U.S. Senator Deb Fischer says the devastating wildfires sweeping across western Nebraska are a stark reminder of how quickly lives and livelihoods can change.
In a statement addressing the ongoing disaster, Fischer said more than 800,000 acres have already been consumed by fast-moving fires, forcing evacuations, destroying grasslands, and impacting ranchers across the state. At least one life has been lost.
“For those of us who live around cattle and open land, the impact is deeply personal,” Fischer said, noting the destruction goes far beyond burned pasture. “When fire moves across that landscape, it takes more than grass with it.”
Fischer highlighted the tireless response from first responders, volunteers, and the Nebraska National Guard, along with neighbors stepping up to help one another with equipment and support on the fire lines.
She also pointed to assistance coming from outside Nebraska, including crews and aviation resources from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Forest Service. U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins has also been engaged in coordinating federal support, while the Iowa National Guard has provided additional resources as crews battle what Fischer described as the largest fire in state history.
Looking ahead, Fischer said recovery will be a long and difficult process for producers who have lost grazing land, livestock, and infrastructure.
She urged farmers and ranchers to carefully document damages once it is safe, including photographing losses and keeping receipts for destroyed materials. Those records are critical when applying for federal disaster assistance through the Farm Service Agency, which can help with livestock losses, land damage, and emergency loans.
Fischer also encouraged impacted Nebraskans to explore available resources through both federal and state programs.
Despite the widespread destruction, Fischer emphasized the resilience of rural communities.
“The real strength of Nebraska has always been its people,” she said, pointing to neighbors helping neighbors not only in the firefight but in the long recovery ahead.
While the fires have left lasting scars on the land, Fischer expressed confidence in Nebraska’s ability to recover.
“Given time, rain, and care, green shoots return,” she said. “Nebraska will, too.”