Drought Management Webinars

Watch recordings and register for upcoming NC State Extension webinars covering drought management strategies, USDA assistance programs and livestock feeding decisions.

Navigating Nitrate Risk in Forages Webinar

Join NC State's Amazing Grazing team for an upcoming webinar, "Navigating Nitrate Risk in Forages for Beef Cattle and Other Pasture-Based Livestock," on Oct. 13 from noon to 1 p.m.

Because of our long drought, many farmers are purchasing hay from new sources. As a result, nitrate management remains a critical issue across agricultural production, livestock health, environmental stewardship and water quality. This session is designed to provide practical insights, updated research and actionable guidance to help support growers, producers and landowners in North Carolina.

NC State experts Matt Poore and Johnny Rogers will present the basics on how nitrate poisoning works, and how to develop a practical approach to reducing harmful impacts.

Event Details

Tuesday, October 13
12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Identifying nitrate risk factors in crops, livestock forage and water sources
  • Sampling best practices and interpreting laboratory test results
  • Practical management strategies and advisory tips for farmers

Drought Webinar Series for Livestock Producers

A three-part educational series from NC State Extension's Amazing Grazing program to help livestock producers make informed decisions during North Carolina’s drought.

Session 1 | Understanding USDA Disaster Relief Programs for Farmers

July 14, 2026 (12 p.m. to 1 p.m.)

Topics:

  • Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP)
  • Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees and Farm-Raised Fish (ELAP)
  • Eligibility
  • Deadlines

▶ Watch Recording

Session 2 | Management & Budgeting: Reducing Livestock Feed Demand

July 23, 2026 (12 p.m. to 1 p.m.)

Topics:

  • Strategic herd reduction
  • Alternative feedstuffs
  • Pasture preservation
  • Developing a feed demand budget

▶ Watch Recording

Session 3 | Developing a Feed Supply Plan

July 29, 2026 (12 p.m. to 1 p.m.)

Topics:

  • Alternative feeds
  • Finding hay (NCHayFinder.com)
  • Feeding management
  • Long-term drought resilience

▶ Watch Recording (Zoom)