NGPC News

As Nebraska’s state parks prepare for another summer season, some are adjusting their activity hours because of a limited workforce. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission urges park-goers to call ahead before visiting a park to check on activity times and availability. Game and Parks annually hires nearly 900 workers across the state to assist with a variety of state park operations during the summer. So far this season, at some larger park operations, there are only about half the …

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in June. Here are some opportunities: Beginning Nature Journaling educator workshop is June 8 Nature journaling can unlock creativity, provide data to observe patterns, help people understand the importance of good data collection, reinforce the scientific process, and express art, reading and writing skills. The Schramm Education Center near Gretna will host a Beginning Nature Journaling educator workshop at 6 p.m. June 8. This free …

Memorial Day weekend, the official kick-off to summer camping season, is nearly here, and those hoping to snag a perfect camping spot still have a plenty of options. While many prime reservation-only spots already have been reserved, many more sites are available first-come, first-served at state parks across Nebraska. Those open to camping a bit further from the lake or a bit further from home can find a serene setting or a fun opportunity for adventure. Nebraska Game and Parks …

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 …

Join the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for a Day at the Lake, a celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Aquatic Habitat Program at the recently renovated Conestoga State Recreation Area, just southwest of Lincoln. A Day at the Lake, set for 3 to 7 p.m. June 18, will offer opportunities to fish from the bank or by kayak, experience fly-fishing or bowfishing — as well as the chance to use a stand-up paddleboard with PaddleLyfe, go kayaking or …

The Enders Reservoir State Recreation Area two-day Bioblitz set for May 20-21 has been postponed due to inclement weather. The event has been rescheduled for Sept. 3-4 for people of all ages. Participants will help set reptile, amphibian and mammal traps,  as well as bat nets on day one. On day two, they’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the animals captured and released during the bioblitz. Professional biologists from the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, …

Nebraskans will enjoy this summer boating on waters across the state. To mark National Safe Boating Week, May 21-27, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is urging boaters to keep safety the top priority. Boaters and paddlers should not take safety for granted. Game and Parks suggests ways boaters may reduce the risk of incidents and help ensure a safe and enjoyable day on the water. Before Launching – Ensure your boat is in good running condition. Get the boat …

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has completed stocking over 26 million walleye fry in the North Platte River above the reservoir and upper portion of Lake McConaughy. To help increase survival, most fry were stocked from a boat to distribute them into areas with adequate food resources and fewer predators. Beginning in mid-June, an additional 1.5 million walleye fingerlings with an average length between 1.25- to 1.5-inches will be stocked. A portion of those walleye fingerlings will be raised …