Governor Pillen declares state of emergency over Wild Horse Fire near Crawford

LINCOLN — Gov. Jim Pillen declared a state of emergency in Sioux County due to the Bronco Fire, which has burned more than 1,000 acres since Sept. 18, the governor’s office said Tuesday.

Wild Horse Fire Emergency Declaration. (Courtesy of the Governor’s Office)

Latest reports show the fire northwest of Crawford in the Nebraska Panhandle is largely contained.

As of Monday, the fire was 97% contained, according to the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency.

An update from Pillen’s office said Pillen issued a written emergency declaration following verbal authorization, allowing the state deputy general to activate emergency plans and necessary resources to contain the fire.

The Adjutant General also serves as the State Disaster Coordinator. The proclamation allows for the use of funds from the Governor’s Emergency Fund.

Authorities determined lightning was the cause of a fire that started on private property and spread to the Oglala National Grassland, NEMA reported.

At its peak, more than 130 firefighters and multiple aircraft, including two Nebraska National Guard UH60 helicopters, were used to control the blaze.

“Wildfires create problems that are beyond what local governments can solve on their own,” the announcement said.

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