State approves 3,700 applications for water assistance

Following an executive order signed July 23 by Gov. Jay Nixon, the State Soil and Water Districts Commission approved more than 3,700 applications for an emergency cost-share program supporting the drilling or deepening of water wells or expansion of irrigation systems.

Applications were accepted through Aug. 6.

The project costs for the 3,712 approved applications total $18.7 million. The program covers 90 percent of the cost of the emergency water project, up to a total of $20,000, with the producer or farmer paying the remaining 10 percent, according to a news release.

“Agriculture is the backbone of Missouri’s economy, and we are working quickly to provide emergency relief for farmers and producers who are facing critical water shortages as a result of this historic drought,” Nixon said in the release.  “This emergency program is helping our livestock producers and farmers protect their livelihood and uphold a vital pillar of our economy.”

Also on July 23, Nixon signed an executive order declaring a State of Emergency in Missouri. The cost-share program's funding comes from unallocated reserve funds Nixon freed up via House Bill 8, which allows the governor to direct funds in response to a declared emergency.[[In-content Ad]]