Governor Revises Drought Emergency

The recent spate of rainy weather has prompted Gov. Sam Brownback to revise the drought declaration in parts of Kansas.

Brownback said Monday that 23 of the state’s 105 counties are no longer considered in drought conditions. It marks the first time since July 2012 that conditions have improved enough to remove counties from the drought designation.

Brownback’s office says Kansas Water Office director Tracy Streeter recommended that 20 counties be moved into drought emergency status, 25 move to watch status and 37 remain in emergency status.

Emergency status allows counties to draw water from certain state fishing lakes. Emergency hay and grazing are also allowed in those counties.