Operation Hay Lift Brings Relief to Ranchers Hit by Drought
September 14, 2026
As drought conditions continue to impact ranchers across the Northern Plains, Farm Rescue is launching Operation Hay Lift, an effort to help farm and ranch families secure the feed they need to care for their livestock. Through Operation Hay Lift, Farm Rescue will provide hay transportation assistance to eligible producers in North Dakota, South Dakota and Montana who have been impacted by drought conditions.
For many families, drought creates challenges that extend far beyond a dry pasture. Limited forage and feed supplies can leave producers facing difficult decisions as they work to care for their livestock and sustain operations that have often been in their families for generations.
“When drought hits an area this hard, it affects entire rural communities,” said Luke Benedict, Farm Rescue 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 a 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 that they don’t have to weather a difficult season alone.”
Farm Rescue is encouraging agricultural professionals, community leaders, neighbors, friends and family members throughout the three-state region to help spread the word.
If you know a farm or ranch family in North Dakota, South Dakota or Montana struggling with the effects of drought, encourage them to reach out to Farm Rescue. Eligible producers can apply for Operation Hay Lift assistance at Farmrescue.org/need-help or call Luke at 701-412-7924.
Those wanting to make a monetary or hay donation can visit farmrescue.org/give or call 701-252-2017. If sending a check via mail, please address the envelope to Farm Rescue, PO Box 28, Horace, ND 58047.
About Farm Rescue
Farm Rescue was founded in 2005 and has helped more than 1,300 families since its inception. The organization’s mission is to help farmers and ranchers who have experienced a major illness, injury, or natural disaster by providing the necessary equipment and manpower to perform time-sensitive services. Through the generosity of volunteers, donors and business partners, Farm Rescue helps families continue their operations during times of crisis while giving them the opportunity to focus on recovery.
