Posted: Jul 24, 2012 12:08 PM Updated: Jul 24, 2012 12:08 PM
This drought analysis is the compilation of reports from various
state, regional, and national agencies: As of July 17th, 2012
just over one-third of Montana was classified in some stage of
drought on the National Drought Monitor. This area extends
across Southern Montana and portions of Central Montana. Of the
36 percent of the state in drought, just under 17 percent is in
the severe drought category, and another 19 percent is in the
moderate drought category. Of the remaining two-thirds of
Montana, 29 percent falls in the abnormally dry category. For
those areas currently experiencing drought conditions, the
latest Drought Outlook indicates drought conditions will persist
through at least October 2012. Stillwater (Columbus) and
Yellowstone (Billings) Counties have declared drought disasters.
Livestock feed on pasture has been reduced by about 50 percent.
Dry land hay production has suffered losses of about 85 percent.
Dry land spring wheat is not