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State and regional officials are expanding assistance programs for ranchers affected by recent wildfires in the Great Plains, as producers face mounting losses of grazing land and livestock. In South Dakota and neighboring states, emergency measures include hay transportation support, access to public grazing lands and financial relief for damaged infrastructure.
The fires, which have burned large areas of pasture in Nebraska and surrounding regions, have worsened feed shortages and disrupted herd management. Agricultural officials say recovery will take months, with producers forced to secure alternative feed sources or reduce herd sizes. Industry groups are urging additional federal support to supplement state efforts.
USDA has also made certain conservation and emergency programs available to affected producers. Wildfires have become an increasing concern across the Plains, where dry conditions and high winds have elevated risk in recent seasons.
NAFB news service
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