Oklahoma's ranchers hoping for aid in surviving the drought

Recent rains have not changed the drought situation in southern and western Oklahoma. Governor Brad Henry is asking for federal drought relief for 62 Oklahoma counties. <br><br>The hot topic at the recent

Monday, August 11th 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Recent rains have not changed the drought situation in southern and western Oklahoma. Governor Brad Henry is asking for federal drought relief for 62 Oklahoma counties.

The hot topic at the recent Oklahoma Cattlemen Association convention was surviving the drought. Grasslands are drying up, and ranchers are buying supplemental feed, which overheated cattle aren't eating. But ranchers agree, there's always a risk. Rancher Joe Neill, "we don't like this part of our industry or our job. But it's something we have to deal with. We have dealt with it. Weâ€™ll deal with it again."

Ranchers say the prospect of federal aid is welcome news. But if there's no substantial rainfall soon, consumers can expect higher beef prices.