PRESS RELEASE
FROM: INDEPENDENT CATTLEMEN OF NEBRASKA, 66455 Ponderosa Rd. , Hyannis, NE 69350
Media Contact:
For more information, contact ICON President - Jim Dinklage 402-340-6791, ICON Director - Al Davis: 308-458-9948, Don Cain - 308-870--0831, Communications Director - Maureen Cain: 308-880-1505
DATE: March 21, 2019
Take Photos, Document Livestock Losses
The Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska urge ranchers to take steps now to document their losses
of livestock in writing, and with pictures. The mother cows, the base of Nebraska’s livestock economy, are crying for the calves they’ve lost.
State officials estimate cow-calf losses will total to $400 million in Nebraska from the
storm. Most of those losses are baby calves. However, the livestock that died or mortally injured in the
“bomb cyclone” storm that hit Nebraska are covered by USDA payments, under the Livestock Indemnity Program.
Photos that include the date are one way to make a record of losses, a process that is relatively
easy with a smart phone. Also, production records, such as births and deaths, are valid evidence
of losses, the USDA says. A dead stock receipt from a rendering company is evidence. Producers
might have to ask for the receipt from the driver.
Livestock that strayed in the storm and are lost are also covered, although it will take a little
more evidence to validate those losses with the USDA. Beginning year inventory, purchase
records, sale records, veterinary records and bank loan records can suffice. Veterinarians can
provide a statement of inspection.
Photos should also be taken of damaged livestock buildings and pens, with the date. Photos
should include debris from the water and full views of damaged areas, the USDA recommends.
Keep newspaper accounts of the damage in your area. Under the Livestock Indemnity Program,
75% of the extraordinary losses (over and above normal 5% losses) will be compensated. This will amount
to thousands of dollars for mostlivestock owners.
A producer must file a notice of loss with their local FSA office within 30 calendar days of the
date the loss becomes apparent, to qualify for compensation.
So, as you make the rounds and make repairs, record the situation, ICON advises.
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The Independent Cattlemen of Nebraska (ICON) represent, promote, and protect the interests of
the state’s independent cattle producers and feeders.