Drought Grips Western U.S.

Apr 14, 2021

After a year riddled with pandemic-related challenges, farmers were hoping for an easy, uncomplicated growing season.

Unfortunately, for many that dream seems unlikely, as much of the Western half of the country is experiencing severe to exceptional drought conditions. According to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the dry conditions can be attributed to “a weak summer monsoon season and ongoing La Niña conditions.” It’s likely that climate change is to blame as well; changing precipitation patterns are a well-documented side effect of climate change, including more severe and prolonged droughts.

Things are expected to get worse before they get better; the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) predicts that drought conditions will persist for several months, affecting about 74 million Americans. Farmers and ranchers are among those who will most directly experience the effects in the form of less abundant and more expensive water, diminished crop yields, and higher expenditures for hay.

u.s drought monitor

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Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.