03/31/2026
A large, fast-moving grass fire in Bronson, Woodbury County, on Saturday, March 28, 2026, burned approximately 3,500 acres, spanning an estimated seven miles in length and one mile in width. Preliminary damage assessments indicate that two single-family homes were destroyed, along with an estimated 15 to 20 outbuildings. County Bridge G-146 over Deer Creek on 200th Street in Bronson was also destroyed.
No fatalities have been reported. One individual sustained minor injuries and received treatment. The fire also resulted in the loss of multiple livestock and several family pets. One displaced family is currently receiving assistance from the American Red Cross.
A multi-agency response was mobilized to contain the fire. In total, 119 pieces of fire fighting equipment, 273 firefighters, 42 fire departments from three states and six different counties. 26 tankers, 22 engines, 40 brush trucks, 1 rescue, 3 ambulances, 19 support vehicles, 10 UTVs, 5 drones, one fixed wing aircraft.
Investigators from the Iowa State Fire Marshal’s Office, in conjunction with the ATF, are on scene ivestigating the cause of this fire.
A helpline has been established for individuals seeking assistance or with questions regarding recovery efforts. The helpline can be reached at 712-222-4400. The respite center previously located at the Lofted Views Event Center has since closed.
Officials extend their sincere gratitude to all responding agencies, as well as to the farmers who provided critical support throughout the incident. Residents are reminded to remain vigilant during dry and windy conditions to help prevent future fires.
Thank you to all of the community members that stepped up and donated snacks and beverages to first responders during this incident❤️
Assisting agencies included 185th Fire, Quimby Fire, Moville Fire, Salix Fire, Blencoe Fire, Onawa Fire, Woodbury EOC, Castana Fire, South Sioux City Fire, Anthon Fire, Oto Fire, Washta Fire, Pierson Fire, Hinton Fire, Bronson Fire, Ute Fire, Smithland Fire, Hornick Fire, Oyen Fire, Sioux City Fire Rescue, North Sioux City Fire, Lawton Fire, Kingsley Fire, Marcus Fire, Mapleton Fire, Correctionville Fire, Iowa DNR Fire, Woodbury County Conservation Fire, Sergeant Bluff Fire, State Fire Marshal, Orange City FD, Ireton Fire, Sioux Center Fire, Rock Valley Fire, Hull Fire, Sloan Fire, Lawton EMS, Monona County Conservation, Moville Police, Sioux City Police, Woodbury County Sheriff, Plymouth County Sheriff, Kingsley Police, Sergeant Bluff Police, Iowa State Patrol, Iowa State Patrol Air, Woodbury County 911, Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management, Woodbury County Emergency Management, Plymouth County Emergency Management, Dakota County Emergency Management, Monona County Emergency Management, Sioux County Emergency Management, Iowa DOT, Woodbury County Engineer, American Red Cross, Woodbury County EMST, Stockton Towing, SAPP Bros, Nutrien AG, Bolmeir, Hy-Vee, REC, MidAmerican Energy, Oehlerking Farmers, UnityPoint St. Luke’s, Lawton Bronson School, Farmers.
