Gov. Walker declares drought emergency in ALL 72 WI counties

Drought and crops

MADISON — Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker has declared a state of emergency in ALL 72 Wisconsin counties due to the dry conditions — expanding the drought emergency across the entire state.

“Wisconsin families, businesses and farmers are hurting as a result of this drought. The increase in wildfires due to the combined lack of rain and high temperatures is adding to the risk of major economic losses, especially in agriculture.  This is a time of crisis for many people, and we will utilize whatever resources are necessary to help,” Gov. Walker said. 

Last week, Gov. Walker declared a drought emergency in 42 Wisconsin counties. 

The U.S. Drought Monitor shows more than half of the state is impacted by the hot, humid conditions.  With weather predictions of continued low precipitation and high heat, officials expect abnormally dry and drought conditions to extend to much of the northern part of the state.

The statewide Executive Order directs Wisconsin Emergency Management to coordinate state efforts in response to the drought, and directs all state agencies to assist in the response and recovery.  The drought emergency declaration also waives fees and expedites the permitting process to allow farmers to divert water from certain streams and lakes without causing serious environmental damage.  

Governor Walker is also urging people to use caution and comply with burn restrictions as the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has responded to more than 300 wildfires since June 1. 

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• Milk and cattle feed down due to drought at one Washington Co. farm
• U.S. drought grows to cover widest area since 1956