Farmers in the U.S. have faced numerous natural disasters this year, although that can really be said about any year. And just like everyone else, farmers must navigate the major illnesses and injuries that life doles out, all while trying to keep time-sensitive operations running. For nearly two decades, Bill Gross and the “Farm Rescue” organization he founded has been helping farmers and ranchers by providing free planting, haying, harvesting, commodity hauling, and livestock feeding assistance in times of crisis, and they are busy as ever.
Earlier this month, Farm Rescue activated what it calls “Operation Hay Lift” to haul much-needed livestock feed and supplies to ranchers affected by wildfires in North Dakota. Wildfires early in the month, fueled by strong winds and dry conditions, burned tens of thousands of acres across western North Dakota. At least two people died in relation to the fires, as well as numerous livestock. The blazes also claimed several homes, outbuildings, equipment, and fencing.
Farm Rescue had sourced some 2,000 round bales of hay and straw as of October 14 but said additional feed supplies will be needed. Farm Rescue is also seeking monetary donations to help fund its disaster response. These contributions will support the mobilization of trucks and volunteer drivers to transport hay and supplies from multiple donation sites to impacted farms. As damage assessments continue and additional needs are determined, Gross also expects to see an increased demand for Farm Rescue’s core services heading into 2025, including planting, haying, and harvest support.
For those not familiar with Farm Rescue, the nonprofit was started back in 2005 by Gross, a native of North Dakota. According to the Farm Rescue website, it was not possible for Gross to continue the family’s farming legacy at a young age due to financial constraints. Encouraged to seek a higher education, Gross went on to secure an undergraduate degree in BBA and was later awarded an honorary Doctorate degree of Human Letters at the University of North Dakota. He also secured several pilot ratings and an Airline Transport Pilot certificate.
A 30-year career as a UPS pilot kept Gross close to his rural roots as he criss crossed the country, giving him a bird’s eye view of the changing landscape. Gross has recalled that when other pilots asked what he planned to do when he reiteed, he would say, “I’m going to be this random Good Samaritan, get a large John Deere tractor and then help farm families in my native state of North Dakota.”
Years after having the idea, Bill was challenged by a Chaplain friend to not to wait until retirement to pursue this dream. That same friend also encouraged him to expand the idea from just doing it himself and instead provide an avenue for other people to join in the efforts.
Since its first case in 2006, Farm Rescue has assisted more than 1,100 farm and ranch families. Gross stresses that Farm Rescue does not provide financial assistance. “It’s for a farm family that’s had a major injury, illness, or natural disaster and they just can’t get the work done themselves, through no fault of their own.”
Farmers and ranchers that have received help have faced everything from tornadoes, flooding, and wildfires, to cancer, ALS, ATV accidents, and heart surgery, to name a few. If you need a pick me up, read the “weekly updates” section that highlights where Farm Rescue volunteers are helping out. Truly inspiring!
Farm Rescue currently provides assistance in Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and as of this year, Wisconsin. Farm Rescue is currently accepting applications for assistance from families within its existing service states. Any farm family experiencing a major injury, illness or natural disaster is encouraged to apply at the Farm Rescue website HERE or by calling 701-252-2017. Referrals are also welcome. Information about how to volunteer and donate is also available on the website.