PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State University’s Department of Animal Sciences will host a free five-part webinar series this fall to help dairy producers understand and prepare for the anticipated impacts of El Niño in 2026.
Beginning October 8, the series, “El Niño 2026: Impacts and Strategies for Dairy Producers,” will bring together experts in meteorology, forage production, dairy nutrition, animal health, and agricultural economics to provide practical information for dairy operations across the western United States.
As weather patterns associated with El Niño have the potential to influence temperature, precipitation, forage availability, cattle management, wildfire risk, and farm profitability, the webinar series is designed to help producers make informed decisions and develop strategies to navigate changing conditions.
All webinars will be held online at 11:00 a.m. Pacific Time and are open to producers, industry professionals, students, Extension personnel, and others interested in dairy production.
Webinar Schedule
October 8, 2026
What is El Niño and What Does It Entail for Temperature and Precipitation? A Field Meteorologist’s Perspective Presented by Josh Ward and Craig Oswald, AgWeatherNet
The opening session will provide an overview of El Niño and its potential effects on weather patterns across the western United States, including anticipated changes in temperature and precipitation.
October 15, 2026
Forage Production Recommendations and Factors to Consider for Upcoming El Niño Presented by Dr. Matt Yost, Utah State University
This session will focus on forage production considerations and recommendations that producers may use when planning for changing environmental conditions.
October 22, 2026
Potential Effects of El Niño on Dairy Cattle Nutrient Utilization and Management Presented by Dr. Addison Carroll, Washington State University
Participants will learn about possible impacts on dairy cattle nutrition, nutrient utilization, and management practices that may support herd performance.
October 29, 2026
Wildfire Smoke Impacts at the Herd Level and Management Opportunities Presented by Dr. Amy Skibiel, Idaho State University
This webinar will address the effects of wildfire smoke exposure on dairy cattle and discuss management strategies that may help mitigate risks to herd health and productivity.
November 12, 2026
Major Economic Dairy Drivers and Potential Impacts of El Niño on Profitability Presented by Dr. Shannon Neibergs, Washington State University
The final session will examine economic factors affecting dairy operations and explore how El Niño-related conditions could influence profitability.
Practical Information for Producers
Whether attending a single session or participating in the entire series, attendees will gain practical insights and management considerations to help prepare their operations for the potential challenges and opportunities associated with El Niño conditions.
The webinar series is offered free of charge through Washington State University’s Department of Animal Sciences.