By Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands
Halsey, Neb. — The Nebraska National Forest plans to conduct prescribed fire treatments on approximately 9,000 acres of National Forest System lands in the Eastern portion of Thomas County and Southwesterly portion of Blaine County, Nebraska this spring.
Implementation of the prescribed fire is expected to begin as soon as weather and forest vegetation conditions meet desired conditions. Fire managers expect this to occur as early as March 9, 2026.
The primary objective of the project is to reduce the spread of eastern red cedar trees within the project area. The prescribed burn will also return nutrients from dead grasses and ground litter to the soil, which will support increased forage production, improve overall rangeland health and enhance habitat for grassland wildlife species.
The prescribed burn is expected to reduce accumulated vegetation that can fuel wildfires for up to two years. By removing much of the thatch layer that has developed in the grasses, the burn will help lower wildfire risk and improve the effectiveness of suppression efforts, should a wildfire occur.
Approximately 9,000 acres on the Bessey Ranger District are scheduled for treatment this season, and an additional 1,000 acres of adjacent private land will also be treated at the landowners’ request. All prescribed fires are carefully managed with continuous firefighter oversight, and public safety is top priority.
Be aware that smoke from the prescribed burns may be visible from the communities of Thedford, Dunning, Stapleton and Purdum; from Highways 2 and 83; and from the Middle Loup and Dismal rivers. Some areas may encounter heavy smoke in the air. The area will be monitored and patrolled to ensure fires are completely out.
Go to https://fire.airnow.gov/ to find more detailed information about air quality. When driving, slow down and turn on your headlights if you encounter smoke on the road.Stay informed about the scheduled prescribed fires through the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands website, Facebook Page, and InciWeb, the interagency incident information system. We will notify county emergency management officials when burning begins.
Prescribed fire smoke may affect your health.For more information, visit Wood smoke and your health, or go to the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map to find more detailed information about air quality.While official area closures are not anticipated, forest visitors should exercise caution regarding smoke and firefighter vehicle activity while in the area.
You may also contact the Bessey Ranger District (308) 533-2257 or email SM.FS.nnf_info@usda.gov with any questions.