Blizzard impacts rise

Early estimates show the blizzards the week of March 11 and flooding may impact the agriculture industry in Nebraska to the tune of nearly $1 billion. 

AgriTalk’s Chip Flory said, however, that real impacts will be tough to estimate for the next several weeks. 

“The Platte River got wider and deeper than it’s ever been,” says Flory. “When we think of the amount of timber, pasture and Platte River ground that supports the cowherd out in Nebraska, it’s really concerning.”

He adds, “I think it’s going to be pretty eye-popping when the numbers all come together,” says Flory.

Nebraska Cattlemen is working to assist cattle producers impacted by natural disasters by launching a new disaster relief fund. One hundred percent of all donations received will be distributed to Nebraska cattle producers affected by natural disasters, including recent wet weather events. Anyone wishing to donate hay, feed stuffs, fencing materials, volunteer help or equipment or producers seeking assistance should call the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at 800-831-0550. 

Additionally, monetary donations can be made for the relief effort through the Nebraska Cattlemen. Make the check payable to the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund and mail it to 4611 Cattle Drive, Lincoln, NE 68521.

Donations to the Nebraska Farm Bureau Foundation can be mailed to P.O. Box 80299, Lincoln, NE 68501-0299. Donations to NFB also can be made online at nefbfoundation.org. 

Anyone who has information about where to send donations are asked to e-mail roundup@wylr.net. We will continue to post updates on where to send support on our Facebook page at facebook.com/wyolivestockroundup.