OGALLALA — U.S. Senators Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts joined U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and other federal and state leaders this week to assess damage from the Morrill Fire and meet with impacted producers.
The visit included an aerial survey of the wildfire, which burned hundreds of thousands of acres across western Nebraska, as well as briefings with first responders, local officials, and ranchers.
The group departed from Ogallala Municipal Airport around 10 a.m. Central Time aboard CH-47 helicopters for an aerial view of the fire zone before returning for a briefing at the Keith County Fairgrounds.
Officials received updates from the Nebraska National Guard, firefighters, emergency responders, and local producers on wildfire conditions and recovery needs.
Fischer said the visit underscored both the scale of devastation and the strength of local response efforts.
“Today Secretary Rollins saw firsthand the scale of these wildfires and the devastation they brought to farmers and ranchers across Nebraska,” Fischer said. “Most importantly, she witnessed how our first responders and volunteers stepped up, working around the clock to keep our communities safe.”
Fischer added she spoke directly with those impacted and is working with federal and state partners to ensure assistance reaches affected communities.
“I am thankful for Secretary Rollins’ leadership in meeting our challenges head on, and I will be working closely with USDA, and Governor Pillen, to make sure those impacted get the assistance they need,” she said.
Ricketts also emphasized Nebraska’s response and encouraged producers to begin the recovery process.
“When we face disasters, Nebraskans stick together. I want to thank our first responders, community volunteers, and everyone who is lending a hand to Nebraskans impacted by these fires,” Ricketts said. “These partnerships and support make Nebraska the best place in the world.”
He urged those affected to document losses and apply for available aid.
“For all the folks who have been impacted by the fires, now is the time to document damage and apply to recovery assistance programs,” Ricketts said. “These programs, like the USDA’s Farm Service Agency Disaster Assistance Program, are here to support you. You deserve this assistance.”
Other officials in attendance included Governor Jim Pillen, Congressman Adrian Smith, and representatives from the Nebraska National Guard, Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, USDA, and Nebraska State Patrol.
Recovery efforts remain ongoing as state and federal agencies coordinate support for affected communities.