How to Manage Cattle in Dry Times

By Scout Nelson

In recent years, drought has become a persistent challenge for many cattle producers, especially in regions like the Northern Great Plains. Dry conditions have led to reduced pasture growth and limited feed supplies, making it harder to support cow herds through the seasons.

When faced with these challenges, it’s important for producers to consider strategies that help maintain both their cattle and the health of their grazing lands. Instead of reducing herd numbers, several alternatives can be used depending on pasture availability and feed resources.

One effective method is incorporating alternative feed resources. These include crop residues, co-products, or cover crops that can either be grazed or used as feed. Protein supplements can also improve forage digestibility, helping cattle make better use of what is available and reducing overall forage consumption.

Another approach is early weaning of calves. This reduces the nutritional needs of the cow and allows her to conserve energy. It also reduces grazing pressure, helping maintain pasture conditions. Calves can be successfully weaned early if managed properly without impacting their growth or health.

When pasture conditions worsen, producers can feed heifers in a dry lot while keeping cow-calf pairs on the pasture. This helps prioritize limited grazing resources for animals that need it most. If pasture is extremely limited, feeding the entire cow herd in a dry lot or sacrificial area may become necessary. While this requires planning and equipment, it helps preserve long-term pasture health.

In some cases, moving cattle to off-site facilities with better feeding options may be a practical solution. This choice depends on transport costs, distance, and the number of animals involved.

Planning ahead is essential. Monitoring drought conditions regularly and understanding available feed resources can help producers make timely decisions. As one expert puts it, “Planning before the drought arrives is the key to making it through with your herd and pastures intact.”

Having flexible strategies in place ensures cattle operations can withstand the pressures of drought while keeping herd numbers and pasture health stable.

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