Farmers Prepare for Pasture Recovery After Severe Drought

By Andi Anderson

Following a prolonged drought in 2024, many farmers are now wondering whether their pastures are dead or just dormant. As of early 2025, answers are starting to emerge, but uncertainty remains.

Cool-season grasses, commonly used in pastures, often go dormant during hot, dry months. Initially, farmers believed the grasses were just saving energy until moisture returned. But after months of dry and cold conditions, it's likely that some fields suffered permanent damage.

Brief green-up in September gave farmers false hope. In some cases, the grasses broke dormancy too soon, used stored energy, and then turned brown again. This pattern may have led to plant death in several areas.

Farmers are now advised to plan for reseeding affected pastures this spring. Start by taking soil samples to determine fertilization needs and decide which forage types will grow best in current conditions. Areas most damaged can also be used as winter feeding zones, known as sacrifice lots.

Early planning is key. Farmers should secure improved forage seeds, fertilizers, and equipment like no-till drills with fertilizer boxes. Using available drought relief funds for seed and fertilizer can support pasture recovery.

Recent snowfall has helped recharge soil moisture, raising hopes that some dormant grasses may still bounce back. But if they don’t, reseeding is the best path forward.

To help with this process, Ohio State University is offering a series of webinars. These sessions guide farmers on evaluating pasture damage, selecting forage varieties, and planting emergency forages.

The goal is to offer practical advice to help rebuild pastures and support livestock systems. Farmers are encouraged to reach out for local assistance and make smart decisions for a stronger pasture season ahead.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski