Dead cattle, devastation left in wake of Western fires

[PakistaniFarmer]

VOLBORG, Mont. — Cecil and Delores Kolka thought they escaped the worst of the Ash Creek Fire when the 390-square-mile blaze spared their home and several pastures as it ripped through the couple’s Montana cattle ranch.

But when the family went to round up their livestock they encountered carnage — the charred and bloated bodies of an estimated 400 cows and calves killed as the fire torched a series of narrow, thickly forested draws on the nearby Custer National Forest.

Some surviving animals were burned so badly that their hides were peeling. The worst off were shot in mercy killings. Others now limp by on burnt hooves, and less than half the family’s herd remains.

“Before we found our cattle we said at least we’ve got our homes and are all safe,” Delores Kolka said. “In truth, we would have rather lost everything here except our cattle.”

Agro News: Dead cattle, devastation left in wake of Western fires

[bruce2288]

Not else to say about that. A tough way to try and make a living. I am curious. tell me about farming in your region.

[Awnry Abe]

Originally Posted by PakistaniFarmer

“Before we found our cattle we said at least we’ve got our homes and are all safe,” Delores Kolka said. “In truth, we would have rather lost everything here except our cattle.”

There is a lot of pain in that statement. I hope they are able to bounce back soon.