Kim Fundingsland/MDN Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, right, announced a new program to provide assistance with feed transportation costs for livestock producers dealing with drought conditions following a roundtable discussion in Burlington yesterday. Also pictured are Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-ND, left, and Shannon Estenoz, Department of Interior assistant secretary.

The lengthy drought has created a myriad of problems for livestock producers, from dwindling water supplies to a lack of forage. On Wednesday Sen. John Hoeven, R-ND, announced a new program designed to alleviate some of the drought related cost born by livestock producers.

“ELAP, the Emergency Livestock Assistance Program, will now cover 60% of the transportation cost for our livestock producers to get feed for their cattle,” said Hoeven.

In the past ELAP only covered the transportation cost for hauling water. Hoeven further explained the new program, a change made without the cumbersome process of passing a new law.

“We’re combining LFP, the Livestock Forage Program, and ELAP to help our ranchers cover the cost to get feed to their livestock,” said Hoeven. “The key is, it is retroactive back to January 1. Up to 60% of that transportation cost is going to be reimbursed.”

Hoeven said the process to enact the change took about six weeks, but added that it is a permanent change.

“It’s been a tough drought for our farmers and, particularly, for our livestock producers and ranchers. This is important help for them,” said Hoeven.

Due to drought conditions and a lack of forage, many livestock producers have been faced with either selling off some off their herd or purchasing feed to maintain them. Both the cost of hay and transportation has increased during the widespread drought.

The deadline to file an application for payment for the 2021 program year is Jan. 31, 2022. Producers are asked to contact their local Farm Service Agency for further information.