http://droughtreporter.unl.edu/

v 2.4.3.0

Dry, warm conditions persisted in Southwest Texas. Temperatures rose back into the high-80s, with no rain in sight. Soils remained dry with visible cracks, and forage availability dwindled. The last cotton bales were hauled to the gin. The pecan harvest was completed. High temperatures and a lack of moisture prevented cool-season forage from germinating, while warm-season plants continued to go dormant. There was a significant amount of dry fuel that could contribute to fire risks. Irrigated oats and wheat looked fair, but pastures and rangelands dried up due to above-average temperatures and insufficient rainfall. Water well levels were a concern, and Canyon Lake’s levels dropped to the point that stricter water restrictions were anticipated. Livestock received supplementation and were mostly in fair condition. Wildlife were active, with whitetail bucks beginning their rut. There was a slight chance of rain in the forecast, with cooler temperatures expected. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 29, 2024 Dry conditions continued in Southwest Texas, and it was very dusty. Overnight temperatures dropped to the high 60s to low 70s. No rainfall was reported, and none was in the forecast. Moisture conditions continued to decline, leading to a deterioration in pasture and rangeland conditions. Emerged small grains were holding on, but producers were waiting to plant winter forages until they received some moisture. The cotton harvest concluded, yielding better results than the previous year for both irrigated and dryland fields. Producers sold cattle at lighter weights, and some were destocking their herd. Stock tanks were drying up, necessitating supplemental water for livestock. Livestock markets were steady. Acorn crops matured as deer season began, and livestock grazed and received some supplemental forage. Wildlife were active and seeking water. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 16, 2024 Conditions in Southwest Texas were hot and humid with no rain and some relief from cooler morning temperatures. Nighttime temperatures dropped into the mid-50s to 60s in some areas. There was no rain and soils were drying and beginning to crack. Row crop harvests were complete. Pastures were going dormant and forage quality declined due to the dry conditions. Wildlife activity started to pick up as oaks and wild pecans began to drop nuts and acorns. White-tailed deer became more active. Supplemental feeding of livestock continued. Overall, livestock and wildlife remained in good condition. AgriLife Today (College Station, Texas), Oct 1, 2024