Even though Wisconsin farmers have their own challenges, and are getting busier with spring chores – they’re still making time to try and help other farmers hit by wildfires this spring.
In Sauk County, a group of farmers and agribusinesses are continuing to collect new fencing supplies and cash donations in an effort to send one more convoy down to Clark County Kansas. Joe Keller is one of the Sauk county crew working on donations. He says the reason they’re concentrating on helping Clark County is due to the widespread devastation. “They’re estimating that 85% of the county was scorched with wildfires – that’s more than 465,000 acres in just that county alone.” Keller says Clark County suffered approximately 30% of all the lost acres total. It’s a small county too, with just 2,200 residents. Putting in perspective, Keller says, “that’s like you having a major fire at your place – and friends and neighbors come to help. Now imagine you had a major fire – and so did each one of your neighbors – at the same time!” Keller says small communities like Ashland (the county seat) don’t have enough fire equipment or aid to be able to really provide much assistance. That’s where groups like the Sauk County Agribusinesses fit in.
Keller says they’re estimating that Clark County alone will need to repair or replace about 12,000 miles of fence. Although just one semi loaded with new fencing gear coming from Wisconsin may only handle about 10 miles of that fence – it’s a start. “You know when you contribute on your own, $20-$30, you feel like you’re not accomplishing much. But put that all together like we are, and you can make a difference.”
Keller says they want to have all donations in place by Tuesday, April 18th, so they can get one more load delivered before springtime duties take over in Wisconsin. For more details on how to donate, contact Joe Keller at 608-963-2408 or see the flyer below.