The gates of hell

“If you ever wondered what the gates of hell look like, that’s it right there.” Those were the words narrated by a friend and fellow rancher on a video he took as the Ranger Road fire closed in on Ashland, Kan., on Tuesday, Feb. 17. For the second time in less than a decade, the town has been in the crosshairs of a vicious wildfire that threatens to destroy the community. What happens after the smoke clears, the flames have smoldered out, and the damage has been done will show the true colors of the American farmer and rancher.

In the coming weeks I fully expect to see convoys of hay, fencing supplies, veterinary products and cases of water flowing by the truckload into the area. From the minute the inferno ignited, volunteer firemen stopped what they were doing and raced to the fire hall to answer the call. Farmers risked hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of tractors and discs to cut fire breaks in to try and control the blaze. Ranchers hurriedly moved their herds out of the way of the blaze so that they might live to see tomorrow. Our friends in Kansas were not alone in their fight against wildfire yesterday, however. Fires erupted in at least eight states in the Great Plains. High winds, low humidity and a dry winter have set up the perfect conditions for all hell to break loose.

Most ranches are calving, or they are just getting ready to. This is the make-or-break time of year for cow calf operators. Live and healthy calves mean that we will have a product to sell this year. We can’t control mother nature, but we can do our part to help our neighbors in their hour of need. More and more I hear that volunteer fire departments are at a lack of members. It’s a crying shame that more people aren’t willing to answer that call.

I have served on three different departments in my life, each time it was a rewarding task. It’s more than spraying water, riding in the big red truck and going fast with the flashing lights. When the tones go off, you are going to help someone in their hour of need. At that particular moment, you are putting someone else’s needs ahead of your own. I don’t know how many folks out there have seen the devastation of wildfire. Homes that once stood proud where families could gather are leveled. The only thing left standing is the concrete foundation and steps leading up to where a front door was.

In the coming weeks, I challenge you readers out there to help your neighbor. There will be drop-off locations for things like hay and building materials. Cash is always welcomed by local fire departments, and above all, prayers of healing and compassion for those that have nearly lost everything. If you feel led, contact your local fire department about joining up, most departments will welcome your help with open arms.

The lack of moisture this winter is something that should concern us all. Pray for rain, help your neighbors, and challenge yourself to put the needs of others ahead of your own. That’s all for this week, keep tabs on your side of the barbed wire and God bless.

Meinzer is a fourth-generation rancher raised on the southeastern plains of Colorado. He and his family live and ranch in Oshkosh, Neb.