U.S Drought Lingers Into 2013, Could Pose Long-Term Challenges

Jan 18, 2013

U.S Status As Key Agriculture Region Could Be Troublesome If Drought Persists

The U.S drought that plagued much of the nation last year, is posing as a threat for 2013 as drought-like weather conditions continue. This will likely be a significant problem as the U.S is one of the key agriculture regions in the world.

In many communities in Nebraska, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas have seen the worst. In a rural community in Wapanucka, Oklahoma they have lost water all together as the wells have run dry. Officials have since run a line to a neighbouring area for water. While in Texas, state officials are seeking a $2 billion fund in order to finance water projects – as a number of communities are facing shrinking water shortages. The news is even worse for rice farmers in the region, who were told earlier last month that there will most likely not be enough water to irrigate the fields this spring. In Kansas, state officials have enacted penalties for those who exceed water use limits.

The persistent drought is worrisome for farmers who were already hit hard, with multibillions of dollars worth of crop and livestock losses.

Video: Environmental Effects on Sow Fertility - Dr. Isabela Bez

In this special episode celebrating International Women's Day of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, we bring Dr. Isabela Bez, a veterinarian and PhD student in Brazil, who explains how temperature and light regimes influence sow reproductive performance. She discusses seasonal infertility, climate adaptation, and why environmental monitoring inside barns is critical for herd efficiency. The episode highlights practical management strategies to reduce reproductive losses and improve outcomes. Listen now on all major platforms. "Environmental factors are actually very important on sow reproduction, and sometimes these are the factors that producers tend to not pay attention." Meet the guest: Dr. Isabela Bez / isabela-cristina-cola%c3%a7o-bez-1753381b0 is a veterinarian and PhD student in Animal Science at Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR), Brazil. Her work focuses on swine reproduction, nutrition, and animal welfare, with strong expertise in environmental effects on sow performance. She collaborates with international farms and research groups to improve reproductive efficiency through applied science.