August 4, 2006

Aiding ranchers affected by recent wildfires

“At this point, individuals can help serve the immediate needs of farmers and ranchers in the affected area by donating money or feed supplies,” Ibach said. “First National Bank of Chadron has established an assistance fund, and individuals can designate donations to help purchase feed for livestock. Also, a hay and feed donation collection site has been set up at Crawford Livestock Market.”

Donations of money can be sent to Dawes-Sioux Fire Fund, P.O. Box 1125, Chadron, Nebraska 69337. Donors can ask that the funds be used for livestock assistance.

Individuals who want to donate hay or other livestock feed can deliver them to Crawford Livestock Market, West Beach Street, in Crawford. To contact the Crawford Livestock Market, call toll-free 866-665-2220 or (308) 665-2220.

Ibach said a local Needs Assessment Team has been established to distribute the donations.

“We understand that they are working to identify the producers who have been directly affected by the wildfires and have a need for these resources,” Ibach said.

Don Blausey, spokesperson for the Dawes-Sioux Fire Fund and a member of the Needs Assessment Team, said donations of other items, such as posts, wire and other fencing materials, also will be accepted at the Crawford Livestock Market drop site.

“These are items that may not be needed immediately, but will be a necessary part of the recovery effort for affected ranchers,” Blausey said.