August 11th, 2024 by WCBC Radio
Gov. Jim Justice announced today the Emergency Drought Relief Reimbursement Grant Program, providing financial assistance to agencies helping secure and distribute irrigation and livestock water supplies in counties experiencing severe or extreme drought conditions in accordance with the U.S. Drought Monitor. The program reimburses eligible expenses incurred by local public agencies, fire departments, and conservation districts, for water transportation to farms in affected areas.
"We know every ounce of water is important right now, and we’re very thankful to those lending a helping hand,” Gov. Justice said. “This program makes sure that our farmers will continue to have access to all the necessary water supplies. We know this is a really hard time for our state that’s experiencing a terrible drought, and now, we need to pull the rope together to get through it. West Virginians are known for stepping up, and that’s exactly what we’re seeing during this hard time.”Eligibility and Application Process:
Eligible applicants include:
- State, regional, county, and municipal agencies, including emergency management agencies and county commissions assisting in water supply efforts.
- Local and volunteer fire departments assisting in water supply efforts.
- Conservation Districts as organized under West Virginia Code § 19-21A-1 assisting in water supply efforts.
Applications must include documentation of incurred costs and be submitted as soon as possible.
Submission guidelines are as follows:
- Fire Departments: Submit to the West Virginia Division of Forestry at eric.m.jarrell@wv.gov.
- Conservation Districts: Submit to the West Virginia Conservation Agency at cshreve@wvca.us.
- Public Agencies: Submit to krista.k.cox@wv.gov.
The Governor’s Office will disburse funds upon verification of eligibility. Awards are contingent on fund availability.
