http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Extreme heat and dry conditions persisted in the Rolling Plains last week. Cotton across the entire district was reported as poor or completely burned up. Many cattle producers continued thinning their herds, selling as many as possible to reduce the amount of hay and supplements being fed. Some farmers started to dry-sow wheat and apply fertilizer in anticipation of forecasted rains. All counties were hopeful for the projected moisture and cooler temperatures. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Sept 12, 2023 Rolling Plains farmers and ranchers didn’t experience any relief for their land or livestock. Widespread drought continued with the prolonged extreme heat and lack of measurable moisture. The increased concern for fire conditions persisted. Water levels in livestock water tanks were edging dangerously low for producers, if not gone altogether. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 29, 2023 Extreme fire danger was a concern across the Rolling Plains and will continue to be until substantial rain falls. Several counties reported wildfires; fortunately they were mostly contained or completely put out. The prolonged heat has taken its toll on pastures and cultivated crops. Cotton acres were especially hurting. Most of the district was reporting severe infestations of grasshoppers, and some areas were starting to see more blister bugs as well. Cattle were being fed hay and supplements because of the lack of grazing. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 15, 2023 Widespread drought conditions continued in Texas' Rolling Plains. All counties were experiencing the adverse effects of extreme heat and lack of moisture. Pasture grasses and crops without irrigation were showing signs of severe stress. Grasshoppers were posing a problem and consuming any green vegetation left. Wildfire dangers were worrying many producers as foliage dried down. Livestock were being fed with supplemental hay due to the lack of available grazing, and many producers were also facing low drinking water levels in stock ponds. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 1, 2023