Virginia Governor declares state of emergency over drought

Governor Abigail Spanberger has declared a state of emergency in Virginia to assist farmers struggling with persistent drought conditions. Under Executive Order 21, the state will temporarily exempt over-width hay deliveries from certain transportation restrictions to expedite the movement of critical resources to livestock.

Since last winter, drought has caused an estimated 500,000-ton shortfall in hay. While conditions have improved in some areas, certain regions have reported hay yield losses of up to 70%. Southern Virginia near the North Carolina border remains under emergency drought conditions, according to the Department of Environmental Quality.

The lack of pasture grass has forced cattle producers to use hay supplies earlier than usual, increasing the need for supplemental purchases ahead of winter. While the order allows for wider deliveries, gross and axle weight limits remain in effect to manage transportation logistics.