Ricketts Introduces Legislation to Improve Wildfire Response Efforts

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE) recently introduced the Pilot for Regional Emergency Prepositioning of Aerial Resources and Equipment (PREPARE) Act. This legislation would establish prepositioned aerial resources during early-season conditions. It would increase preparedness and improve firefighting response efforts. “When it comes to wildfires, response time matters,” said Senator Ricketts. “We must do more to protect our communities, ranches, and farms. Nebraska experienced devastating losses due to historic wildfires this year. This legislation would ensure aerial firefighting resources are ready to respond before fire strikes. It would limit response time and prevent damages to our farms, livestock, and communities. I will continue to fight to protect Nebraskans.” The PREPARE Act would establish a pilot program for seasonal prepositioning protocols. This includes aerial suppression resources for early-season fine fuel wildland fires. The program would be directed at improving wildfire management response efforts. This would apply to Nebraska, Colorado, Kansas, South Dakota, and Wyoming. The Nebraska Forest Service endorsed this legislation. “Over the past several years, Nebraska has experienced some of the most challenging wildfire seasons in recent history ,” said John Erixson, Nebraska State Forester . “Early-season grassfires, prolonged drought, and extreme fire weather have demonstrated that wildfires no longer respect traditional fire seasons. The PREPARE Act recognizes this reality by helping ensure aerial firefighting resources can be strategically positioned where they are needed most before conditions become critical. Investing in preparedness is one of the most effective ways to protect lives, communities, working lands, and natural resources.” Recently, Senator Ricketts visited Fort Robinson State Park. He saw the wildfire damage that devastated Nebraska this year. He also met with the Crawford Volunteer Fire Department. He took the opportunity to thank firefighters for protecting our communities. They discussed opportunities to work together to provide the resources they need. Watch highlights of Senator Ricketts’ visit here . Background: In early 2026, Nebraska experienced record-breaking wildfires—the worst we have seen in our state’s history. These devastating fires destroyed over a million acres of farmland in Nebraska.