Gov.
Mike Parson on Wednesday directed the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to activate the Drought Assessment Committee and the associated drought-impact teams to help coordinate resources to address the impacts of this year’s drought.
Parson said elements affected by the drought include livestock forage and water.
Cole County is one of those counties along with Boone, Callaway and Moniteau counties in Mid-Missouri.
The latest drought map shows all of Boone County in "severe" drought along with part of the western side of Callaway County and the extreme northern part of Moniteau County.
The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is assisting Missouri livestock producers affected by drought.
Farmers and ranchers in counties affected by drought can apply for assistance at local NRCS offices until Aug. 31.
The U.S. Drought Monitor Report will be used to determine eligibility.
Applications for assistance in counties with the more severe drought conditions will be given priority.
"We are focusing on what we can do to provide the most assistance in the quickest manner."