UACES Facebook Drought effects on livestock
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Drouht Effects on Livestock

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A stock pond stands near empty in this Sevier County pasture. (University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture photo by Rex Herring.)

Animal agriculture accounts for some 52,000 jobs in Arkansas and when value added is tallied, is an industry worth about $2.8 billion to Arkansas' economy. When drought hits, Arkansas' cattle industry is hardest hit. Very few acres of pasture are irrigated, leaving forage supplies vulnerable to drought .

The University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture has been working closely with those in the cattle industry to develop practical means to manage herds during intense drought. 

 

 

 

Publications

One highly successful program to add drought resiliency to a ranching operation is the 300 Days Grazing initiative.

300 days Grazing Program

The Cooperative Extension Service has many other resources available for solid decision making in difficult  times, with other tools available from your county extension office. 
 

 

Other Media

 

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