Waldren added that supplemental feeding was an important option, but one that can hurt ranchers in more ways than one. Ranchers who choose to supplemental feed will be hurt economically, and those who choose not to will hurt their herds. Sheep and goat producers will be hurt, but Huston said ranchers are accustomed to drought, and have weathered this problem many times. He said ranchers know how to reduce and restore herds if they are experienced. In North Texas, district Extension director Randy Upshaw said hay and supplemental feeding of livestock continues.
Ponds are increasingly low.
Upshaw said crops are also beginning to show signs of drought stress. Upshaw said a recent ice storm brought damage to peach and pecan trees. A few pecan trees were also lost, but it could have been much worse. In West Central Texas, district Extension director Scott Durham said wheat remains in poor condition. Not much of a harvest is expected without any rain.