Increasing Your Operation’s Resilience to Persistent Drought Conditions

Dr. Mark Svoboda with the National Drought Mitigation Center discusses a new global drought report and resources to help operations increase drought resilience.

LINCOLN, Neb. (RFD-TV) — Efforts are underway to strengthen drought resilience in agriculture as dry conditions continue to challenge farmers across Rural America and around the world.

Dr. Mark Svoboda with the National Drought Mitigation Center joined us on Tuesday’s Market Day Report to discuss a new global drought report, its key findings, and how they impact farmers and rural communities in the U.S.

In his interview with RFD-TV News, Svoboda shared insights on the drivers of worsening drought in the Great Plains and across the country, explaining how climate trends are influencing both crop production and water resources.

Svoboda highlighted the tools the Drought Center is developing to help producers prepare, such as its updated web tool, Managing Drought Risk on the Ranch, which includes advanced risk-management and planning resources tailored to local conditions. He also discussed how producers can utilize these resources to develop stronger, drought-resilient operations.

He also notes the center is rolling out new tools to help producers prepare and manage drought risk, including advanced planning resources that can be tailored to local conditions.

Farmers and rural residents can access the global report and drought planning tools at the National Drought Mitigation Center’s website.

Related Stories
Former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture and Kansas congressman Dan Glickman joined RFD News to share his outlook on agricultural policy, bipartisan cooperation, and the challenges facing farmers today.
Weather remains the primary driver for wheat price outlook.
Acre reporting is crucial to maximize specialty crop aid.
Katie Keener with the National Women in Agriculture Association joins us to celebrate women in agriculture and spotlight programs and initiatives aimed at empowering female producers across the country.
Nationwide’s Elizabeth Duncan and Traci Via with Agriculture Future of America highlight the impact of women in agriculture and how mentorship and partnerships empower future farmers and ranchers.
UNL student fellow Alison Walbrecht shares her perspective on building support for agricultural research, extension, and teaching while gaining hands-on insight into federal policymaking.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

National FFA Southern Region Vice President T. Wayne William talks about Wear Blue Day, the history of the blue jacket, and why the tradition continues to inspire pride and connection among FFA members nationwide.
The closure of Lubbock Feeders highlights mounting pressure on the U.S. cattle supply, according to the Texas Cattle Feeders Association, as border restrictions and costs strain feedyards.
From projected drops in input costs to biofuel expansion and the USDA’s new “One Farmer, One File” initiative, Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins shared key policy priorities at Commodity Classic that put farm issues back in the spotlight.
NCBA Chief Counsel Mary-Thomas Hart discussed the legal process behind delisting the prairie chicken, the challenges ranchers faced under the bird’s previous protections, and the benefits of cooperative habitat management for both livestock and wildlife.
U.S.-Mexico agricultural trade faces uncertainty in 2026 as tariffs and cartel violence threaten farmers and ranchers. Congressman Henry Cuellar and Texas leaders weigh in on impacts and risks.
At Commodity Classic in San Antonio, growers explore new herbicide options, John Deere’s latest 8 Series tractors, and cutting-edge ag technology shaping the 2026 planting season. Here are some of RFD NEWS’ highlights from the event so far.