National Guard helps feed stranded cattle

WEBBER FALLS, Okla. (AP) – The Oklahoma National Guard has helped a Muskogee County rancher help feed his cattle that were stranded by recent flooding.

Robert Vinson says his cattle, which include 60 cows, were moved to higher ground last week after heavy rains. He says he left enough food for the cattle for a few days but couldn’t reach them after roads remained flooded Wednesday.

Muskogee County Emergency Management Director Jeff Smith says he began making phone calls after learning about the stranded cattle. He reached a state Agriculture Department field inspector, who helped him coordinate efforts with the Guard.

Smith says the guardsmen used a helicopter to help deliver hay to the cattle.

Smith says the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management is paying for the cost of the mission.