Walker to tour drought-stricken parts of Wis.
MADISON, Wis. (AP) -- Gov. Scott Walker plans to tour drought-stricken parts of Wisconsin on Friday.
Walker plans to meet with legislative leaders, agency officials and others about the drought during the tour in the southeast and southwest parts of the state.
The tour comes after Walker on Wednesday expanded a drought emergency declaration statewide.
Walker says the increase in wildfires because of the hot weather and lack of rain is adding to the risk of "major economic losses, especially in agriculture."
Walker has directed Wisconsin Emergency Management to coordinate state efforts in response to the drought. It also directs all state agencies to assist in the response and recovery.
The declaration also waives fees and expedites the permitting process to allow farmers to divert water from certain streams and lakes.
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