350 farmers and ranchers sign a petition....for drought relief that's headed straight to Washington DC.

We've been reporting all summer about the drought. It's the third worst drought in our nations history. Farmers have no crops ranchers are selling cattle.

But today, a move to get something done. Donnell Preskey has more from todays drought rally.

(Donnell Preskey / KX News) North Dakota farmers and ranchers are proud people. Not often do you hear them ask for help. But after feeling ignored and going through a summer like this, they're raising their voices.

(Sen. Kent Conrad/D - ND): "Do we need disaster aid? You know I think they may hear that in Washington. I believe if they hear from enough of us the White House will relent and allow congress to pass disaster aid." Conrad, Dorgan and Pomeroy have tried to get disaster packages for farmers passed they've been unsuccessful.

(Allen Lund / Selfridge Rancher) "I read a statement by Ag Secretary Johans he said he's not ruling out disaster aid for the drought he just wants to wait a little longer and see how bad things get this fall."

During this rally, farmers and ranchers get words off their chest words that will be delivered to Washington. So Congress has evidence of how the drought hits the heartland. Evidence that's more than pictures of bare fields and pastures.

(Adolph Feyereisen / Braddock farmer) "I was at a farmers place and he said he son is at the doctor every other day for depression and stress. They way he talks and acts I just hope I can keep him alive to see it through this. So there is really hurt out there."


Some ranchers here say they've had enough they can't take it any more... Others just can't quit..

(Ron Reich / Mott Farmer) "I have a 15 year old boy who wants to farm. Now I have to figure out how we can do that. I took a job. I'm going to the oilfields guys. Yeah, I'm a big farmer in Hettinger County and Im taking a job in the oilfields to support my family."

These hearty people leave behind a very strong message. Stripped of everything they'll fight for anything.

350 farmers and ranchers signed petitions at todays rally. They'll be presented to Congress and the White House. Their comments will also be recorded for lawmakers.

North Dakota Farmers Union President Robert Carlson says today's rally is a springboard to a national rally in Washington DC on September 12th. watch the video | save this article / add to your favorites list