Farmers and ranchers impacted by activities along the proposed route of the Dakota Access Pipeline now have a hotline to call for help.
Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring says some farmers and ranchers in the area have expressed the need for assistance in getting their seasonal work finished before winter arrives. Goehring says that may include hauling grain, livestock or hay. He says farmers can call the hotline to be connected with a volunteer who can make sure they get the assistance they need.
"What we're going to do is maintain a database of those who are looking for some help, for some assistance. And then we'll maintain a database of those who can either haul grain, move cattle, harvest, any numerous activities that are being sought out. And then we'll match them up, ask them to coordinate their efforts with the sheriff's department so we know there is safe passage and some oversight from some law enforcement out there in the countryside."
Goehring says the Farm and Ranch Emergency Assistance Hotline is 701-425-8454. He says Agriculture Department employees will be available to take calls on weekdays from 8 to 5, and messages can be left on nights and weekends. The service is free of charge.
