While many Nebraskans are eager to enjoy Memorial Day weekend boating, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission urges them to be wary of pesky hitchhikers that invade the state’s waters. To prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, Game and Parks watercraft inspectors will be checking boats before they launch at lakes around the state. If zebra mussels are found attached to the boat, it will not be allowed to launch. Last year Game and Parks inspected more than 2,000 …

Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner. If you’re looking for ways to spend time with family, consider hiking at these 10 Nebraska state parks. These spots offer family-friendly trails set within scenic areas filled with amenities and attractions perfect for whiling away a summer’s day. Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area This park area offers camping and hiking next door to Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, making it easy to tour the ranch house and barn that Col. …

Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s state parks. During June, a variety of events are planned for those interested in history, conservation, nature and just having a good time. Here are several examples: Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area Bioblitz Enjoy two days of exploring the outdoors June 3-4 at the Buffalo Bill State Recreation Area Bioblitz in North Platte. The information participants collect during the Bioblitz is used by wildlife biologists to conserve Nebraska’s wildlife. Biologists from all over …

The Gracie Creek Pond in Loup County will be closed temporarily to fishing and public access as work on its rehabilitation will begin with equipment mobilization May 23. The project will continue through the summer. Angler access will continue downstream of Nebraska Highway 96 and pond outlets. This popular trout fishing pond, located at the upper end of Calamus Reservoir, was severely degraded with sedimentation during the 2019 spring flooding. During the project, the pond level will be lowered by …

Catchable-size rainbow trout were stocked in Frenchman No. 1 north of Palisade on May 12 to enhance fishing opportunities this spring. A good production year has left Rock Creek Hatchery with 770 extra rainbow trout, which were stocked at Frenchman and will provide local anglers the opportunity to bag a different species. Trout fishing is a great way to introduce children to fishing because simple and inexpensive equipment may be used. Anglers are reminded that anyone over the age of …

Two federal grant programs administered by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission are accepting applications from communities across Nebraska for recreation improvements. Applications for the Recreation Trails Program and Land and Water Conservation Fund are due Sept. 9, 2022. Grants recommended for approval will be announced during the January 2023 Commission meeting. The Recreational Trails Program is a grant program through the Federal Highway Administration that reimburses political subdivisions – such as communities, counties and natural resources districts – up to …

Celebrate multiple bird events in one evening with a guided bird hike at Smith Falls State Park on May 14. The event coincides with International Migratory Bird Day, which recognizes of journey of migratory birds, as well as Global Big Day, a day that honors birds through people observing birds for conservation science. May is Nebraska Bird Month, an annual statewide celebration of birds that aims to educate, inspire and empower Nebraskans to conserve and protect bird populations. Hikers will meet …

Grab the popcorn and enjoy some light-hearted family fun at a Eugene T. Mahoney State Park melodrama this summer. The melodramas are designed to provide wholesome, family-orientated entertainment. This year’s schedule, which runs May 27-Aug. 21, features the premiere of three plays: “The Dragon Slayer,” written by Julie Eschliman, tells the tale of two damsels in distress – and their pet dragon. See if a wandering minstrel can save them from a bloodthirsty dragon slayer. “Something’s Rotten in Green Bend,” …

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will certify youth fishing instructors at a May 22 workshop in Lincoln. Instructors are part of the Youth Fishing Program, a statewide team of volunteers and Game and Parks staff who host educational fishing events. The training will take place from 2-5 p.m. Central time at the Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center, 4703 N. 44th St. Workshop participants will receive training and tools to conduct youth fishing clinics. These volunteers will have …

Free Fishing and Park Entry Day in Nebraska is May 21. Enjoy a Saturday of fishing or state park activities without the need to purchase a fishing or park entry permit for the day. Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, held annually in Nebraska on the Saturday preceding Memorial Day weekend, means anyone can explore outdoor opportunities at any Nebraska state park, state recreation area or state historical park. Anglers must observe all fishing regulations. Camping, lodging and all other …