By Scout Nelson
Nebraska Extension is expanding its support for communities affected by wildfires through a new educational initiative called “Nebraska Recovery Roundup.” The article series is designed to provide producers, families, businesses, and local communities with timely, research-based information to assist recovery efforts and improve long-term resilience.
As part of the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s land-grant mission, Nebraska Extension connects university research with communities across the state. Extension professionals work through county offices and research facilities, partnering with local governments and organizations to deliver practical solutions to real-world challenges.
Although Nebraska Extension is widely recognized for programs such as 4-H youth development, it also plays a critical role in helping adults, agricultural producers, businesses, and communities. This support is especially valuable during natural disasters and recovery periods.
In 2026, Nebraska continues to experience difficult conditions due to widespread drought. These dry conditions have increased wildfire risks throughout many rural areas, affecting agricultural land, livestock operations, and local communities. In response, Nebraska Extension has developed resources to help residents recover and prepare for future challenges.
The “Nebraska Recovery Roundup” series focuses on sharing current recommendations, available resources, and practical recovery strategies. Nebraska Extension emphasizes that disaster recovery is not a one-time event, but a long-term process that requires ongoing planning and support. The organization aims to help individuals and producers move from immediate response and short-term recovery to long-term restoration and future preparedness.
To support these efforts, Nebraska Extension provides access to two major resource platforms.
The Nebraska Extension Disaster Education Network serves as a central source for disaster-related educational materials. The platform organizes information into four main categories: agriculture, individuals and families, home health and safety, and businesses and communities.
In addition, the Nebraska Wildfire Recovery website focuses specifically on post-fire recovery within Nebraska’s working landscapes. The site offers information on rangeland recovery, livestock systems, infrastructure repair, and long-term land management decisions that can help producers rebuild effectively.
Together, these resources provide science-based tools and guidance that help Nebraskans make informed decisions throughout all stages of wildfire recovery. Updates, recommendations, and additional recovery materials will be available through the Center for Agricultural Profitability website at https://cap.unl.edu/recovery.
Through education, research, and community partnerships, Nebraska Extension continues to support recovery efforts while helping communities become stronger and more prepared for future challenges.
Photo Credit: nebraska-extension
Categories: Nebraska, Education, General, Government & Policy