Because of the drought, the Decatur Livestock Market has seen almost twice the number of cattle being brought in.
Conditions are forcing ranchers to sell their cattle too soon and is costing them thousands.
“A good cow was bringing $1,300 to $1,400 just a few months ago,” said cattle rancher Jody Henderson.
Water is also drying up.
Martha Shafer normally waits until October to sell her cattle at a good price.
Ranchers make allowances by leasing other land, but moving to greener pastures isn’t an option this year.
It’s been worse.
“It’s the same situation we’re fixing to get into, but we got a little time if we get rainfall.
“Guess I have to take into account I love doing cattle, love doing horses,” said rancher Jessica Bearden.
It’s all about bringing in well fed cattle to get the best price for the ranchers who need the rain.