Late Winter Precipitation and Spring Weather Patterns w/ Matt Makens
From Cattlemen’s Call Podcast by National Cattlemen’s Beef Association
February 23, 2026 · 21 min · Episode 155
About this episode
Atmospheric Scientist Matt Makens discusses the spring weather outlook and its implications for producers.
Atmospheric Scientist Matt Makens returns to the show following his presentation at CattleCon, bringing an in‑depth look at the spring weather outlook for producers. Matt breaks down the latest trends in moisture patterns, temperature shifts, and spring weather forecasts, emphasizing the critical need for late‑winter precipitation after a dry December and January. He also explains why much of the western U.S. will rely on end‑of‑season storms to support rangeland and crop conditions, and what producers need to know as we transition into a Neutral ENSO phase with promising indications of El Niño development later this year. This episode delivers essential, science‑based guidance to help you plan for spring. This show is brought to you by John Deere (https://www.deere.com/en/).
People in this episode
Guest: Matt Makens
Topics covered
- weather patterns
- precipitation
- ENSO
- El Niño
- agriculture
Keywords
- moisture patterns
- temperature shifts
- rangeland
- crop conditions
Sponsors
John Deere
Mentioned in this episode
Products: John Deere
Places: U.S.
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