Headline Stories
Wildfires Impact Nebraska Producers,Assistance Programs Available.
Nebraska Farm Bureau is tracking the impact of recent wildfires across the state and remains concerned for the farmers, ranchers, and rural communities affected by these devastating events. As producers assess damage and begin recovery efforts, the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) is reminding livestock producers who have experienced excessive livestock death losses or grazing and feed losses due to wildfires that disaster assistance programs may be available. These programs are designed to help producers recover from natural disasters and offset some of the financial losses caused by these events.
Producers are encouraged to carefully document livestock losses, damaged grazing land, and other wildfire-related impacts as they work with their local FSA offices to determine eligibility for assistance. Nebraska Farm Bureau encourages affected producers to contact their local USDA Service Center for guidance and support during the recovery process and continues to stand with Nebraska’s farm and ranch families during this difficult time.
Meanwhile, Gov. Jim Pillen declared a state of emergency for several counties after wildfires broke out and forced evacuations across Nebraska on Thursday, March 12. The proclamation will help fire crews as they continue to tackle wildfires in Morrill, Garden, Arthur,Keith, Lincoln, Dawson and Frontier counties. Pillen said in asocial media post that the proclamation will activate appropriate state emergency plans and take the necessary steps to meet this emergency and protect life and property in this state.
Nebraska Farmers Face War-Fueled Cost Spikes
The United States' military conflict with Iran is contributing to rising input costs for an already struggling agriculture industry in Nebraska. Nebraska Farm Bureau president Mark McHargue visited with several state and national media outlets this week to talk about how rising fertilizer and diesel prices are increasing input costs, and that the timing of the conflict is especially challenging for farmers, with planting season already underway.
Nebraska Farm Bureau Endorses Rep. Mike Flood for Re-Election
U.S.Rep. Mike Flood has been endorsed by the Nebraska Farm Bureau Political Action Committee (NEFB-PAC). Flood is seeking re-election to the U.S. House of Representatives in Nebraska’s 1st Congressional District. Rep. Flood earned the endorsement by demonstrating his understanding of agriculture and its impact on our economy, according to Katie Olson, Nebraska Farm Bureau(NEFB) fist vice president and chair of NEFB-PAC.
Join Us for the Mid-Session Legislative Webinar
We invite members to join our Mid-Session Legislative Webinar on March 17 at 7:00 p.m. The NEFB Public Policy Team will provide a comprehensive update on the state legislative session, the latest developments in Washington on policy and regulatory issues, and a political overview. The webinar will also include a discussion on how you can engage and make your voice heard on these important topics.
Moving With Purpose on the Farm and Ranch
Farming and ranching are deeply rewarding but come with physical demands and stress that can take a toll on long-term health. Every movement on the farm or ranch matters when it comes to safety. Slips, trips and falls can happen in second when workers rush or lose focus.
Agriculture Drives,Nebraska Thrives: Wear Your T-Shirt!
Next week is National Agriculture Week and we are celebrating! Thanks to all who purchased a limited-edition Agriculture Week shirt! Now what?
· You should have received your shirt.
· Wear your National Agriculture Week shirt March 17
· Post a photo on social media wearing your shirt and share how you see agriculture helping your communities thrive!
Use the hashtag #AgDrivesNEThrivesand #AgWeek26 to show us your gear on social media! Continue to wear your shirt throughout the year to keep the conversation going!
Supplemental Disaster Relief Program(SDRP) Stage 2
County FSA offices are taking applications for SDRP Stage 2. This assistance program is designed to provide financial relief to producers with losses incurred due to certain weather-related events in 2023 and/or 2024. For more information,producers can visit the link above or contact their FSA office. Please note that the SDRP Stage 2 application deadline is April 30, 2026.