Oregon Cattlemen set up fire victim fund

Oregon Cattlemen’s Association sets up Fire Victims Relief Fund
–Devastation from wildfires are threatening structures, cattle and homes of Oregon ranchers
By Oregon Cattlemen Association

In response to the devastating fires occurring in Harney and Malheur counties, the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association has set up a fire victim’s relief fund as a part of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Stewardship Fund. Charitable donations of cash or in-kind (including hay and supplies), are now being accepted online, via phone or in person at the OCA office. Ranchers are also seeking relocation options for cattle that are threatened by the fires.

The French Glen fire is threatening a significant amount of ranch land in eastern Oregon. At last report, over 60,000 acres were affected and residents are on a Level 1 evacuation warning. The fire has already burned range structures and killed cattle.

The Long Draw fire, initially started by lightning, is threatening acreage stretching from Jordan Valley to almost Nevada, with more thunderstorms predicted for tonight and tomorrow night. Bob Skinner, OCA Public Lands Chair, stated, “Over half a million acres look like a moonscape; there is nothing left. This is the worst disaster from fire I have ever seen. These ranchers have lost many cattle, which is threatening their way of life and source of income to support their families. The short term and long term affects will be devastating.” The US Department of Agriculture has declared Harney and Malheur counties drought disaster areas and it is expected that the counties will also be declared a fire disaster shortly.

To make a charitable contribution to the Fire Victims Relief Fund, or to offer in-kind or relocation assistance, please contact Kay Teisl, Executive Director of the Oregon Cattlemen’s Association, at 503-361-8941 or via email [email protected]. Contributions can also be made online at http://www.orcattle.com/make-a-donation-ocsf.html .

 Print This Post  Email This Post