Federal assistance would be nice, but rain would be better. Missouri farmers await word on what the federal government might be willing to do to help offset the financial blow hot, dry weather has dealt them. Joe Baumgartner farms about 700 acres south of Columbia and has about 200 head of cattle. Governor Matt Blunt and Agriculture Director Fred Ferrell visited his farm as part of a statewide tour of drought-stricken areas. Baumgartner appreciated the brief shower that passed by during the visit, though it was too brief. Baumgartner says his farm needs a good soaking to help the soybean crop. He says the corn crop has already been damaged, and no amount of rain will help it recover before harvest. Baumgartner worries about water for his cattle. He says the extreme heat has lower his pond levels.