Drought conditions are already forcing difficult decisions for some Montezuma County growers and livestock producers.
Drought.gov lists Montezuma County as affected by drought, and says the county had its 27th driest January-through-April period in 132 years, with precipitation more than two inches below normal during that period.
Colorado State University Extension Montezuma County Director Emily Lockard said local producers are adjusting their plans around limited irrigation water.
“I’m hearing from growers who are making some pretty difficult decisions,” Lockard said. “Reducing maybe the number of fields they’re planting, they’re having to pool water onto a limited number of crops or fields, focusing on maybe their higher value or newer planted fields.”
Lockard said some diversified farms are reducing what they grow and focusing on more drought-tolerant species and varieties. She said some producers are also looking for additional work because of the financial impact of reduced irrigation water and dry conditions.
Hay producers could also see fewer cuttings this year. Lockard said an alfalfa grower who might normally expect three cuttings in a year may only get one, reducing income for the season.
Livestock producers are also looking for more pasture or hay because of reduced forage availability. Lockard said some may have to consider reducing herd sizes, purchasing hay or sourcing hay from farther away.
Home gardeners and homeowners may also need to rethink how they use water. Lockard said if residents have to prioritize what to keep alive, trees and shrubs should generally come first because they have a longer lifespan and are harder to replace than a lawn.
She recommends deep but infrequent watering, with enough water to reach the root zone of the plant, while avoiding excess watering. She also said residents should pay attention to any local water restrictions and irrigate during cooler parts of the day.
Lockard said building soil health over time can help farms and gardens become more resilient during dry years. She pointed to practices like cover cropping and adding organic matter over time, while noting that mulching and drip irrigation can help reduce water loss in the short term.
CSU Extension offers drought planning resources, including one-on-one consultation through Colorado Drought Advisors. Lockard said the office can help farmers, ranchers and gardeners think through decisions about crops, livestock, soil health and water use.
