Denise GutzmerEastern Nebraska’s bur oak trees, known as the ‘King of the Great Plains,’ dying due to widespread drought
The dieback of bur oak trees in eastern Nebraska became apparent in 2023. By the summer of 2024, dozens of bur oaks were dying, resulting in 70% of the bur oak canopy being lost. Elms, hackberries, ash and red oaks have also succumbed to the harsh conditions.
Eastern Nebraska’s bur oak trees, known as the ‘King of the Great Plains,’ dying due to widespread drought
Bur oak trees are some of the most common native Nebraska trees. They’re hardy trees, known to withstand a range of stresses, including Nebraska’s harshest weather. But they’re dying en masse due to years of devastating drought.