OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (RFD News) — Extreme heat and a lack of rainfall are creating difficult conditions across Oklahoma agriculture, with USDA drought disaster declarations now covering nearly the entire state, according to KOSU.
The department has designated 61 counties as primary natural disaster areas, with another 16 named as contiguous counties. The impacts are being felt across crop and livestock operations, particularly in western Oklahoma where drought conditions are more severe.
Summer crops are struggling with limited moisture, while some wheat growers are waiting for rain before planting. Oklahoma State University Extension specialist Sumit Sharma said even irrigation has not been enough in some areas to meet crop water needs.
Conditions are also tightening forage supplies for cattle producers. Only about 17% of the state’s range and pasture is rated good to excellent, leading some ranchers to feed hay earlier than normal as supplies remain limited.
Continued dry weather could create additional challenges heading into winter and affect next year’s wheat crop.
