By Francisco Abello
Southwest Farm Press
In recent years, drought has been common in many Southern states, including Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, Tennessee, and Kentucky. The U.S. Drought Monitor reported that approximately 65% of this area was experiencing some level of drought as of October 1, 2024 (Fig. 1). Producers are increasingly adopting the USDA’s Pasture, Rangeland, and Forage Insurance (PRF), recognizing its crucial role in supporting ranchers during these challenging times.