Kansas Launches Wildfire Cost Share Program

By Scout Nelson

The Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Conservation has announced financial assistance for agricultural producers affected by recent wildfires in several parts of the state. The program provides cost-share funding to support recovery efforts and help farmers restore damaged agricultural operations.

The funding supports producers impacted by the Ranger Road, Stevens, Tennis, Andrew Lane, and Rawlins County wildfires. These fires caused damage to farmland, livestock infrastructure, and water systems used in agricultural operations.

A total of $151,000 has been made available through the initiative. The program will assist producers located in Barber, Clark, Comanche, Finney, Meade, Rawlins, Seward, and Stevens counties.

Eligible farmers may receive financial support for several recovery activities. The funding can be used for planting cover crops, installing temporary watering facilities, and setting up temporary electric fencing. These measures help stabilize farmland, support livestock management, and restore damaged areas following wildfire events.

Individual producers may receive up to $5,000 in cost-share funding through the program. The initiative aims to help farmers rebuild important farm infrastructure and maintain agricultural production after wildfire damage.

The signup period for the cost-share program is currently open and will remain available until April 3. Farmers interested in applying must submit their applications through their local conservation districts. Contact information for each district can be found here.

Applications will be reviewed and approved on a first-come, first-served basis until the available funding has been fully allocated. Producers are encouraged to apply early to improve their chances of receiving support.

Projects that have already started but are not yet completed may still qualify for assistance. Farmers must keep receipts and follow any specifications provided by the Kansas Department of Agriculture Division of Conservation.

While eligible projects may qualify for consideration, final approval will depend on program guidelines and available funds.

Producers who need more information about the Kansas Wildfire Cost-Share Initiative can contact program coordinators Dave Jones or Madison Loder for guidance and assistance with the application process.

This program is designed to help agricultural producers recover from wildfire damage while supporting long-term land stewardship and farm sustainability.

Photo Credit: pexels-islandhopper