Drought meeting to address beef producer issues

 

August 21, 2022



Rain, at this point in the growing season, will not soften the impact the summer heat and drought has had on forage production on range and pastures in Woods County. Hay production in northwest Oklahoma is only 30-40 percent of normal and cows are grazing pastures far longer than desirable. This lack of forage has led to a tremendous increase in hay prices and extraordinarily tight hay supplies. Many producers are searching for enough hay bales to feed their herd for the coming winter. Water is a tremendous issue as many ponds do not have enough water to last through the coming winter. Low wind speeds have also reduced windmill output causing many producers to haul water much of the summer.

Thursday, Aug. 25, at 5:30 p.m. at Northwest Technology Center, 1801 S. 11th Street, Alva, the Woods County OSU Extension Service will host a seminar addressing drought issues in beef production. Producers interested in learning about issues the drought has created and possible options regarding how to address these problems are welcome to attend.

Topics of the seminar include: Management of cows and calves during early weaning by Dr. David Lalman, OSU Beef Specialist; Marketing options for weaned calves and optimizing the value of additional gain by Trent Milacek, OSU Extension Area Economist; and Culling strategies and stocking rate adjustments during drought by Greg Highfill, Woods County OSU Extension educator.

A special guest presentation will be made by Justin Barr, Ellis County beef producer. “Justin does a good job of planning for and adjusting to drought conditions,” stated Highfill, the seminar host. “We are very much looking forward to Justin’s presentation and assessment of the current drought conditions.”

All beef producers are welcome to attend this seminar and bring your questions concerning your own ranching operation. The seminar will begin at 5:30 with light snacks and refreshments.

 

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