Hay Convoy passes through Kearney on way to help ranchers after Wildfires

KEARNEY, Neb. — A convoy of semi-trucks carrying hay for ranchers impacted by western Nebraska wildfires made its way through Kearney Monday morning.

More than 15 trucks hauling donated hay are traveling west across the state to deliver feed to livestock producers who lost pasture and supplies in the recent wildfires.

The effort was organized by Justin Smith of Craig, who first reached out on Facebook asking if others would be willing to donate hay and help transport it.

The response quickly grew into a large convoy. Organizers gathered around 22 loads of hay, with each truck hauling about 34 bales— adding up to more than 700 bales headed West.

The trucks began their journey in Oakland before traveling south to Fremont, then west along Highway 30 through Grand Island and Kearney, before continuing along Interstate 80 to Gothenburg where the hay will be delivered.

Organizers say the convoy is one way Nebraskans are stepping up to support ranchers working to recover after the fires.