Nebraskaland Magazine

I know it is a Friday and I usually do not blog about news items like this.  However, I continue to get questions, got another one already this morning, so might as well spread the word. . . . I also know that this news is not going to affect a lot of you, but it looks like it is going to be a nice weekend and a few will want to take advantage of this. . . . Wildwood …

If you have been in Nebraska for any length of time, you know the wind blows.  We have been reminded of that again in the past few days. If you are an angler in this state, you better learn to adapt and adjust to the wind (and other weather phenomenon for that matter).  I have blogged about that before, Sometimes the Wind Blows.  Want to return to the subject and mention one subtle tip. . . . Actually, I stumbled …

Cattails are aggressively invading many of our state’s best aquatic habitats. Story and photos by Chris Helzer Most people reading this probably look at wetlands or lakes with dense accumulations of cattails without thinking twice. After all, cattails are native to Nebraska, and they’re a perfectly normal and healthy part of a wetland ecosystem. Right? I have bad news. An evil transformation has taken place right beneath our noses. Cattails are no longer benign wetland plants that accent the margins …

I know I have mentioned this in previous years about this time.  Good time for another reminder! Public urged to check boats, lifts, and docks for invasive species As recreation boating season winds down and waterfowl hunting season ramps up, Nebraskans are urged to check boats, boat lifts and docks for invasive species when removing them from the water. Waterfowl hunters are encouraged to take special care prior to launching their boats so as not to contribute to the spread …

Someone once said: “Deer hunting is a lot about nothing.” “Nothing,” seriously? In my view, that statement is so far from the truth. It is the time of year for archery deer hunters and soon, firearm deer hunters, to be on their stands or in their blinds all day long, up to 12 hours … alone. During part of a day off, Nebraska Conservation Officer Rich Berggren of Waterloo allows a photo to be taken before he enters his firearm …

The Baysdorfer brothers built and few Nebraska’s first plane. By David L. Bristow, History Nebraska When Charles Baysdorfer prepared for takeoff near Waterloo, he was piloting a homebuilt biplane on its maiden flight, but he hadn’t taken any lessons or flown in an airplane before. Manufactured planes and professional training were hard to come by in 1910. On that day, Nov. 21, however, Baysdorfer became the first Nebraskan pilot and the first to fly a Nebraska-built plane. No one who …

How to tell the difference between a dragonfly and damselfly. By Monica Macoubrie, Wildlife Education Specialist The words “dragons” and “damsels” might remind you of the fairytales you heard or read a child — of daring swordfights, far-off places, dragons to conquer and of course, the damsel in distress. Well, it’s 2023, and women can fight their own way out of perilous situations. This story will discuss different dragons and damsels – the insects known as odonates. Belonging to the …

Almost every fish in Nebraska waters spawns at some time during the spring.  That can occur from early, early spring all the way through summer.  So, yes, I am stretching when I use the word “spring” to describe the timing of that reproductive activity. However, that wording is correct because they do not spawn in the fall. With two exceptions. . . . Brown trout and brook trout in Nebraska are fall spawners.  Yes, we do have populations of both …

Nine Nebraska parks for fall camping By Renae Blum Fall has returned with cool breezes, turning leaves and plentiful opportunities to get outdoors. Here are nine Nebraska state park or recreation areas that are prime spots to book a stay and enjoy a fall getaway. Niobrara State Park Niobrara State Park is a hidden gem in north-central Nebraska overlooking the confluence of the Missouri and Niobrara rivers; it’s perfect for relaxing and recharging in a peaceful, natural setting. This park …

A month ago I blogged about the Wetlands of Nebraska.  Shared a video about the different types of wetlands in Nebraska and their importance.  That video was just in introduction to a series of videos going into more detail about the different types of wetlands. I want to return to that topic today and highlight one particular type of Nebraska wetland, sandhills wetlands.  Yep, there is another video.  This one longer and more detail, but you really need to take …