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Drought is taking a toll on crops in Missouri. This photo was taken in July 2018 in Ray County, Missouri. A new USDA crop progress report comes out this afternoon, but as of last week 45% of Missouri's corn was poor to very poor.
Drought Takes Toll on Missouri Crops, Cattle

Much of the western U.S. is also experiencing drought. But Missouri is the only Midwestern state with such severe conditions with suffering corn crops and hay in short supply for cattle.

A ranch in Williamson County, Texas had 82 cattle seized after 10 head were found dead. The likely cause was either starvation or a lack of water.
88 Cattle Confiscated in Texas After Being Malnourished, 18 More Dead

Ten cattle died on one Texas ranch where 82 cattle were seized, while another ranch in Texas had eight head die and six cattle confiscated. All of the cattle are believed to have been deprived of water or feed.

If drought conditions persist, producers could find themselves seeking winter feed options. The program will focus on what producers can do to maximize on rainfall or plan ahead for various scenarios this winter.
Winter Pasture, Stockpiled Forage Workshop to Cover Options in Drought

If drought conditions persist, producers could find themselves seeking winter feed options. The program will focus on what producers can do to maximize on rainfall or plan ahead for various scenarios this winter.

A rancher stands on his trailer observing the Grassy Ridge Fire in Idaho that has forced 2,500-3,000 cattle to be moved.
Idaho Wildfire Burns 100,000 Acres, Displaces Thousands of Cattle

Approximately 2,500 to 3,000 cattle have been moved from summer pasture while a wildfire continues to burn more than 100,000 acres in Idaho.

Cows stand in water to cool off on a hot summer day.
Reduce Heat Stress in Cattle

Summer heat and humidity can take a toll on cattle and humans.

Drought Stays as Beef Farms Plan on Fall Rains to Make Winter Pasture
Drought Stays as Beef Farms Plan on Fall Rains to Make Winter Pasture

Stunted, stemmy pastures unable to support grazing cattle have potential. Depend on fall rains to bring fall regrowth, says University of Missouri Extension forage agronomist Craig Roberts.

High Pressure Heat Domes and Beef Cattle
High Pressure Heat Domes and Beef Cattle

In extremely hot weather it is normal for body temperatures to rise moderately above normal during the heat of the day and to cool off at night when environmental temperatures are less.

Beef producers might start considering culling options in case drought conditions continue to decrease forage and hay availability.
Continued Drought Could Lead to Culling Herds in Southern Plains

Beef producers should be making plans regarding their herds in case drought conditions continue, said a Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service expert.