Panhandle Perspective:

Drought conditions across much of Nebraska this summer, most severe in the west, have significantly reduced forage production from pasture and rangeland as well as hay ground and crop residue.

Cow-calf producers will face a challenge in meeting the feed needs of the herd from now until next spring.

When making a plan for a forage shortage, producers should remember these five steps:

Calculate feed needs. Accurately assess the feed needs of all the cattle that are planned to be part of the operation from now into next spring. This is an important first step in determining expected forage demand...