http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Dry, unseasonably hot conditions persisted in the Coastal Bend, with no rain for 60 days and temperatures still in the 90s. Soil moisture remained low, limiting fall fieldwork and bedding to lighter soils. Grain producers arranged fertilizer and seed for the new year, but winter pasture planting was minimal so far due to high costs and lack of moisture. Pastures were dormant and drying out, with some producers feeding hay to livestock. Hay remained plentiful, but supplemental feeding increased significantly in heavily stocked areas. Cattle remained in good condition, while numbers at area sale barns remained high. The pecan harvest started. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 29, 2024 Weather conditions remained hot and dry in the Coastal Bend, with no rain and daily temperatures reaching the 90s. Soil moisture continued to decline, which put fieldwork on hold in some areas. Hay baling continued, but yields were lower due to the ongoing dry spell. Minimal winter pasture was planted, and many producers’ pastures were stressed with deteriorating grasses and lower-quality forage. Despite the lack of green grass, livestock remained in good condition. Cattle prices remained steady, and fall cattle work continued. The pecan harvest was minimal, and some native bottoms went unharvested due to light yields. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 16, 2024 Field preparations continued for most operations in the Coastal Bend. There were a few wet spots, but for the most part soil moisture conditions were drier than desired. Rangeland and pasture conditions remained good for most operations, but dry conditions were impacting growth. Armyworms showed up in some fields and pastures. Fall tillage was underway for corn fields. Acres planted for winter pasture were expected to be low this year due to an abundance of hay. Livestock continued to do well where grass was available and forage management was good. Fall cattle working continued, with large numbers being sold at area sale barns. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 1, 2024