This autumn, the United States experienced significant flash drought conditions, with many areas, including major cities like New York and Houston, recording their driest October on record. Over 100 weather stations across 26 states report minimal to no rainfall, leading to concerns about grain harvests, heightened fire risks, and low water levels affecting transportation.
But the livestock sector is particularly impacted; ranchers are selling more calves due to poor pasture conditions, highlighted in the USDA Cattle on Feed Report.
Experts note that the ongoing drought is hindering the rebuilding of the U.S. beef cow herd, with a higher percentage of heifers in feedlots than usual. Livestock analysts emphasize that both green pastures and profitability are crucial for herd growth, and the current dry conditions, coupled with low profit margins in the cow-calf sector, make recovery unlikely in the near term.
Photo Credit: The USDA
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