Farmers in Australia are facing significant challenges in sourcing cottonseed, a crucial cattle feed, as dry conditions worsen and cotton production is expected to decline. Cottonseed, a by-product of the cotton ginning process, is prized for its high protein and fiber content, making it a staple for livestock producers, especially during periods of low feed availability. Dairy farmer James Geraghty from Far North Queensland noted that cottonseed is essential for filling feed gaps, but its current scarcity is making it increasingly difficult to obtain. Prices have surged to $590 to $600 per tonne, reflecting a $70 increase in just a month. With forecasts predicting a potential one-third reduction in the national cotton crop for the next season, concerns are mounting about future supply. Livestock nutritionist Robert Lawrence pointed out that cottonseed's nutritional benefits, particularly during droughts, make it a sought-after feed option. The combination of rising demand from the cattle feedlot sector and limited supply could lead to a tight situation in the coming years, particularly as farmers brace for the impact of a forecasted El Niño weather pattern.