PRESS RELEASE

FROM: INDEPENDENT CATTLEMEN OF NEBRASKA, Box 241, Hyannis, NE 69350 Phone: 308-282-2826

Media Contact: Mary Mulligan (402) 967-3464; Email: hollopeter@gpcom.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - August 21, 2006

INDEPENDENT CATTLEMEN URGE SUPPORT FOR FIRE RELIEF FUND

(Hyannis, NE) The ICON Board of Directors is encouraging the membership as well as ranchers across the state to consider donating to the Dawes-Sioux Fire Relief Fund.

“While we have all been experiencing one of the worst droughts in years, ranchers in Northwest Nebraska have had their difficulties compounded by devastating wildfires”, said ICON President, Chris Abbott.

In excess of 100,000 acres of grassland and timber have been destroyed, along with homes, outbuildings and miles of fence in the Chadron, Crawford, and Harrison areas.

The ICON Board of Directors has committed $1000 to the Relief Fund specifically to aid ranchers who were affected.

“Cattlemen have always been known for their willingness to help one another in times of need. This is certainly one of those times”, added Abbott.

A hay and feed donation collection site has been set up at the Crawford Livestock Market. Individuals wishing to donate hay or other livestock feed can deliver the donations to Crawford Livestock Market, located on West Beach St. in Crawford, or contact them toll free at (866) 665-2220 or 308-665-2220. Donations of other items such as posts, wire, and materials used for both permanent and temporary fencing needs will also be accepted at the Crawford Livestock Market drop site.

Financial donations to support relief efforts can be sent to the Dawes-Sioux Fire Fund, P.O. Box 1125, Chadron, NE 69337. The fund will be available to help provide emergency assistance for volunteers and residents affected by the fires. Donations can be specifically directed to feed or fence materials by making a notation on the face of the check.

INDEPENDENT CATTLEMEN OF NEBRASKA

"Solid as a windmill. Always working for the independent producer."