Missouri Drought Creates Winter Challenges for Cattle Producers
Nov 03, 2026
Dry conditions and limited fall pasture growth are creating challenges for Missouri cattle producers heading into winter, according to a summary from MU Extension specialists. They encourage hay testing and balanced rations to maintain cow condition, support calf growth, and prevent potential nutrient deficiencies.
Unusual spring weather followed by a summer drought is impacting some Missouri cattle producers. The latest U.S. Drought Monitor shows nearly half of Missouri experiencing moderate drought or worse.
Gene Schmitz, a livestock specialist with University of Missouri Extension, notes that there’s been little to no fall pasture growth in parts of southern Missouri.
“Rather than to totally abuse your pastures and beat them up, a lot of people have been feeding hay,” Schmitz says.
He advises farmers to test their hay and get a nutrient analysis, emphasizing that this year’s growing season and later harvest can impact hay quality.
“Some of it, I think, didn’t quite have the maturity we normally would see. I saw a lot of fields that weren’t headed out normally and that threw up some red flags for me that maybe this forage isn’t as good as we think it is.”
Eric Bailey, a beef nutrition specialist with MU Extension, stresses the importance of balancing rations for cow condition and calf growth, especially for fall calves.
“Make sure our fall calves don’t turn up 30 to 40 pounds lighter because the cow got less groceries or nutrients due to being on hay the whole time,” Bailey cautions.
He also notes the risk of vitamin A deficiencies when cattle are fed hay for five to six months and recommends that most commercially available mineral supplements can meet cattle’s needs when consumed at the recommended rate.