BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota’s largest livestock group and its biggest corn organizations have launched initiatives to help ranchers devastated by drought.

The North Dakota Stockmen’s Association and its foundation have established the Hope for the Heartland Drought Relief Fund. Donations will be distributed early next year, with applications being accepted through the end of this year. A selection committee comprised of ranchers will decide who receives money.

The North Dakota Corn Growers Association and Corn Utilization Council are urging farmers to provide free or low-cost corn grazing or corn stalk bales to ranchers. Association board members have already contributed hundreds of acres and tons of bales.

Most of North Dakota is in some stage of drought. Many ranchers are selling off cattle they can’t feed or searching for affordable hay.