Rep. Adrian Smith highlights wildfire devastation, resilience of Nebraskans in House remarks

Photo: U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith addresses the Morrill Fire during a press conference at the Keith County Fairgrounds in Ogallala on Saturday, March 14, 2026.

WASHINGTON — U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith on Wednesday addressed the ongoing wildfire crisis in Nebraska, calling on his colleagues to support the state as it faces what he described as the worst wildfire disaster in its history.

Speaking on the House floor, Smith said more than 826,000 acres have burned across central and western Nebraska since multiple fires ignited March 12. He asked for prayers for those affected and emphasized the resilience of Nebraskans.

“I rise today to ask my colleagues to join me in keeping the people of Nebraska in your thoughts and prayers as our state confronts the worst wildfire crisis in our history,” Smith said.

The Morrill Fire, the largest of the blazes, has burned more than 643,000 acres across Morrill, Garden, Keith, Arthur and Grant counties and remains about 16% contained. Other major fires include the Cottonwood Fire at more than 131,000 acres, along with the Road 203 and Anderson Bridge fires.

Smith said the scale of destruction is significant, with dozens of structures lost, hundreds more threatened and at least 600 residents forced to evacuate. One fatality has been confirmed, Arthur County resident Rose White.

“The scale of this devastation is staggering,” Smith said.

Despite the losses, Smith highlighted the response from communities and first responders across the state.

“Even in the face of this disaster, Nebraskans are doing what we have always done: coming together,” he said. “Neighbors are helping neighbors… and volunteer firefighters and first responders continue to work around the clock.”

Smith also pointed to the long-term impact on agriculture, noting thousands of cattle may be without grazing land and significant fencing and infrastructure losses are expected.

“These fires are not just burning land; they are threatening livelihoods,” he said.

Smith encouraged producers to document damages to ensure eligibility for federal disaster assistance programs and said Nebraska’s federal delegation stands ready to assist recovery efforts.