Lake of Demons – Even occasional thunderstorms did not destroy the entire district of Central North Dakota.
Of course, drought is not new to the region, nor is it strange. The current drought, however, has left a lasting impression on sick eyes. Even counting numbers can explain that. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), July 2021 was the driest month of Ramsey’s 0.83-inch rainfall since 1895 and 1985 (0.33 ”).
But not just July. Over the past 12 months (August 2020-July 2021), Ramsey County has received only 9.14 ”of rain, according to Noah.
Scott Knock’s experience as an extension agent for Benson County was extensive. Fast forward to the venue at the age of 29 (August 17), Knock did everything and everything. From engaging in horticulture, asking questions about crop systems, to researching integrated pest management at North Dakota State University, to the occasional control of rats or snakes, Nok has done everything.
The same goes for a drought or two. In Nok’s view, however, the current drought has been a unique challenge.
“I think we will call it a drought, but now we really know what a drought is,” says Knock. We started the growing season without adding anything to our soil profile, which only merged if the crop did not go far enough and fit. During other droughts, we had at least groundwater. I guess it should be a little bit in some places: For the most part, we haven’t had an appreciative rain since July.
Although his official title covers Benson County, Nok now lives five miles east of Lake Devils. Nok noted similar problems with neighboring counties.
For nooks, the permanent effects of drought are particularly responsible for soil cover or scarcity. The soil cover from last year’s crop in the form of small grains and straw helps keep the soil stable. However, without sufficient moisture, high winds can loosen the soil for good.
Knock: You’ve heard about the “Thirty Thirty”
Crops are not the only victims of drought. Economically, North Dakota’s economy has shown signs of “slowing down” and “slow” economic recovery, according to quarterly reports.
The same is true of animals affected by the current drought.
Jim Zigler, a lake-based animal husband, took a chance on his business 30+ years ago and never looked back. Zigler not only worked with cattle but also with the generations of families in the animal trade.
In Zegler’s experience, the drought affected not only the animals but also the business family. With many family discussions, Zigler knows exactly what a large drought can do.
“Although livestock has limited access to grazing, fodder, and winter food,” says Zigler. The first number one problem is buying food, and as the grain market increases, so does the price of food and capacity.
He noted that while low-quality work may be needed for a while, he acknowledged that as the drought continues, serious decisions need to be made as summer progresses.
“We are very tolerant, and people are doing their best and trying to minimize the effects of dehydration, but in the end there is only so much you can do,” said Knock. They struggle to farm, to grow crops, and to keep cattle on the farm, and despite the fact that people usually have fodder, ponds, lakes, or pits, the shortage of fodder and declining water levels has been a real challenge. This created a real challenge, and unfortunately, many of our cattle and farmers had to shed some of their cattle simply because they had no food for her and could not afford it.
“At this early stage, the general mood is good,” says Zigler. Most people do whatever they want to do. They draw water, they eat in the summer, everyone does what they want, and now we are about to fall, we knock on the door. Not all of them are right. So what is the next step now? Do you market the calves and keep the cows? Make a new call from him? It is an unanswered question, and it is different in every surgery.
Although recent wastes have given the land a short breath, the effects of repeated droughts will still be seen in the coming months.
Although the situation may be difficult, communities must remain strong.
“It’s over,” said Nok. Hopefully people will be able to cope with the storm and depend on some of their work … and find a way to get through the green pastures.