Drought: Livestock

All Drought: Livestock Content

Weather station at the edge of a large, open pasture.

Drought

Stay ahead of drought impacts with SDSU Extension's timely climate updates, business insights and research-tested management tips.

Mixed group of cattle grazing a diverse mix of forage.

Diversifying Your Forage Base for Drought Flexibility

While no single strategy eliminates drought risk, diversifying the forage base can offer producers added flexibility by spreading risk across species, planting windows, and rooting depths.

Beef cattle herd grazing a lush, green grassland.

Spring Pasture Report: Should You Delay Turnout in 2026?

As spring 2026 begins, South Dakota and most of the High Plains region is starting out well behind the mark in the moisture category.

Black cow standing in winter pasture.

Winter Pasture Report: How Winter Moisture Shapes Spring Grazing Decisions

While many people are happy to welcome a mild winter devoid of typical South Dakota blizzards, a lack of moisture is concerning as we look ahead to spring.

an image of outdoor weather monitoring equipment in a field

Climate and Weather

View resources to predict, prepare and recover from weather-related events year-round, including the latest drought and flood information.

Small group of cattle grazing fall pasture.

Fall Pasture Report: Considerations for Dormant Season Grazing

Recent fall rains across the region continue to improve soil moisture conditions in preparation for the dormant season. Unlike in years past, a fall green up has been in full swing for much of the region.

Ranchers meeting with USDA agents in a farmyard.

A Disaster-Ready Strategy for Cattle Operations

Cattle producers can minimize risk and maximize resilience. Having a written emergency action plan and routine exercise of the plan helps ensure animal welfare and business continuity.

Beef cattle grazing summer pasture.

Summer Pasture Report: Discussing Rain, Pasture Recovery, and Preparing for Fall

Drought conditions across northern South Dakota have seen some relief due to the precipitation received in the past few months. Despite some decent rainfall occurring, most of the state is still behind normal for the water year.

Dry spring pasture near Highmore, South Dakota.

Spring Pasture Report: Dry Soil Conditions Threaten 2025 Grazing Season

As the grazing season inches closer, dry conditions have become very apparent, and producers should take time to assess resources and regularly monitor soil moisture and weather outlooks.

Supplementing Cows on Pasture to Stretch Forage Supplies

With dry conditions spreading quickly across the Dakota’s, producers are forced to make challenging decisions on how many cow/calf pairs to turn out to pasture, and then determine how long the pastures will even last if moisture doesn’t come soon. During the spring/summer months, supplementing grass with energy and protein can decrease forage dry matter consumption.