By Scout Nelson
Spring break plans changed quickly for students at the Nebraska College of Technical Agriculture (NCTA) as wildfires spread across western Nebraska. Instead of leaving campus, many students chose to stay and help local communities during the emergency.
The Cottonwood Fire began on March 12 due to dry weather and strong winds. It burned large areas of rangeland and threatened homes, livestock, and important infrastructure. As conditions worsened, students stepped forward to support response efforts.
Students helped move livestock to safer areas, delivered supplies, and assisted landowners. They hauled trailers to evacuate animals, checked fences, and brought fuel and water to fire lines. In one situation, volunteers helped move about 80 horses from a property as the fire approached.
The work continued for several days as firefighters, ranchers, and volunteers from Nebraska, and nearby states worked together to control the fires. The experience gave students a chance to apply their agricultural knowledge in a real-life emergency.
Students who took part in these efforts included Matthew Belveal, Hayley Boon, Conrad Burrow, Dalton Casper, William Cockcroft, Treven Critchfield, Brock Hassiepen, McKenzie Heil, Trevyen Keene, Johnna Perry, Noah Trampe, and Layna Wear. Their efforts showed strong teamwork and dedication to helping others.
In a message to students, faculty, and staff, Kelly Bruns, interim executive director, said some were “in harm’s way,” helping protect homes, farms, and animals. He shared concern for their safety and thanked those who worked long hours, including overnight shifts.
The wildfires in western Nebraska have burned more than 800,000 acres, an area larger than the state of Rhode Island. Many trained volunteers are still working to control the fires.
Nebraska Extension is also helping farmers recover by offering guidance on livestock care, documenting losses, and restoring pastures.
This experience highlights the importance of community support and shows how students can make a difference during difficult times.
Photo Credit: pexels-islandhopper-x
Categories: Nebraska, Education, Livestock, Weather