Governor Signs Drought Declaration

47 counties across Missouri, including the tri-county area, have been placed on drought alert status according to an Executive Order signed this week by Governor Michael Parson. The drought monitor map identifies at least parts of 22 counties, mainly in north central Missouri, as being in extreme drought. Parts of at least 46 other counties, including Camden, Miller and Morgan, are identified as abnormally dry. Other counties fall into the categories of severe and moderate drought.  The estimated population in Missouri drought areas is 2.4 million people. The Executive Order signed by the governor also calls on the Department of Natural Resources to activate the Drought Assessment Committee and the drought impact teams.