WASHINGTON— FEMA has announced that federal disaster assistance is available to the state of Nebraska to supplement recovery efforts in the areas affected by wildfires from March 12 to April 2, 2026 (Morrill, Cottonwood, Ashby, and Minor fires).
Public Assistance federal funding is available to the state, tribal and eligible local governments and certain private non-profit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work and the repair and replacement of facilities damaged by the wildfires in Arthur, Garden, Grant, Lincoln and Morrill counties.
A release from Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen also stated that funds will be provided to cover the cost of public infrastructure. Collectively, the fires did extensive damage to transportation systems and public power. Paved and gravel roadways will need to be reconstructed and in the case of public power — poles, conductors and associated electrical components will need to be completely replaced.
A total cost of damage has been named at $9,686,602.
Catherine R. Sanders has been named as the Federal Coordinating Officer for federal recovery operations in the affected area. Additional designations may be made at a later date if requested by the state and warranted by the results of further damage assessments.
