By Scout Nelson
Wildfires and drought have seriously affected grazing lands in North Dakota and eastern Montana. Due to dry conditions and leftover plant materials, wildfires increased in late 2024 and continue this spring. Experts expect more fires until enough rainfall helps new plants grow.
Snowfall was low this winter, and drought has spread across 57% of North Dakota. Without spring rain, grasslands may remain dry, delaying plant growth and extending fire risks. These conditions will lower forage availability in 2025, especially in areas recently affected by fires.
Fire affects plants differently. Warm-season grasses may regrow well if it rains, but cool-season grasses, which are common in North Dakota, tend to produce less after a burn. Studies show that fall fires can reduce forage by up to 39% the next year, and spring fires may cause up to a 35% drop.
If drought continues, total forage loss could reach 40% to 60%. In severe drought, losses may exceed 50% due to poor grass growth and limited soil moisture.
Still, wildfires can bring long-term plant benefits. Research shows that native grasses and flowers recover well, while invasive species may be reduced. Fire also improves plant diversity and can raise the nutritional value of grasses and flowers.
To manage grazing in 2025, ranchers should:
- Delay grazing until mid-June or later, based on rainfall.
- Reduce livestock numbers or grazing days by up to 70%.
- Avoid reseeding native grasslands, as natural recovery is better.
Although fire reduces ground cover, it returns by the second or third year. With proper grazing, the land will heal and remain productive.
“However, with proper grazing management,” says Meehan, “these sites will recover forage production.”
Photo Credit:north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Crops, Hay & Forage, Weather