Governor declares drought disaster in region

After weeks of high temperatures and dry conditions in Montana, Gov. Steve Bullock Wednesday declared drought disasters in Blaine, Chouteau, Hill and 25 other Montana counties as well as five Indian reservations that include Fort Belknap and Rocky Boy, a press release from the governor's office says.

"Extreme drought conditions are threatening the hard work of farmers and ranchers in eastern Montana communities," Bullock said in the release. "My administration remains committed to helping these folks get back on their feet and ensuring that all Montanans stay safe during these hot summer months."

Ada Montague, water planner with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, said the designation is meant to raise awareness of the severity of the conditions. It also makes economic assistance through USDA's Farm Service Agency and other federal programs more readily available in the affected areas.

The designation also applies to Big Horn, Carter, Custer, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, Fergus, Garfield, Golden Valley, Judith Basin, McCone, Mussellshell, Petroleum, Phillips, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sheridan, Treasure Valley, Wheatland, Wilbaux and Yellowstone counties and to the Crow, Fort Peck and Northern Cheyenne reservations.