Nebraska launches Wildfire Hay Recovery Program to help ranchers after western fires

LINCOLN, Neb. (KSNB) - Gov. Jim Pillen, along with the Nebraska Department of Transportation and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture, announced the launch of the Nebraska Wildfire Hay Recovery Program, aimed at helping ranchers impacted by historic wildfires in western Nebraska.

State officials say the fires have destroyed grazing pastures, winter feed supplies, fencing and other agricultural infrastructure, creating major challenges for cattle producers trying to keep operations going.

How the program works

The new program allows Nebraskans to donate hay harvested from eligible state highway rights-of-way. Officials say donated hay can provide immediate relief for ranchers facing feed shortages during recovery.

NDOT issues permits each year authorizing the mowing and harvesting of hay along state highway rights-of-way from July 29 through Sept. 15. While the permit process was not originally created as a donation program, the state says harvested hay can become a valuable local resource when voluntarily donated to producers affected by wildfire losses.

“One of the things that makes Nebraska special is how we come together during difficult times,” Pillen said. “This effort turns an existing resource into meaningful support for ranchers who have experienced tremendous losses from these wildfires. It’s Nebraskans helping fellow Nebraskans.”

Permit details and priority

Adjacent landowners have first priority for hay harvesting permits through July 29. Other applicants can apply beginning July 30 and are limited to five miles of right-of-way per year.

NDOT says permit holders must:

• Obtain an NDOT haying permit
• Sign a liability release accepting risks related to hay quality and harvesting activities
• Provide proof of at least $1 million in liability insurance
• Follow all NDOT rules and safety regulations

Where to donate hay and get help

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture provides a list of transportation options and locations accepting donated hay at: nda.nebraska.gov/disasterresources.

Questions about transportation assistance can be directed to the Nebraska Department of Agriculture at 800-831-0550 or agr.webmaster@nebraska.gov.

For information about hay permits, eligibility and application procedures, contact the Nebraska Department of Transportation. More information on NDOT’s hay permit program is available at: https://dot.nebraska.gov/business-center/permits/hay-harvest/

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