Gov. Jim Justice launches drought relief grant program

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WBOY) — Governor Jim Justice (R) has introduced a new program to assist West Virginia water suppliers that are struggling due to current drought conditions .

Justice launched the Emergency Drought Relief Reimbursement Grant Program on Friday to provide financial assistance to those in counties “experiencing severe or extreme drought conditions”, as determined by the U.S. Drought Monitor , who secure and distribute water for irrigation and livestock.

The program will reimburse eligible expenses incurred by local agencies, fire departments and conservation districts for water transportation to farms.

“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.”

Those eligible for the grant 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 can be found here and must also include documentation of costs. For further information on the grant and where to submit your application, click here .

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