The USDA on Tuesday approved the state of Missouri’s request to declare all 114 counties in the state agricultural disaster areas due to ongoing drought conditions.

Also Tuesday, Gov. Jay Nixon surveyed the severe drought conditions devastating crops and livestock throughout the state.

 

The tour of hard-hit areas began in northeast Missouri at a farm near Ewing, Mo., followed by visits to Tarkio and Bolivar.

“My administration will continue to work with Missouri farmers as they endure a drought that is severely affecting our crops and livestock,” Gov. Nixon said. “Today, Secretary Vilsack issued that designation for all 114 counties affected by drought, providing access to low-interest loans and other assistance that will help our farmers recover.

“As a state, we will continue to stand with Missouri farmers at every step of this disaster and throughout the recovery process. Together, we will ensure that a strong agriculture industry remains the backbone of Missouri’s economy.”

While near Tarkio Gov. Nixon toured the Hurst family farm and met with Brooks Hurst and other area farmers to assess the hardships they have faced so far during these extremely dry conditions. The Hurst family farms more than 5,000 acres of corn and soybeans in northwest Missouri.

The Governor also said it was important to remember that the hardships for farmers also are coming at the same time that the prolonged heat and drought have led to hundreds of fires across the state.

“I’ve stood up the State Emergency Management Agency for the coordination of the state response to the fires, and we’ve seen hundreds of firefighters, both professional and volunteer, as well as conservation agents and others, responding to these threats with tireless efforts,” Gov. Nixon said.

“The long-range forecast means not only will our fire responders need to continue their vigilance, Missouri farmers also must be ready for the long haul with this weather, even as we head into harvest season.”