At the direction of Governor Jim Pillen (R), the Nebraska Department of Transportation and the Nebraska Department of Agriculture are launching the Nebraska Wildfire Hay Recovery Program as part of ongoing efforts to support ranchers affected by wildfires in the western portion of the state.
[Above image by Nebraska DOT]
The wildfires have destroyed grazing pastures, winter feed supplies, fencing and other agricultural infrastructure, Nebraska DOT noted, and this program will provide ranchers with immediate relief by allowing state residents to donate hay harvested from eligible state highway rights-of-way.
Nebraska DOT noted that it issues annual permits authorizing the mowing and harvesting of hay on state highway rights-of-way from July 29 through September 15.
While this statute was not originally designed as a donation program, the agency stressed that hay harvested from rights-of-way can become an important resource when voluntarily donated to Nebraska cattle producers facing feed shortages due to wildfires.
“One of the things that makes Nebraska special is how we come together during difficult times,” said Gov. Pillen in a statement. “This effort turns an existing resource into meaningful support for ranchers who have experienced tremendous losses from these wildfires. It’s Nebraskans helping fellow Nebraskans.”
Landowners adjacent to the right-of-way receive first priority for hay harvesting permits through July 29, with others allowed to apply for that hay beginning July 30.
The agency stressed that permit holders must obtain a Nebraska DOT haying permit, sign a liability release accepting all risks associated with hay quality and harvesting activities, provide proof of liability insurance of at least $1 million, and follow all Nebraska DOT rules and safety regulations.
States
KYTC, FHWA Seek Input on Preservation Act Agreement
June 18, 2026
States
