(KTTS) – Governor Mike Parson has announced a process to allow farmers to get access to emergency hay and water during the drought.
Boat ramps at 25 state parks will be open for farmers to collect water during normal operational hours.
Boat ramps at 36 Missouri Department of Conservation areas are also open for water.
Farmers will have to contact an area manager before collecting water in the conservation areas.
“As drought conditions continue to deteriorate across Missouri, we want to do all we can to help our family farms mitigate the devastating effects of severe drought,” Governor Parson said. “With the current water deficit, we know it will take a lot of rain for our state and its agricultural community to recover from the drought. While our prayers for rain continue, state government will do its part to assist wherever and whenever it can.”
Farmers will have to bring their own pumping and hauling equipment.
MoDOT is also offering special overwidth hauling permits at no charge to help farmers and ranchers move hay.
Almost 700 acres will be available for haying at 17 state parks.
