Governor Jim Pillen says Nebraska has received a federal disaster declaration following a series of wildfires earlier this year. President Donald Trump has approved the declaration covering damage from the Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby, and Minor fires that burned between March 12th and April 2nd across western Nebraska.
The declaration makes federal funding available to help repair public infrastructure, including roads and utility systems. Officials say the fires caused extensive damage to transportation routes and public power networks, with paved and gravel roads needing reconstruction and electrical systems requiring full replacement of poles, conductors, and other components.
Governor Pillen called the fires “historic,” noting they burned more than 821,000 acres. He says farmers and ranchers are still dealing with the aftermath, and the funding will help restore safe roads and reliable electrical service.
The disaster assistance covers Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln, and Morrill counties. Total documented damage is nearly $9.7 million, according to state estimates. Federal Emergency Management Agency support will help guide the recovery process.