Most ranchers across the U.S. have dealt with some level of drought this season. For those experiencing minimal to extreme drought and even wildfires, hay is a premium.
Farm Rescue is one organization helping to ease the effects of drought for ranchers in North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana.
Less rainfall coupled with high temperatures left crops and pastures suffering in many areas. However, drought also creates problems that extend beyond dry pastures. Drought limits forage and feed supplies, putting ranchers in a tight spot as they care for livestock and the land.
In the Dakotas and Montana, only scarce places were not impacted by some level of drought. Many areas in drought this year have experienced similar conditions in previous years, leaving soil moisture levels at a minimum.
“When drought hits an area this hard, it affects entire rural communities,” said Luke Benedict, Farm Rescue field operations manager. “Ranchers are used to taking care of their own, and helping their neighbors whenever they can, but when everyone around you is facing the same conditions, there may not be an extra neighbor with extra hay or an extra truck to spare.
“Operation Hay Lift allows us to come alongside these families, haul the hay they need and remind them they don’t have to weather a difficult season alone,” Benedict added.
Farm Rescue is encouraging everyone from ranchers to community leaders to help spread the word. If you know a farm or ranch family in North Dakota, South Dakota or Montana struggling with the effects of drought, encourage them to connect with Farm Rescue or apply here. They also can call Benedict at 701-412-7924 for assistance.
For those who want to assist with a monetary or hay donation, find out more here.
Farm Rescue contributed to this article.