Drought Resources for Livestock Producers

As drought conditions continue to impact our area, I wanted to share a collection of resources that may be helpful to you. These resources are compiled from multiple agencies, including Extension, NRCS, and FSA, and are intended to provide current information, assistance programs, and management recommendations as conditions evolve.

I plan to distribute an updated resource list each week so that you have access to the latest information and support available. Please feel free to share these resources with others who may benefit.

If you have any questions or need additional assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out.

Sarah Newman
Extension Agent, Livestock & Field Crops
Cabarrus County Cooperative Extension
704-920-3317
sarah_newman@ncsu.edu

Livestock Forage Program (LFP)

The Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP), administered by FSA, provides financial assistance to livestock producers who have experienced grazing losses due to qualifying drought conditions or fire on federally managed rangelands. The program is designed to help offset forage losses and increased feed costs resulting from these disasters.

Livestock producers who own or lease eligible grazing land may qualify. Contact your local FSA office for eligibility requirements and application information.

For more information, visit this link or contact your local FSA office at 715 Cabarrus Ave W, Concord, NC 28025, or call (704) 333-0023.

Alternative Feeds for Beef Cattle in Drought

With drought conditions continuing across the region, livestock producers should begin developing a plan now for managing limited forage and hay supplies this fall and winter. Management decisions may include securing additional hay supplies early, calculating winter feed needs, reducing herd size, or evaluating alternative feed sources. Taking time to assess your operation's needs now can help reduce stress and costs later in the season.

This article from NC State Extension discusses alternative feed options for beef cattle and considerations for incorporating them into your feeding program.

NC Hay Finder

As drought conditions continue and concerns about winter forage supplies grow, many livestock producers have already begun reaching out about locating hay and making plans to stock up for the coming months. To help connect hay buyers and sellers across the state, NC State Extension, with support from NC Farm Bureau and the NC Cattlemen's Association, has launched NC Hay Finder.

The website allows producers to search for available hay by zip code and sort listings by distance, hay type, or price. Producers with hay available for sale can also create an account and post listings to reach potential buyers.

If you are beginning to evaluate your winter feed needs, NC Hay Finder may be a useful resource for locating hay supplies and planning ahead. See the link below for more information and to access the website.

Livestock Producers: Share Your Drought Impacts

Extension is collecting information on drought impacts to N.C. hay production and pasture yields. Responses will help inform our response efforts.

Take the Survey Here!

Calculating Winter Hay Needs

One of the most important steps livestock producers can take during a drought is to calculate their winter hay needs and begin securing feed resources as early as possible. Knowing approximately how much hay your herd will require can help you determine whether current supplies are adequate, identify potential shortages, and make informed management decisions before winter arrives.

This article provides a simple method for estimating hay requirements based on animal numbers, weight, and feeding duration. Taking the time to complete this exercise now can help reduce uncertainty and allow you to plan ahead for feed purchases or alternative feeding strategies.

If you would like assistance calculating your herd's winter hay needs, Sarah Newman, Livestock Agent, is happy to work through the numbers with you. See the article for step-by-step instructions and additional information.

NC Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network

Drought and other agricultural challenges can place significant stress on farm families and operations. The NC Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Network (NC FRSAN) provides support and resources to farmers, ranchers, and agricultural workers facing personal, financial, or farm-related stress.

The NC Farm Help Line is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and can connect individuals with resources related to mental health, financial concerns, legal assistance, farm safety, health, and other support services.

NC Farm Help Line: 844-325-3276

Remember, seeking support is a sign of strength, and resources are available to help you navigate difficult times.

For additional information and drought-related resources, please visit the NC State Extension Drought Portal. If you have questions about forage management, livestock feeding strategies, hay resources, or other drought-related concerns, please contact Sarah Newman, Livestock and Field Crops Agent. We are here to help you evaluate your options and develop a plan for your operation as drought conditions continue.