Fourteen counties have exceptional drought status.

Adequate water is critical for livestock health and production.

Salts, minerals and bacteria may have compromised the quality of water in ponds and dugouts.

An algae bloom in Walsh County has tested positive for toxic cyanobacteria production.

Monitoring water quality throughout the grazing season is important.

Limited snowmelt and rainfall could affect the quality of water in pastures.

Producers should monitor their calf crop closely in the next week to 10 days.