Louisiana ranchers, such as Amelia Kent and Joey Register, are grappling with the effects of an exceptionally hot and dry summer. The pastures are barren, ponds are shrinking, and only harmful weeds are growing. Around the state, extreme conditions have persisted for over a month, resulting in moderate to severe drought in many areas. However, federal aid programs for agricultural producers haven't been triggered yet due to worsening conditions not meeting the criteria.
Joey Register, in DeSoto Parish, has seen minimal rainfall since July, leading to extremely dry ground. He's been forced to reduce his hay stockpile for the winter and cull his cattle herd due to feed shortages. Similarly, Amelia Kent and her husband Russell have had to move their cattle between pastures more frequently, but the grass remains sparse and weak. They might need to reduce their herd by 25%.
The heat isn't the only factor affecting ranchers. Frosts in December and March have already lowered breeding rates and calf growth, and now the heat could further impact fertility and weight gain. Some ranchers have started using their winter hay stocks to feed their cattle.
The dry conditions have also impacted farmers like David Smith, who has soybean crops suffering due to a lack of moisture. While some crops are faring well, the ongoing drought presents challenges. Agriculture consultant Hank Jones suggests that despite the difficulties, farmers close to harvest would prefer dry conditions to prevent crop rotting.
Louisiana Agriculture Commissioner Mike Strain notes that the entire country, particularly the Midwest, is facing similar challenges. While some parts of Louisiana are in severe drought, federal aid requires eight consecutive weeks of such conditions, and some areas are close to meeting that criterion. The drought has affected hay and grassland the most.
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https://www.nola.com/news/environment/scorching-weather-taking-toll-on-louisiana-ranchers-farmers/article_2c209db8-37cc-11ee-ad93-87c427658243.html