Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund Opens

Donations and applications accepted to assist beef cattle producers impacted by wildfires

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:25am

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The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund has opened to accept monetary donations and relief applications to assist beef cattle producers who are being impacted by the largest wildfire in Nebraska history. The fund will distribute 100% of donations to producers who experienced property loss or damage in the affected areas.

Why it matters

Nebraska's cattle industry is a major economic driver for the state, and the wildfires have caused significant damage to farms and ranches. The disaster relief fund aims to provide critical support to beef producers during this challenging time.

The details

The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization that will distribute funds to producers who experienced property loss or damage in areas where a fire was reported through the Nebraska Emergency Management Association (NEMA) 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 it is accepting donations and applications on March 16, 2026.
  • The relief fund will remain activated and accept donations until further notice by the fund's leadership.

The players

Nebraska Cattlemen

A trade association representing Nebraska's beef cattle industry.

Craig Uden

President of the Nebraska Cattlemen.

Laura Field

Executive Vice 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

“Membership in Nebraska Cattlemen is not required for applicants to receive relief. Applications may be submitted from today until further notice. Relief funds will not be distributed until the application period closes.”

— Laura Field, Executive Vice President, Nebraska Cattlemen

What’s next

The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund will continue accepting donations and applications until further notice by the fund's leadership. Once the application period closes, the relief funds will be distributed to eligible producers.

The takeaway

The Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund provides a critical lifeline for the state's beef cattle producers who have been impacted by the devastating wildfires. This community-driven effort demonstrates the resilience and support within Nebraska's agricultural sector during times of crisis.