Persistent drought across parts of the northern Plains is creating forage shortages, and the non-profit Farm Rescue has launched 'Operation Hay Lift' to deliver hay to struggling livestock producers in North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana.

High temperatures and limited rainfall have damaged crops and pastures across the region, reducing forage and feed supplies; some areas have endured drought for several years running, leaving soil-moisture reserves especially low.

'When drought hits an area this hard, it affects entire rural communities,' said Luke Benedict, Farm Rescue's 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.

The organisation is asking ranchers and community leaders to spread the word and to refer farm and ranch families in the three states who are struggling with drought, who can apply directly or call the operations manager; monetary and hay donations are being taken through Farm Rescue's website.

Source: Northern Ag Network