A request by Governor Jay Nixon for a disaster declaration for Missouri counties hit by flooding, storms and excessive rain during June and July was granted Tuesday by President Obama. The declaration clears the way for affected counties and local governments to seek federal funds for disaster-related response and recovery expenses.

The President’s declaration will assist at least 29 counties in recovering from the damage caused by flooding and the damaging weather. Additionally, since the governor’s July 27 request, damage assessments have been completed in nine other Missouri counties and the city of St. Louis.

Citing losses caused to ag areas, Governor Nixon asked U.S. Ag Secretary Tom Vilsack to designate 55 Missouri counties as primary disaster areas, which will permit assistance for farmers from the USDA’s Farm Service Agency.