Map produced by the National Drought Mitigation Center

South Dakota is facing worsening drought conditions, especially in the southwest and south-central parts of the state, where nearly 37% of the state is classified in severe to extreme drought. Farmers and agronomists say recent rains provided little relief because dry soils, strong winds and low humidity quickly erased any moisture gains. One agronomist in Alpena reported just 1.22 inches of rain so far this year, compared to the normal 9.15 inches by this point (source: U.S. Climate Data). At the same time, some producers said even a recent 1-to-2-inch rain “didn’t even feel like it rained” because the moisture disappeared so quickly.

The drought is already affecting crop development and livestock operations. Corn and soybean emergence has been uneven due to dry topsoil and fluctuating temperatures, while hay and pasture conditions are raising concerns for forage supplies and livestock water quality later this season. Wildfire risk has also increased, with multiple large fires already reported across the state. Climatologists warn that if May rains continue to underperform, producers could face even greater challenges as warmer temperatures increase evaporation and crop water demand.

As dry conditions persist, ranchers may have found relief through Pasture, Rangeland, Forage (PRF) coverage designed to help offset forage losses tied to lack of precipitation. A local ProAg agent can help determine if PRF is right for your operation.

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