"Largest fire in Nebraska history": Morrill Fire grows to nearly 549,000 acres across western Nebraska

Crews from more than 30 departments are battling the fire as Blackhawk helicopters and National Guard crews assist. One death has been confirmed.

March 15, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Heart City Cattle Battle expected to grow in year five

Dozens of young cattle exhibitors from several states are in Valentine this weekend, preparing their animals for the annual Heart City Cattle Battle.

Farm animal welfare rules might be rolled back by Congress

Farm animal welfare rules might be rolled back by Congress

The last country school in Scottsbluff shuts its doors

The last country school in Scottsbluff shuts its doors

Researchers study microfossils at Toadstool Geologic Park

Researchers study microfossils at Toadstool Geologic Park

State

Deputy injured after being pinned by vehicle during Crete response

Good Samaritan Searching for Prospective Patient to Benefit From No-Cost Joint Replacement Surgery

Columbus native inducted as Army noncommissioned officer

Affordable housing crunch leaves Nebraska kids unstable

Bayard school board seeks applicants for vacant seat

Lightning blamed for early morning tank fire north of Sidney

Sports

Gary Sánchez hits first homer since April 14, Brewers complete sweep of Rockies with 12-4 win

Brewers score 8 late runs, stun Rockies 9-7 in wild 10-inning victory

Nebraska coaches share ideas and build connections during Shrine Bowl week

Kearney athletes embrace hometown opportunity during Shrine Bowl week

Shrine Bowl South players reflect on hometown pride ahead of final high school game

North team building chemistry ahead of Saturday's Shrine Bowl

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April

NGPC still offers grazing, haying opportunities

Outdoor notes: Campers invited to take state park survey

Feed supplies tighten for Nebraska producers as drought persists