New Mexico fire forces cattle producers to sell early

KRQE reports wildfires have burned through grazing pastures leading producers to pay additional feed costs or sell cattle earlier than expected while considering long and short-term losses.

Wildfires and limited rainfall have resulted in a shortage of hay and grass used for livestock feed. If cattle producers don’t sell their herd now they’ll likely lose any money they spend to feed their animals.

An economic impact study shows the wildfires will cost the area $15 million in 2011 and an additional $40 million over the following three years.

The study considers the cost of fixing fences, selling animals and replanting pastures, but evaluates the current damage and does not account for fires that could occur later this season or recovery time for drought-stricken land.

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Source: KRQE

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