Osmond — Staff and students at Osmond Community School have started a fund-raiser in support of those impacted by the devastating wildfires in western Nebraska. They recently posted the following information: “Fueling hope, one mile at a time. Join Osmond Community School students and staff in supporting Nebraska fire relief - every donation helps power the journey of hay and supplies to those who need it most.
“Money can be dropped off in a donation bucket located at the Osmond Mini Mart beginning Friday morning. Osmond Community Schools will also take donations in the office. If you wish to write a check please make it out to Osmond Community School Foundation.”
According to IQAir, as of March 23, the Morrill Fire in western and central Nebraska - the largest fire in state history - has spread across parts of Mor - rill, Garden, Keith, and Arthur regions and has drawn significant concern due to its rapid growth and strong winds fueling its movement.
The communities of Broadwater, Bridgeport, Lemoyne, Lewellen and Oshkosh are located near the wildfire activity and surrounding regions of western Nebraska. Several nearby rural areas and communities around Lake McConaughy have also experienced wildfire impacts, including smoke, evacuation alerts, and emergency response activity. Also as of March 23, the Morrill Fire remains active with 98% containment reported and has burned approximately 642,029 acres. Other large wildfires in Nebraska include the Cottonwood fire, which has burned 128,289 acres and is currently 96% contained, and the Road 203 fire, which has burned 35,892 acres and as of Monday is 83% contained.
Farmers and ranchers in western Nebraska have lost not just cattle, but also feed and pasture for the cattle who were not lost, so they will need help with those resources, as well as with rebuilding fence line.
On March 13, Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen issued a statewide burn ban which is in effect through March 27. The Osmond Fire Department has also issued a reminder that no burn permits will be issued locally until further notice.
