A drive through the Northeast area of the McCann Canyon fire area from last week, shows just how close the fire was to area ranch headquarters.
The fire burned just south of the Jerry and Kay Stoner ranch head quarters and right up to the west edge of Susan Welkers trees and buildings.
There were other close calls but thanks in large part to the efforts of firefighters no homes or buildings were lost. The fire burned over 7,000 acres. It was 90% contained on Friday and many crews were released from the scene. Local Departments including the lead agency, Kilgore remained to monitor and extinguish hot spots.
Last week Custer County experienced three fires, but none bigger than the one in Anselmo. Nebraska State Patrol Trooper, Matthew Maus said over 59 square miles have been burned. The fire initially ignited Wednesday morning around 10 a.m., from a spark off the railroad. It reignited around 1 p.m. before getting out of hand Thursday. Rancher George Cooksley said in his line of work you have to be prepared for these types of fires all the time. Cooksley said the wind changed directions during the fire, spreading it before additional help could arrive. There were some reports of a lost home and some lost cattle along with grassland and tree belts.
There was a 6,000 acre grass fire North of Burwell on the Lowry ranch and adjacent area, last week and two other smaller lightning started fires.