Province Of B.C. Providing Relief For Ranchers Amid Hay Shortage

Tuesday’s damp weather was a rare respite for many local ranchers.

“We are in daily communication with producers impacted by drought, and the main issue we are hearing right now is that some are already having to use their fall and winter feed,” said Pam Alexis, Minister of Agriculture and Food.

“We are listening to what farmers and ranchers need most, and in collaboration with BC Cattlemen’s and other partners, we are taking action to help producers on the ground find all available sources of hay for their animals.”

This summer's drought conditions have forced many to buy feed for their herd.

Normally this time of year, cattle could rely on grazing upon grass, or feeding from their farmers crops.

Neither option is doable this year because of bone-dry conditions.

On Tuesday, the province announced its pairing up hay producers with ranchers in what it called a dating service of sorts.

The scarcity of hay has also made it more expensive. Much of what's available is coming from the United States -- another tough truth the province is hoping to address. It persuaded Ottawa to provide more access to cash advances for struggling ranchers.

With the hardest ranching year in three decades, local ranchers are hoping August brings wetter, cooler weather.

To see the full release, visit Government of British Columbia.