Range, pasture conditions declining in the Coastal Bend of Texas
8/27/2024 12:00:00 AM
CATEGORIES:
Agriculture
Plants & Wildlife
AFFECTED AREAS:
Aransas County, TX
Austin County, TX
Bee County, TX
Calhoun County, TX
Colorado County, TX
DeWitt County, TX
Fayette County, TX
Goliad County, TX
Jackson County, TX
Karnes County, TX
Lavaca County, TX
Matagorda County, TX
Nueces County, TX
Refugio County, TX
San Patricio County, TX
Victoria County, TX
Washington County, TX
Wharton County, TX
Start Date: 8/13/2024
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Hot, dry weather continued in the Coastal Bend with no significant rain, leading to declining topsoil and subsoil moisture. Corn and rice harvests were nearly complete, with corn yields ranging from 130-150 bushels per acre. Cotton harvest was 95% finished, with some areas delayed by rain. Hay fields were being cut and baled, but the harvest slowed due to dry conditions. Pastures were deteriorating and browning without rain. Pecan trees were shedding nut clusters prematurely. Livestock remained in good condition despite the dry weather. Cattle prices were holding steady at historic highs.
AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 27, 2024
Hot and humid conditions continued in the Coastal Bend with little to no rain forecasted. Hay baling continued with good yields reported. Cotton harvest was nearly complete, and producers were optimistic despite lower commodity prices. Corn harvest continued while rice harvest was beginning. Range and pasture conditions were declining with grasses showing signs of drought stress. Pecan trees were shedding nuts. Livestock were doing well and benefiting from recent moisture. Cattle prices remained high, but lower inventories were beginning to slow market prices.
AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 13, 2024
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