In recent years, drought has become a common occurrence in Texas. Currently, the U.S. Drought Monitor reports that approximately 90.5% of Texas is experiencing some level of drought as of October 22, 2026 (Figure 1). Producers are increasingly adopting the USDA’s Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage Insurance Program (PRF), recognizing its important role in supporting ranchers during these challenging conditions. In 2024, Texas enrolled 42.8 million acres in the program, a 191% increase from 2011.
One of the most attractive features of this program is its potential to generate positive net benefits, with indemnity payments exceeding premium costs in many cases. More importantly, it provides significant support during the years when producers need it most.
[Read more…] about USDA Management Tool Helps Mitigate Drought Losses Through PRF
Producers across the Rolling Plains continue to face a common challenge: how to maintain profitability while adapting to changing weather conditions, rising input costs, evolving pest pressures, and shifting market opportunities. One of the best ways to evaluate new practices and technologies is to see research results firsthand and hear directly from the scientists and specialists conducting the work.
