USDA Expands Emergency Haying Access as Drought Pressure Builds Across Plains

Drought in parts of the country FINALLY getting some relief

Farmers and ranchers across parts of the central and northern Plains are getting additional flexibility from the U.S. Department of Agriculture as drought conditions continue tightening forage supplies heading into summer.

USDA announced expanded emergency haying and grazing access on certain Conservation Reserve Program acres in multiple drought-affected states this week. The move comes as cattle producers face rising feed costs and worsening pasture conditions following another stretch of below-normal moisture across portions of Nebraska, Kansas, South Dakota and eastern Colorado.

According to the latest U.S. Drought Monitor, moderate to severe drought conditions continue expanding across several major cattle-producing regions, with some producers already hauling water and supplementing herds earlier than normal for May.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said the emergency access is intended to give livestock producers additional tools as they manage tightening forage supplies and difficult conditions in the countryside.

The temporary authorization allows approved producers to hay or graze qualifying CRP acres while maintaining long-term conservation protections on the land. USDA officials say local Farm Service Agency offices are already working with producers to determine eligibility and enrollment requirements.

Cattle markets have remained historically strong in recent months due to tight national herd numbers, but ranchers continue facing pressure from elevated operating expenses, expensive replacement females and uncertainty surrounding pasture recovery.

Several extension specialists across the Plains say the next 30 to 45 days will be critical for grass development heading into the summer grazing season. While scattered storms have helped some areas, large sections of the region remain behind on soil moisture.

Meteorologists are also warning that increasing wildfire concerns could become an issue again if hot, dry and windy conditions return later this month.

USDA says producers interested in emergency haying and grazing options should contact their local FSA office for county specific guidance and approval requirements.