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Farmer’s Survival Guide to Survive and Thrive During a Drought

We want to share important and timely information to help every farmer understand how to survive and thrive during a drought. And let’s face it --- massive, long-term droughts are happening all over the world and appear to be here to stay.


And as a quick aside --- we are here to help you purchase a new tractor, parts and implements when the time is right.


Let’s dive into the details.



Droughts Are Deadly


Coping with the effects of dry weather or a drought on your crops and/or livestock can be tough.



Unfortunately, whether we like it or not --- severe droughts have become a reality for farmers, livestock owners, and gardeners all over the world.




We are going to share some highly effective tips and strategies for surviving and thriving during a drought. Various ways you can protect your livestock and crops.


And of course, do not forget to take care of yourself. Talk about any feelings of anger, frustration, and the related stress --- rather than isolating from family or neighbors. These support tools are invaluable during hard and tough times. We are all in this together.


Let’s go deeper…



General Drought Preparedness and Response Tips:

  • Examine your water use efficiency and irrigation needs. Look carefully at irrigation systems as a long-term investment.

  • Keep up-to-date forage inventories. Your local feed representative or agricultural agent can help.

  • Consider alternative on-farm related businesses. Diversification can be a good long-term approach to revenue shortfalls from drought. Things like alternative crops, alternative livestock, non-production farm-related ventures such as camping, fee hunting/shooting preserves, farm vacations, bed and breakfast establishments, summer camps on the farm, herd sitting, farm markets or home-based enterprises.


PLUS ---


If you’re hit hard by a drought:

  • Protect livestock from heat. Call a veterinarian if heat stress is a concern.

  • Cull unprofitable cattle.

  • Discuss financial and feed assistance in the early phase of a drought.

  • Adjust fertilizer rates based on any lower yield expectancy.


Compiled below are tips to help you prepare and manage with drought and dry weather. Your local university cooperative extension office can also offer guidance.



Water Saving Tips From the Pros