LINCOLN, NEB. (RFD NEWS) — As another rash of wildfires burned across Nebraska, officials on the ground say conditions are improving. Looking at the two most recent fires, officials say the Minor Fire is now 100 percent contained after burning more than 14,000 acres in recent days. The Ashby Fire, which has burned more than 36,000 acres, is now 97 percent contained.
However, these wildfires and others in recent months across Farm Country this spring have left a path of destruction, causing damage still being tallied, including the Morrill Fire, the largest in Nebraska’s history. Nebraska bison producer Dave Schroth says it appeared the animals knew what was happening as the flames began to roll in.
“The herd was in a group, you know, they’re not spread out; they were pretty tight up on a hill,’ Schroth recalled. “It’s almost like they were trying to see where it was. You know, as mainly wild animals still, [bison] understand fires. They’ve grown up with fire for generations. And so, they kind of get it. But we were very fortunate that we didn’t have to do anything.”
The Morrill Fire was brought under control after days of multi-state efforts to extinguish it.
Wayne Cockrell with the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association joined us to discuss preparedness, producer awareness, and the industry’s response to New World screwworm concerns.
January 21, 2026 12:00 PM
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The application deadline is March 8, 2026. The 1890 National Scholars Program aims to encourage students at 1890 land-grant universities to pursue careers in food, agriculture, and natural resource sciences.
January 16, 2026 10:42 AM
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Rep. Erin Houchin of Indiana discusses how the Affordable Homes Act will benefit rural communities, and her broader efforts to improve access to affordable housing.
January 15, 2026 03:04 PM
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Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig discusses market conditions, policy priorities, and his outlook for agriculture moving forward.
January 15, 2026 01:36 PM
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NEFB President Mark McHargue recaps the Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention, producer sentiment in Nebraska, and discusses key issues facing agriculture.
January 15, 2026 01:17 PM
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Alissa White with American Farmland Trust joined us to provide insight into climate resilience efforts and strategies to help farmers manage weather-related risks.
January 14, 2026 02:20 PM
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