Nebraska Rural Electric Association

The June issue of Nebraska Magazine is available now. Read about how Nebraska's public power districts and electric cooperatives worked through recent wildfires.

Nebraska Magazine - 06/26 The Nebraska Magazine has been published since January 1947. The Nebraska Magazine is published monthly and is distributed by mail to approximately 50,000 rural households in 60 Nebraska Counties.

Extension cords are temporary, not permanent. Don’t use them as a long-term fix for a lack of outlets. ⚡

⚡If storms are approaching, stay away from high places and tall objects like roofs, ladders and trees. Avoid large equipment including bucket trucks and bulldozers, and conductive materials such as metal tools, utility lines, water and plumbing. Get to a safe indoor shelter.

It’s garage sale season but power poles aren’t bulletin boards. Posting signs can put utility crews at risk and interfere with maintenance work. Help protect lineworkers by keeping poles free of signs, staples and nails.

⚠️ Outdoor workers — download the OSHA-NIOSH Heat Safety Tool app to calculate worksite heat index and assess the risk level. The app even shares tips to help protect workers from heat-related stress. www.cdc.gov/niosh/heat-stress/communication-resources/app.html

The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is extending the deadline to offer critical assistance to Nebraska farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners affected by recent wildfires. This sign‑up for the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) will remain open and applications are being accepted from producers impacted across the state until July 31, 2026.

Nebraska NRCS is actively providing both technical and financial assistance to help landowners recover from wildfire damage and restore the health and productivity of their working lands. NRCS understands the value and the need to extend this emergency EQIP opportunity, eligible producers may receive support for a variety of conservation practices, including:

Repairing or replacing damaged livestock grazing system infrastructure,
Restoring and or replacing valuable forage resources essential for livestock needs.
Producers affected by the wildfires need to contact their local USDA Service Center as soon as possible to complete an application and early start waiver if necessary. NRCS staff are available to assess damage, develop conservation plans, and help determine which practices best support recovery efforts.

🥵 Heatstroke is a medical emergency, and it can happen faster than you think. Stay safe by drinking water often, taking breaks in the shade or air conditioning, and checking on kids, older adults and pets. If you suspect heatstroke, call 911 and move to a cooler place.

• Take a moment to recognize the warning signs of heatstroke:
• High body temperature
• Headache or nausea
• Hot, dry skin
• Slurred speech
• Rapid, strong pulse
• Confusion or unconsciousness