The Elk Fire is currently 60% contained, and rain is helping

The Elk Fire is still burning across parts of Wyoming, but rain is helping bring that blaze under control.

Right now, there are around 450 personnel on the ground fighting the fire. It has consumed 96,000 acres so far but is currently around 60 percent contained. Firefighters have been battling a high timber load, with underbrush helping fuel the flames.

Weather systems in recent days have helped control the situation, and officials say the fire is now just creeping along. They expect fire activity to be minimal, with snow helping in higher elevations.

Related Stories
Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins surveys Nebraska wildfire damage as cattle losses, tight supplies, rising imports, and beef industry investigations impact U.S. markets. Roger McEowen outlines legal and tax considerations for ranchers recovering from wildfire damage.
Spring Weather Creates Uneven Early Season Field Conditions
Nebraska Cattle Rancher Joe Van Newkirk shares his firsthand insight on devastating wildfires in the Sandhills, discusses challenges facing ranchers, long-term calf health concerns, and the recovery efforts underway.
Nebraska Cattlemen’s Association President Craig Uden shares the latest on Nebraska wildfire conditions, discusses challenges facing producers, and outlines relief efforts underway.
Governor Jim Pillen joined us to share the latest on the Nebraska wildfires, discuss relief efforts, and outline considerations for producers navigating the ongoing situation.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Tariff relief and new trade agreements may temper food costs by reducing import costs.
Lawmakers and experts react to the Administration’s long-awaited announcement of “bridge” aid to stabilize farms and offset 2025 losses until expanded safety-net programs begin in 2026.
Read the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s official press release published on Monday, December 8, 2025.
Joe Peiffer with Ag & Business Legal Strategies advises farmers on end-of-year financial planning, including preparing records, avoiding common credit mistakes, and evaluating equipment purchases for 2026.