Drought affects agriculture and fire departments in Lewis and Upshur Counties, West Virginia
7/15/2024 12:00:00 AM
CATEGORIES:
Agriculture
Fire
AFFECTED AREAS:
Lewis County, WV
Upshur County, WV
Start Date: 7/12/2024
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Lewis and Upshur counties, West Virginia, are drier than the rest of the North Central West Virginia region. Moderate drought, as classified by the United States Drought Monitor, has affected agriculture and fire departments.
In many areas of Lewis County, one hay cutting has been done, but regrowth is poor due to lack of moisture and may compromise the second cutting. Cattle farmers are also having to haul in water as their ponds and springs are not providing enough water.
Firefighters in rural areas have fewer water sources, making portable pumps are harder to use. The fire chief of the Buckhannon Fire Department recommended that people not burn materials outdoors given the present dryness.
The Exponent Telegram (Clarksburg, WV), 7/12/24.
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