The Drought | The WRCA Blog

If there’s one consistent theme I hear from my contacts in cow country, it’s the drought conditions currently affecting a wide swath of the West. Huge chunks of Nevada, Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico are experiencing “Extreme” or “Exceptional” drought (based on the U.S. Drought Monitor’s latest map). Significant portions of Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas are also drier than normal. Even California and Oregon have their share of dry conditions.

Much of the northern tier: Montana, Wyoming, Nebraska, and South Dakota are doing fine—and in fact have above average moisture content.

One of my favorite quotes in relation to the drought I first heard from Tom Moorhouse. He says something to the effect of: “I believe in capitalism and the free market, but when it comes to rain, I’m more of a socialist.” His point, of course, is wouldn’t it be nice if we could spread the moisture around a little more equitably?

Every rancher, cowman, and cowboy knows that everything we do is dependent on the weather. While it can cause frustration and depression, one positive that comes from living daily with the realization that your circumstances are often out of your control is humility.

Another trait that’s revealed is the industry of the American rancher. When the drought gets bad, he gets busy. Sometimes, the only outlet is to sell out, but sometimes you can call on your friend in Montana who will take in an extra load or two of cows for you—or knows someone else who can. Ranchers—and cowboys—don’t give up; they get busy. And even if we have to wean early, cull a little deeper than usual or sell out completely, the ones who love it keep at it.

Even in the midst of a drought, with each day that passes, we’re one day closer to a rain. Knowing that keeps us all going.

One of the best reads on the subject is Elmer Kelton’s The Time It Never Rained. If you’re in the midst of a drought, wait to read it until it rains. The lessons in the differences between giving up and going on are stark—and instructive. If you feel like giving up, don’t. Call someone, reach out to a friend or get help wherever you need it. It’s gonna rain again—just at the point you don’t think you can go another day without it.