Drought hitting farmers, ranchers hard in Central Texas

Drought conditions and high heat remain unwelcome guests in Central Texas. They have scorched hay fields, reduced stock tanks to bogs, burned vegetable gardens to a crisp, and inflicted stress on livestock and those who raise it.

Cattle farmers and ranchers are culling their herds. Ted Uptmore, who has owned and operated West Auction more than 40 years, said sales topped $2 million on Thursday, perhaps a first. Heifers, calves and bulls bounded into the auction ring beginning at 10 a.m. The fun didn't end until after midnight.

"No grain, no grass, and the cost of hay is out of sight," said the aptly named Gary Farmer, from Ellis County, discussing farmers and ranchers parting ways with hoofstock.