NDSU Extension addresses needs in wildfire aftermath
When wildfires broke out in several regions of North Dakota in October 2024, the state faced an agricultural crisis of significant proportions. Fueled by dry conditions, high winds and abundant dry forage from a wet spring, fires caused widespread damage to farms, ranches and communities. North Dakota State University (NDSU) Extension stepped forward as a key player in prevention efforts, disaster response and recovery.
Statewide prevention efforts
“The weather reports in the early part of the week indicated a high risk of fire danger, so we knew we needed to do all we could to increase awareness of the dangers and give people actionable information about how to prevent fires,” says Angie Johnson, NDSU Extension farm and ranch safety coordinator.
Collaborating with the North Dakota Forest Service, North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department and the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, the team disseminated safety messages via radio, news releases and social media outreach to inform farmers, hunters and recreational vehicle users about fire risks.
Rapid mobilization
Once wildfires broke out in multiple parts of the state, NDSU Extension quickly mobilized its network of Extension county agents and specialists to address urgent needs. Working with agencies and organizations in the state, NDSU Extension worked to provide a cumulative resource list on NDResponse.gov, making critical recovery information accessible to all.
“With a presence in every county, we’re uniquely positioned to assess local needs and provide guidance,” says Miranda Meehan, NDSU Extension livestock environmental stewardship specialist and disaster education coordinator. “This connection allowed us to respond effectively and get resources to the right places quickly.”
Extension also worked to develop a survey tool to assess impacts. The information collected was shared with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture and other state and federal agencies to help determine immediate needs and shape state-level recovery efforts. This collaborative effort ensured comprehensive support for those affected by the disaster.
One key success was guiding farmers through federal programs like the Livestock Indemnity Program. NDSU Extension agents offered step-by-step assistance, helping ranchers document livestock losses and navigate complex applications.
Supporting long-term recovery
As the fires subsided, NDSU Extension turned its attention to recovery. NDSU Extension specialists provided resources to address pasture recovery, proper livestock disposal, soil rehabilitation, fire damaged grains, including grain storage structures, and mental health, and Extension county agents worked to connect those resources to those in need.
“Recovery is a long-term process, and Extension will be there every step of the way,” said Meehan. “From mental health support to agricultural recovery, we’re committed to helping communities rebuild.”
The October 2024 wildfires showcased NDSU Extension’s critical role in disaster response. By leveraging its deep connections and interdisciplinary expertise, Extension not only addressed the immediate crisis but also laid the groundwork for a resilient future.
