BISMARCK, N.D.- North Dakota ranchers and farmers dealing with the drought are getting an increase in state and federal aid.
The U.S.D.A. has authorized haying and grazing on additional Conservation Reserve Program acres in portions of not only North Dakota but also South Dakota and Montana. Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue cites ``epic dry conditions'' for the decision.
North Dakota's Water Commission also has authorized more money for the state's Drought Disaster Livestock Water Supply cost-share program. The state has now committed $825,000.
More than 6 percent of North Dakota is listed in ``exceptional'' drought. Much of the rest of western North Dakota is in either severe or extreme drought.