http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Cooler weather and scattered showers in the Coastal Bend helped with soil moisture retention. Some counties received over 2 inches while others only got two-tenths of an inch. Grain and cotton producers were planning to fertilize soon. Winter pasture planting continued. Some producers were hoping to get a final hay-cutting before the first frost. Some cattle producers were still feeding hay and supplements. Markets were still strong, and many producers took advantage of the high prices by weaning and selling off calves earlier than usual. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 17, 2023 Most of the Coastal Bend received scattered rainfall, but topsoil moisture was still lacking overall. More rain was in the forecast. Fall bedding work was ongoing in crop fields. Timely rain could improve pasture conditions and provide the chance for one last hay cutting for the season. Most livestock found enough green forage to maintain their body condition, but many producers supplemented their diets with hay and protein. Culling cows continued at a higher rate than average, and calves were shipped at lighter weights than usual. Auction market prices remained high. Many livestock producers were trying to hold on due to concerns about replacement costs and expected high calf prices in the future. Low stock pond water levels continued to cause concern for producers and were being monitored. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 3, 2023