Cattle producers in the U.S. are having to sell off their herds due to the drought. A Missouri farmer says the Dakotas sold out last year and now he is seeing it more in Texas, Oklahoma, and his state. He says he is concerned about the low cattle inventory, specifically, and says some people are even talking about getting out of the cattle industry altogether because of everything going on with weather, packers, and legislation.
If you plan on keeping your herd during this challenging time, an Oklahoma State University Beef Cattle Specialist shares how to conserve what forage you have left.
“I think that’s the priority. The long-term adjustments made should ensure that the forage base is not damaged due to overgrazing, primarily. That’s what we’re trying to avoid, is damaging that natural resource, that’s the foundation of the ranching enterprise,” says Dale Lalman.
Lalman says right behind managing the available environmental resources is making sure the cattle are well-cared for during the drought and making sure their body condition is not compromised.
Related:
Drought Roundtable: It is an “uncertain and concerning” outlook for Texas and Kansas
A Tennessee hay farmer is “hoping for the best” when facing drought and fuel prices
Saskatchewan cattle producers once again facing extreme drought conditions
What role do forages play in benefiting livestock?
