There are currently several studies and planning processes underway, including the Texas Water Plan, which will identify supplies and needs into the next 25 years. However, the very nature of these study groups will likely lead to an extension of the status quo. The major city center of the county is Hereford, Texas, named after the Hereford breed of cattle. Deaf Smith County's main crops, based on value of agricultural production, are wheat, corn, and sorghum. Silage, hay and cotton are minor crops.
Beef cattle constitute the vast majority of livestock raised in the county.
Deaf Smith and neighboring counties fed over 2 million head of cattle in 1997. Much of the crop production is from irrigated farmland, using water from the Ogallala Aquifer. 1621 N. Kent St., Ste.