July 3, 2012; updated July 5

July 5 Update: Governor adds 13 counties to list, allowing roadside haying July 5.  (See counties below.)

Gov. Dave Heineman on Monday declared a statewide drought emergency. This will allow state personnel and resources to assist with emergency situations and prevention and provide maximum flexibility to the state to deploy Nebraska National Guard and Nebraska Emergency Management Agency assets and resources as needed.

“This declaration is important for continued efforts of state officials to ensure the safety of Nebraskans,” Gov. Heineman said. “This action is necessary as dry conditions are presenting an imminent threat to the ability of local governments to respond to drought conditions."

With short pastures and reduced forage production due top drought, the Nebraska Department of Roads advanced the starting date for roadside haying from July 15 to July 3 in the following 55 counties: