and Saline counties, here is a list of contacts for local drought assistance relief programs.

Contacts for Drought Relief Assistance in the 21st Senatorial District