Nebraska Cattlemen Launch Disaster Relief Fund for Wildfire Victims

The fund will provide financial assistance to beef cattle producers impacted by the state's largest wildfires on record.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 7:52pm

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The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund has announced that it is accepting monetary donations and relief applications to assist beef cattle producers who are being impacted by the recent devastating wildfires in the state. The fund will distribute 100% of donations directly to producers who experienced property loss or damage in the affected areas.

Why it matters

The wildfires in Nebraska have caused significant damage to livestock and agricultural operations, threatening the livelihoods of the state's beef cattle producers. The disaster relief fund provides a way for the community to come together and support these producers during a time of crisis.

The details

The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund will remain activated and accept monetary donations until further notice. Funds will only be distributed to producers who experienced property loss or damage in areas where a fire was reported through the Nebraska Emergency Management Association Watch Center. As of now, disaster declarations have been issued for the Morrill County fire, impacting Morrill, Garden, Arthur and Keith Counties, and the Cottonwood Fire, impacting Lincoln, Dawson, and Frontier Counties.

  • The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund announced the initiative on Monday, March 16, 2026.
  • The application period for relief funds will remain open until further notice.

The players

Nebraska Cattlemen

A trade association representing beef cattle producers in the state of Nebraska.

Craig Uden

The president of the Nebraska Cattlemen.

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What they’re saying

“In the face of the largest wildfire in Nebraska history, our communities remain strong. We are grateful for the first responders, volunteer firefighters, and local leaders who are working tirelessly to protect lives, property, and livestock. Leadership of the Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund hopes people will consider contributing to help beef cattle producers who are being impacted by these fires.”

— Craig Uden, President, Nebraska Cattlemen

What’s next

The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund will continue to accept donations and applications for relief until the crisis has passed and all funds have been distributed to affected producers.

The takeaway

The Nebraska Cattlemen's quick action to establish a disaster relief fund demonstrates the agricultural community's commitment to supporting its members during times of crisis. This fund will provide critical financial assistance to beef cattle producers whose livelihoods have been devastated by the wildfires.