Latest News From Drought

Third AFBF Survey Reveals Stark Reality of Western Drought

Drought continues to hammer farmers and ranchers in Western, Central and Southern Plains states, with far-reaching implications for farmers’ and ranchers’ bottom lines, and also food availability and affordability.

Cattle Producers Face Relentless Heat and Drought, Hard Decisions To Be Made

Challenging conditions continue to plague cattle ranchers as they run short of feed and are forced to make tough decisions for their operation.

Drovers Drought Webinar is Wednesday – Register Here

Drought has been a topic of conversation among ranchers for several months. Join us Wednesday, July 27, 2022 at 3 p.m. CST as we discuss drought and it's impacts on producers.

John Phipps: Why Can't the U.S. Figure Out a Way to Move Water From the Great Lakes to the West?

As the Western U.S. faces a megadrought, why can't the U.S. move water around the country like it's done with energy? John Phipps explores the physical and political hurdles potential water infrastructure would face.

Managing Cows Through Dry Conditions: What Options Do I Have?

Hot, dry conditions have taken a toll on pasture growth this year. What should cattle producers consider to conserve grass in these dry areas?

July Farm Country Forecast: Hot Like a Firecracker

Unfortunately, the heat, humidity and dry conditions of early summer look to extend into the next few months. 

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The U.S. Just Broke a 27-Week Drought Streak, But Forecasts Don't Look Promising

Less than 50% of the continental U.S. is in moderate drought for the first time since November, but with another drought record still running strong, forecasts show drought could grow over the summer months.

reduced forage due to drought in North Dakota
Dealing with Drought Webinar to Assist Cow-Calf Producers with Decision Making

Drought is not a new issue to cow-calf producers, but many factors make this year unique. Kansas State will host a webinar to help producers weigh options on May 19.

What You Need To Know About USDA Announcing Payments To Livestock Producers Hammered By Drought, Soaring Feed Costs

USDA says the launch of the Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) will address increases in supplemental feed costs in 2021. Phase 1 of the payments is expected to total $577 million.

In this May 18, 2015 photo, irrigation pipes sit along a dry irrigation canal on a field farmed by Gino Celli, who relies on senior water rights to water his crops, near Stockton, Calif.
Drought Coverage Now Rivals 2012, Wheat Belt and Cattle Country Conditions Continue to Crumble

Drought covering the continental U.S. grew by 2 points this week, now covering nearly 60% of the country. As the drought grips the Wheat Belt and key areas for cattle production, it's creating concern for 2022.

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Free Webinar: Examining the Effects of the 2021 Drought

Join Drovers editor Greg Henderson and experts from all segments of the beef value chain to better understand the current and future dynamics of this crisis at 3 p.m. on Thursday, August 5, for this free discussion.

Dairy Report: California Drought Continues to Impact Dairy Producers

The drought out west isn't just impacting grain and livestock producers. It's also impacting California's dairy industry.