Idaho drought

Dry summer heat is taking a toll on pastures from the Pacific Coast to the Great Plains. Nationwide, only one in four acres of rangeland is rated good to excellent right now, and the numbers keep slipping.

A USDA disaster designation is now in place for nine eastern Idaho counties after this year's drought, and farmers there can apply for emergency loans to help cover livestock losses, equipment costs, or debt relief before March 1st.

The Pacific Northwest drought map is looking more serious this week, with Idaho, Oregon, and Washington all reporting expanding dry conditions and parts of Idaho near the Nevada border now at the highest drought classification on the scale.

Four counties in Idaho are now facing tough times as drought hits hard. Local farmers are bracing for impact and looking for support.

Idaho water officials say this year’s water outlook is shaping up to be one of the worst in decades for the Upper Snake Basin, with reported runoff forecasts at just 70% of normal, the 8th lowest in 45 years.

Dry conditions across southeastern Idaho have already stressed this year’s wheat crop. Juliet Marshall, Director of the University of Idaho's Agricultural Experiment Station, said the problems this spring, started months ago.

With streams running low and snowpack disappearing, the summer could hold some tough choices for farmers and families alike.

Idaho's snowpack might not be a winter wonderland, but recent spring rains have brought a glimmer of hope for our water needs.

In a year that promises dry conditions, preparation is key. Local resources are stepping up their game to tackle potential wildfires.

Less snow means more stress for farmers. The ripple effects on crop yields and livestock feed could hit our local economy hard.