Drought Impact in The Northland

Dry Conditions Have Farmers Concerned

Sorry, this video is no longer available

A lack of precipitation has left The Northland parched for the majority of this spring.

The dry conditions have already sparked a number of fires in the region. But the damage doesn’t stop there.

Right now, 92 percent of the State of Minnesota is in what officials label a moderate drought, a percentage that has only gone up since January.

Those raising cattle in The Northland are concerned these dry conditions will affect the feeding of their herds.

They rely on 4 or 5 months of steady grazing, and right now, their pastures are pretty dry.

“That pasture is our biggest money maker, and if we don’t get substantial moisture, the pastures aren’t going to produce, so then we have to start supplementing hay,” explained Farmer Mark Thell.

Cattle experts know if the drought worsens, it could also become an issue for consumers, and end up causing a beef shortage.

“The more consistent moisture, the more moderate weather patterns we have, is always best for the consumer,” Thell said.

Right now, the soil is so dry that a significant amount of precipitation is needed to even make a difference.

“What we’re looking at now, a half inch doesn’t do much,” Thell admitted. “It’s to the point where you need an inch or 2 on our sandy soils.”

Farmers say The Northland is lucky because much of the land here has trees which offer wind protection, and the cooler nights prevent grass from drying out so fast.

While it is still too early to panic, the threat of ongoing drought conditions has farmers thinking about the future.

They say a few more weeks without rain could really cause problems.