State takes steps to help drought-stricken farms
The Department of Conservation has identified areas of central and northern Missouri where farmers can use public lands to pump water as this summer’s drought continues.
The list includes places such as Little Dixie Conservation Area and Ben Branch Lake Conservation Area in mid-Missouri.
The drought has also cut hay supplies, so the state is creating a lottery to give farmers the chance to cut and bale hay on public land.
p.p1 {margin: 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px 0.0px; font: 12.0px Helvetica; color: #454545} “Any time you’re feeding hay in the state of Missouri in August, I guarantee that’s not a good sign for any farmers in this state,” Parson said.
Hay for cattle that’s usually used in the winter months is already being consumed as the drought hurts grass growth on pasture land. The state is also offering emergency funding to help local communities continue to provide safe drinking water for their citizens, said the Director of Natural Resources Director Carol Corner. Farmers are asked to call 573-751-4115, ext. 3209 to make arrangements to pump water. The Department of Natural Resources has more information on its website.
