A prolonged heat wave across parts of the Midwest and northern Plains is worsening pasture conditions and increasing stress on cattle producers already dealing with drought and historically tight cattle supplies. The latest USDA crop progress report showed declines in pasture and range conditions in several major beef-producing states, including Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska, South Dakota, North Dakota and Montana. Colorado now has 76% of its pasture rated poor or very poor, while Nebraska remains at 68%, according to USDA data. Meteorologists say some areas received scattered rainfall this week, but much of the region is expected to remain hot and dry, limiting pasture recovery and potentially expanding drought conditions. The deteriorating grazing conditions come as the U.S. cattle herd remains near its smallest size since the early 1950s, following years of drought, wildfire losses and elevated production costs. Industry analysts warn continued pasture deterioration could force additional herd liquidation or increase demand for expensive supplemental feed, potentially supporting already high cattle and beef prices through the remainder of the year. Producers are also being advised to closely monitor cattle for signs of heat stress as temperatures remain elevated across much of cattle country.
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