The key to getting a cow/calf enterprise through drought is to have a management plan and stick to it.
Assessing water quality for livestock under drought conditions Link to Website
National Weather Service’s Climate Prediction Center Link to Website
USDA drought monitor Link to Website
Drought management strategies for beef cattle Link to Website
USDA Disaster assistance Link to Website Link to Website
CDFA Drought Assistance Link to Website
USDA Pasture, Rangeland Forage (PRF) insurance program Link to Website
Drought strategies for Cattle on Annual Range Link to PDF
Drought leads to predictable lack of forage production on rangelands. This leaves two possible management scenarios: sell animals to reduce forage demand, or supplement feeding to maintain herd genetics. In some cases producers may choose a combination of both to prevent complete herd dispersal. This publication is designed to help producers think through the supplementation of cattle during drought years.
More Drought Strategies
Drought Economics Link to PDF
Destocking and Early Weaning During Drought Link to PDF
Drought Strategies for Culling Link to PDF
Alternative Cow-Calf Grazing Concepts A Ranchers Perspective Link to PDF