Drought, fire and high diesel prices 'addin' up tough' for Oregon ranchers

Oct 25, 2026 · Anna King

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

Drought, fire and high diesel prices 'addin' up tough' for Oregon ranchers

Katie Baltzor rides her side-by-side among the black angus cattle she raises near her home outside of Hines, Oregon.

Record diesel prices are kicking Western ranchers while they're down. Drought means they have to buy extra hay, and pay truckers extra to deliver it because of fuel price hikes.

(Image credit: Anna King)