Burn Pit Reignites, Spreads to Central Nebraska Corn Field

Firefighters extinguish blaze after burn pit sparks field fire

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Firefighters in central Nebraska were called to extinguish a fire that burned part of a corn-stubble field on Friday. The fire started when a burn pit reignited and spread into the nearby field. Fire departments from Grafton and Henderson assisted in putting out the blaze.

Why it matters

Burn pits and uncontrolled fires pose a serious risk in rural areas, especially during dry conditions, as they can quickly spread and threaten crops, property, and public safety. This incident highlights the importance of proper burn permit procedures and vigilance in monitoring burn sites.

The details

The Sutton Volunteer Fire Department said the burn pit reignited and spread into a nearby corn-stubble field. Firefighters from Sutton, Grafton, and Henderson worked to extinguish the blaze. The Sutton Volunteer Fire Department will not be issuing new burn permits due to the relatively low humidity in the area, and residents who have recently conducted a burn are asked to monitor the area to ensure the fire does not reignite.

  • The fire occurred on Friday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Sutton Volunteer Fire Department

The local fire department that responded to the incident and will not be issuing new burn permits due to dry conditions.

Grafton Fire Department

A neighboring fire department that assisted in extinguishing the blaze.

Henderson Fire Department

Another neighboring fire department that assisted in extinguishing the blaze.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for rural residents to exercise extreme caution when conducting any open burning, and to closely monitor burn sites to prevent uncontrolled fires from spreading and causing damage to crops, property, and the community.