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Drought

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Water Hole water supply in drought
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NEED HELP?

NDSU Extension develops and updates resources to help farmers and ranchers cope with drought conditions. Contact your NDSU Extension county office if you have questions or want additional information.

Learn more about dealing with farm & ranch stress

RELIEF PROGRAMS

There are a number of government programs available to provide relief to ag producers impacted by the drought.

Learn more about drought relief programs

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LATEST CONDITIONS

Latest Report - March 7,  2024

Greg Gust, NDDES Meteorologist 
in support of 
ND SCO and the ND Ag Disaster Response

Summary

  • After a cool (near normal) day today, the rest of this week and next will return to unseasonably warm and dry conditions. Maybe a flurry or sprinkle next Tues-Wed.
  • While the overall Snow Drought persists for the southern two-thirds of the state, much of the state (western half and eastern edge) has actually had above normal precipitation from October 1st through now. The exceptions are the eastern uplands, extending from Cando, Langdon, and Park River, southward into Luverne, Marion, and Ashley... where residual soil moisture deficits are highest.   
  • Based on the Drought Monitor map valid on March 5th, published March 7th, the area of D1 drought has edged into far south-southwestern ND, while D0 has overspread all but the west-central region. Thus, 116, 080 ND citizens are now in drought.
  • This week, the Drought Severity and Coverage Index (DSCI) value is at 127, up 29 points since Feb 22nd. 
  • Overall, above normal temperatures are expected to continue throughout March into April, and beyond, while precipitation remains fickle. 

See Full Report

Ranch Drought Management Videos

See the playlist on YouTube

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black and white cows standing in pasture

Government Programs - Drought

Information about government programs for ag producers being affected by drought
Cyanobacteria, also known as blue-breen algae, can produce toxins that are harmful to livestock

Livestock

Information on dealing with drought conditions in livestock production.