Daryl Bauer, Fisheries Outreach Program Manager
Recently saw a news release on a new fishing hole!
New Sarpy County Reservoir: Reducing Flood Risk and Expanding Recreation
“We are building a safer and more active community.”
– Papio NRD Chairperson Tim McCormick
The Papio NRD and the City of Gretna celebrated the grand opening of Forest City Recreation Area, Sarpy County’s latest flood reduction reservoir and recreation area.
Forest City Recreation Area, located in Gretna near 204th and Schram Road, is a 15-acre flood reduction reservoir designed to help protect the City of Gretna and surrounding communities from flooding. Surrounded by 80 acres of parkland, the paddle craft-only lake offers a 1.7-mile loop trail, accessible and traditional kayak and canoe launches, an accessible fishing pier, and picnic areas.
“Sarpy County is the fastest-growing county in Nebraska,” said Papio NRD Assistant General Manager Amanda Grint. “With rapid urban development, the need for more flood mitigation measures is even greater. While reducing flood risk for citizens is Forest City Recreation Area’s primary purpose, the recreational amenities that accompany these types of public safety infrastructure projects is a double-win for the community,” said Grint.
“I’m very grateful for the partnership with the Papio NRD, the state of Nebraska, and our congressional delegation for delivering a project that blends safety, sustainability, and enhances recreational activities in Gretna,” said Gretna Mayor Mike Evans. “The Papio NRD project has transformed an area that was once a flood control problem into a wonderful destination for families, fisherman, and nature lovers,” said Mayor Evans.
Following public input, the Papio NRD Board of Directors named the site Forest City Recreation Area to honor the area’s historical significance, as Forest City was the original townsite name before the railroad’s arrival shifted development to present-day Gretna.
“We aren’t done with the Gretna area yet,” said Papio NRD Board Chairperson Tim McCormick. We will soon celebrate the opening of Sergeant Mad Bear (Kuruks Tîčaris) Recreation Area at 168th & Giles as part of our flood reduction initiative,” said McCormick.
Will tell you that the days of building large reservoirs are over, long over. However, especially in some urban areas these smaller flood-control projects will still be built. We, the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, will continue to be a partner in these projects because we need every bit of recreational water we can get. Believe me, it is way better to build water quality and fish habitat features into these reservoirs when they are constructed!
Yes, fish stocking has already begun on Forest City. Largemouth bass and bluegill fingerlings were stocked this year. Black crappie and channel catfish to come!
If you have not followed any of the links already, be sure to check out some more of the details on the Forest City Recreation Area.
