State leaders commend livestock producers during challenging conditions

BISMARCK, N.D. – It’s been a challenging time for North Dakota livestock producers the past year.

“With more than 30,000 family farms and ranches in North Dakota and 90 percent of the state’s total land area used for agriculture, the impact of spreading drought conditions will be felt statewide,” Gov. Doug Burgum said. “Those farmers and ranchers caught in the middle of this prolonged dry spell are hardest hit and deserve our gratitude and respect for their stewardship and resilience during this difficult period.”

“Livestock producers and their animals had to endure tough winter conditions and are now contending with widespread drought,” Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said. “I want to thank producers for their hard work and efforts under extreme conditions.”

Goehring said that finding adequate, quality water and feed has sometimes been difficult. Drought conditions can affect water quality and cause high nitrates in plants. Producers with questions about water or feed quality should call their local North Dakota State University extension office.

Goehring encouraged the public to call the North Dakota Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health division at  701-328-2655  with any concerns about livestock health and welfare.

“There is a difference between livestock that are a little thinner than normal and those that are malnourished,” he said. “We have veterinarians available to assess and evaluate the condition of any livestock in question.”