November 12, 2021 – The Conclusion
As the father of two young boys who seem to grow before your very eyes, I find myself asking that age old question more and more these days – “Just where does the time go?” That same question seems appropriate this week as Farm Rescue’s dedicated volunteers close another chapter of our harvest assistance operations. It seems like only a few weeks ago that a January wildfire near Lemmon, SD triggered an early start to our relief efforts for the year in the form of hay and supply deliveries. Subsequent wildfires and worsening drought conditions compelled the launch of Operation Hay Lift in early spring. This hay hauling campaign has helped to deliver much-needed cattle feed to dozens of ranch families during one of the worst droughts on record for the upper Midwest. Thanks to the incredible support of our volunteer drivers and donors, these efforts continued throughout the summer and fall months. With a short list of deliveries yet to make and the sudden arrival of winter weather, this campaign will likely extend into the new year. Around the same time Operation Hay Lift was set in motion, our staff and volunteers were gearing up for another busy planting assistance season. This year, Farm Rescue was blessed to add a John Deere DB60 planter to our equipment fleet, which allowed our Angels in Blue to cover more acres for a greater number of families in crisis. Despite the ongoing drought and much less hay to cut, we still had the opportunity to utilize our baling equipment for a handful of haying assistance cases. In late June, harvest operations began in our southernmost territory with 3 Kansas families receiving support during this crucial season for their farms. Our volunteers and equipment continued making their way north, extending a helping hand to other families throughout the remainder of the small grain harvest. A week after our final wheat assistance case wrapped up, the row crop harvest was already underway. Our volunteers have kept busy ever since, combining corn and soybeans throughout our entire service territory. In spite of some untimely rain showers the past few weeks, progress continued and our dedicated family of do-gooders have now placed the finishing touches on this year’s assistance operations. Crew number 1 was able to complete their remaining corn and soybean acres near Raymond, NE for a couple recovering from COVID. Crew number 2 also wrapped up operations near Grantville, KS, as they provided harvest support to a family dealing with illness. Crew number 3 was honored to finish their remaining winter wheat planting work near Windom, KS for a farmer battling prostate cancer. Crew number 4 spent several days near Park Rapids, MN for our final harvest case of the year. This couple sustained severe injuries during a motorcycle accident back in June and the husband is now continuing his recovery at home, following a traumatic brain injury. With some additional trucking help from a couple family friends, our volunteers were able to make swift work of the family’s corn crop. Our Field Operations Manager, Luke Benedict, and a few late-season volunteers have spent the remainder of the week moving and prepping equipment and vehicles for winter storage. A massive THANK YOU goes out to all of this week's Farm Rescuers in the field for helping us complete another year of assistance operations: Garry Deckert, Gary Krieger, Al Bryce, Gaylen Weisenburger, Rick Davidson, Kenny Crites, Vane Clayton, David Parker, Marvin Halvorsen and David Frueh.
This year has been anything but "typical" for our organization, with an ongoing drought, an unexpected hay hauling campaign and the ever-present challenges of COVID. However, the one constant for our nonprofit has been the incredible support we continue to receive from volunteers, donors, business sponsors and organizational ambassadors. Farm Rescue is the ultimate team effort and we simply would not exist without any of the folks listed above. Your shared belief in our mission is what drives us forward and allows us to serve as a light to farm families during some of their darkest days. Each of you is a Farm Rescuer and we could not be more thankful for your generosity and goodwill. Because of your support, Farm Rescue is poised and ready to continue our assistance operations throughout 2022, and for many years to come.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
November 5, 2021 - The Home Stretch
There has been a much more prevalent chill in the air as of late, as winter begins to nip at the heels of our volunteers in the field. With talk of possible snowfall in the extended forecast, it'll be another race to the finish to wrap up our current assistance operations. Following several rain delay, our dedicated crews made great progress this week during our ongoing relief efforts. On Wednesday, crew number 1 completed their remaining soybean acres for a farmer battling COVID pneumonia near Monango, ND. Crew number 2 was back at it near Raymond, NE, harvesting corn and soybeans for another farming couple recovering from COVID. They should be wrapping up work there today. Crew number 3 also resumed operations near Grantville, KS, as they provide support to a family dealing with illness. Barring any further weather delays, they hope to complete their efforts by early next week. Down the road near Windom, KS, crew number 4 is waiting for field conditions to improve after another rain system pushed through the area. If Mother Nature cooperates, one solid day's work should be enough to finish the remainder of winter wheat planting for a farmer battling prostate cancer. Crew number 5 was honored to wrap up their harvest assistance efforts near Aurelia, IA for another farmer receiving treatments for prostate cancer. Crew number 6 put the finishing touches on some corn acres near Cleveland, ND for a farmer recovering from a recent stroke. They have since moved east to Park Rapids, MN, for what could likely be our final harvest case of 2021. This couple sustained severe injuries during a motorcycle accident back in June. After several months in the hospital, the husband is now continuing his recovery at home, following a traumatic brain injury. Our volunteers are honored to assist this family during a very crucial corn harvest. As work surges on in the field, our trucks remain active on the road in support of Operation Hay Lift. Despite a shortage of CDL volunteers, a couple more loads of hay were delivered this week and we hope to get a few more under our belt before the weather turns.
I don't know that I can remember a time when we've had so many crews working across such a wide area, but it's truly incredible to witness these efforts firsthand. Our staff has been working nonstop to coordinate operations and of course, none of this work would be possible without our phenomenal family of volunteers. A massive thank you goes out to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Sharon Hanson, Kevin Towe, Wade Peterson, Garry Deckert, Al Bryce, Gaylen Weisenburger, Rick Davidson, Kenny Crites, Vane Clayton, David Parker, Marvin Halvorsen. You are shining a light on so many dark days for farm families in crisis and we are truly thankful for your support!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
October 29, 2021 - I Believe in the Future of Agriculture...
This week has proven once again that even the best laid plans can often go awry. Mother Nature decided to arrive late to the party after an extremely dry summer for much of the region. Around mid-week, several large swaths of rain swept across our service territory, delaying operations from Kansas to the Canadian border. A bit of progress was made prior to the wet weather and a couple days of sunshine have improved field conditions enough to hopefully allow most of our current work to resume within the next couple days. Crew number 1 has completed a little more than a third of their planned soybean acres for a family near Monango, ND. This farmer has been battling COVID pneumonia in the ICU and our volunteers have been lending their support as he continues his recovery. Crew number 2 was able to complete their soybean assistance efforts near Langdon, ND for another farmer hospitalized with COVID pneumonia. Crew number 3 was rained-out near Raymond, NE, while combining corn and soybeans for a husband and wife who are both battling COVID. In the midst of that weather delay, we decided to move our volunteers to a drier farm near Grantville, KS, where another family is dealing with illness. Shortly after their arrival, heavy rain pushed through the area, once again halting progress. We hope to resume operations in both locations within the next few days. Crew number 4 was also delayed near Windom, KS as they worked to plant winter wheat for a farmer undergoing treatments for prostate cancer. Crew number 5 is near Aurelia, IA, harvesting corn for a second farmer battling prostate cancer. Finally, crew number 6 is waiting to resume their corn harvest operations near Cleveland, ND, for a farmer who suffered a stroke several months back. As you might imagine, it's quite the challenge to keep all of these plates spinning at once, especially with continued weather delays. For this reason, I'd like to extend my sincere thanks to our amazing team of full-time staffers, especially our Field Operations Manager, Luke Benedict, Office Manager, Steph Hasbargen, and Volunteer Coordinator, Genita Limke. Your diligence is truly appreciated!
As our volunteers and staff work to coordinate the moving parts of our field operations, another team of Farm Rescuers and around 80,000 young adults have descended upon Indianapolis, IN for the National FFA Convention. Farm Rescue is honored to have a booth at this incredible event, which celebrates the future leaders in agriculture. Throughout the past couple days, our staff and volunteers have enjoyed many conversations and new connections with youth attendees and agribusiness representatives. It's been an amazing opportunity to share the mission of Farm Rescue with thousands of others who strive to support American agriculture. Needless to say, the future of farming is in good hands.
With so many irons in the fire, it's especially important to recognize those serving as our boots on the ground --- this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Lynn Hoffman, Wayland Adams, Wade Peterson, Kevin Towe, Dan Varner, CJ Lambert, Chester Arnold, Emil Baranko, Kenneth Chyle, David Parker, Marvin Halvorsen, Kenny Crites, Kyle Thormodson, James Eye, Vane Clayton and Erv Geisler. Thank you for your patience and perseverance in support of our assistance operations!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
October 22, 2021 - Widespread and Full Steam Ahead
It's a well-used statement amongst our small team of employees, but it rings especially true during weeks such as these - "We have the best volunteers in the world." Injuries and illnesses on the farm usually occur without warning, and every so often we experience a wave of assistance requests from folks in need of immediate aid. We do everything in our power to offer support to each family, but ultimately, our capacity to meet these needs rests in the helping hands of our Angels in Blue. During this busier-than-average mid-October week, our volunteers once again rose to the occasion. Crew number 1 experienced multiple weather delays near Baldwin, ND, but they still managed to knock out a few hundred acres of soybeans for a farmer wrapping-up dialysis treatments after an infection led to kidney failure. They've since ventured southeast to Monango, ND to assist a farmer battling COVID-19 pneumonia in the ICU. Volunteers will be tackling several hundred acres of soybeans as he continues his recovery. Crew number 2 is lending their help to a similar situation in Langdon, ND, as another farmer remains in the hospital with COVID-19 pneumonia. They too will be combining a few hundred acres of soybeans during this family's crucial harvest season. A bit further south, crew number 3 is set to begin their assistance efforts near Raymond, NE for a husband and wife who have both been hospitalized as a result of COVID. Our Farm Rescuers will be lending their support to the family's corn and soybean crops. A fourth volunteer crew is also mobilizing near Windom, KS for a somewhat rare, autumn planting assistance case. This particular farmer is undergoing treatments for prostate cancer and we are honored to help seed their winter wheat acres. In the midst of these harvest and planting efforts, Operation Hay Lift is slowly but surely progressing, with more loads of hay and straw being delivered to ranchers affected by extreme drought and wildfire. With the current high demand for truck drivers, it's been more and more difficult to coordinate CDL volunteers for this relief campaign. If you or someone you know would be interested in signing up to support Farm Rescue's efforts, please click HERE!
Another huge THANKS to those already serving our mission as Farm Rescuers in the field, especially this week's team of do-gooders: Kenneth Chyle, Emil Baranko, Lynn Hoffman, Wayland Adams, Mark Danielczyk, Jeff Moss, Andy Wittenburg, Dan Varner, CJ Lambert, Chester Arnold and Kenny Crites. Thank you for lending your time and talents to Farm Rescue and the farm families we support!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
October 15, 2021 - Autumn Showers
After one of the driest summers on record for a large portion of our northern service territory, it was a much different story this week with some heavy rainfall pushing through the region. That precipitation will definitely improve soil conditions heading into the winter months, but it also hinders any current progress in the field for those working to bring in their corn and soybean crops. Crew number 1 wrapped up the remainder of their soybean acres for our 800th assisted family near Fort Ransom, ND late last week. From there, they moved northwest to Baldwin, ND to assist a farmer who's currently on dialysis following an infection that led to kidney failure. After their arrival, Mother Nature decided to unload more than an inch and a half of rainfall. They hope to get back in the field later this weekend or early next week. Crew number 2 also dealt with some weather delays near Crab Orchard, NE, as they wrapped up their soybean harvest assistance efforts for a family dealing with illness. They're now making the long journey north to Cleveland, ND to harvest soybeans for a farmer who suffered a stroke this past spring. Operation Hay Lift drivers were also back on the road this week, hoping to deliver the last few loads for this relief campaign before winter arrives. Our trucks and volunteers have logged many miles throughout the past few months in support of this effort and we are extremely grateful for the help they've provided. This campaign, along with our general field operations, would not be possible without the incredible generosity we've been blessed to receive from donors and business sponsors. Thank you to all who believe in this mission and continue to offer support through monetary contributions and acts of service, especially this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Jamie and Kylie Bos, Mark Danielczyk, Jeff Moss, Emil Baranko, Kenneth Chyle, Jim Schiffler, Vane Clayton, Andy Wittenburg, Paul Holgate and Kenny Crites.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
October 8, 2021 - 800 and Counting
When our President & Founder, Bill Gross, first set the wheels in motion for Farm Rescue, it would've been hard to imagine the impact it would have on so many families and communities throughout rural America. The simple notion of helping farmers in crisis has grown exponentially since those first seeds of assistance were planted in the spring of 2006. A lot has changed in 15 years, with new services and states added to accommodate the growing number of requests for help. Our nonprofit has celebrated many milestone throughout its history and we were honored to achieve another incredible landmark this week by assisting our 800th family. The farm of Eugene and Katie Birklid, near Fort Ransom, ND, was the site of this milestone service event. Eugene recently underwent his second brain surgery this year (and fourth overall) to combat a problematic cyst. This intensive procedure requires up to 6 weeks of recovery, which conflicted with the family’s crucial harvest operations. Farm Rescue was honored to provide equipment and volunteers to help bring in the Birklid’s soybean crop. In the meantime, crew number 2 was also harvesting soybeans a couple states away near Crab Orchard, NE. This family is dealing with an illness that disrupted their harvest operations and once again, we were honored to extend a helping hand. Crew number 3 spent the better part of their week near Richardton, ND, tackling some corn for a family still recovering from an auto accident that occurred several months back. Some rain in the weekend forecast may delay the start of our next assistance cases, but we are poised to finish strong this harvest season.
Operation Hay Lift is also winding down, with several more loads of hay delivered this week to ranch families affected by drought and wildfire. As we've mentioned several times, this has been a tremendous undertaking for our organization and it wouldn't have been possible without the support of so many. Our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, was tasked with coordinating much of this relief effort and has done a wonderful job of keeping our trucks and volunteers moving.
Special thanks to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Kenneth Chyle, Emil Baranko, Bob Miller, Jim Schiffler, Nate Kopesky, Andrew Hardesty, Luke Benedict, Vane Clayton, Andy Wittenburg, Neil Simons, Paul Wannarka, Paul Holgate, Kenny Crites, Jamie and Kylie Bos. You are truly the lifeblood of our organization!
As we pause to reflect on our 800th family milestone, we're well-aware this mark would never have been possible without our incredible support system of volunteers, donors, sponsors and folks who simply believe in our mission, spreading word to others. Farm Rescue is a family in itself and one I'm extremely proud to be part of. To say we are blessed to be carrying out this Good Samaritan work would be an understatement. 800 families is definitely a benchmark worth celebrating, but there are plenty more acres ahead and farmers in need of a helping hand. Thanks to all of you, we will be there to provide it.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
September 24, 2021 - Autumn Action
Despite some lingering warmer weather, fall is definitely in the air. And as we make this seasonal transition, it seems fitting to finish up our final wheat harvest assistance case and prepare for a busy row crop harvest ahead. Volunteers spent the week near Ambrose, ND to help bring in a late wheat crop for a grieving family after the loss of a father. A couple rain delays slowed their progress, but they managed to knock out the remaining acres for this generational operation during a very difficult time. Our Angels in Blue are now transporting and readying equipment for our upcoming corn and soybean assistance efforts. Weather permitting, we hope to begin harvesting these row crops within the next 7-10 days near Cleveland, ND, Fort Ransom, ND and Crab Orchard, NE. We also have an important milestone worth celebrating in the next couple weeks, as Farm Rescue prepares to assist its 800th family! More on that soon...
On the ranching side, it's no secret this has not been a banner year for hay production. For this reason, we're especially happy to squeeze in another haying case before storing our balers for the winter. Today our volunteers hope to begin rolling hay near Warwick, ND for another family in need. Eighteen months ago, this rancher was on dialysis, followed by a heart attack, a shoulder infection and now a severe foot injury caused by a fallen mower hitch. We are honored to help them add a few more bales to feed their herd throughout the coming months. As other ranchers scramble to locate hay, we are doing our best to accommodate through Operation Hay Lift. Our list of families to receive hauling assistance has grown to nearly 100 names, with around 60 loads delivered thus far. Thanks to the help of some incredible CDL volunteers, we plan to continue these efforts until each request has been fulfilled.
As we near our 800th case, we pause to reflect on all the amazing folks who made this milestone possible. Farm Rescue is the definition of a collaborative effort. Through the support of individual donors, business sponsors, civic groups, grantors, farm families, rural communities and our incredible volunteers, this dream has remained a reality for nearly 16 years. We've said it before and we'll say it forever - none of this would be possible without each and every one of you. Special thanks to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Mike Wilson, Gary Krieger, Cody Stieg, David Rose, Kenny Crites, Paul Holgate, Dave Zimmer, Albert and April Lautenschlager. Each of you is a blessing to our organization and those we strive to serve!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
September 17, 2021 - Farm Shows and Fellowship
It's been nearly three months since our small grain harvest assistance efforts began in Kansas and we're finally nearing the end of wheat season up North. After wrapping up work near Bottineau, ND, our volunteers and equipment are making the journey west to Ambrose, ND to lend a hand with some later-than-average wheat acres. Sadly, this father/son operation was dealt a heavy blow recently when the father sustained severe injuries in a fall. Complications arose during surgery, which ultimately led to his passing. A grieving son is now left to reap what the pair had sown this past spring. Farm Rescue is honored to help bring in their wheat crop during this difficult time. Weather permitting, they hope to begin combining over the weekend. In the meantime, row crops have also reached maturity throughout much of our service territory and just this morning, we received an update from another family scheduled to receive assistance near Ulen, MN. Their soybeans are a couple weeks ahead of their estimated start date and our volunteers could be mobilizing at their farm as early as tomorrow. This particular farmer recently underwent surgery to remove a liver tumor and will be laid up for several weeks to heal. As always, we feel blessed to be able to lend a hand during such an important time for their operation.
Operation Hay Lift has been pushing forward, despite some difficulty in finding CDL volunteers to deliver hay to those affected by the drought. Our list of assistance requests has grown to around 90 families and so far, we've delivered around half of those loads. With harvest ramping up, we know it's not the most ideal time to volunteer as a CDL driver, but if anyone reading this could spare a day or two in support of this campaign, we'd love to add you to our Farm Rescuer family! We're also still accepting monetary donations to support this mission at farmrescue.org/donate. Any and all help is appreciated!
This week also included some wonderful outreach opportunities for our staff and volunteers at both the Big Iron Farm Show in West Fargo, ND and Husker Harvest Days in Dupont Pioneer, NE. We always appreciate the chance to introduce folks to our mission and chat with those who have already been affected by it. It's truly heartwarming to hear stories of our volunteers helping friends, neighbors and loved ones of these showgoers. These events also serve as wonderful reminders of why we do what we do, and the pride I feel in being associated with this life-changing organization. Of course, none of this would be possible without our amazing family of volunteers, including those who have served our mission this past week: Heidi Kjono, Erv Geisler, Troy Kreitinger, Garry Decker, Kenny Crites and Paul Holgate. Thank you for being Farm Rescuers!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
September 3, 2021 - Progress
We're nearing the end of our small grain harvest efforts and true to her form, Mother Nature has been anything but consistent. After a summer of almost no rainfall, the past week has brought nearly twice the precipitation that some areas had seen all year. Severe weather also damaged row crops in a few portions of our service territory. Again, it's hard to complain about rainfall in a drought year, but the timing and severity has been less than ideal. Nonetheless, our volunteer harvest crews managed to finish up work at two ongoing wheat assistance cases. Crew number 1 concluded their efforts near Dickinson, ND for a farmer who recently underwent heart valve replacement surgery. Crew number 2 also put the finishing touches on a few hundred acres of wheat near Bottineau, ND for a family whose 15-year-old son is battling leukemia. As mentioned last week, this family was also gracious enough to allow their wheat straw to be baled-up and distributed to ranchers affected by drought through our Operation Hay Lift campaign. Several of our volunteers are now focused on rolling those bales and readying them for transport to the ever-growing list of hauling assistance applicants. This week, several more loads of hay and straw were delivered to families already on that list, courtesy of our amazing volunteer drivers. If you have hay to donate or sell at a reasonable price, please contact our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, at 701-212-3851 or email neil@farmrescue.org. If you're able to support these efforts financially, please consider a donation to "Operation Hay Lift" at farmrescue.org/donate.
In addition to the strides made in the field this week, our Development Officers, Tim Sullivan and Lynne Hinrichsen (along with volunteer, Vane Clayton) experienced some progress of their own - Farm Progress, that is. This annual trade show is the nation's largest outdoor farm event. Our group has spent the past 3 days in Decatur, IL, visiting with thousands of attendees from across the country. It's truly been an incredible opportunity to share our mission with many new folks in agriculture. We also gained a little more exposure for Farm Rescue with several volunteers participating in parades during the Nebraska State Fair in Grand Island, NE and the Potato Days festival in Barnesville, MN.
As we head into Labor Day weekend, we want to send prayers and well wishes to everyone laboring in the field to feed the world. Farming can be a thankless profession and this year has been especially hard for many people in the industry. You ARE appreciated, you ARE essential and you ARE the salt of the earth! Special thanks to this week's hardworking Farm Rescuers in the field and on the road: David Frueh, Paul Holgate, Kenny Crites, Mike Youngblood, Steph and Jay Hasbargen, Albert and April Lautenschlager, Gary Krieger and Vane Clayton.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
August 27, 2021 - A Rare Rain Delay
Rain delays have been few and far between this year, as much of our northern service territory battles to regain its footing during one of the worst droughts in recent history. A bit of respite arrived this week in some of the driest areas, with multiple inches of precipitation falling over the weekend in a few locations. Although a few crops are beyond repair at this point, we welcome any rainfall with open arms. That moisture did hinder progress at our ongoing wheat harvest assistance cases, but I think it's a delay everyone was happy to tolerate. After some limited downtime, crew number 1 resumed combining near Dickinson, ND for a farmer who recently underwent heart valve replacement surgery. Barring any additional rainfall, they hope to wrap up the remainder of their wheat sometime over the weekend. Following a heavier downpour, Crew number 2 had a slightly longer break from in-field action near Bottineau, ND. They've been harvesting wheat for a family as their 15-year-old son battles leukemia. This amazing family has also been gracious enough to allow their wheat straw to be baled-up and distributed to ranchers affected by drought through our Operation Hay Lift campaign. We are truly thankful for their generosity. It took a few days for the wet soil conditions to improve, but our volunteers and equipment were back at it yesterday and they hope to wrap-up work within the next couple days.
Operation Hay Lift has been making more progress this week, thanks to some dedicated volunteer drivers and our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, who has been running point on this campaign for months. As you might imagine, we've received many applications for hauling assistance and we plan to continue this effort as long as resources allow. That being said, if you have hay to donate or sell for a reasonable price, please contact Neil Simons at 701-212-3851 or email neil@farmrescue.org. And if you're able to support these efforts financially, we hope you'll consider a donation to "Operation Hay Lift" at farmrescue.org/donate.
A big thank you to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field and on the road for their incredible patience and support: Emil Baranko, David Frueh, Mike Youngblood, Kenny Crites, Tanner Millang, Paul Holgate, Kieth Worthley, Keith Bisson and Joe Nasset.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
August 20, 2021 - A Bit of Perspective
Adversity comes in all shapes and sizes, with endless approaches used in coping with these challenges. I’ll be the first to admit, I don’t always see the glass as half full, and every so often I need a reminder that even simple blessings should never be taken for granted. As I spent time visiting with one of our assisted families this week, I couldn't help but feel a sense of shame at the little things in life I've allowed to shake my spirit. Back in April, this family of three survived a vehicle crash that could've easily taken their lives. The mother sustained a few minor injuries, while her husband and 22-year-old son were not quite as fortunate. With 18 broken ribs and a shattered elbow, their son had a long road to recovery after an initial stay in the ICU. If it weren't for the heroics of a 17-year-old passerby, who recently completed a CPR course in her high school gym class, the father would not be here today. His injuries were so severe that two area hospitals were unable to treat him, and after two separate life flights he arrived in Fargo, where his condition remained touch-and-go for nearly two weeks. Four months later, as we chatted around their kitchen table, this father (still wearing a neck brace and the scars of severe head trauma) only wanted one thing: to return to farming. With all they'd been through, no one would blame them for feeling a bit downtrodden, but there was never an ounce of that in their story. This family was simply thankful to be alive, together, and on the farm. They were also very appreciative for the friends and neighbors who helped carry them through spring planting and calving season, as well as the Farm Rescue volunteers who recently assisted with their wheat harvest. This crew of Farm Rescuers wrapped up the last few acres of wheat near Mott, ND over the weekend, before making the journey North to Richardton to assist this incredible family. After making quick work of their wheat, this crew moved on to Dickinson, ND, to assist a farmer who recently underwent heart valve replacement surgery. Crew number 2 has spent the past few days near Bottineau, ND, tackling more wheat for a family whose 15-year-old son is battling leukemia. Some desperately needed rain pushed through the area today, but they should be finishing up by early next week.
Operation Hay Lift is still in full effect, as our volunteers have already put on thousands of miles to deliver hay to ranchers affected by severe drought. Again, today's rain provided some much needed relief, but for many, it's likely too little, too late for any type of hay crop. With no clear end date to this campaign, it bears repeating on a weekly basis that if you have hay to donate or sell for a reasonable price, please contact our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, at 701-212-3851 or email neil@farmrescue.org. And if you're able to support these efforts financially, we hope you'll consider a donation to "Operation Hay Lift" at farmrescue.org/donate.
Special thanks to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field (and on the road): John Robertson, Keith Barkema, Emil Baranko. Joe Nassett, Gary Janz, Russ Bjerkness, Rick Davidson, Albert Lautenschlager, Kieth Worthley, Mike Youngblood and Paul Holgate. Thank you all for your selfless contributions to our mission and for always keeping our glass half full.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
August 13, 2021 - Wheat Fields & Spotty Yields
It's officially wheat harvest season in the Dakotas and although crops are very thin in some of the hardest hit drought areas, there's still plenty of work to be done. Crew number 1 has spent the past couple days near Mott, ND, where a few timely summer showers helped produce some decent looking spring wheat. Yields are down a bit compared to a year ago, but our volunteers are honored to assist a fourth-generation farm in bringing in their crop. This operation was in the midst of a transition year from father to son when a serious fall left the father with several broken bones in his legs and feet, and several months of non-weight-bearing recovery ahead. Farm Rescue is harvesting most of their wheat and the family has been extremely gracious and appreciative of the help. Crew number 2 is readying our equipment and vehicles for a journey to Bottineau, ND, where a teenage son (and vital member of a family farming operation) is currently battling leukemia. Their spring wheat should be ready to harvest by mid-week and our volunteers are anxious to begin their efforts for this amazing family.
More and more applications are arriving for hay hauling assistance through Operation Hay Lift and our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, has been working tirelessly to coordinate trucks, volunteers and hay pick-ups/drop-offs for ranchers affected by the ongoing drought. Despite sounding like a broken record, it's worth mentioning again - If you have hay to donate or sell for a reasonable price, please contact Neil at 701-212-3851 or email neil@farmrescue.org. And if you're able to support these efforts financially, we hope you'll consider a donation to "Operation Hay Lift" at farmrescue.org/donate.
A big thanks to those answering the call this week, serving as our boots on the ground to assist farm and ranch families in crisis: John Neumayer, Rick Davidson, Albert Lautenschlager, Russ Bjerkness, Wade Peterson, John Robertson, Joe Nassett and Emil Baranko.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
July 30, 2021 - Practicing Our Parade Wave
Not a whole lot to report on the field operations side of things this week, as a short lull between our southern and northern small grains harvest allowed our staff and volunteers an opportunity to finally catch their breath. We've been prepping and moving pickups, trucks, trailers and equipment to be ready for the quickly ripening wheat fields throughout our upper territory. The heat and humidity continue to impact an already dry region, with drought conditions worsening with each passing week. Rain has been hard to come by and a growing number of communities are implementing water restrictions. Unsurprisingly, our volume of Operation Hay Lift applications have grown exponentially the past several days as more and more ranchers are hearing news of our ongoing relief effort. We are honored to provide these much-needed hay transport services, but we're also in desperate need of hay and financial resources to keep our trucks moving. If you have hay to donate or sell for a reasonable price, please contact our Field Operations Manger, Neil Simons, at 701-212-3851 or email neil@farmrescue.org. If you're able to support these efforts financially, we hope you'll consider a donation to "Operation Hay Lift" at farmrescue.org/donate.
One of the big highlights from this past week was participating in the annual North Dakota State Fair Parade. Following a year off due to COVID, the streets of Minot, ND were lined with excitement for the 170+ parade entries. We were honored to drive our Gooseneck Implement/John Deere-sponsored combine, along with one of our Farm Rescue pickups. We also had an amazing group of volunteers who walked the 5-mile route, proudly handing out candy and brochures. It was a long, hot morning, but they took it all in stride and we are extremely grateful for the support. Special thanks to this week's dedicated Farm Rescuers: Garry Deckert, Zebulon Pierce, Joel Newman, Carter Newman, Adam Newman, Luke Newman, Aiden Morelli, Tre Sortland, Zach Melaas and Mike Melaas.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
July 23, 2021 - Northbound and a New Face
"Paying it forward" is a phrase we hear a lot at Farm Rescue. Sometimes it's a volunteer whose family received support many years ago from friends and neighbors during a difficult time, and they feel called to our organization as a means of returning the favor. Other times, it's an individual donor with a personal connection to a farm family that received a helping hand from Farm Rescue, and they simply want to give something back. Most often, however, it is the farmers and ranchers who have experienced Farm Rescue assistance, firsthand, who find incredible ways of paying those deeds forward. We saw another example of that this week, as a family in Kansas who just received harvest assistance from our organization donated a load of hay to support drought-stricken ranchers in our northern service territory. To say that circumstances are dire in these dry areas would be a gross understatement. One load of hay may not seem like much, but every bale is a precious commodity for so many folks at the moment and we are extremely grateful for this generous gift. If anyone reading this has the ability to provide similar support, please contact our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, at 701-212-3851 or neil@farmrescue.org. We're also in great need of monetary donations to support our ongoing Operation Hay Lift efforts, so please consider an online gift at farmrescue.org/donate.
In addition to trucking hay from Kansas, our staff and volunteers also loaded up our combine to make the long journey North for the fast-approaching harvest season in our upper service states. This also provided several staff members with an opportunity to meet our newest full-time hire, Lynne Hinrichsen. Lynne will serve as our Development Officer throughout Farm Rescue's southern territory. She has a long history in farming and ranching, serving with both the Kansas Department of Agriculture and USDA Rural Development. She also continues to operate an angus ranch with her husband in northeastern Kansas. We are truly excited to add her to our team!
After several weather delays, our baling crew managed to finish up their assistance efforts near Glen Ullin, ND early this week for a couple dealing with separate health issues. Despite the stop-and-go conditions, this family was extremely thankful to our volunteers for their help and we were honored to provide a hand-up to their operation. In addition to our in-field and over-the-road activities this week, our organization was also blessed to participate in "Farm Rescue Night" at the Bismarck Bucks indoor football game last Friday. Several volunteers helped sell tickets for a "share of the pot" drawing and we were overjoyed to receive more than $2,500 in support of our operations. Thank you, Bismarck Bucks, for allowing us to participate. Another huge thanks goes out to the many Farm Rescuers who jumped in to provide support on a variety of fronts this week: Levi Vangsness, Neil Simons, Sabrina Lush, Tim Sullivan, Lynne Hinrichsen, Gary Janz, Luke Benedict, Evan Benedict, Garry Deckert, Tom Atkinson, Josh Atkinson, Melissa Price, Travis Price, Jerry Grosz, Chad Focke and Mandy Focke. Your help means the world to us!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
July 16, 2021 - Kansas Wheat Wrap
After a heavy dose of rain last week at our wheat harvest case near Rexford, KS, we knew it would be a few days before work could resume. Thankfully, the weather cooperated and our volunteers and equipment were back at it on Monday, helping a family bring in their crop as a husband/father continues his recovery from esophageal cancer surgery. Some unexpected help also arrived from a few friends and neighbors, which expedited the remaining acres for this incredible family operation. We are honored to have extended a helping hand to three Kansas families during a busy wheat harvest season and look forward to returning soon. Next week, this combine will be heading North to join the upcoming small grain harvest operations throughout our upper service territory. Unfortunately, with the ongoing drought and dry, hot weather forecasted for the next several days in the hardest hit areas of the Dakotas, there may be much fewer wheat crops to harvest this year. Nonetheless, there are still folks in need of Farm Rescue assistance and we are poised and ready to spring into action whenever the call comes in.
It's been another stop-and-go week for our volunteers near Glen Ullin, ND, as a few small shots of rain have slowed progress on baling some hay rows that remain on the ground. This assistance case is for a couple dealing with separate health issues. If the weather cooperates, our volunteers hope to wrap up work this weekend. In the meantime, several more loads of hay were hauled this week in support of Operation Hay Lift, delivering cattle feed to ranchers affected by extreme drought and wildfire. Although hay has been hard to come by, we plan to continue this campaign as long as it's needed and resources allow.
As always, none of this work would be possible without our incredible family of do-gooders. A huge THANK YOU to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Garry Deckert, Vane Clayton, Lee Van Ruler, Gaylen Weisenburger and Will Rudolphi. You are a blessing to our organization and so many families in need!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
July 9, 2021 - Keepin' On in Kansas
It's been a busy few weeks for our volunteers in the state of Kansas as the wheat harvest rages on in our southern territory. With the window of opportunity closing fast, they made some great strides for another family in western Kansas this week. Farm Rescue was honored to provide a hand-up to an incredible family operation near Rexford, KS, as a husband/father continues his battle and recovery from esophageal cancer. Just a few shorts months ago, he was undergoing intense chemotherapy treatments that kept him away from home for more than a month. In the meantime, his wife managed their cattle operation and four young daughters all on her own. He later underwent surgery to remove the problematic portion of his esophagus, but is still dealing with some issues and limitations to his eating habits and daily activities. Our volunteers got a great start, working alongside a couple friends and family members who took time off to join the effort. They had harvested just over half of the family's wheat crop when some light rain began to fall in the area. Those showers built into a downpour that dropped several inches of rain in just a few short hours. That precipitation bodes well for corn crops throughout the region, but unfortunately, it put a stop to their wheat progress for a few days.
Back up North, another volunteer crew was hard at work near Glen Ullin, ND, making hay for a husband and wife who are each dealing with some medical issues. After a positive jump on a few dozen bales, they too received a visit from Mother Nature, who decided to halt their activities with another shot of rain. With the ongoing drought, you won't find us complaining about these weather delays! Unfortunately, it's become apparent in a few of the most hard-hit areas that some crops are beyond saving at this point. Nonetheless, we are thankful for every drop of rain and pray these producers have something to combine in a few short weeks. Speaking of the drought, hay deliveries have been hard to come by, but our volunteers were able to haul a couple more loads for Operation Hay Lift this week to ranchers affected by these extreme conditions. Again, if you have a load or two of hay to spare, please contact our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, at 701-212-3851 or send an email to neil@farmrescue.org.
Unsurprisingly, as we roll toward the middle of July temperatures have been consistently warm throughout much of our service area. This is one of the many reasons we must thank our amazing volunteers, who have labored throughout that heat to keep our mission moving forward. Special thanks to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: David Frueh, Kenny Crites, Keith Barkema, Vane Clayton, Garry Deckert, Will Rudolphi, Bill Bjorneby and Levi Hurtt. You truly are the best volunteers in the world!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
July 2, 2021 - Red Light, Green Light
After a busy start to the Kansas wheat harvest, it’s been more of a stop and go week for our volunteers as they worked to finish a few hundred acres for a farmer outside of Lindsborg, KS. His bi-weekly chemotherapy treatments have made his daily workload a challenge and we were honored to provide a hand-up to his operation. After several rain delays throughout the week, our volunteers wrapped up on Wednesday and began their journey West to Rexford, KS to assist another farmer battling cancer. With more rainfall pushing through the area, it seems they’ll be pumping the breaks again on their fieldwork.
As the harvest rolls on in our southern territory, our staff and volunteers up North have been prepping for our haying operations. They’ll be cutting and baling near Glen Ullin, ND for a husband and wife who are both dealing with some medical issues. With the ongoing drought, there may not be much hay to cut for a lot of folks this year, but Mother Nature did provide some relief to a few areas this past week, and we pray that continues. They definitely have a long way to go! A huge thank you to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: David Frueh, Kenny Crites, Jack Limke, Garry Deckert and Keith Barkema. You are a blessing to so many and we wish you all a wonderful Independence Day!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
June 25, 2021 - Here Comes the Harvest
Hot on the heels of spring planting in our northern territory, our volunteers and equipment are already back in the field for the launch of harvest assistance operations in our southern states. Recent hot, dry weather quickened the timeline on the start of wheat season in Kansas, but our Angels in Blue and combine were ready to rock on a few hundred acres in McPherson County. The crew spent the early portion of the week assisting a farmer near Galva, KS who injured his back in a recent fall. They made great progress with a machine that was dialed-in and running smooth, thanks to help from the folks at PrairieLand Partners. They have been an amazing group to work with as we look to expand our assistance efforts to even more families in the Jayhawk State throughout the coming years. After wrapping up yesterday afternoon in Galva, our volunteers and equipment moved a few miles down the road to Lindsborg, KS to help a farmer battling cancer. His bi-weekly chemotherapy treatments have prevented him from shouldering his usual workload on his own, and we are truly honored to lend our support. Upon arrival, they got right to work and nearly finished the first field of wheat before the evening moisture set in. An overnight thunderstorm dumped more than a half inch of rain at the farm, but they hope a day of sunshine and wind will have them back in the field soon.
Throughout the weeks leading up to harvest in Kansas, other volunteers have been hard at work moving equipment and vehicles to have ready for upcoming operations. Operation Hay Lift is still ongoing, but it's been nearly impossible to find any available hay. With continued widespread drought, many ranchers throughout our northern territory are hoping some semblance of a hay crop will emerge, while others have already made the decision to sell off more of their herd. It's a heartbreaking situation and we pray some relief from Mother Nature will arrive soon.
As we roll into a busy few months ahead, we're reminded again just how lucky we are to have such an amazing family of volunteers. They've labored through some excruciatingly hot days to support our efforts and we could not be more thankful. God bless our recent Farm Rescuers in the field: David Frueh, Kenny Crites, Jack Limke, Garry Deckert, Gary Krieger, Bob Miller, Vane Clayton, Kevin Towe, Charlie Bartsch, Corey Hyde, Mari Benedict, Kirby Hamre and Emil Baranko.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
May 28, 2021 - The Final Seeds
It's hard to believe that planting season has already reached its conclusion. Like any farming operation, we try our best to complete as much work as possible with the narrow windows we're given, and we're honored to have helped more than a dozen families in need throughout the past few weeks. Barring any last-minute requests for assistance, as of yesterday our dedicated volunteers seeded Farm Rescue's final acres of 2021. Crew number 1 made the journey from New Salem, ND to Cleveland, ND last weekend to begin planting wheat for a farmer battling major back issues, which have greatly limited his mobility. With extreme drought conditions across much of our northern service territory, there haven't been many rain delays for our crews this spring. Our final planting case was the exception, however, after the Cleveland area received several inches of rain in a few short days. After field conditions improved, our volunteers made quick work of a few hundred acres to ease some of the stress for this family. Earlier in the week, after a short weather delay of their own, crew number 2 wrapped up soybean planting near De Smet, SD for a farmer currently battling cancer. Crew number 3 also put the finishing touches on some corn and soybean acres near Valley City, ND for a young farmer recovering from a broken back and several ribs after a bundle of livestock panels crushed him against the ground.
It has truly been an incredible planting season for our volunteers and the amazing families they've assisted. I am always in awe of the bonds formed between these individuals during their short time together. Our volunteer crews become tight-knit units, doing whatever they can to help a family in crisis. These farmers and ranchers could not be more thankful to have that support, and I know it's never easy watching someone else work the land you love. I want to say thank you to all of our assisted families for placing your trust in us to get the job done. The added pressure of an injury, illness or natural disaster to an already-stressful line of work can be a tremendous burden. I pray the help you've received through Farm Rescue can lighten that load.
After a busy season in the field and roading across the region, our planting equipment is ready for a little TLC before getting tucked-in for its winter slumber. We've already begun prepping our tractors and balers for the fast-approaching haying season and Operation Hay Lift will likely be ongoing throughout the summer months. If you are a rancher living in a D2 drought zone or higher or have been affected by wildfire, we hope you'll consider submitting an application for hay hauling assistance at farmrescue.org. We're also still in need of donated hay to provide a bit of relief to drought-stricken families. If you have a load or two to spare, please contact our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, at 701-212-3851 or send an email to neil@farmrescue.org.
Last, but not least, I want to extend another enormous THANK YOU to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Jeff Preston, Brian Payne, Paul Holgate, Kenny Crites, Mike Youngblood, Chester Arnold, Matt Blaylock, Chris Batdorf, Chris Davison, Jeffrey Barnes and Vane Clayton. Each of you holds a special place in our heart and I'm honored to have you on our team.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
May 21, 2021 - Blessed Rain
To say it's been dry in our northern territory would be an understatement. Throughout the past few weeks, nearly all of North Dakota and portions of Montana and South Dakota have experienced worsening drought conditions, with large areas of extreme drought and in some cases, exceptional drought. Precipitation has eluded the region for months, but Mother Nature finally provided a bit of respite yesterday. Some areas received a couple inches of rainfall, while others in great need of moisture only experienced trace amounts or none at all. At this point, every drop helps and with more rain in the extended forecast, we'll continue praying for any and all accumulation throughout these drought zones. Yesterday's rain resulted in some short delays for our planting assistance crews, but they've still been making great progress for some amazing families in need. Crew number 1 is currently wrapping up work near New Salem, ND for a farmer who injured his leg in a recent fall. They'll soon be headed east to Cleveland, ND to plant some wheat for a farmer dealing with back issues that have greatly limited his mobility. Earlier in the week, crew number 2 finished planting soybeans near Ashley, ND for a family whose young son remains in the hospital after a head injury. Our volunteers have since traveled south to De Smet, SD to seed a few hundred acres of soybeans for a farmer who was recently diagnosed with cancer. Crew number 3 put the finishing touches on their corn and soybean planting near Mankato, MN last weekend, before roading our equipment to Valley City, ND. They are currently assisting a young farmer who broke his back and several ribs when a bundle of metal livestock panels fell on him. He's made incredible progress over the past 2 months, after doctors initially questioned if he'd ever regain use of his legs. He's been walking whenever possible to provide some guidance for our volunteers as they plant the family's corn and soybean crops. We feel extremely honored to assist each of these operations to provide them an opportunity to continue doing what they love. A huge THANK YOU to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Garry Deckert, Calvin Harms, Kenny Crites, Mike Youngblood, Larry Begyn, Ken Enstrom, Jeff Preston, Brian Payne, Paul Holgate, Mike Wilson, Steve Satterthwaite, Glenn Biederman, Chester Arnold, Matt Blaylock, Chris Batdorf, Chris Davison and Jeff Barnes. You're all incredible individuals!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
May 14, 2021 - The Power of Three
The days seem to be flying by on this year's planting season and we still have several stops to make during 2021's assistance operations. Crew number 1 wrapped up seeding near Williston, ND earlier this week, after some much-needed rain pushed through the area. From there, they headed southeast to New Salem, ND to plant soybeans for a farmer who injured his leg in a fall. They have a few hundred acres remaining as the next shift of volunteers prepares to pick up their torch. After finishing some soybeans near Wolverton, MN, crew number 2 traveled southwest to Ashley, ND for some additional bean planting. The family they are assisting is unable to participate in much of this year's seeding work, as they're currently with their young son in the hospital as he recovers from a head injury. Several neighbors and community members have also pitched in to ensure their crops are planted in time. Last weekend, crew number 3 made the long drive east to Mankato, MN, to begin planting corn and soybeans for a farmer who recently suffered a series of strokes, following heart surgery. They're hoping to wrap up their work today and return west to Valley City, ND.
Hay hauling assistance applications are still arriving and Operation Hay Lift has been progressing with more loads delivered this week. As in previous weeks, we're still hoping for some additional donated hay to support these ranch families in areas of drought and wildfire. If you or someone you know might have a load to contribute to the cause, please give Neil Simons a call at 701-212-3851 or send an email to neil@farmrescue.org.
Being able to extend my appreciation for the amazing volunteers carrying out our mission is truly one of the greatest honors I have each week. They are some of the most wonderful individuals I've ever had the pleasure of meeting and I feel extremely blessed to have them in our family. A big THANK YOU to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Mike Wilson, Steve Satterthwaite, Tim Moore, Glenn Biederman, Rich Thuesen, Mark Burton, Garry Deckert, Calvin Harms, Kenny Crites, Mike Youngblood, Larry Begyn, Ken Enstrom, Neil Simons and Joe Nasset. You are all heroes in my book, worthy of your own trading cards!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
May 7, 2021 - Hitting Our Stride
It was an exciting week for our volunteers and staff as the first acres were seeded with Farm Rescue's new row crop planter. This machine is incredible, to say the least. Thanks to help from Gooseneck Implement, John Deere Seeding Group's, Brian Boelens, and our amazing volunteers and Field Ops Managers, the planter was primed and ready for its first case near Wolverton, MN. The family receiving assistance has truly been through the ringer these past few months. In addition to a recent COVID-19 diagnosis within their home, they were dealt another difficult hand in February when a cow attacked husband/father, Robert. He sustained several broken bones in the incident, including a broken back. He also underwent a recent surgery on his gallbladder. Under doctor’s orders, he is currently unable to operate equipment, which prevented him from carrying out his necessary planting work. Farm Rescue was honored to assist with the family’s corn and soybean crops. Crew number 2 joined the effort and they made quick work of a few hundred acres. Crew number 3 headed east with the planter to Mankato, MN and crew number 2 ventured west to Ashley, ND. Crew number 1 spent their week near Williston, ND, assisting a farmer who is dealing with complications from a gallbladder surgery of his own. They're nearly wrapped-up with their durum and oat planting efforts and will be moving to New Salem, ND for another assistance case.
Operation Hay Lift is still moving forward, but we could sure use some additional donated hay to support ranch families in areas of drought and wildfire. If you or someone you know might have a load or two to spare, we'd love to talk with you! Please contact Neil Simons at 701-212-3851 or neil@farmrescue.org.
As always, none of these efforts would be possible without our wonderful "Angels in Blue", serving as Farm Rescue's boots on the ground. They sacrifice their time and energy to provide a light to families during some of their darkest days. A big THANK YOU to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Mike Wilson, Steve Satterthwaite, Tom Meyer, Ron Donohue, Brian Boelens, Rich Thuesen and Mark Burton (who celebrated a birthday in the field). We cherish each and every one of you!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
April 30, 2021 - Plenty of Windshield Time
It's been another busy week, with many miles and acres covered by our Angels in Blue. Crew number 1 finished up their wheat planting near Badger, MN for a farmer injured in a recent fall. From there, they made the long trek to Grenora, ND - about a stone's throw from the Montana border. Our volunteers were honored to plant wheat for a farmer dealing with major complications related to cancer surgery. Once their work is complete, they'll be moving on to Williston, ND to tackle more wheat for a farmer in need. Crew number 2 wrapped up their corn acres for a farmer recovering from a recent shoulder surgery. They've since joined our Field Operations Manager, Luke, to ready our new row crop planter for its maiden voyage. This unit will begin work today near Wolverton, MN for a farmer who was injured by one of his cows back in February. The severity of his injuries will prevent him from operating any machinery this spring, so our volunteers will be planting both corn and soybeans for the family.
Operation Hay Lift has also begun to take shape, with assistance applications arriving daily and coordination of trucks, volunteers and deliveries keeping our second Field Ops Manager, Neil, busier than ever. This week, the first of many loads of hay was delivered to a farm near Lemmon, SD. This family has not only been impacted by wildfire and drought, but the wife of the operation is currently battling cancer. One load of hay may seem like a drop in the bucket in the grand scheme of things, but even a drop can make a difference. We are still in great need of donated hay to support other families throughout these areas of severe and extreme drought, so if you or someone you know could spare a load or two, please contact Neil Simons at 701-212-3851 or neil@farmrescue.org.
It is always an honor to thank the selfless individuals who power this greater Farm Rescue machine. Without your dedication and giving hearts, we simply could not fulfill this mission. A huge THANK YOU to this week's Farm Rescuers in the field: Brian Boelens, Ron Donohue, Tom Meyer, Mike Youngblood, Greg Kalinoski, Kenneth Chyle, Emil Baranko, Neil Simons, Luke Benedict and Andy Jewitt. God bless you all!
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
April 23, 2021 - An Early Start
It's the first week of planting season at Farm Rescue, which would normally signal the start of our yearly assistance operations. However, this year's efforts began a bit earlier than expected, so there's a lot to catch you up on...
In mid-January, a wildfire began in southwest North Dakota. Wind gusts of 50-70 mph fueled the blaze, as it continued its southerly course near Lemmon, SD. When the smoke cleared, around 20,000 acres of land had been burnt black. Nearly two dozen families were affected - suffering loss of cattle, fencing and important grazing ground. Support from folks throughout the region began to pour in and Farm Rescue also joined the relief effort. In the weeks that followed, our volunteers delivered much-needed hay and fencing supplies to many of the affected families. Unfortunately, the dry conditions that helped fuel this particular fire have worsened in many areas of our service territory. Rural fire crews have been stretched to their limits as a flurry of additional wildfires spread throughout these increasingly dry areas. A majority of North Dakota is now in severe or extreme drought zones, as well as portions of eastern Montana and western South Dakota.
For this reason, Farm Rescue has once again launched "Operation Hay Lift" to haul crucial livestock feed to ranchers affected by these natural disasters. This campaign may last several months, so we are putting out the call for hay donations, volunteer CDL drivers and monetary gifts to help support this mission. The duration of this relief effort will be contingent upon available resources, so let us know if you can help! If you have a load or more or hay to donate, please contact our Field Operations Manager, Neil Simons, at neil@farmrescue.org or 701-212-3851.
Ranchers affected by wildfire or those operating in D2 (Severe Drought) zones or higher are asked to fill out applications for hay hauling assistance, which will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis. Ranchers facing challenges due to wildfire and those residing in D3 (Extreme Drought) zones or higher will be given priority on any available donated hay. If the volume of donated hay does not meet the need requested through submitted applications, ranchers may still qualify for hauling assistance depending on proximity to their farm. Applications for HAY HAULING ASSISTANCE can be submitted through our website - farmrescue.org.
In addition to our ongoing hay hauling efforts, Farm Rescue volunteers also began planting the first seeds of 2021 this week for a couple farmers in need. Crew number 1 is currently near Badger, MN, assisting a farmer who was injured in a fall. After sustaining injuries to his shoulder and back, he's currently limited to use of one arm. Our volunteers are honored to lend a much-needed helping hand in seeding his wheat. Crew number 2 is near Canton, SD, where another farmer is recovering from shoulder surgery. These volunteers are working hard to assist with his corn planting as he continues his recovery.
As you might imagine, none of this work simply comes together on its own. It takes a tremendous collaborative effort from staff, volunteers, sponsors and donors to bring it all to fruition. There are so many folks to thank for their help this winter and early spring, so I apologize if I forget to mention you by name. Just know that we cherish each and every one of you! Thank you to Vane Clayton, Garry Deckert, Corey Hyde, Don Knight, Kieth Worthley, Kelly Krog, Keith Bisson, Jerry Terwee, John Andrews, Greg Kalinoski, Mike Youngblood, Kenneth Chyle and Emil Baranko. And another big thanks goes out to our equipment and vehicle sponsors for providing the necessary tools and service to accomplish our mission - especially John Deere, AgriVision Equipment, Gooseneck Implement, Green Iron Equipment, Langdon Implement, Leading Edge Equipment, PrairieLand Partners, RDO Equipment Company, TrueNorth Equipment, Van Wall Equipment, Heartland Chevy Dealers, Puklich Chevrolet and Ryan Chevrolet, as well as Agassiz Seed & Supply for working with us to coordinate appropriate fencing supplies for our wildfire relief efforts near Lemmon. You are all Farm Rescuers!
Hopefully you're still with me at this point, but as I mentioned, there's a lot to catch up on! We are very excited for the year ahead (which we hope is a little less chaotic than 2020) and I look forward to providing plenty of updates along the way.
Until next time,
Dan Erdmann - Program Manager
