Drought in North Dakota Continues to Worsen

The worst areas are in the west, with much of the east rated as abnormally dry

NORTH DAKOTA — Drought that is ravaging crops, pastures and hay land in North Dakota has worsened over the past week.

The latest U.S. Drought Monitor map shows nearly three-fourths of the state in some stage of drought, up from about two-thirds last week.

At least 55 percent of the state is in severe or extreme drought, up from 47 percent.

The worst areas are in the west, with much of the east rated as abnormally dry.

The governor has waived distance restrictions for hay and water haulers and CRP lands have been opened for haying.