WASHINGTON — Nebraska’s federal delegation is urging President Donald Trump to approve a major disaster declaration following a series of destructive wildfires that scorched hundreds of thousands of acres across the state this spring.
U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts joined U.S. Reps. Mike Flood, Don Bacon and Adrian Smith in sending a letter Tuesday backing Gov. Jim Pillen’s request for federal assistance.
The request follows multiple wildfires that broke out during March and April in Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill counties, forcing evacuations and causing widespread damage.
In the letter, Nebraska lawmakers said the Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby and Minor fires collectively burned more than 800,000 acres statewide. The Morrill Fire alone consumed more than 640,000 acres, setting a new Nebraska record.
Lawmakers said extreme drought conditions combined with high winds and low humidity contributed to rapid fire growth and unpredictable behavior.
“We know our Nebraskan communities will prove their resilience as they continue to recover from this hardship, as they have exhibited many times in previous years,” the delegation wrote. “We encourage the federal government to join with the state in their ongoing efforts to contain these wildfires and provide assistance where it is needed.”
The delegation also pledged to assist with the evaluation process to help ensure the request is reviewed promptly.
If approved, the major disaster declaration could unlock federal resources and recovery assistance for impacted communities and residents across the affected areas.