(KLZA)-- Over 80% of Missouri counties are experiencing some level of dryness, with the most intense being felt in central Missouri.

In response to worsening drought conditions throughout the state and upon the advice of the Missouri Drought Assessment Committee, Governor Mike Parson announced the availability and process for Missouri family farms to obtain emergency hay and water.

Boat ramps at 25 Missouri state parks, including Big Lake State Park in Holt County, will be open for farmers to collect water with almost 700 acres available for haying at 17 state parks.

Water may be accessed from state park and MDC boat launches/water access points during normal operational hours. Contacting MDC area managers prior to collecting water from conservation areas is required. Water is available for livestock needs only and not for resale. Farmers will need to provide their own pumping and hauling equipment. Contact the Big Lake State Park Office prior to pumping water at 660-771-6341.

A map displaying locations to pump water from state boat ramps is available at mostateparks.com/drought.

Special hay hauling permits can be requested through the MoDOT Carrier Express online service, located at www.modot.org/mce.

MoDOT permits cover movement within Missouri only and are required for each truck. Questions may be directed to MoDOT- Motor Carrier Services office at 1-800-877-8499.

Residents are encouraged to assist local, state, and national decision makers better understand drought conditions in their area by submitting a survey form via the Condition Monitoring Observer Reports (CMOR) service linked via dnr.mo.gov/drought.

The Missouri Department of Conservation also warns of the increased risk for wildfires that drought conditions can cause.