Wildfire relief efforts gain ExxonMobil support

By Scout Nelson

ExxonMobil has donated $100,000 to the “Out of the Ashes Disaster Relief Program,” established by the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association and Foundation to help cattle producers affected by recent wildfires. These fires have burned an estimated 100,000 acres, causing widespread damage across northwestern North Dakota.

Julie Ellingson, executive director of the Stockmen’s Association, stated that a full damage assessment is underway, led by North Dakota State University (NDSU). "Losses range from grazing lands to stored hay, fences, farmsteads, and livestock," Ellingson said. Tragically, two human lives were also lost in the fires, adding to the devastation.

With ExxonMobil’s contribution, the relief fund has now raised a total of $250,000. The funds will provide much-needed assistance to cattle producers as they recover from the extensive damage.

The Stockmen’s Association is preparing application and nomination forms, which will be available for download by the end of the month on their website, ndstockmens.org. Producers affected by the wildfires will be able to submit their applications until the deadline on December 31.

Ellingson hopes that the relief funds will be distributed quickly, stating, "Our goal is to issue 100 percent of the cash donations by next month to provide immediate support to the affected producers."

This disaster relief program aims to provide essential financial assistance, helping producers rebuild their operations and recover from the wildfire’s impact.

Photo Credit:north-dakota-stockmens-association