The New South Wales Southern Tablelands are experiencing one of the driest summers on record, leading farmers in the region to make tough decisions about how to deal with the scarcity of water.

Braidwood farmer Mark Horan said the dry spell means many properties in the area are lacking grass for cattle to feed on, and he is considering selling livestock prematurely.

Neighbouring farmer Ian Cargill says the dry conditions are making it difficult to operate their farms and says he is praying for some rainfall during autumn.