(AP) — Residents in northwest Nebraska have created a relief fund for ranchers who lost animals in this month’s blizzard.

The fund is accepting applications and nominations. It’s set up to provide direct aid for families, carcass removal services, emergency fencing, and assistance to producers with animal health and feed issues.

The storm in early October dumped several feet of snow on the western Plains, and caused tornadoes in eastern Nebraska, South Dakota and Iowa. At least 2,200 cattle were reported dead in Sioux and Dawes counties in the northwest corner of Nebraska.

Applications for assistance are available through the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s extension office in Chadron. They should be sent to the Cattlemen’s Relief Fund, P.O. Box 1125, Chadron, NE 69337.