http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Conditions in South Texas remained favorable due to recent rains, leading to an improvement in overall rangeland and pasture conditions. Most of the district reported rainfall of 0.5–3 inches, while other areas reported no rain. Pastures and rangeland continued to improve in areas that received rain and decline in drier areas. Livestock were in good condition, but some producers with overgrazed pastures were supplementing with hay, cubes and tubs, as well as molasses, protein and mineral. Cattle prices declined due to heavier harvest weights and a large supply. Feed prices remained high at local feed stores. Local ranchers began planning for fall sales of their weaned calves as they prepared for deer season. Irrigated forage was making good quality hay, and producers were optimistic about a possible second or third cutting if they received rain. Hay producers were baling hay, with some applying fertilizer after the previous week’s rain. Pastures looked good with adequate rainfall. Most row crop farmers were busy doing fieldwork. Cotton defoliation started, and early planted cotton was harvested. Peanut crops continued to mature under irrigation and digging was expected to begin in the coming weeks. Bermuda grass hay fields were cut and baled. Sesame harvest started but most fields were still too wet. A few vegetable producers planted cool-season crops, and citrus trees were sprayed. With the cooler temperatures, wildlife became more active and remained in good quantity and decent quality, with strong populations of whitetail deer, quail, and other game for the upcoming hunting seasons. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Sept 17, 2024 Scattered showers and thunderstorms were reported along with cooler or average temperatures. A large part of the district received between 0.5-4.5 inches of rain. Live Oak County received rainfall totals ranging from 0.3-4 inches, however McMullen, Duval and Hidalgo counties did not receive significant rainfall. Prior to the rain, conditions were extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 105 degrees, and varying degrees of dryness and humidity. The rainfall improved conditions for pastures and crops. Sesame harvest was about 85% complete with above-average yields reported, while cotton harvest was approximately 90% complete. Cotton stalk destruction was underway, with the stalk destruction deadline of Sept. 15. Most cotton acres in other counties were harvested, with varying yields and quality; any remaining cotton likely dropped in quality and some was expected to be shredded. Citrus and vegetables continued to be irrigated. Peanut producers reduced irrigation as harvest neared. Producers were preparing fields for fall and winter crops. Fall corn was thriving with the recent rains. Forage production was up, and hay fields looked good. Hay producers were baling across the counties, and a surplus of hay was noted. Livestock were in good condition, though some producers remained concerned about stock tank levels and continued to supplement feed with hay and cubes. Cattle prices remained steady to lower while sale volumes were steady to higher at most markets. Livestock and wildlife conditions improved due to the rainfall and cooler temperatures. Ranchers and deer producers were supplementing livestock and wildlife, and dove populations were abundant in many areas. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Sept 5, 2024