Editor’s note: This is the fourth in a series focusing on the events in and around Bureau County in 2012.

Aug. 2: There’s more water problems in Spring Valley, as the city’s back-up well is showing signs of bacteria. The area drought may be worsening the situation, according to city engineer Jack Kusek. The well isn’t used on a regular basis, but the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency still requires the water to be bacteria-free, he says. The city will continue to work on getting clean samples from the back-up well.

Aug. 4: The bad news for Bureau County farmers is the drought continues. The good news is at least Bureau County has now joined the ranks of those counties designated eligible for federal drought assistance. Gov. Pat Quinn announces the U.S. Department of Agriculture has declared 98 of 102 Illinois counties, including Bureau, as disaster areas. The designation means federal disaster assistance is now available to help farmers in drought-stricken areas.