It comes in many forms … those times when the unexpected turns into disaster. We have just watched in horror as the largest outbreak of wildfires in Nebraska state history cut a path of destruction through more than 800,000 acres of precious natural grassland, burning farms and ranches in its path.

The largest of these fires ignited from a downed power pole dangerously close to our ranch. While our land was spared by a sudden change in wind direction, many of our neighbors were not as fortunate.

Summer grazing pastures for cattle, many with newborns this time of year, now look like the Sahara desert. Stacks of hay on reserve to feed horses, cattle and other livestock are now smoldering piles of ashes.

In the aftermath of any disaster, one primary need is food and water. Not only for the people affected but for their animals. The morning after the fire ripped through our neighbor’s ranch, we were not the only ones bringing food and supplies to our shell-shocked friends.

As we distributed sandwiches to the volunteer firefighters, a woman from a nearby ranch dropped off cases of water and other supplies.

“Better get back home,” she said as she hopped back in her truck. “The fire is close to our place too.”

In the aftermath of this horrendous disaster, not once have I heard a complaint from families who — in many cases — have lost everything.

Instead, I’ve seen an outpouring of support from communities and neighboring states for the farmers and ranchers who must now find a way to heal their land and feed their livestock.

Our highways and backroads have been lined with trucks loaded with hay donated by farmers in neighboring states. Small communities are serving three hearty meals a day for firefighters and other volunteers. Youth from our local FFA (Future Farmers of America) are collecting materials and volunteering to help rebuild fences. Veterinarians are donating medical supplies for animals suffering from burns and smoke inhalation.

Most ranchers willingly forgo a meal to make sure their livestock have food and adequate water first. Yet you will find them extremely thankful for the offering of even the most basic fare.

Food really does take on a different meaning in fragile times. It comforts as well as sustains us. Most importantly, it reminds us that someone cares.

This experience has also jolted me to realize how much we owe to farmers and ranchers who produce the food we conveniently stock in our kitchens. When their land cannot produce and their animals cannot be fed, we all suffer.

Want to help? Here are just two of many organizations that will use 100% of donations to meet the needs of ranchers and others affected by these fires: United Way of Western Nebraska, www.uwwn.org/relief; Nebraska Cattlemen Disaster Relief Fund, www.nebraskacattlemen.org/disaster-relief-fund.

____

©2026 MediaNews Group, Inc. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.