State senator surveys historic Morrill Fire as blaze becomes fifth largest fire in U.S. history

The Morrill Fire has now burned more than 570,000 acres across western Nebraska, making it the largest wildfire in state history. State Sen. Paul Strommen toured the damage Saturday and says the scale of the fire is “extraordinarily large.”

March 16, 2026Updated: March 17, 2026

By News Channel Nebraska

Regional

Scottsbluff man charged in alleged theft, damage at Sheridan Livestock Auction

Mountain lion, prairie-chicken research underway in Nebraska

Wyoming communities want time to consider embracing nuclear energy, as feds rush to expand industry

Motorcyclist dies after crash near Cheyenne intersection

State

State suspends funding for $5M ‘Standing Bear’ film

Hanson accepts role as Sidney City Manager

Scottsbluff man charged in alleged theft, damage at Sheridan Livestock Auction

State senator surveys historic Morrill Fire as blaze becomes fifth largest fire in U.S. history

Regional

Scottsbluff man charged in alleged theft, damage at Sheridan Livestock Auction

Mountain lion, prairie-chicken research underway in Nebraska

Wyoming communities want time to consider embracing nuclear energy, as feds rush to expand industry

Motorcyclist dies after crash near Cheyenne intersection

State

State suspends funding for $5M ‘Standing Bear’ film

Hanson accepts role as Sidney City Manager

Scottsbluff man charged in alleged theft, damage at Sheridan Livestock Auction

Pillen eyes more state budget cuts to help offset local property taxes

Beatrice Police probe early morning shooting

Children’s author and illustrator shares creative journey at UNK

Sports

Doane wrestler Cristelle Rodriguez captures NAIA and U.S. championships

WNCC softball team splits contests with Lamar on Sunday

Lowery, Akins lead Chadron State College to win

Colorado sports notes: Forward Logan O'Connor caps long comeback with a Game 1 goal to help Avalanche hold off Kings 2-1

WNCC softball splits conference games with Lamar

Colorado sports notes: Murray, Jokic lead Nuggets to 116-105 win over Timberwolves in physical opener to 1st-round series

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Spring shotgun turkey season opens

Outdoor notes: Bighorn sheep regular lottery applications begin April 20

Outdoor notes: NGPC offering pastures, hay tracts to those affected by wildfires

Outdoor notes: Work to begin soon on Smith Lake WMA Aquatic Habitat Project

Outdoor notes: Game and Parks urges caution when recreating outdoors due to wildfires

Outdoor notes: Temporary closure of Clear Creek WMA for safety