Drought woes are intensifying in North Dakota with the dry conditions, extremely hot temperatures and now grasshoppers adding to the problem clipping off already depleted pastures. North Dakota Stockmen’s Association Executive Vice President Julie Ellingson says the grasshoppers are now moving and becoming a widespread problem.

She says feed remains scarce and the long term concern is what shape the pastures will be in for the next season.

Ellingson says what’s positive is there has been several federal and state programs available to help producers get through the drought.

Ellingson says some of the newest drought assistance has come through some loan programs.

Ellingson says there is also a state water well program producers can check into for added assistance.