HOLDREGE, Nebraska – Tri-Basin NRD, along with other organizations and local ranchers, conducted a prescribed fire April 6, 2025, west of Smithfield in Gosper County. The Platte Republican Diversion (PRD) pasture and surrounding properties totaling almost 1,400 acres of grassland were treated. The purpose of the fire was to reduce the number of Eastern Redcedar in rangeland, clear grass thatch so native prairie grasses can rejuvenate, and to consume fuel to help prevent the spread of wildfires. They also help support the health of existing plants and add nutrients to the soil.

“We have seen an increase in native warm season grasses as well as wildflowers germinating across the landscape after the 2020 burn” said NRD Land Resources Coordinator Dalton Refior of Loomis. “We are excited to see the effects of the fire this time around and expect a noticeable increase in native warm season grasses and beneficial pollinator species once again.”

The burn went very well and was effective in clearing the majority of cedars from the area. There is a great deal of planning that goes into a prescribed burn. Only with experienced professionals, trained volunteers and specialized equipment can a prescribed fire be safely executed. Weather conditions must be watched before and during the fire. A burn permit will not be granted by the local fire chief if the wind or conditions are not right.

The PRD pasture is the location where water will be diverted from the Platte River to the Republican River after the state issues a water right for the project.

“This prescribed burn was a big effort for Tri-Basin and our partners," said John Thorburn, Tri-Basin NRD General Manager. "This burn was five times larger than any burn Tri-Basin has done in the past. I want to extend thanks to our neighbors, the Central Platte Range Alliance and many volunteers from other agencies and organizations (over 60 people) who helped with the burn.”

Ashley Larsen provided the wet line on the prescribed fire in Gosper County.

Drone footage of the Tri-Basin NRD prescribed burn in Gosper County.

Tri-Basin NRD Land Resources Coordinator Dalton Refior ignites the prescribed burn.