With low snowpack levels across much of the western U.S., cattle producers should begin preparing now for the possibility of drought conditions in 2026. Drought affects every aspect of a cattle operation, from pasture productivity to winter feed supplies and herd health. Planning and making timely management decisions can help reduce both financial loss and long-term damage to forage resources.
One of the most important early steps in drought preparation is evaluating expected forage production and grazing capacity for the season ahead. The first thing to think about is how much (or little) grazing you will have this year. Hopefully, with some spring rain we will have early growth, but with low snowpack and limited water this summer, irrigated pastures and even range water sources could become scarce. It is important to evaluate pasture conditions early, estimate forage production and compare that supply to herd demand. Developing a forage budget can help determine whether adjustments in stocking rate may be necessary before conditions worsen.
Another key consideration will be forage quality. With drought and low water availability, forages become stressed and will have reduced nutritional value. Protein and energy levels often decline more rapidly as plants mature under stress. One thing to keep in mind is that drought-stressed forages often accumulate nitrates, especially when plant growth is slowed.
During droughts, plants adapt to conserve water by slowing photosynthesis, which prevents nutrients from converting efficiently into plant protein. As a result, overall forage quality declines and nitrates can accumulate in plant tissues, potentially rising to toxic levels. Nitrate accumulation is especially a concern in small grains such as barley, oats and wheat, as well as weeds such as lamb's-quarter and pigweed, with levels often highest in the morning. To reduce this risk, it is good practice to test forages that are likely to accumulate nitrates prior to grazing or harvesting.
Beyond forage concerns, water availability and quality should also be closely monitored. Stock ponds, springs and wells may decline as the season progresses. Reduced water intake can limit animal performance, and poor water quality may create additional health challenges. Regularly checking water sources and planning for alternative supplies if needed is an important part of drought preparation.
As you move into the grazing season, closely monitor the body condition of your cows and the growth of your calves. With reduced forage quality and quantity, it is critical to ensure nutrient requirements are still being met. Management options may include early weaning, strategic supplementation, or culling open or less productive cows. Making proactive decisions early can help preserve both herd productivity and pasture health during a drought year.
