10/22/2024
Good evening all -
We have a desperate need for outdoor covered storage. The relief in WNC for livestock is escalating and will be long term. Some of fields will not be suitable for many farmers who previously grew, cut, and baled their own hay.
In addition, depending on the type of livestock - equine, cattle, dairy, and even other types like sheep - have special requirements and many of the well meaning folks donating grains, hay, etc are not aware of the dietary requirements. Some hay is making its way to farms and is then found to be moldy and of otherwise poor quality and is unable to be fed to protect the animals and herds.
Ive partnered with a local group who has a 70x70 covered arena we can use for storage, however - we need more. We are dedicated to ensuring the proper feed meeting each farm makes it to the right place. We are well organized and are not asking for money. No Go Fund Me for now at least.
We have the following commitments for nearly 100k pounds of high quality alfalfa hay. 52k pounds from a dairy farmer in Wisconsin, 24k pounds in Michigan, and another 24k pounds from a farmer in Colorado.
I will start this weekend making trips for hay. First to Michigan, then 2 trips to Wisconsin, and finally Colorado. Today our partner in this spoke with Willie Nelson’s FarmAid project who is providing sources and gave us a contact for a trucking company they pay to haul hay across the nation which we are now engaging. All this while wildfires are stretching the need in Wyoming where a harsh winter is rapidly approaching.
Something we can get large bales in, an old trucking dock, a pole barn, etc. WE NEED COVERED STORAGE to get these family farms through the winter and perhaps longer. A 501(3)c is also working with us to provide receipts for donation to make your sacrifice and gift tax deductible.
Family farms are dying across the country. A way of life many folks have known and that have fed our families for years is on the decline.
Please help and share as God leads you to do.
