Cherry County submits disaster declaration following West Berry Bridge Fire

VALENTINE, Neb. - Cherry County is submitting a disaster declaration following the West Berry Bridge Fire east of Valentine. As News Channel Nebraska previously reported, authorities say lightning caused the fire on Sept. 5, but firefighters were called back out to the scene for flare-ups on Sept. 7 and 9.

According to Emergency Management Director Jessica Coyle, a single engine air tanker (SEAT) plane came from Scottsbluff for two days to help fight the fire, which burned grass and timber.

A disaster declaration could potentially unlock federal funding sources.

Along with the West Berry Bridge Fire, Valentine volunteer firefighters were dispatched to another fire in the area on Sept. 9. Mission, South Dakota firefighters also helped put out that fire.