North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring has activated the Hay Hotline to support ranchers facing severe drought and wildfire conditions across the state. The initiative aims to provide relief to livestock producers struggling with feed shortages caused by the dry weather and fire damage.

“Several counties across North Dakota have experienced dry conditions this year, and some areas have also been impacted by wildfires,” said Commissioner Goehring. “The Department’s Hay Hotline is an additional resource for producers affected by these recent challenges. Anyone with hay or those in need can call the Department's special hotline number to get connected with assistance.”

Wildfires have also caused significant disruption in livestock management. According to the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association, numerous animals have gone missing as they scattered during evacuation efforts. “Many livestock are missing because they became disoriented in the smoke or fire, or mixed together during evacuation,” the association said in a statement. Ranchers who have lost or found animals are urged to contact the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association at (701) 223-2522 or (701) 595-2421, or by email at cward@ndstockmen.org.

State Veterinarian Ethan Andress emphasized the importance of monitoring livestock closely after wildfires. “Cattle exposed to wildfire and smoke are at increased risk of complications like pneumonia,” said Andress. “Producers should work closely with their veterinarians and handle their livestock with caution to minimize stress.”

Marcy Svenningsen, State Director of the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), urged affected producers to reach out to local FSA offices for support. “Our county offices stand ready to assist producers impacted by wildfires,” Svenningsen said.

NDSU Extension is coordinating with state and federal agencies to assess agricultural losses caused by the fires. Producers impacted by wildfires are encouraged to contact their local NDSU Extension office for further assistance.

Both the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association and the North Dakota Independent Beef Association (ND IBAND) are accepting donations to support the relief efforts.

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For more information or to access the Hay Hotline, call 701-328-5110 or visit www.ndda.nd.gov/hay-hotline-rancher-relief.

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