http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Conditions in South Texas were hot and dry, with some areas experiencing humidity, windy conditions or occasional spotty showers. Extremely hot temperatures ranging from 100-110 daily and no rainfall were taking a toll on rangeland and pasture conditions. Cotton harvest continued for producers who decided fields were worth harvesting. Others were shredding and plowing their cotton. Poor lint quality led to about one-third of the acres being harvested and two-thirds being shredded. Drier pastures resulted in a high fire risk. All grain crops were harvested, and farmers should wrap up the cotton harvest soon. Citrus was being irrigated and sprayed for insects, but trees were showing signs of heat and drought stress. The persistent dry weather reduced forage availability. Some ranchers were reducing stocking rates to prevent further degradation of rangelands. Many woody species, like mesquite, were thriving due to the drought. Supplemental feeding of tubs, molasses/protein/minerals was necessary. Hay cutting and bailing continued. Planting was underway for fall vegetable crops, and farmers were beginning to prepare fields for winter crops. Livestock water remained critical for producers who rely on stock tanks. Topsoil and subsoil moisture conditions declined due to the excessive heat. Producers were providing water for their ponds to help wildlife. Beef cattle prices remained very high. Local markets were reporting an uptick in sale numbers compared to last month, with prices remaining steady and strong for all classes of beef cattle. Wildlife seemed to be doing well despite the heat and drought. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 27, 2024 Very hot and dry conditions were reported in South Texas with most areas averaging in the low 100s. Corn and sorghum harvests were complete with cotton harvest nearing completion. Spinach was planted. Sesame and citrus crops were in good condition, and hay yields were average. Peanut crops were in good condition with some fields already in the pegging stage. Soil moisture conditions ranged from short to adequate while pasture conditions were poor to fair. Supplemental feeding and access to water was crucial for livestock during the hot conditions, but overall livestock conditions were good. Cattle prices were strong in most areas. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Aug 13, 2024