It’s no secret that it’s dry across a vast majority of the Northern Plains. That dryness is expected to linger into the summer months. In times of drought, North Dakota has diverse feedstuffs that can help livestock producer be successful. While producers are used to feeding cattle in the winter, NDSU Carrington Research Extension Center livestock specialist Karl Hoppe says that winter feeding can be transitioned to the summer. “Feeding cows with calves during the summertime in a lot is really nothing new and works quite well. The ration just needs to be balanced, and that starts with energy needs.” Cattle also need protein. Those sources include oilseed meals, distillers grains, field peas and lentils. Regardless of the ration make up, Hoppe reminds producers not to skimp in the summer. “Well fed cows produce healthy calves, so don’t cheapen up during a drought.” Hoppe was part of the Winter Webinar Series hosted by the North Dakota Livestock Alliance. The entire series can be viewed online. Hear more in this Red River Farm Network story.