Livestock producers in Nevada are facing problems because of the winter weather.
Photo by Steve Ranson.
As Western states are experiencing significant winter weather conditions following extended drought, Nevada livestock producers are facing high levels of supplemental feed needed for longer periods to sustain herds.
Nevada, Utah, Colorado and Wyoming are calling on the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency to consider relief programs.
“We have seen a significant amount of persistent snow and colder temperatures leaving many of Nevada’s livestock producers with limited options to transport animals or feed,” said J.J. Goicoechea, director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture.
Goicoechea said in a letter to Zach Ducheneaux, administrator of the FSA, winter has been extremely harsh for Nevada’s livestock producers.
According to Goicoechea, Nevada has experienced multiple years of sustained drought with FSA offering programs for disaster assistance to those impacted. Furthermore, he said past drought conditions led to a lack of hay and other supplemental feed going into winter. Limited feed resources at increased costs and high fuel prices are compounding the problem and creating significant increases in operation expenses.
As the winter season has impacted Western states with severe storms, producers are facing limited grazing options, flooding, snow and ice. Many herds have been trucked out of traditional winter grazing areas or liquidated completely. Access due to drifting snow is hampering efforts to reach and remove remaining livestock in some areas.
“Mortality has been high thus far and is expected to increase well into the spring as a result of this exceptionally harsh winter,” Goicoechea said.
Goicoechea is asking Ducheneaux for any flexibility and innovative ideas from his agency such as with supplemental feed and water as well as locations to move livestock for grazing.
“Our livestock producers and animals are struggling right now,” Goicoechea said. “I hope that FSA will consider our letter and continue to be flexible and supportive with programs that support the industry.”