Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen issued a statewide burn ban during a news conference at the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency on Thursday.
He emphasized the persistent dry conditions that have continued to plague the state. In February, the Governor issued an emergency declaration for wildfires in Custer and Dawes counties that were also fueled by dry conditions, high winds and a lake of humidity.
“It’s way too dry in Nebraska right now, and it only takes one burn, one mistake and then you have a situation like we have in Plum Creek. The risks are too significant,” said Gov. Pillen.
Wayne Fire Chief Phil Monahan stressed that that includes all out-door burning, including trash and fire pits.
During a news conference on Thursday, the Governor signed three documents – a proclamation providing state assistance to the Plum Creek Fire, a proclamation providing for state resources to be utilized in response to drought conditions and an executive order establishing the statewide burning ban in all areas of the state through April 30.
