Drought Conditions Create Fire Risk in High Plains

While equipment dealers, farmers and residents in the southeast begin the recovery process from damages from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, farming stakeholders in the High Plains are dealing with a completely different challenge. 

Drought conditions, paired with high winds, are causing an increased fire threat. According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, much of the High Plains are in some level of drought. At the same time, corn harvest is ongoing and there’s always a risk of an equipment-related fire could start.

Amy Timmerman, an educator for University of Nebraska Extension, reported recently that weather conditions are ripe for quick-moving fires, the risk is heightened by modern farming equipment. Today's combines — often made with synthetic materials — can easily catch fire, especially when hydraulic leaks or fuel spills contact smoldering crop residue.

Dave Lalman, OSU Extension beef cattle specialist, reviews the results of a recent forage test and explains how producers can apply the findings to improve cattle production decisions.