The last of his herd was hauled off in early June. His parched land demanded a last round-up. Above average rains later that month made Stewman question his decision to liquidate the herd, but as the fiery days of summer seared away the moisture, Stewman said he couldn't have gotten out of the business at a better time. The stock tanks are dry. The pastures are dead.
Feed is in short supply.
And those who are fortunate enough to have a little growth still on their place are terrified a stray spark will cause it all to go up in smoke. The continued absence of rain will injure the cattle business of the Big Country. Like Stewman's sacrifice earlier his year, many breeders will forever lose the genetic pools they've developed through the years. Still others will feel the drought effects on their land for years to come, said Allen McGinty, range specialist with the Texas Agricultural Extension Service. As more rangeland is claimed by drought, the length of time to replenish and restock pastures grows.