The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission 1994 Annual Report

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1994 The eN braska Game & Parks Commission 1994 Annual Report

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This Article is brought to you for free and open access by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. It has been accepted for inclusion in Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Publications by an authorized administrator of DigitalCommons@University of Nebraska - Lincoln. The Nebraska Game& Parks Commission 1994 Annual

Report

" : : Purpose The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is charged with managing and controlling the state's wildlife, parks and outdoor recreational resources in the best long-term interest of the people. To accomplish that purpose, the Commission plans and implements its policies and programs efficiently and objective ly; maintains a rich and diverse environment in Nebraska's lands and waters; provides outdoor recreation opportunities; manages wildlife resources for the maximum benefit of the people, and strives to help Nebraskans appreciate their roles in the natural world.

Contents Administration ...... 3

Budget and Fiscal ...... 4

Engineering ...... 8

Fisheries ...... 12

Information and Education ...... • . . . . 15

Law Enforcement ...... 19

Operations and Construction . . • . • ...... • ...... 21

Parks ...... , •.•.• 23

Planning and Programming . . . • ...... • ...... 28

Realty ...... •...... •.... 30

Wildlife ...... ·.. 31

Environmental Trust • ...... • ...... • . . . . 37

Complete copies of each division's annual report may he obtained hy contacting the individual division at the Game and Parks Commission, 2200 N. 33rd St., P.O. Box 30370, Lincoln, NE 68503-0370.

Printed on recycled paper with soy ink. lf I

t i ADMINISTRATION Administration The labor contract between the Risk Management regarding work This division provides support State and the Nebraska Association er's compensation cases. Worker's services for all divisions through the of Public Employees, Local 61, compensation claims paid for the following offices and functions: American Federation of State, fiscal year ending June 30, 1994, Personnel; Internal Audit; In-service County and Municipal Employees totaled $370,204.36, an increase of Training; Aircraft Operations; Word represents 231 agency employees. nearly 11 o/o over 1993 and up Processing; Headquarters Mainte The labor contract with the State almost 23% over 1992. 7 nance; Telephone Switchboard; and Law Enforcement Bargaining Coun Motor vehicle accidents, involv Staff Assistants, Secretarial and cil represents 51 agency employees. ing agency employees, declined Clerical Personnel in the district The personnel office acts as the from 22 to 15 in 1994 - a 31.8% offices. liaison to Administrative Services decrease from 1993 and down 40% Liaison with the Legislature is a Employee Relations Division. from 1992. major duty of this division, as is There were 23 new permanent PAYROLLS in 1994, and 88 assistance to the Director's Office. employees hired Permanent employees were promoted/reclassi Total wages: $12,429,473.68 Personnel fied. Turn over for 1994 was 4.7% Average number of employees Functions of the Personnel Sec (21 employees). tion include administration of pay Many letters on employment per month: 450 roll, worker's compensation, retire possibilities and career information Temporary ment, insurance, accident reports, were received and answered. Re Total wages: $3,338,296.37 performance planning, personnel plies were made to surveys regard Average number of employees records, and preparation of the ing salary, benefits and personnel per payroll: 429 personal services portion of the turnover. Largest payroll: 850 employees aaency's operational budget. Personnel consults the Office of Smallest payroll: 127 employees In-Service Training Devoted to bettering perform POSITIONS ance and preparing employees for 500 higher responsibility, in-service training directs its efforts to meeting the specialized needs of individual staff members who enroll in various 400 of short courses, seminars and workshops. Broad-based training needs are met through in-house workshops for employees groups. 300 Aircraft Operations The Piper Super Cub was flown a total of 229 .6 hours (7.4 hours at 200 night) during 1994, up from 189 .3 hours in 1993. There were 89 flights in 1994 compared to 75 flights the previous year. Cost of operation was $21.09 100 per hour, down 18% from the $25.80 per hour costs the previous year. Figures do not include insur ance or hangar costs. Depreciation 0 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 on the aircraft is unknown. The YEAR aircraft was used for various sur veys, counts, antelope depredation complaints, fish and wildlife, law enforcement and photography. PERMANENT EMPLOYEES - 1989-94

3 BUDGET FIN ANCIAL STATEMENT January 1, 1994, Cash & General Fund Approprl8tion on hand: Cowboy Trail (Fund 2328) $ 0.00 Environmental Trust Fund 868,311.00 & Game Cash (Fund 2332) Lifetime Hunt• 579,600.00 Lifetime Fish• 396,010.00 Other 7,213,203.43 8,188,813.43 FISCAL State Park Cash (Fund 2333) 6,175,630.91 Nebraska Habitat Cash (Fund 2334) 3,625,389.82 Non-game and Endangered Species Cash (Fund 2335) 352,636.10 This division has five sections: Nebraska Snowmobile Cash (Fund 2337) 56,418.92 1. Permits - including issuing boating NORDA Cash (Fund 2338) 1,254,553.66 Trail Development Assistance (Fund 2339) 4,131.92 certificates, operating the Customer Federal Fund 4332 - Land & Water Cor.1servation Service Center in the Lincoln head Fund, Bureau of Reclamation (8972) 28,609.11 quarters, accounts receivable and Less Transfer Out 2,145.23 26,463.88 General Fund (Fund 1000) 4,416,529.95 permit accounting departments. Less Amount Lapsed 33,896.56 4,382,633.39 2. Fiscal Accounting - prepares agen Total Cash & General Fund Appropriations cy voucher payments and maintains on hand January 1, 1994 24,934,983.03 various files and reports connected Cash & General Fund Appropr18tions received during 1994: with all agency expenditures. Cowboy Trail (Fund 2328) 101,000.00 3. Audits and Cost Center Accounting Environmental Trust (Fund 2329) 4,004,076.76 Game Cash (Fund 2332) - audits all political subdivisions Lifetime Hunt• 99,200.00 and maintains Area Cost Center Lifetime Fish• 69,100.00 Expenditure Accounting. Other 11,941,561.84 12,109,861.84 Park Cash (Fund 2333) 10,715,037.69 4. Budget Section - prepares and Nebraska Habitat Cash (Fund 2334) 2,680,842.08 maintains the agency's budget and Non-game & Endangered Species (Fund 2335) 134,063.37 financial resources. Nebraska Snowmobile Cash (Fund 2337) 9,930.46 NORDA Cash (Fund 2338) 1,405,089.03 5. Purchasing & Inventory - maintains Trail Development Assistance (Fund 2339) 181.51 statewide inventory system and Federal Fund 4332 - Land & Water Conservation coordinates the purchase of goods Fund and Bureau of Reclamation (8972) 710,704.75 and services. General Funds 8,383,593.00 Total Cash & General Fund Appropriations Major functions include: received during 1994 $ 40,254,380.49 • Maintain fiscal records in accord *Income derived from the sale of Lifetime Permits cannot be expended. However, with state and federal laws. the interest earned on the investment of such income is available for expenditure. • Maintain area cost accounting on Expenditures by Fund Type during 1994: income and expenditures Commis Cowboy Trail (Fund 2328) 0.00 Environmental Trust (Fund 2329) 167.027.43 sion internal control. Game Cash (Fund 2332) 13,747,817.82 • Administer fiscal operation and con State Park Cash (Fund 2333) 9,014,382.93 trol of federal programs. Nebraska Habitat Cash (Fund 2334) 2,385,461.90 • Administer the fiscal control of issu Non-game & Endangered Species (Fund 2335) 95,119.70 Nebraska Snowmobile Cash (Fund 2337) 3,617.50 ing State Boating Certificates. NORDA Cash (Fund 2338) 982,217.17 • Issue all hunting and fishing permits Trail Development Assistance (Fund 2339) 0 .00 to vendor accounts. Federal Fund 4332 - Land & Water Conservation Fund • Receive, deposit and maintain re and Bureau of Reclamation (8972) 705.493.15 General Fund 7,939,056.21 cords on all the funds received by Total Expenditure during 1994 35,040,193.81 the Commission. End of the Year Fund Balances for 1994: • Prepare and maintain Commission's Cowboy Trail Fund (Fund 2328) 101,000.00 fiscal and operating budgets. Environmental Trust (Fund 2329) 4,705,360.33 • Perform audits of federal programs Game Cash (Fund 2332) relating to participating subdivisions. Includes Lifetime Hunt 678,800.00 Includes Lifetime Fish 465,110.00 • Administer an internal program of Other 5,406,947.45 6,550,857.45 forms control, including develop Park Cash (Fund 2333) 7,876,285.67 ment and use of forms. Nebraska Habitat Cash (Fund 2334) 3,920,770.00 • Perform other administrative func Non-game & Endangered Species (Fund 2335) 391,579.77 Nebraska Snowmobile Cash (Fund 2337) 62,731.88 tions as assigned by the Board of NORDA Cash (Fund 2338) 1,677.425.52 Commissioners, Director and/or Trail Development Assistance (Fund 2339) 4,313.43 Assistant Directors. Federal Fund 4332 - Land & Water Conservation Fund and Bureau of Reclamation (8972) 31,675.48 General Funds 4,827,170.18 Total cash & General Fund Appropriation Balance remaining on December 31, 1994 $30,149,169.71

4 1994 EXPENDITURES 1994 REVENUE OPERATIONAL COSTS Cowboy Trail Caah Funds Donations $ 101,000.00 Program 162 - Environmental Trust $ 167,027.43 Environmental Trust Cash Fund Transfer-In 3,911,791.00 Program 330 - Habitat Development Interest 92,285.76 4,004,076.76 Habitat Cash 1,724,996.74 State Game Cash Fund Income Program 336 - Wildlife Conservation, Hunting Activities (lifetime hunt--99,200) 4,205,821.65 Enforcement, Promotion & Development Fishing Activities (lifetime fish--69, 100) 2,894,970.73 2,980,048.78 Sub-Program 01 - Enforcement Federal Reimbursement General Fund 355,177.64 NEBRASKAland Magazine Subscriptions 522,854.94 Game Cash 2,615,926.47 Advertising 6,153.89 529,008.83 Park Cash 418,156.07 Calendars, books, slides, etc. 121,594.64 Federal 37,417.50 3,426,677.68 Sale of surplus property 104,050.97 Sub-Program 02 - Information & Education Land lease and crop income 144,449.91 555,250.23 Game Cash 1,702,097.51 Boating permits Incidentals 179,861.89 Park Cash 250,731.13 1,952,828.64 Liquidated and Property damages 63,426.47 Sub-Program 04 - Game Interest earned on investment 327,480.62 Game Cash 2,946,895.81 2,946,895.81 Cash Gifts 3,897.12 Total Game Cash Fund 12 ,109,861.84 Sub-Program 05 - Fish State Park Cash Fund Income Game Cash 3,092,748.17 Park Entry Permits 3,231,044.50 Federal 67,681.19 3,160,429.36 Ice Fishing Shelter Permits 40.00 Property damage 1,999.42 Sub-Program 10 - Outdoor Recreation Interest earned on investment 311,240.07 32,794.28 General Camping fees, cabin lots, etc. 1,166,401.49 Game Cash 100,316.67 Rental of cabins 2,446,691 .86 Park Cash 17,057.66 150,168.61 Concession leases & sales by lessee 113,453.57 175,552.79 Sub-Program 1 5 - Aquarium Swimming pool admissions Entry admission - Arbor Lodge 166,475.53 General Fund 171,337.14 Rental of recreation equipment 259,039.64 Game Cash 87,702.50 Horses, boats, etc. 631,958.88 Sub-Program 16 - Non-Game & Endangered Species Concession sales, leases and General Fund 261,008.87 agency facilities 393,973.10 188,807.50 Non-Game Cash 95,119.70 Cafe - Fort Robinson Cookouts - Chadron 27,591.90 Federal 14.803.26 370,931.83 Cafe - Platte River 98,368.10 PROGRAM 336 - SUMMARY Cafe - Mahoney 943,624.65 General Fund 820,317.93 Cash gifts 96,982.06 Game Cash 10,545,687.13 Sale of surplus property 182,152.91 146,632.29 Park Cash 685,944.86 Incidentals 296,572.17 Non-Game Cash 95,119.70 Catering Grocery Store & Snack Items 94,304.72 119,901.95 12,266,971 .57 Federal Rental Items (linen, dishes, tables) 1 170.18 Program 337 - Agency Administration Total Park Cash Fund 10,716,037.69 General Fund 608,162.01 Nebraska Habitat Fund Income Game Cash 1,185,378.18 Habitat Stamps 1,587,685.00 Stamp 60,546.00 Park Cash 420,592.38 Waterfowl Interest earned on investment 155,807.77 Habitat Cash 99,357.36 2,313,489.93 Federal reimbursements 823,794.10 Program 549 - Park Administration & Operation Incidentals 13,716.52 General Fund 4,188,962.43 Cash gifts 1,082.12 Cowboy Trail 0 .00 Crop/Pasture 19,421.86 18,788.71 Park Cash 6,496,002.73 Sale of surplus property Total Habitat Cash Fund 2,680,842.08 NORDA 579. 15 Non-Game & Endangered Species Cash Fund Income 10,711,337.04 Federal 25,792.73 Cash gifts 5,320.48 Program 550 - Federal Aid & Planning Federal reimbursements 18,643.21 General Fund 200,048.38 Interest 16,210.10 93,865.58 Game Cash 152,479.69 Non-game donations Incidentals 24.00 Trail Development Cash 0.00 352,528.07 Total Non-Game & Endangered Cash Fund 134,063.37 Program 617 Nebraska Snowmobile Cash Fund Income - Engineering, Area Maintenance & Snowmobile 75% of fee, less issuing fee 7,030.06 General Fund 2,121,565.46 Interest earned on investment 2,600.40 300.00 Game Cash 40,304.42 Surplus Property Total Nebraska Snowmobile Cash Fund 9,930.46 Park Cash 805,676.63 Trail Development Assistance Cash Fund Income NORDA Cash 864,842.47 Interest earned on investment 181 .51 3,617 .50 Snowmobile Cash Total Trail Development Assistance Cash Fund 181.61 Federal 99.14 3,836,105.62 NORDA Cash Fund Income Program 628 - Credit Card Discount 1-cent tax on cigarets 1,344,386.29 earned on investment 60,205.70 Game Cash 1,553.19 Interest Incidentals 497.04 Park Cash 23,711.15 Total NORDA Cash Funds 1.406,089.03 O 25.264.34 Habitat Federal Funds TOTAL OPERATIONAL COSTS - 1994 $ 31,397,720.74 Land & Water Conservation Fund, Bureau of Reclamation 710,704.75 TOTAL Cash & Federal Income Received during 1994 $ 31,870,787.49

07 07 . 3,642,473 561,107.80 561,107.80 116,795.55 116,795.55 559,699.33 559,699.33 582,455.18 582,455.18 822,415.21 822,415.21 , 1 TOTAL TOTAL

51,443.62 51,443.62 62 62 . 51,443 Development Development Trail Trail

140.24 140.24 , 94 94,140.24 94,140.24 Cities Cities to to Assistance Assistance Boat Boat

199.34 199.34 , 179 34 34 . 179,199 Divisions Divisions - Sub Prolitical Prolitical

46 46 . 580 , 136 39 39 . 87,507 07 07 . 49,073 Improvements Improvements ADA ADA

58 58 . 12,615 27 27 . 175 12,440.31 12,440.31 Office Office Central Central

215,636.60 215,636.60 60 60 . 215,636 Streams Streams and and Rivers Rivers

845.00 845.00 47,794.00 47,794.00 , 35 11,949.00 11,949.00 Reservoir) Reservoir) (Oliver (Oliver Access Access Fish Fish

7.25 7.25 ,24 18 25 25 . 47 ,2 18 Lake Lake Frye Frye

070.00 070.00 , 11 00 00 . 070 , 11 Aquarium Aquarium Sar-Ben Sar-Ben - Ak

26 26 . 669 669.26 669.26 Hatchery Hatchery Valentine Valentine

85 85 . 628,449 628,449.85 628,449.85 Hatchery Hatchery Platte Platte North North

67 67 . 56,873 56,873.67 56,873.67 Hatchery Hatchery Calamus Calamus

49 49 . 3,948 3,948.49 3,948.49 RC RC Lake Lake Willow Willow

68 68 . 3,242 242.68 242.68 , 3 Lake Lake Willow Willow

46 46 . 2,510 46 46 . 2,510 Rock Rock Willow Willow

45 45 . 077 , 1 45 45 . 077 , 1 Oak Oak Twin Twin

1,117.91 1,117.91 91 91 . 117 , 1 Creek Creek Thomas Thomas

5 5 .4 3,330 45 45 . 3,330 Branch Branch Taylor's Taylor's

63 63 . 19,268 63 63 . 268 , 19 Spikerush Spikerush

06 06 . 577 06 06 . 577 Trail Trail Shady Shady

816.60 816.60 , 36 60 60 . 816 , 36 Schilling Schilling

15 15 . 664 664.15 664.15 Sacramento-Wilcox Sacramento-Wilcox

51 51 . 699 51 51 . 699 Pressey Pressey

51,460.51 51,460.51 51,460.51 51,460.51 Marsh Marsh Prairie Prairie

4.00 4.00 ,82 6 00 00 . 824 , 6 Ponderosa Ponderosa

300.00 300.00 00 00 . 300 Willow Willow Red Red

1,425.00 1,425.00 00 00 ,425. 1 Redbird Redbird

272.97 272.97

272.97 272.97 Wing Wing Red Red

5,561.00 5,561.00 5,561.00 5,561.00 Bridge Bridge hall hall s Par

4,000.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 4,000.00 Metcalf Metcalf

972.00 972.00 972.00 972.00 Ranch Ranch Mahon Mahon

1,338.71 1,338.71 71 71 . 8 ,33 1 Bend Bend Mulberry Mulberry

320.00 320.00 , 4 00 00 . 320 , 4 Creek Creek Indian Indian

00 00 . 920 , 1 00 00 . 1,920 Mile Mile Four Four

11 11 . 302 , 1 1,302.11 1,302.11 Reservoir Reservoir Enders Enders

283.85 283.85 283.85 283.85 Rock Rock Chalk Chalk

797.50 797.50 , 3 3,797.50 3,797.50 WMA WMA Hole Hole Blue Blue

644.90 644.90 , 1 90 90 . 1,644 Alkali Alkali g g i B

002.00 002.00 , 2 00 00 . 2,002 Marsh Marsh Ballards Ballards

735.01 735.01 , 53 01 01 . 735 , 53 General General - Areas Areas Management Management Wildlife Wildlife

123,622.58 123,622.58 123,622.58 123,622.58 Hills Hills Wildcat Wildcat

07 07 . 696.10 696.10 , 772 39 , 29 9,924.03 9,924.03 Lake Lake Walgren Walgren

2,037.02 2,037.02 77 77 . 1,527 509.25 509.25 Lake Lake Rockford Rockford

487.50 487.50 , 13 05 05 . 984 , 5 6 6 .2 4,456 047.19 047.19 , 3 Lake Lake Pawnee Pawnee

27 27 .

3,710 27 27 . 710 , 3 Island Island Mormon Mormon

459.00 459.00

00 00 . 459 Louisville Louisville

204,465.99 204,465.99 75,000.00 75,000.00 465.99 465.99 , 129 & & Clark Clark Lewis Lewis

21,316.61 21,316.61 15,987.46 15,987.46 29.15 29.15 ,3 5 Maloney Maloney Lake Lake

32 32 . 742

32 32 . 742 Mcconaughy Mcconaughy Lake Lake

34 34 . 6,395

34 34 . 95 ,3 6 SRA SRA Calamus Calamus

.36 .36 404,652

78 78 . 1,527 403,124.58 403,124.58 SRA SRA Oak Oak Branched Branched

209.31 209.31 , 77 31 31 . 209 , 77 General General Areas Areas Recreation Recreation

04 04 . 6,977

04 04 . 6,977 Kearny Kearny Fort Fort

68 68 . 4,301

301.68 301.68 , 4 Ranch Ranch Bill Bill Buffalo Buffalo

68 68 . 530 , 17

556.08 556.08 60 60 . 16,974 Falls Falls Smith Smith

3,907.87 3,907.87

87 87 . 907 , 3 Ponca Ponca

00 00 . 17,677

17,677.00 17,677.00 Bridge Bridge Niobrara Niobrara

913.07 913.07 , 164 22 22 . 376 , 9

85 85 . 155,536 Mahoney Mahoney . . T Eugene Eugene

29,272.00 29,272.00 00 00 . 58,544

00 00 . 29,272 Cave Cave Indian Indian

180,855.34 180,855.34

180,855.34 180,855.34 Robinson Robinson Fort Fort

00 00 . 40,000 85,000.00 85,000.00

45,000.00 45,000.00 Chadron Chadron

& & RENOVATIONS RENOVATIONS IMPROVEMENTS IMPROVEMENTS

17 17 . 839.17 839.17 ,

537,839 537

lands lands habitat habitat of of Acquisition Acquisition

FUNDS FUNDS

CASH CASH

NOROA NOROA

FEDERAL FEDERAL CASH CASH HABITAT HABITAT TOTAL TOTAL CASH CASH PARK PARK CASH CASH GAME GAME EXPENDITURE EXPENDITURE

OF OF AREA AREA

2338 2338 4332 4332 2334 2334 2333 2333 2332 2332

ENTS ENTS M E IMPROV CAPITAL CAPITAL 1994 1994 1994 PERMITS SOLD 1994 HUNT / FISH PERMITS & STAMPS TYPE OF PERMIT NUMBER AMOUNT* SOLD* NRANNRSH NR3-D.A.V Resident Fish 148,982 $ 1,713,293.00 TROUT STAMP Resident Hunt 74,330 631,805.00 RES.FUR RES. HUNT Res. Fish-Hunt Combo 45,247 882,316.50 Nonresident Hunt 26,099 1,043,960.00 Nonres. Annual Fish 7,634 190,850.00 3-Day Res. Fish 3,585 26,887.50 3-Day Nonres. Fish 25,533 191,497.50 Trout Stamp 25,533 124,410.00

Resident Fur Harvest 5,255 78,825.00 DAILY

Habitat Stamp 159,253 1,592,530.00 DUPLICATE Annual Park Permit 158,236 2,215,304.00 1994 PARK PERMITS Daily Park Permit 278,147 695,367.50 Duplicate Park Permit 45,280 316,960.00 BREAKDOWN OF 1994 INCOME ·• Total .. ) $··· ·9;704;0o6:oo·· BY TYPE OF PERMIT < .· ······· .. ·Figures are for calendar year 1994, based on data available as of March 15, 1994.

1994 DEER / ANTELOPE / TURKEY PERMITS

TYPE OF PERMIT LANDOWNER NONRESIDENT RESIDENT TOTAL INCOME

Archery Antelope 2 46 478 526 $ 14,180.00 Firearm Antelope 65 0 376 441 8,170.00 .. I Total Antelope\ 67 ./46 ..... fl54) •••. Archery Deer 87 766 14,251 15,104 362,490.00 Firearm Deer 8,237 1,969 53,590 63,796 1,351,070.00

Tota!Oeer >·.· ···· ··. .·:::-: 1:-. -- .·. 8,32:4 •. t-i3s . J ~7, s4J•••· ·• itiL~m, .... 1Ji1!1i~;;;P Fall Turkey - Archery 3 39 574 616 10,582.50 Fall Turkey - Firearm 204 211 5,063 5,478 88,025.00 Spring Turkey - Archery 6 192 1,538 1,763 32,715.00 Spring Turkey - Firearm 321 739 8,755 9,815 170,682.50 1 +atll:fJ;t<;v u. w · < ·.· < .... 534 t. ·· ·n Jra1•• ~5/9$6 •• •i < < 121(>4$>1 aQz1Pl$;oq Grand Total $2,037,915.00 Permit Fees: Landowner - Turkey, $7.50; Deer & Antelope, $10; Nonresident - Turkey, $50; Deer & Antelope, $100; Resident - Turkey, $15; Deer & Antelope, $20.

8 8

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received received bids bids The The requested. requested. bids bids and and oped oped l deve were were repairs repairs exterior exterior aquarium aquarium for for specifications specifications and and ans ans l P Ak-Sar-Ben Ak-Sar-Ben

PROJECTS PROJECTS

savings. savings. energy energy significant significant in in result result will will that that bulbs bulbs and and

fixtures fixtures saving saving energy energy on on guidance guidance provide provide will will program program

The The Agency. Agency. Protection Protection Environmental Environmental Federal Federal the the by by

driven driven is is and and Lights Lights Green Green labeled labeled officially officially is is program program records. records. division division

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electron Internet and and (GIS) (GIS) System System Information Information graphical graphical Commission. Commission. the the assist assist

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operation operation and and setup setup with with assist assist to to divisions divisions others others many many reports. reports. write write and and

with with partner partner a a been been has has Engineering Engineering year year last last the the In In inspections inspections conduct conduct contracts, contracts, construction construction Administer Administer • •

ACTIVITIES ACTIVITIES ADDITIONAL ADDITIONAL projects. projects. construction construction agency agency

bid bid and and specifications specifications write write plans, plans, complete complete Draw Draw • •

agency. agency. the the to to services services ing ing

projects. projects. architectural architectural and and engineering engineering

improv continue continue to to capabilities capabilities computer computer it it upgrade upgrade and and

agency agency for for solutions solutions design design appropriate appropriate Develop Develop • •

maintain maintain to to intends intends division division The The computerized. computerized. also also are are

& & OBJECTIVES OBJECTIVES GOALS GOALS

typing typing specification specification and and records records Correspondence, Correspondence, . . tasks

survey survey accomplish accomplish to to field field the the in in used used also also is is equipment equipment administration. administration. and and divisions divisions

survey survey electronic electronic minute minute the the to to Up Up surveys. surveys. and and ings ings all all for for assistance assistance planning planning and and technical technical professional, professional,

draw construction construction design, design, produce produce to to equipment equipment drafting drafting providing providing role, role, supporting supporting a a plays plays Engineering Engineering . . sector

computer-aided computer-aided art art the the of of state state uses uses division division The The private private the the in in firms firms Surveying Surveying and and Architectural Architectural neering, neering,

METHODS METHODS Engi to to similar similar quite quite functions functions performs performs division division This This ENGINEERING ENGINEERING Calamus Design for devices which will document water volume at the hatchery was developed. Hatchery A study of groundwater flows at the hatchery was completed. Study of temperature devices completed, report and design submitted to the Fisheries Division. Plans and specifications were developed, bids received and a contract for construction completed to eliminate lining seepage in the hatchery ponds. A cost estimate for the drilling of Well No. 7 was requested and submitted. Local well driller was contracted for emergency well repairs for Well No. 7. Emergency drilling and casing of new Well #7 was completed.

Central Office Consultant was hired to develop contract documents for the addition of a shipping and receiving dock for the central office in Lincoln, and bids were received. The bids received were over budget and 'project is to be rebid in 1995. Standard plans were forwarded to Parks Division for construction of drop box unit.

··········· i s ~Y'ag~ $y~ttimfor n~ ..... ly construc;te9 sf9!:> tEl y.,~s cc,fopletecl ••. by i.qnth:i Champion Mill Consultant completed and submitted a report on area spillway repairs. C:qttoni~M). / $Gryeffo/firiting•bfp,-c,pEirftw~s cprnpletiq\.·.·.ar. ><- Darr Strip Boundary survey completed by in-house survey personnel.

District II Plans and specifications were developed in cooperation with the Department of Roads to contract 165 T of asphalt being laid at the office parking lot. Bids received were over budget and project was canceled. ••bistdd in\ ····•·•• Wcife6S r06firig of the <;leek and concrete wall of?the• distrid offici! bhiidi~g ik Norfdlk/ N~bh:ii@wat .•. •.. •.. ... / / . .•·.·. ·. . .·. ·.·.•.·.·.· ) . \ co111pleted by contractor. District IV Design for removal and replacement of designated area sheds was developed and submitted. Plans and specifications were developed for tuckpointing the office building and bids were requested. ··~~~h~lQti~:•······· ·•~i;t~~:1i•. ~~u ~:~:ht~r;;i~~l~~i:hrf~o;6e~~1~uct~oJlli~1 •• ~tijha ...•• ()ff ice~ir~ •.•.. 1~vi1.9·p~9 .••••• #n4 •··••t§rir9r9'9··•••t§ •• Dogwood Boundary survey completed by in-house survey personnel.

Fort Robinson Preliminary plans for accessibility per the Americans with Disabilities Act were completed for Carter P. Johnson Lake and will be addressed when the lake is renovated. Consultant hired to represent the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission in negotiations and procedures Robinson's springs. l involving the city of Crawford's request to use water from Fort Plans and specification for electrical renovation of Bandmaster's Quarters were developed, bids received, a contract awarded and the project completed by Contractor. Plans were developed for bank stabilization at the White River Footbridge and forwarded to Operations & Construction personnel for construction.

Fremont Contract documents were prepared, bids received, contract awarded, and construction of accessible improvements to meet requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act were completed. A field survey for site map was completed by in ~house survey personnel.

10 10

An An accessible vault vault accessible pit pit toilet toilet was was constructed constructed by by Contractor Contractor at at the the Niobrara Niobrara trail trail head head per per standard standard plans. plans.

Contractor. Contractor.

on on a a existing existing railroad railroad bridge. bridge. Bids Bids were were received, received, a a contract contract awarded awarded and and the the construction construction completed completed by by the the

Plans Plans and and specifications specifications were were developed developed for for construction construction of of trail trail and and a a combination combination fishing fishing and and foot foot bridge bridge

Niobrara Niobrara An An office office display display was was designed designed and and submitted. submitted.

Act Act were were developed developed and and bids bids received. received. Construction Construction to to 1995. 1995. be be completed completed in in

Merritt Merritt Plans Plans and and specifications specifications for for accessibility accessibility improvements improvements to to meet meet requirements requirements of of the the Americans Americans with with Disabilities Disabilities

Lodge. Lodge.

Preliminary Preliminary plans plans were were completed completed and and submitted submitted on on the the feasibility feasibility of of enclosing enclosing the the stairway stairway at at Riverview Riverview

Division Division personnel personnel for for construction. construction.

Design Design for for a a restroom restroom addition addition to to the the Theater Theater was was completed completed and and forwarded forwarded to to Operations Operations Construction Construction & &

A A model model of of a a proposed proposed Ice Ice Skating Skating Arena Arena for for the the park park was was built. built.

Parks Parks Division. Division.

Preliminary Preliminary plans plans and and estimates estimates for for a a restroom restroom addition addition to to the the Theater Theater were were developed developed and and forwarded forwarded

Design Design for for an an addition addition to to the the existing existing pump pump house house was was developed developed and and submitted. submitted.

Construction Construction Division Division personnel personnel for for construction. construction. Mechanical Mechanical systems, systems, etc. etc. were were completed completed by by contractors. contractors.

Plans Plans and and specifications specifications for for the the laundry laundry building building addition addition were were developed developed and and forwarded forwarded to to Operations Operations & &

U.S. U.S. West West Lake Lake water water collection collection structure structure repairs repairs were were completed completed by by contractor. contractor.

submitted submitted to to Parks Parks Division Division for for Regional Regional Manager's Manager's

approval. approval.

Mahoney Mahoney A A proposal proposal to to develop develop as as built built drawings drawings of of the the electrical electrical service service system system for for the the park park was was completed completed and and

.·• .·• < < Divisibn ...... / / •.•. •.•. .· .· .. .. ·.· ·.· · · ·.·. ·.·. ·.·... ·.·... ··· ···

l ongJ~lrie ongJ~lrie Inspection Inspection for for safety safety of of a~d,ery a~d,ery platform platform on on dtea dtea was was completed completed and and report report sdbmitted sdbmitted to to Enforcemeh Lciw Lciw f f

Preliminary Preliminary plans plans for for a a boat boat dock dock to to accompany accompany boat boat ramp ramp construction construction were were developed. developed.

Preliminary Preliminary plans plans for for the the widening widening of of an an existing existing boat boat ramp ramp were were developed. developed.

completed completed by by Contractors. Contractors.

Two Two contracts contracts were were awarded awarded one, one, for for Dock Dock Facilities Facilities and and one one for for Docks. Docks. Construction Construction of of both both projects projects were were

Plans Plans and and specifications specifications were were prepared prepared and and bids bids received received for for construction construction of of Phase Phase Marina Marina Improvements. Improvements. I I

Lewis Lewis Clark Clark Design Design for for Phase Phase & & of of the the l l Weigand Weigand Marina Marina were were completed completed and and submitted submitted to to Parks Parks Division. Division.

lctke lctke Mineitdre Mineitdre \. \. E'/alu0tiori E'/alu0tiori of of the the condition condition of of an an existing existing concession ·• buildirigwas buildirigwas conipleted conipleted · · and and a a report s dlimitted / / / / / /

were were developed, developed, bids bids received, received, a a contract contract awarded awarded and and construction construction completed completed by by Contractor. Contractor.

Plans Plans and and specifications specifications lake lake Maloney Maloney for for accessible accessible fishing fishing pier pier meeting meeting requirements requirements of of the the Americans Americans with with Disabilities Disabilities Act Act

.. .. oh oh the the area, area, bids bids received received and and a a contract contract awarded. awarded. Project Project tc { lie lie compteted compteted

1 995 995 du . . . ·· ·· f fng fng \ \ Spring Spring

of of ··.·. ··.·. Pttjhs Pttjhs and and Specifications Specifications were were developed developed bJildlnfo bJildlnfo for for the the construction construction a a new new coin coin operctted operctted show~r~ofrine show~r~ofrine

.: .: and and the the Game Game and and Parks Parks Commission . . >: >:

...... •. •.

personnel. personnel. Taskfor ~ e e Project Project was was completed completed with with corporate corporate

funding funding between between

the the Deferred Deferred Building Building Renewal Renewal

McConcuJghy McConcuJghy Pf\iisfo jambs jambs W W in in the the Cedar Cedar Vue Vue Vault Vault toilets . . Construction Construction to to be be cornpleted . . by by Operations Operations C § hstrUction hstrUction & &

> > r r ....•...... •... lcike lcike D J sfon sfon was was deyeloped deyeloped #H d d for for the the removal removal With With and and of of eh eh replacement replacement jarnbs jarnbs wood wood ry;Mdl ry;Mdl do¢rs do¢rs and and dbors dbors

Air Air testing testing for for environmental environmental pollutants pollutants Kiowa Kiowa was was completed . .

· · / / the the Gi : une une (lnd (lnd Parks Parks Comrnissio . n n . 9nd 9nd .yillbe .yillbe 1995. 1995. completedin completedin .. .. · · .· .· . .

. . · ·

. . < < requested\ requested\ Pn:1jecFfunded Pn:1jecFfunded with with corporate corporate funding funding between between the the Deferred Deferred dncf dncf Building Building Renew6FTask Renew6FTask force force

for for funding funding . .

Preliminary Preliminary plans plans for for a a sediment sediment trap trap for for Grove Grove Verdigre Verdigre lake lake Creek Creek were were developed developed and and submitted submitted to to Fisheries Fisheries Division Division

Golden Golden Rod Rod Property Property boundary boundary surveyed surveyed for for verification verification by by in-house in-house survey survey personnel. personnel. North Platte Consultant hired to develop contract documents for new settling ponds at hatchery. Documents were Hatchery completed, bids received, contract awarded and construction commenced. Project to be completed in 1995. d iiQii- . Re~e;\,qir

Plans and specifications were developed for Wetlands restoration project was bid and completed by contract. This project will be partially funded by donations from Ducks Unlimited. B,cls were r'~c¢iyed fpr ddlling ·. of well withhand p ump andii'i(]king dc::~;¥:¥Hil~ aftec;i#ifedPy) h~AIBElfi~~ W.t w itpD1sb~illtiesA¢f; a contrad awarcJed qr,q construction completed/ ·.. ·.. ·.·.· ·.· .. ·.· ·.···.··.······ ...... ····················· Preliminary plans and an estimate were developed for the expansion of area parking lot. Propertf si.JrVeY iornpleted·•• by ••il'l •F~us~··· ~ufvey.· personheL ························· ··•·•··· Plans were developed for electrical repairs to area campground, bids received, and construction completed by contract.

g~~~~~i~~si,:~~li~~:irttf z:;~s~~~:tn+rc?~ftrW<:iiJrf.trti:gfti?r e>f Cl tj¥,Vi YfaitoHf~nte t 9ij~ fqm.9.fgij# t~ ~1:J~!i~§tti;fi~Ji~~~j~f! i~1t~1!l~s?i J?~Y1 1~@;~ t~~ tf ~!1~ilil i~ ~S~~~tl ~i ~~~ ~~~~~~ir~ ~~~ i Boundary survey was completed and an agreement made for property at the area. Plans and specifications were developed and bids received to repair roads damaged in the 1993 floods. A contract was awarded and construction completed by Contractor. P:lJA!;an.cl ..·~p&c:ifitations wer:e· developed ••• t111d ••hids ··· receivecl t& ••• repl~·ce••t he f~M cH •· theif,rnt-1afoHery Mijj;~fot A d,nfract· was awarded and Project fonded with corpdrdfefuhding hetwe{ih the Deferred Buildirjg R~@WijJ Task Force and the Gamepnd Parks Commission was completed; .. ·.·.. ... ·.·.· .... · .. ... ·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.. . ··.·.·.·.· .·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·.·. Preliminary plans and cost estimate for a boat ramp at Trail 8 were developed and submitted to Parks Division.

Sfoithloke.. . .. Spikerush

Preliminary plans for a Northwest Inlet Crossing were completed. ·sWbnS(;)n .... Bid ( wef e rek:eived, · a.. co ntra~( awarded and •• reroofihg ofldrgeWelter # @p[etedby ¢ Mf@it9t.( /•><• Two Rivers Design for replacement of the Picnic area Beach house's septic tank laterals was completed and forwarded to Operations & Construction Division for construction. Project was completed with corporate funding between the Deferred Building Renewal Task Force and the Game and Parks Commission.

Wildcat Hills Plans and specifications for the construction of a visitor center and drilling of water wells were developed and bids received, contracts awarded, and drilling of water well completed by Contractor. Construction of the Visitor Center is to be completed in 1995. Project partially funded with donations.

Windmill Construction of shower building utilities repairs was completed by contract. Project was completed with corporate funding between the Deferred Building Renewal Task Force and the Game and Parks Commission.

11 FISHERIES

The division is responsible for Other activities included adding Fishing Access maintaining, developing and manag brush piles at 14 lakes to attract fish, Boat ramps were constructed at ing Nebraska's . aquatic resources construction of tire reefs at two lakes, Super Cell Lake in Grand Island, and regulating tHeir use. planting emergent vascular plants at Frye Lake, and Willow Lake. Missouri Anglers established a number of three lakes, seeding millet at three River access facilities were construct new hook-and-line records in 1994, reservoirs, fertilizing Birdwood Lake ed at Mulberry Bend, improved at St. including striped bass hybrid, burbot, with hay bales, aerating four lakes, Helena, Plattsmouth, Brownville, grass carp, orangespotted sunfish, stabilizing the shoreline at Zorinsky Blair, Bellevue, and South Sioux City, and alewife. New state archery Lake, and removing dead trees and and planned at Aspinwall Bend and records were set for striped bass replanting trees along Soldiers Creek. Indian Cave State Park. Division hybrid and bighead carp. employees evaluated three potential There were 3, 110 Master Angler Operation F.I.S.H. Rehab sites for new lakes and reviewed nine -b land, river or stream properties for awards issued, including a record This project, which stands for potential acquisition to provide fish 304 for striped bass hybrids and 676 Finding Innovative Strategies for for largemouth bass, the second ing access to the public. Habitat Rehabilitation, was initiated highest number for largemouth since in 1994 to address the problems of the program began in 1966. Fish Populations and aquatic habitat deterioration in Ne Angling Assessments Stocking braska's aging reservoirs, lakes, Fish populations in 89 lakes and During 1994, the five hatcheries rivers and streams. A series of 19 impoundments and in 15 streams provided more than 25 million fry, public meetings was held to alert the were sampled with nets, trawls and fingerling and adult fish for stocking public to the causes of aquatic habi electrofishing gear. Fish densities, in Nebraska waters and for trade to tat deterioration, its impacts on fish lengths, weights, and growth rates other states. Stockings included 14.1 ing and possible solutions. were assessed to evaluate manage million walleye, 8. 2 million striped Of the approximately 600 individ ment practices. Water chemistry and bass hybrids, 1.3 million northern uals, who attended these meetings, zooplankton samples were also col pike, 700,000 yellow perch, 521,000 70 were ·selected at random to at lected from a number of lakes to black crappie, and 484,000 rainbow tend an Aquatic Habitat Conclave, in determine productivity for fish. trout. One-third of the rainbows December in Grand Island. Creel surveys were conducted on were stocked in Lake McConaughy At the conclave, these individuals, nine lakes to gauge angler benefits as part of a three-year trout restora along with representatives of conser from management practices. A creel tion effort there. vation and fishing organizations survey was also conducted on the developed the framework Missouri River to limit paddlefish for an aquatic habitat harvest. 1994 FISH STOCKINGS WALl.EYE rehabilitation and acquisi Anglers at the put-and-take trout BY SPECIES lake at Two Rivers purchased 22,924 tion program, including tags, and harvest averaged 2.82 priorities, necessary fund trout per tag. ing, and potential funding mechanisms. The conclGve Fish Kills prompted introduction of RAINBOW TROUT A total of 31 kills that claimed at BLACK CRAPPIE 1995 legislative bills to least 82,500 fish were investigated. YEU.OW PERCH establish an aquatic habi Of these, 14 occurred on lakes and NORTHERN PIKE tat stamp and increase reservoirs, 8 on ponds, 5 on streams nonresident permit and and 4 on rivers. Natural causes were boat registration fees. responsible for 19 kills. Other causes STRIPED BASS X WHITE BASS (WIPER) i Revenues would be ear were agricultural pollution, four; marked for an Aquatic industrial pollution, three; municipal Habitat Enhancement Habitat Fund. pollution, three, and fishing mortali A 425-foot rock jetty was built ty, two. across part of the mouth of Marina Renovations Cove at Branched Oak Lake to pro Chemical renovations to remove Research tect the cove from winds and waves unwanted fish species were conduct Reports were completed on the following studies: .. and provide habitat for shoreline ed at Coot Shallows, Frye, Penn Park species like largemouth bass, bluegill (Neligh), Swan, Two Rivers, and • Biological and economic analyses and crappie. Union Pacific lakes. of the fish communities in the Platte River: Creel survey of fish-

12 ing pressure along the Lower Platte River; • Biological and economic analyses of the fish communities in the Platte River: Modifications and tests of habitat suitability criteria for fishes of the Platte River; • Agricultural land use a nd re-au thorization of the 1990 Farm Bill; • Secondary production of aquatic insects in the unchannelized Mis souri River, and • Status of selected fis hes in the Missouri River with recommenda tions for their recovery. Studies are in process on the fo ll owing topics: • Effects of size limits on largemouth Steve Satra, left, and Randy Winter explain F.I.S.H. rehab program at public meeting bass, bluegill, crappie, and wall in Ogallala. eye; • Statewide management of walleye Federal agencies assisted included Boat, Sports and Travel Show. and sauger; the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Assistance was also provided to • Comparison of the sampling effi Bureau of Reclamation, Energy Regu other divisions. Fisheries assisted with ciency of small-mesh gill nets and latory Commission, Soil Conservation wildlife surveys, deer check stations, boat electrofishing on age O and Service, U.S. Geological Survey, U.S . scoring deer antlers, trash pick-up age 1 walleye; Army Corps of Engineers, National and burning at wildlife management • Saugeye (walleye x sauger) as a Parks Service and the Environmental areas, maintenance at Schramm replacement for walleye; Protection Agency. Many of these Park, law enforcement activities, and • Introduction of Kamloops and federal contacts dealt with water information and education efforts. McConaughy strains of rainbow resources and their uses in the Mis trout into Lake McConaughy; souri, Platte, Republican and Nio Professional Involvement • Relationships between the size of brara river basins. Staff attended several professional channel catfish stocked and catfish City and county governments meetings to improve knowledge of survival with varying largemouth were provided information and ad up-to-date fisheries practices. Presen bass populations; vice. Conservation agencies in other tations were made at the American • Angler use and fish community states and the media, both in and Fisheries Society annual meeting, the dynamics in five southwest and out-of-state were provided fisheries Midwest Fish and Wildlife Confer the adjoining Republican River; management and fishing information. ence, the Great Plains Fisheries • Population dynamics and food Information was provided to many Workers, and the Nebraska-Iowa habits of alewife and trout in Lake elementary schools, middle schools, chapters American Fisheries Society Ogallala; high schools, colleges, service orga joint meeting. and participat • Phosphorous inactivation with nizations, and fishing organizations, Personnel attended (bass, alum at Fremont #2; including the Nebraska BASS Federa ed in the Walleye, Centrarchid sunfish), Esocid (pike), Res • Hamburg Bend site monitoring tion, the Nebraska Walleye Anglers crappie, with Geographic Information Association, U.S. Fishing Association, ervoirs, and River and Streams Tech of the North Cen Systems (GIS); Trout Unlimited, and the Cornhusker nical Committees Fly Fishers. tral Division, American Fisheries Technical Assistance Technical assistance to individuals Society, the annual meeting of the Division personnel provided infor was given over the phone, by letter, Organization of Fish and Wildlife and the Mid J. mation and advice to and developed and through personal contact. Biolo Information Managers joint projects with a variety of agen gists inspected ponds to determine west G IS Symposium. Staff also par cies, organizations, institutions, and potential for stocking or to provide ticipated in workshops on hydrology, individuals. State agencies and orga advice on management. water quality, GIS/remote sensing nizations assisted included the Natu Fisheries personnel provided assis and modelling effects of power dis ral Resources Commission, Depart tance and participated in agency trict operations on Platte River system ment of Water Resources, Depart sponsored events such as the Conser hydrology, as well as activities of the ment of Environmental Quality, Nat vation Education Conference, the Mississippi Interstate Cooperative ural Resource Districts, Nebraska OutdoorsWoman Workshop, several Resource Association (MICRA), par Public Power District, Central Ne boat/sports/travel shows, and the ticularly with regard to sturgeon and braska Public Power and Irrigation State Fair. Fish were provided for the paddlefish activities. District, and the Governor's office. State Fair display and the Omaha

13 i

Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium 3,911 hours of time eligible for fed Technological Advances During 1994, the Aquarium was eral aid matching funds. Workshops A new computer analysis program open for 307 days and had approxi held at five sites certified 49 new was developed for fisheries data. It mately 65,000 visitors, an average of instructors, bringing the total of certi will allow biologists to assess the 211 people per day. Tours were fied instructors to 403. status of fish populations more easily. provided for 437 groups consisting of Outdoor education workshops Staff also contributed to develop 18,713 individuals (15,769 of whom held on fly-tying, fly-fishing, sandpit ment of an agency "homepage" for were students). management, hunting, and attracting Internet. Advances in GIS continued winter birds drew 269 individuals. with development of a coverage of 1994 AQUARIUM Aquatic Education Teacher Re property boundaries of agency VISITATION source packets were sent to 220 owned or controlled lands. teachers who enrolled in the pro Personnel also assisted with devel Days Open 307 gram in 1994. Currently, 786 teach opment of a state-of-the-art genetics Total Visitors 65,000 ers participate in aquatic education analysis laboratory in Lincoln. Average per Day 211 activities. In addition, nearly 500 future teachers are exposed to the Permits Number of Groups 437 program at Nebraska state univer Permits sold in 1994 included: Total Group Visitors 18,713 sities annually. 255 resident bait vendor; 3 nonresi dent bait vendor; 48 private fish (No./Students (Groups) 15,769 Planning culturist; 12 nonresident fish dealer; Fisheries personnel participated in 77 resident Missouri River commer A new display was added thanks efforts to develop an agency strate cial fishing; 9 nonresident Missouri to a donation by a pet store chain. A gic plan, serving on the Steering River commercial fishing; 7 resident 750-gallon free-standing aquarium Committee and the Planning Tearn, put-and-take; and 1 nonresident put now displays a farm pond fish com as Program Chairs, and participating and-take. munity. on Program Tearns. In 1994, the Management Section of the American Fisheries Society selected the Aquarium as the facility to house its "Hall of Excellence." It recognizes individuals nationally who have made significant contributions to the field of fisheries management.

Aquatic Education In its ninth year, Aquatic Educa tion, headquartered at the Aquari um, conducted 58 fishing clinics and school courses attended by 4, 163 participants. The 128 certified and 228 non certified volunteers accounted for

14 INFORMATION & EDUCATION The information and public vision news audience and expansion in 50 hunter education courses. Sup relations arm of the Commission, l&E of agency video projects. port was provided in several areas, provides service to other divisions as GPC News, the agency's employ including the Know Nebraska Tours wll as to the public. l&E publishes ee newsletter, got a complete facelift, canoe trip and coordination of the NEBRASKA/and Magazine, a host of converting from a one-sheet flyer to "Becoming An Outdoors-Woman" brochures, pamphlets and other an 11 x 17 format of 4 to 8 pages. workshop was a major effort. An printed materials; produces TV and The news department was also "Introduction to Nebraska Hunting" radio information; designs exhibits involved in assisting with news releas workshop was conducted, as well as for Commission areas and State Fair. es for the Nebraska Environmental several fishing clinics. This office also T Trust, which is located at Commission coordinated the exhibits at the Oma Strategic Planning headquarters. Other duties included: ha Boat, Sport & Travel Show and l&E committed time for involve Coordination of the GPCs Outdoor the Omaha Bass Show. The office ment with all program teams in the Alley exhibit at the State Fair; pro also supplies a weekly telephone agency's efforts to plot its course for ducing the Vendor Bulletin, a news outdoor report. the future. Staff is involved at either letter sent to permit vendors after the "core" or "review" level. Since each Commissioners' meeting. Alliance Office the division is responsible for relating The District I public information agency programs to the public, it Omaha Office officer (PIO) also serves as regional was felt that participation in all pro The office moved to the Visitor editor for NEBRASKA/and Magazine grams was essential. Information Center at 1212 Deer while handling information and edu Park Blvd. in December from the cation programs in the Panhandle. News Program downtown State Office Building. This As regional editor for NEBRASKA Maintaining a timely news pro location has been operated by the /and Magazine, the PIO handled gram in both print and broadcasting Department of Economic Develop various articles and photo assign remains vital to the agency. Approxi strictly as a visitor information center, ments, various public information mately 300 news stories were releas and was only open March-October. efforts, and audio-visual needs. ed during the year. The Spirit of the Prairie gift shop Ongoing programs include news News is transmitted electronically {DAS) also operates a branch there. releases and media contacts, presen to the Associated Press, five daily By combining forces, the office is tations to groups, schools and orga newspapers and the Nebraska Press now open seven days a week March nizations, and involvement with Out Association's bulletin board, which October and Monday-Friday the rest door Education workshops. acts as a wire service for member of the year. The new headquarters papers across the state. provide better parking and access, North Platte Office The weekly outdoor report is a near the 13th St. exit on 1-80. The District IV PIO is responsible cooperative effort of the l&E, Law Sale of big-game permits again for information and education objec Enforcement and Parks divisions and accounted for considerable business tives in southwest Nebraska, while recaps hunting and fishing informa at the Omaha Office with sales of also serving as regional editor for tion, wildlife viewing locations, lodg $128,883.00. An all-time high in NEBRASKA/and Magazine. ing availability and snow conditions. total sales of permits and stamps - The PIO directed the 25th Annual "Outdoor Nebraska," the Com $238, 135.83 - was recorded, up National Cornhusker High School mission's weekly radio program is 4% from last year. Trap Shoot at Doniphan. Sponsored aired on nearly 50 stations in Ne The office continued to direct by the Commission, the silver anni braska and surrounding states, 10 much of its public relations effort at versary shoot attracted 385 student more than last year. Several radio the broadcast media in order to shooters. stations, including stations in the Kan reach large audiences. Weekly radio Ongoing programs included a sas City area, have regular interview and TV shows and/or appearances weekly TV news feature, programs, l segments with l&E personnel from the were broadcast on 15 stations. The seasonal radio shows and local area Lincoln, Omaha and North Platte office also increased its contact with news releases. The PIO was also offices. These segments allow us to print media, and a wide variety of involved in Outdoor Education pro convey timely and news and other public service announcements were jects and other divisional support as information. produced. Appearances at civic needed. · Video news continued in 1994 groups, clubs, youth organizations The district PIO supervises the staff with stories released nearly every and the like remain an important assistant at the North Platte office, other week. Video news releases are function. which had permit and other sales popular with Nebraska TV stations. The office had an extremely busy totaling $209,081.73 in 1994. Big Video equipment, purchased in 1993, year on the outdoor education front. game permit sales accounted for allows even better service to the tele- About 1,200 students were certified $107,340 or 54 + % of the total.

16 16

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in in

the the Nebraska Nebraska

Annual Annual Information Information

awards awards

competition. competition.

The The

duced duced with with permission permission for for newsletter, newsletter, of of

Sociological Sociological

Research Research

included included

13 13

tional tional

Association Association

for for Conservation Conservation

Several Several more more articles articles were were repro

A A contract contract

with with

the the UN UN

L L

Bureau Bureau

place place for for best best magazine magazine

in in the the na

Forever Forever The The and and Western Western NASIS NASIS Planner. Planner. Survey Survey

nized nized by by its its peers, peers, winning winning third third

publications publications including including Pheasants Pheasants

NEBRASKA/and NEBRASKA/and

was was also also recog

reprinted reprinted by by nationally nationally distributed distributed excellent excellent in in

the the magazine magazine

industry. industry.

Awards Awards

Competition. Competition.

Several Several magazine magazine articles articles were were was was 72.2%, 72.2%, which which

is is

considered considered

the the prestigious prestigious National National Gold Gold

Ink Ink

Monte Monte Hartman. Hartman. sent sent to to subscribers. subscribers.

The The

renewal renewal rate rate

web-offset web-offset

consumer consumer

magazines magazines in in

Plains Plains documentary documentary photographer photographer

· some some 69,063 69,063

renewals renewals

notices notices

were were and and

earned earned

the the Gold Gold

Award Award

for for

architect architect Robert Robert Hanna, Hanna, and and Great Great 300 300 copies copies Cellars Cellars

of of

it it ordered. ordered.

ceived ceived

by by subscribers subscribers and and

reviewers reviewers

editor editor Nebraska Nebraska of of History; History; Lincoln Lincoln News News

in in

Scottsbluff Scottsbluff

sold sold 299 299

of of

the the

and and design. design.

The The

book book was was

well-re

College; College; historian historian James James Potter, Potter, was was

9,382 9,382

copies. copies.

Interestingly, Interestingly,

Kent Kent

Reigert Reigert

was was responsible responsible

for for

layout layout

associate associate professor professor at at Sioux Sioux Falls Falls

newsstand newsstand

distribution distribution

for for

the the year year

History. History.

Magazine Magazine

art art

director director Tim Tim

ka ka State State Museum; Museum; Dr. Dr. Keith Keith Perkins, Perkins, about about

three-fourths three-fourths

of of

the the state.Total state.Total

issue issue

as as the the

Spring Spring

Nebraska Nebraska issue issue

of of

zoology zoology at at the the University University of of Nebras ha, ha,

Lincoln Lincoln

and and Scottsbluff, Scottsbluff,

covering covering

State State

Historical Historical

Society Society

distributed distributed

the the

gist gist Dr. Dr. Patricia Patricia Freeman, Freeman, curator curator of of newsstands newsstands

through through

dealers dealers

in in

Oma

the the

Historical Historical

Society. Society. The The Nebraska Nebraska

guest guest contributors contributors ornitholo included The The magazine magazine

was was

distributed distributed

on on

Bozell, Bozell,

curator curator

of of anthropology anthropology for for

history history . and and culture. culture. Circulation Circulation Distinguished Distinguished

at at Ashfall Ashfall

State State

Park, Park, and and John John R. R.

agement, agement, habitat habitat and and Nebraska Nebraska

erer erer

of of the the

bone bone

beds beds

now now

preserved preserved

parks, parks, wildlife, wildlife, fish fish and and game game man variety variety

of of classes classes

and and organizations. organizations.

Nebraska Nebraska

State State

Museum Museum

and and discov

topics topics including including hunting, hunting, fishing, fishing, - the the magazine magazine

and and its its production production

to to

a a

paleontology paleontology at at the the University University of of

R. R. Voorhies, Voorhies, curator curator of of vertebrate vertebrate

pal pal authors authors were . . Professor Professor Michael Michael

1994 1994

NASIS NASIS N•193 N•193

braska braska State State Historical Historical Society. Society. Princi

braska braska

State State Museum Museum

and and the the Ne

- Like Like to to

Hunt Hunt

- Like Like to to Fish Fish

authors authors from from the the University University of of Ne

bers bers and and a a distinguished distinguished list list of of guest guest

Contributors Contributors

included included staff staff mem

o ~---

artifact artifact record. record.

10 10 which which has has a a unusually unusually rich rich fossil fossil and and

paleontological paleontological 20 20 past past of of Nebraska Nebraska

ments ments the the rich rich archaeological archaeological and and 30 30

Eiseley. Eiseley. The The Cellars Cellars of of

Time Time docu 40 40

gist, gist, naturalist naturalist and and essayist essayist Loren Loren

50 50

i i

poem poem by by Nebraska-born Nebraska-born paleontolo

60 60

Cellars Cellars The The title title comes comes from from a a

70 70

tion tion was was approximately approximately 47,000. 47,000.

80 80 Ken Ken Bouc. Bouc. Average Average monthly monthly circula

was was coordinated coordinated by by Senior Senior Editor Editor

book-length, book-length, single-topic single-topic issues. issues. It It

Percentage Percentage

lars lars of of Time, Time, the the latest latest in in a a series series of of

January-February January-February special, special, The The Cel

Current Current Subscribers Subscribers

issues issues and and a a 100-page 100-page combined combined

Hunting Hunting and and Fishing Fishing Among Among ~ine ~ine published published nine nine 52-page 52-page regular regular

In In 1994 1994 NEBRASKAland NEBRASKAland Maga

NEBRASKAland NEBRASKAland Magazine Magazine eas; just over 10% of those surveyed Publications Plover, Finescale, Pearl, Northern receive the magazine. Average sub The division manages the produc and Redbelly Dace, and Southern scriber age is 50 years. Final results tion and distribution of more than Flying Squirrel. will be available in spring of 1995. 450 different brochures and pamph Displays for both manned and lets, as well as various other agency unmanned use were designed and NEBRASKAland Calendar publications and over 400 forms. built for a variety of shows, including The NEBRASKA/and Calendar was Publications range from full -color State Fair, the Omaha and Lincoln again widely distributed and featured brochures to one and two-color sport shows, and several other exhib photos from NEBRASKA/and Maga pamphlets, stationery and short-run its . In the Multi-Image area, a new zine. Printed in May to allow for technical publications. "Migration," was completed. This summer sales at state parks and l&E staff provides assistance to show depicts most of the species of i other areas, the calendar is also other divisions to determine the best, birds that migrate through Nebraska offered as a renewal incentive to most cost-effective and efficient ways from whooping cranes to least terns. subscribers. Over 55,000 copies to produce the numerous publications Available for meetings in a dual were produced and distributed by and various other printed projects. projector system, the show is also in direct mail, newsstands and counter Work involves writing specifications use at Fort Kearny SHP. sales. The calendar has been pro for jobs bid to commercial vendors, duced annually since 1964, except coordination with the State Print Mail & Shipping for one year. Shop, as well as those produced in The mail section processes all the Commission's own printing shop. incoming and outgoing agency mail Voluntary Waterfowl Stamp by the most efficient method. The The division coordinates the annu In-House Print Shop direct address and bar code printer al voluntary waterfowl stamp, pro The print shop produced 676 jobs expedited processing database mail, duced by Neal Anderson, under an in 1994, including pamphlets, book while allowing the agency to take agreement with Wild Wings. The lets, news releases, survey cards, advantage of U.S Postal Service 1994-95 stamp features mallard envelopes and other materials. The discounts. This has become even ducks, The 1993-94 stamp and prints 2,547,590 printed impressions includ more important with the increases in brought in $31,728 in sales and ed 118,800 for cards, 327,200 for postage rates. royalties. Thus far, these stamps have envelopes and 2,101,590 for pam First class pre-sort resulted in a raised approximately $500,000 for phlets and other publications. savings of $6,087.43 for the year, up wetland habitat in Nebraska. Numerous negatives and plates nearly 9% from 1993. Mail process were shot for printing various publi ed in each category included: First Habitat Stamp Art Contest cations, plus related tasks of cutting, class pre-sort, 149,708 pieces; regu Julie Crocker of Chapman won folding, collating and inventory. lar mail, including metered bulk, the adult division of the 1994 Ne 452, 177; pre-printed bulk permit braska Habitat Stamp, and her ante Art Department/Multi-Media mail, 46,844, and UPS packages, lope will be featured on the 1995 • Several new brochures were add 7,678 ($23,917.26). Postage and Habitat Stamp. ed and others updated. Art Section shipping costs for all categories was There were 1,738 entries in the did the layout for NEBRASKA/and $162,416.94 for 506,699 pieces, three categories in the Youth Division Magazine and the endangered spe compared to 576,577 in 1993. There of the contest - 757 in the elemen cies inserts that are overprinted for wer.e 6,793 information requests tary section, 816 in the junior section, use by Wildlife Division. These includ filled, plus hunt information mailings and 165 in the senior category. ed Whooping Crane, Mountain of 3,733 pieces. Selections of the youth art are exhitied across the state. Locations for 1994 included Lincoln, North Platte, Neligh, Hastings, Falls City, Bassett, Scottsbluff, Omaha, Teka mah and Gretna. l The Omaha Fish and Wildlife Club During 1994, l&E Mail Room handled again donated $350 in awards to the 506,699 pieces of mail, including contest - $200 to the adult winner packages, at a cost of $162,416.94. and $50 each to the youth winners.

Know Nebraska Tours Four tours were conducted, serv ing 176 participants, during the 16th season of the popular KNOW NE BRASKA TOURS, still co-sponsored with the Omaha World-Herald.

17 State Fair Space was provided to 14 out Conversion of the old wildlife door/conservation organizations in display area to a backyard habitat the "Outdoor Alley," the aquarium exhibit was completed, a cooperative and Hunter Education building. The effort of l&E, Outdoor Education and shooting booth again proved highly Non-Game Wildlife. popular with young people.

Conservation Education As an environment education component of the agency, Project WILD continued to be the most sought-after conservation program in the state. Some 34 teacher workshops were conducted for 786 teachers and potential teachers. As an integral part of nearly every college and university education course, Project WILD is now reaching almost all pre-service teachers in the state. Nebraska's program of get ting Project WILD to these soon-to be teachers is now being used as a model for other states. As part of the school site habitat program, prairie grass and flower packets were distributed to schools which provided plans and indicated how their outdoor facility would be tied to Project WILD. Tree and shrub packages were also made available to schools for wildlife habitat and outdoor classroom areas. A partner ship with several Natural Resources Districts allowed schools who received Project WILD grants to have an equal match made by the Natural Resources District. A number of other activities dealing with environment and outdoor Special Projects awareness and skills were part of outdoor education's contributions during The special projects unit was in the year. volved in the planning of interepre • TRAIL TALES, a wildlife publication targeted at fourth graders was tive displays for the new nature cen continued and distributed to all elementary schools; ter at Wildcat Hills SRA. Displays will • The third Becoming an Outdoors-Woman workshop was held at the include a 26-foot reproduction of a Nebraska National Forest at Halsey. A capacity crowd of 115 ponerosa pine and its biome. Other attended what has become an important education component for the displays will be educational in nature agency; to teach grade school and high • Additional wildlife species were added to the series on Nebraska school students the importance of Wildlife. All these publications become part of a package for Project food chains. Other exhibits include a WILD teachers; live bee demonstration, the impor • A new component of Project WILD called WILD About Elk was tance of tree snags, live reptiles, tree introduced during the year. The Elk book along with an elk trunk will core studies, hands-on interactive become available in 1995 to Nebraska teachers. computer programs and more. Other projects included work for the Fort Hartsuff SHP headquarters l building, which is nearly completion. This includes a recycling video pre sentation and a display of the fort's fire power in the 1870s. New dis plays, graphics, signs were in prog ress for the new Omaha office, which in being remodeled.

18 LAW ENFORCEMENT Enforcing the laws and regulations pertaining to fishing, hunting, boat ing and the state parks system, is a 70000~------£'.'.':'li!lf------vital part of management. Effective 60000 --l------«1/.':':':,:,f!---- - natural resources law enforcement • 1993 can be divided into three categories: 50000 ------1 m 1994 (1) education demonstrates the pur 40000----- pose and need for existing laws and 30000 regulations, (2) selective law enforce 20000 ment allows officers to concentrate 10000 their efforts where specific problems 0 are occurring, and (3) general en forcement concentrates on preven tion and control of violations in an officer's individual patrol area. Officers are well-trained, mobile and well-equipped. They strive for FIELD CONTACTS MADE high visibility, which in itself serves to educate and to deter unlawful con duct to benefit of Nebraskans and There were 3,508 complaints Expenses the resource. investigated, and officers attended Total expenses for 1993 were For 1994, the division had a maxi 1,231 meetings. $83,641.26, including $48,491.61 for meals; $15,520.36 for lodging; mum compliment of 62 positions, Arrests & Convictions $14,223.43 for telephone, and mis including a division administrator, In 1994, there were 4,575 arrests, cellaneous $5,405.86. assistant administrator, 6 supervisors, compared to 3,508 arrests in 1993, 51 field conservation officers, Boat 3,772 in 1992, and 3,808 in 1991. Mandatory Road Checks Law coordinator, Hunter Education Of this total 4,349 individuals were Conservation officers manned nine coordinator, an administrative secre found guilty by the courts - for a mandatory road checks during 1994 tary and staff assistant. conviction rate of 96.69% for all that resulted in 3,008 vehicles On Patrol arrests and citations issued. The rate checked with 47 arrests made. Conservation officers drove a total for cases actually brought to trial Communications System of 1,533,735 miles on patrol, at an was 99.82%. The statewide radio communica average cost of 10.85c per mile, in The most common violations were tions system involved a network of cluding all operating expenses such (1) loaded shotgun in a vehicle, (2) bases and repeaters, which allow as gas, oil, tires and repairs. The no sex or species ID on game birds, radio contact between district offices, average was 15.55 miles driven per (3) hunting or shooting from the road mobile to office, and mobile to mo gallon of gas. Patrol boats were used and (4) trespassing. bile. Operating expenses in 1994 to 1,663 hours to promote water safety taled $15,893.51 mostly for installa- at an average cost of tion/removal of radios, $4.88 per hour. Snow- scanners, lights and other mobiles used for enforce- FISH/FROGS equipment. These expens ment purposes were drives do not include costs in en 283 miles at an aver- curred by other divisions age cost of $1 .73 per TRAFFIC for operation, mainte mile. l SMALL GAME nance or replacement of mobile or portable radios. Contacts BOATING During 1994 officers MISC. Hunter Education checked 28,469 hunters; Hunter Education vol 56,457 fishermen, 548 unteer instructors certified FURBEARERS trappers; 19,594 boats 5,650 students in 1994, were inspected; 66,302 bringing the total to since miscellaneous contacts the program's inception in ST.AREAS* were made, mostly park 197. to 153,342. A total oriented. VIOLATIONS BY CATEGORY of 12 8 new instructors

*Violations that occurred on slate wildlife and state park lands not included in the other categories. 19

20 20

were were eight eight deaths deaths in in 1973, 1973, when when

the the

federal federal

government. government.

ly ly doubles doubles in in two two decades. decades. There There

reports reports

and and other other reports reports

required required

by by

constant constant and and registrations registrations have have near

cations; cations;

processing processing

boating boating

accident accident

water water areas areas have have remained remained re l atively atively

Coast Coast

Guard, Guard,

submitting submitting

grant grant appli

fata l ities, ities, which which is is amazing amazing since since

regu l ations; ations;

liaison liaison

with with

the the U

. S. S.

1993. 1993. The The l 0 l - year year average average is is 3.8 3.8

nating nating updates updates

in in

boating boating

l aws aws

and and

with with 23 23 injuries injuries and and 4 4 fata l ities ities in in

50 50 by by

state state money . . Boater Boater Education Education program; program;

coordi

3 3 fatalities, fatalities, compared compared to to 36 36 accidents accidents

1993. 1993. These These funds funds are are matched matched 50- administrator administrator include include

directing directing

the the

reported reported accidents, accidents, 22 22 injureies injureies and and

programs programs in in 1994, 1994, up up $25,000 $25,000 from from Major Major duties duties of of the the

boating boating

law law

and and fatalities . .

I n n 1994, 1994, there there were were 31 31 U . S. S. Coast Coast Guard Guard to to fund fund boating boating Boatin g g

there there were were fewer fewer accidents, accidents, injuries injuries in in federal federal matching matching funds funds through through the the

registrations registrations increased increased

to to

63,210, 63,210, Nebraska Nebraska received received over over $150,000 $150,000 furnished furnished the the materials. materials.

While While the the number number

of of motorboat

s s

pared pared to to 37 37 in in 199~ _ _ and and 45 45 in in 1992 . . Game Game and and Parks Parks Commission, Commission, which which

the the 1995 1995

session session

of of the the

Legislature. Legislature.

r e gattas gattas issued issued during during 1994, 1994, com which which supplied supplied the the land, land, and and the the

Operator s s License License

for for introduction introduction

in in

There There were were 38 38 permits permits for for marin e e cooperation cooperation with with the the Little Little B l ue ue N N RD, RD,

preparing preparing

a a bill bill

for for a a

Motorboat Motorboat

complet e e thi s s hom s e tudy tudy cour se . . by by the the Cottonwood Cottonwood Archery Archery C l ub ub in in

Considerable Considerable

tim

e e was was

pent pent nies nies offer offer discounts discounts to to those those who who An An arche r y y range range was was completed completed

response

. .

home, home, and and many many insuranc e e compa WI WI LO LO instructors. instructors.

conference, conference,

it it received received

excellent excellent

double double 1993), 1993), primarily primarily for for u se se in in th e e and and Aquatic Aquatic Education Education and and Project Project

at at the the

Boating Boating

Law Law Administrators Administrators wer e e distributed distributed in in 1994 1994 (almo s t t bringing bringing together together Hunter, Hunter, Bowhunter Bowhunter

Starboard Starboard

(Right) (Right) Way . . Previewed Previewed

Basics Basics (boater (boater education) education)

manual s s Workshop Workshop was was held held

in in Kearney, Kearney,

11 11

tion tion video, video,

entitled entitled Boating Boating

the the

Nearly Nearly 2,000 2,000 Nebraska Nebraska Boating Boating The The first first Conservation Conservation Education Education

II II

completion completion of of a a new new Boater Boater Educa plying plying Nebraska Nebraska waters. waters. vidua l l competition . .

One One highlight highlight of of the the year year wa s s the the there there were were 53% 53% fewer fewer participate participate motorboat in in the the s s team team and/or and/or indi

shoot shoot at at Pressey Pressey drew drew 91 91 shooters shooters to to

shooters shooters took took part. part. The The si l houette houette

BOAT BOAT ACC I DENT DENT STATISTICS STATISTICS school school competitors. competitors. Some Some 430 430 young young

YEAR YEAR

junior junior high high and and 60 60 squads squads

of of

high high

1m~~1m1=,=~n~N1_,~,-1 _

1 ~ 1

• 1 ~ 1 ~ 1 ~ 1 -

1*1~1-1m1* 1*1~1-1m1*

o L:::~___;=:::~~~~:::;:::;::::;::::;::;::; L:::~___;=:::~~~~:::;:::;::::;::::;::;::; silver silver anniversary, anniversary, with with 27 27 squads squads of of

High High School School Trapshoot Trapshoot celebrated celebrated its its

The The Cornhusker Cornhusker

Championship Championship

dents. dents.

·· ·· . . .- .,,, .,,,

I I /I /I and and '"' ~ ~ t t 51 51 squads squads

of of senior senior high high stu ,, _. _.

20 20

:, :,

......

, , ed ed 29 29 squads squads

of of junior junior high high

students students

' ' v. v.

. .

' '

j j

: : V' V'

! 'II 'II

I I

" " , , I I

• • • • I I

ti ti ~ ~

. .

the the Commission, Commission, at at Doniphan Doniphan includ

' ' - - 30 30 . .

. . . .

.. ..

I • •

I I Cornhusker Cornhusker T T rapshoot, rapshoot, sponsored sponsored , _ · : : I. I. by by

I• I• I. I. I I

'\. '\.

- DEATHS DEATHS

Participation Participation

at at

the the

24th 24th

annual annual

-1- - ~ · ~ -- ~

-- «) «)

-- --

------i ---i INJURIES INJURIES I I

imp l emented emented in in 1995. 1995.

• • ACCIDENTS ACCIDENTS

Education Education

Instructor Instructor program program to to be be

liO -+------

- -- -

- -

- - --

developed developed for for a a Master Master Bowhunter Bowhunter

certified certified l O O l at at workshops. workshops. Plans Plans were were

Bowhunter Bowhunter Education Education instructors instructors were were

braska braska since since 1977. 1977. An An additional additional 68 68

students students have have been been certified certified in in Ne

J J

YEAR YEAR

students students were were

certified. certified.

Some Some

3,264 3,264

a~1-1m1m1man1~1~1-1~1 * 1 - 1 *

1 w 1~1

•

1~1~1-1m1

~ ~

was was in in

its its second second

year, year,

and and 837 837 ,...... ,...... ,...--,.-,--T"""-,--,----i-,---,-...,...--,,-,---,--...,...--,---, ,...... ,...... ,...--,.-,--T"""-,--,----i-,---,-...,...--,,-,---,--...,...--,---,

$0000 $0000 ..._ ...______

l l

Mandatory Mandatory Bowhunter Bowhunter Education Education

be be expanded expanded next next year. year.

out-of-state . . That That program, program, too, too, will will

adults adults planning planning to to hunt hunt big big game game

for for 1995. 1995. Hunter Hunter Ed Ed a l so so targeted targeted

spring spring and and fall fall classes classes are are planned planned

Omaha. Omaha. It It was was so so succe s sful sful that that

en - only only Hunter Hunter Ed Ed class class was was held held in in

were were initiated initiated in in 1994. 1994. The The first first wom

Two Two new new Hunter Hunter Ed Ed program s s

a c ros s s the the

state. state.

BOAT BOAT REGISTRATIONS REGISTRATIONS

were were c e rtified rtified at at 13 13 work s hops hops held held OPERATIONS & CONSTRUCTION

This division assists other divisions Gasoline and diesel fuel were Branched Oak SRA- Repaired with personnel and equipment for provided for agency vehicles from breakwater and fishing deck at Area construction, maintenance, transpor pumps at Y St. and included 35,951 11 and started construction of camp tation and warehouse services. Duties gallons of gasohol (40,777 in 1993), ground at Area 1. Installed 1,000- are assigned to two sections: 16,383 gallons of diesel (12,043 in gallon above-ground diesel fuel tank 1993), 102 quarts of oil (168) and with pump. Operations 240 gallons of antifreeze (261 ). Brownville SRA - Completed This unit handles the daily supervi Average cost per gallon was . 967 for flood damage repairs. ) sion, operation and maintenance of gasohol and .765 for diesel. Buffalo Bill Ranch SRA - Re unmanned areas. Responsibilities also Equipment purchased included: moved unwanted Russian olive trees j include the establishment of tree Dredge pump with 10-in. discharge from north and east river area, and nurseries and maintaining a tree vegetation cutter, pipe and hose, hauled stumps for burning. transplanting program, assisting with spud barge, barrel floats, auxilary con regulation enforcement, public fuel tank; 10-in. bucket for trencher; Calamus Reservoir-Construct tact relating to unmanned areas, and nail gun; rubber-tired roller/com ed boat storage building for Law providing and manning an equip pacter; three front deck mowers, skid Enforcement; accessible toilet for ment and material supply warehouse loader, miter saw, three 3/4-ton Gracie Creek area; brochure rack for for the Parks Division. pickups, float drums for boat docks Park Office and repaired standby generator_for hatchery. Construction several lakes, and laser printer. Prsonnel in this section are trained Chadron State Park - Built in construction and heavy mainte Road Maintenance entrance road and parking lot for nance skills to supervise and operate Personnel and equipment head new stable. Replaced 4" check valve heavy equipment and install and quartered in Lincoln, McCook, North in water system. maintain utility services. In addition, Platte, Fort Robinson, Wildcat Hills, Dead Timber SRA - Started personnel trained in building trades Valentine and Grand Island provided construction of a new campground and crafts supervise and assist with maintenance on over 300 miles of relocated from the flood plain to the construction, renovation, and repair agency non-hard surfaced roads and southeast corner of area. parking areas. of agency building facilities. Dogwood WMA - Shoreline to the Projects & Services repair and improvements General Activities Olmstead Addition. During 1994, the division main Projects and services provided to tained a staff of 31 full-time and 59 various areas included: Enders SRA- Upgraded selected surfaced roadways. Closed seasonal employees, compared to 32 Aksarben Aquarium - Installed trails to other trails. Provided parking for and 70 in 1993. Most seasonal work electric wiring and services to new beach and day use area. ers were hired at the job site or storage building. area to reduce travel State Exhibit Area - Construct maintenance Arcadia Diversion Dam - lodging costs. ed restroom addition to Hunter Edu and Removed two vault toilets and re division staff operated from cation Building. Completed repairs The placed with one handicap accessible 2200 N. 33rd and painting. offices and shops at double unit toilet. St., 3019 Apple St. and 3001 Y St. in Fort Atkinson SHP - Continued Atkinson SRA - Surfaced Butter Lincoln, plus North Platte, McCook, North wall barracks reconstruction. Fort Robinson and Grand Island. field Blue Bird Trail with chipped limestone, repaired picnic shelters Fort Hartsuff SHP- Constructed Transportation & Equipment with new roofs and concrete floors. TV storage cabinets. A wide variety of equipment, such Birdwood WMA - Made im Fort Kearny SHP -,- Completed as air compressors, water pumps, provements to road and parking lot the cleanup of trees and debris from tree spades, stump cutters, tar ket and surfaced with gravel. 1993 storm damage. tles, tr actors, trucks, and loaders, Bowring Ranch SHP - Renova Fort Robinson State Park - was provided to area superinten ted water system, including pitless Removed trees along Solider Creek, dents for temporary on numerous adapter on well, addition of valves Phase One of a Clean Water Project. projects. Bulk purchases of mainte and lowering water lines. New 30' x Replaced sidewalks at Park Lodge, nance supplies were delivered to the 60' maintenance shop was construct improved handicap access to main Lincoln Operations Shop, invento ed with materials purchased by the entrance of lodge with installation of ried, and transported to park areas. Game and Parks Foundation. automatic door openers. Constructed

21 1 ½ miles of gravel access road to flood; fabricated and installed metal Schramm Park SRA - Cleaned Soldier Creek, construction of gabion handrails for all steps on park side storm sewer, plugged along entire basket revetment wall to protect foot walks to meet ADA requirements; length with rock, washed off road. bridge over White River at the Ice built four shelters for playground and Poured concrete wall to repair water House ponds. restroom addition to theater for use leak from lower canyon pond. Re Fremont SRA - Constructed 24 x by playground visitors; completed placed concrete driveway in front of 36 storage building, removed trees major repairs to the dam and pump museum. Removed silt and graded to from day use areas, started construc ing station; added balusters to the drain the dry creek along west boun tion of new entrance to main camp railings on cabin decks. dary, removed fallen rock and debris ground and a new campground and Medicine Creek SRA - Con from geological display. jet ski launch area on lake #20. structed fireguard/controlled burn Shady Trail SRA - Installed Frye Lake WMA - Built ½ -mile access trail; installed riprap along culver, filled and graded to correct gravel entrance road with parking shoreline of campground. roadway erosion problems. area. Purchased Tri-lock concrete Niobrara State Park - Built Smith Falls State Park - Com segments to be used for boat ramp. and installed storage and display pleted construction of shower build Indian Cave State Park - units for office; installed siding on ing, group picnic shelter and Scout Completed the opening of road to storage building,; and began con shelter. Installed wood deck for su the cave, blocked by mud slides from struction of foot trail on old railway perintendents residence. 1993 rains. Constructed road and right-of-way. Summit Lake SRA - Removed parking lot to serve the new stable. Niobrara Landing - Repaired trees and cleaned up fenceline. Information & Education - flood damage to boat ramp, roads Swanson SRA- Placed riprap for Constructed 200 oak picture frames. and parking area. bank protection. Repaired flood Johnson Lake SRA - Removed Parks ~ Constructed 20 pit toilets damage to roads and parking areas. downed trees. at Y St. shop and delivered to areas. Two Rivers SRA- Installed septic Keller Park SRA - Placed riprap Pawnee SRA- Constructed 26' x tank, pumping station and field to along Bone Creek to protect foot 30' boat storage building for law renovate bathhouse sewer system. bridge. Installed culvert to correct Enforcement; completed interior of Wagon Train SRA - Installed road drainage problems and in office/maintenance building; installed new well with submersible pump, stalled pipe between ponds three 2,000' of water service, 2, 000-gallon pressure tank, concrete tank vault, and four to provide additional water. gasoline and 1, 000-gallon diesel electric service, waterline, seven above-ground tanks to service agen hydrants to serve dump station, Lake Mcconaughy SRA - Built cy vehicles. roads, stacking lanes and cul de sac campground and beach. for five new beach entrances, plus Pibel Lake SRA - Contracted Wildcat Hills SR A - Hauled fill kiosks for each entrance. Replaced removal of seven large cottonwoods. for entrance road and parking lots doors on all Cedar Vue toilets. Platte River State Park - for new Nature Center. Excavated Lake Minatare SRA-Construct Covered washed out section of pri rock and brule to footing elevation ed new gravel roads and parking for mary electric service. for Nature Center contractor. north camping area. Ponca State Park - Removed Wildlife - Constructed computer Lewis & Clark SRA - Built en old caulking, sandblasted and re work station, three standard and trance kiosk for Weigand area and caulked expansion joints in bottom three handicap accessible pit toilets. contracted for removal of under and sides of swimming pool. Re Willow Creek SRA - Built show ground gas tanks from Weigand placed well pump with new submers er/latrine building with $36,000 in Marina. ible in well for campground. Make materials donated by the lower minor restroom repairs as needed. Long Pine SRA - Replaced roofs Elkhorn NRD. on area picnic shelters and poured Red Willow SRA - Demolished Windmill SRA - Cleaned up new concrete slabs. two concrete block pit toilets, filled debris from storm damage. pits and landscaped. Capped three Louisville SRA - Installed six stock wells to meet Health Depart additional electric pedestals in east ment specifications. Installed riprap campground and completed clean up for bank protection. of trees and debris from 1993 storm. Rock Creek Hatchery - Built Mahoney State Park - Com addition to assistant superintendent's pleted addition to laundry building; residence. Removed material, deep constructed new bridge to tent area ened, reshaped and sloped ponds. to replace one washed out by 1993

22 PARKS .. The 88 state park areas across the .,., state offer a variety of outdoor recre ,/ . ,.,. . ation opportunities. Some parks offer Areas Quantity Water or Land Total modern campgrounds, cabins, swim Marsh Acres Acreage ming pools and trail rides, while at others visitors may enjoy the cultural State Parks 8 88 29,844 29,932 interpretation of a historic site. Still Recreation Areas 68 66,913 34,223 101,136 other opportunities include such things as boating and fishing at Ne Historical Parks 11 0 2,387 2,387 braska's many lakes, primitive camp Recreation Trails 1 0 3,893 3,893 ing in the Pine Ridge country and backpacking along the Missouri Riv TOTALS 88 67,001 70,347 137,348 er. Nebraska's park areas are man aged by four categories: beach signs at Lake McConaughy sources at Chadron State Park. Di (l) State Parks - Public use and Operation Game Thief signs for plodia Tip Blight, a serious disease of areas of significant scenic, scien Law Enforcement to routed trail signs coniferous trees, has severely impact tific and/or historical values and at Niobrara State Park. Directional ed the woodlands in the park. After of sufficient size to allow ade signs were made for various areas, assessment, a forest management quate development without in and the state fair was another major plan was drafted. An educational fringing on the primary values; activity. Sport Fish Restoration signs video was produced to explain the (2) State Recreation Areas - were constructed for Fisheries to be condition of the forest resources and Possess resource values primarily used at various project sites. the management plan which could associated with active outdoor improve the resources. recreation pursuits, day-use Snowmobile Trail Cash Fund Many trees at Fremont SRA were activities and camping. All the In 1981, the Commission estab damaged by wind and ice storms the state's major water-oriented lished a Snowmobile Land Leasing past two years. Horticulture staff, in areas fall in this classification; program using the Snowmobile Trail cooperation with Operations Divi (3) State Historical Parks - Cash Fund to provide additional sion, worked several weeks with Sites that have notable historical lands for public snowmobiling to major thinning and cleanup to im significance. supplement those trails established on prove the woodlands in several rec (4) State Recreation Trails - state recreation areas. The land reational sites. Staff designed and Linear corridors of statewide or leasing program is administered in helped implement numerous land regional significance for non cooperation with the Nebraska State scape projects at many parks and motorized recreational use; may Snowmobile Association (NSSA). Af recreation areas. Major projects be equipped with amenities and filiated clubs initiate contact with included: Campground shade tree support facilities appropriate to landowners for proposed land sites. replacement plantings at Medicine their intended use. Application for lease sites are then Creek SRA, Enders SRA, Windmill reviewed by the Snowmobile Adviso SRA, Kearny SRA, Fremont SRA, Park Planning ry Board. The board recommenda Chadron SP and Smith Falls SP; cabin Park planning is an effort to solve tions then go to the Commission for landscaping at Niobrara SP; latrine particular park design problems approval or disapproval. facility landscaping at Ponca SP, and through preparation of graphic de Private lands are leased for the screening of maintenance area at signs, descriptive narratives and period December l through April 30. Platte River SP. preliminary cost estimates for various Current rates have been established A Backyard Wildlife Habitat Dis park developments. In 1994, plan at a maximum of $2 per acre or play, the newest addition to the State ning work was performed for Platte $ l 00 per corridor mile trail l 00 feet Fairgrounds, was completed during River and Eugene T. Mahoney state wide. in the summer. An extensive display parks; Lake McConaughy, Fremont, of trees, shrubs, wildflowers and Dead Timber, Buffalo Bill and Lewis Horticulture & landscape grasses were planted and maintained & Clark state recreation areas, and "To promote the planting and by the horticulture staff to compli Arbor Lodge State Historical Park. proper care of trees, shrubs and ment the pool, benches, and ADA wildflowers in landscapes of Nebras accessible deck and trail developed Sign Shop ka State Park System," is the mission by the Wildlife, Outdoor Education The sign shop handled a variety of the Park Horticulture and Land and Operations divisions. of signs and displays from interior scape Program. Significant progress was made routed signs for Fort Hartsuff SHP to The staff assessed the forest re- with the wildflower and native grass

24 24

Lake, Lake, Crystal Crystal Lake, Lake, Atkinson Atkinson andria, andria,

878 878 39 39

125 125 88 88 49 49 Total Total Alex include; include; areas areas New New previously. previously.

assessed assessed

been been had had fee fee no no where where

56 56 482 482 20 20 16 16 4 4 Eastern Eastern

areas areas of of portions portions or or areas areas for for proved proved

180 180 47 47 25 25 48 48 23 23 Central Central ap were were fees fees camping camping New New

non-designated. non-designated. and and

ed ed

22 22 216 216 10 10 20 20 10 10

Northwest Northwest

designat areas, areas, beach beach on on containers containers

Positions Positions Positions Positions Areas Areas Areas Areas of of Areas Areas glass glass prohibit prohibit to to and and vehicles vehicles of of or or

exteri the the on on Permanent Permanent Temporary Temporary riding riding Unmanned Unmanned prohibit prohibit

to to Number Number lished lished Manned Manned Region Region

estab

were were

regulations regulations addition, addition, In In

...... · · bv bv · Region §tatt §tatt ·••· t

p~rk > > r r

• • t••••••·••·••••····•t••<•••• t••••••·••·••••····•t••<••••

<•·••·•••••

entities. entities. other other from from lease lease under under tered tered

adminis areas areas on on consumption consumption hol hol

Several Several season. season. recreation recreation main main alco on on ban ban the the is is importantly importantly most most offering offering areas areas Recreation Recreation and and Parks Parks

the the during during staff staff parks' parks' permanent permanent regulations, regulations, park park new new several several passed passed Historical Historical Parks, Parks, of of maintenance maintenance and and

the the assisted assisted employees employees seasonal seasonal Commissioners Commissioners of of Board Board The The operation operation administration, administration, for for funding funding

temporary temporary 878 878 Some Some areas. areas. ned ned signed. signed. provides provides 549 549 Program Program programs. programs.

unman 30 30 remaining remaining the the maintain maintain to to as programs programs the the on on work work separate separate began began two two under under administered administered are are

crews crews maintenance maintenance park park and and areas areas and and established established were were teams teams areas areas planning planning Recreation Recreation and and Park Park State State

recreation recreation other other to to assigned assigned are are tions tions planning, planning, strategic strategic of of area area Maintenance Maintenance the the & & In In Operations Operations

posi field field 23 23 remaining remaining The The areas. areas. Events Events

satellite satellite eight eight maintain maintain also also areas areas enforcement. enforcement. law law and and shows shows

Staffed Staffed positions. positions. field field permanent permanent 26) 26) P. P. on on chart chart (See (See crews. crews. park park sports sports tours, tours, stations, stations, check check deer deer

97 97 using using staff, staff, resident resident with with areas areas of of capabilities capabilities the the exceed exceed projects projects harvesting, harvesting, egg egg walleye walleye Areas, Areas, ment ment

recreation recreation and and park park 49 49 are are There There construction construction and and maintenance maintenance Manage when when Wildlife Wildlife 21 21 on on maintenance maintenance

people. people. 125 125 of of staff staff nent nent crews crews park park all all to to role role supporting supporting with with assist assist also also personnel personnel Park Park

perma a a by by maintained maintained are are areas areas a a plays plays which which Division Division Operations Operations areas. areas. several several

park park 88 88 The The employees. employees. l l seasona the the and and areas areas unmanned unmanned developed, developed, at at assisted assisted employees employees AARP AARP and and

11 11 and and permanent permanent 15 15 of of staff staff a a lesser lesser system's system's the the maintain maintain to to Thumb Thumb crews crews Green Green employees. employees. seasonal seasonal

have have Shop Shop Sign Sign and and Landscape Landscape ture, ture, park park funds funds 09 09 - 617 Program Program nel. nel. to to addition addition in in hosts hosts campground campground

Horticul Administration, Administration, Park's Park's person maintenance maintenance and and agement agement and and units units military military groups, groups, local local

Personnel Personnel man resident resident and and facilities facilities improved improved of of services services volunteer volunteer the the used used areas areas

1995. 1995. in in facility facility the the

$33,600 $33,600

TOTAL TOTAL

of of completion completion upon upon sometime sometime stalled stalled

4,350 4,350 SRA SRA in be be ISLAND ISLAND will will which which MORMON MORMON plan plan and and design design

the the in in included included was was region region Plains Plains

1,500 1,500

SRA SRA SHERMAN SHERMAN

High High the the to to indigenous indigenous materials materials

25,750 25,750 $ $ plant plant native native of of list list SP SP extensive extensive an an ty, ty, ROBINSON ROBINSON FORT FORT

facili the the of of potential potential educational educational the the

enhance enhance To To SRA. SRA. Hills Hills Wildcat Wildcat at at tion tion

construc under under Center Center Nature Nature and and

Visitor Visitor the the for for developed developed was was plan plan

landscape landscape maintenance maintenance low low A A

containers. containers.

in in grown grown seedlings seedlings

tree tree shade shade 1,200 1,200

75,000 75,000 $ $

$1,112,650 $1,112,650

TOTAL TOTAL

and and grade, grade, landscape landscape 1,200 1,200 bags;" bags;"

control control

"root "root in in

grown grown trees trees shade shade 200,000 200,000 ADA ADA for for 978 978 Improvements Improvements

caliper caliper 1,500 1,500 totaled: totaled: areas areas park park

60,000 60,000 Repair Repair Facility Facility 975 975 Emergency Emergency various various to to distributed distributed and and nurseries nurseries in in

produced produced were were shrubs shrubs and and Trees Trees

75,000 75,000 $ $ 125,000 125,000 969 969 SRA SRA Clark Clark & & Lewis Lewis

grasses. grasses. native native and and

200,000 200,000 SRA SRA 969 969 Mcconaughy Mcconaughy Lake Lake wildflowers wildflowers with with seeded seeded been been have have

acres acres 95 95 1990, 1990, in in program program the the of of

427,650 427,650

SP SP

967 967 Falls Falls Smith Smith

inception inception Since Since SRA. SRA. Oak Oak Branched Branched

100,000 100,000 $ $ General General - Areas Areas Park Park 900 900

and and SP, SP,

River River Platte Platte SRA, SRA, dmill dmill

Win SRA, SRA, Creek Creek Willow Willow SHP, SHP, Creek Creek

Cash Cash Federal Federal

Park Park

Area Area Program Program

Rock Rock SRA, SRA, Pine Pine Long Long SRA, SRA, Park Park Keller Keller

f f

ll~t ;

l l l

~If! ~If! f f t 1 1 1 ~ ~1 =~~~!i~S f f l! i ,Ji t .~

~~: ~~:

::11;;11 ::11;;11

I I SRA, SRA, Rivers Rivers Two Two SP, SP, < < , Mahoney Mahoney SP, SP,

Falls Falls Smith Smith at at completed completed were were jects jects

pro Seeding Seeding program. program. landscaping landscaping Olive Creek, Stagecoach, and Wag are unmanned. There are 53 report to help support park programs. on Train at $3 per night. Bluestem, ing areas in the system that contrib Park areas also sell hunting and Conestoga, Enders, Lon~ Pine, Mem ute most of the visitor totals. Some 33 fishing permits, habitat stamps, trout phis and Summit at S3 and $5. areas are credited with conservative stamps, publications and other items Brownville and Pelican Point at $5 lump-sum visitor estimates. One area purchased for resale. Income from and Lewis & Clark with $3 and $7. is closed to public access for develop these activities are deposited to their Primitive areas at Branched Oak, ment purposes during this reporting respective funds. Certain goods, Calamus, Keller Park, Lake McCon period. The tables show lodging and services and facilities are subject to aughy, Lake Minatare, Lake Ogallala camping reports and a 14-year histo applicable sales tax, state lodging and Pawnee are $3. A $2 late regis ry of area visitation with average tax and county lodging tax. tration fee was also approved. annual visits. Park cash income is also received The old marina operation on through Lincoln, Omaha and district Lewis and Clark Lake at the Weigand Income offices, Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium and public use area was removed and Camping, lodging, swimming and private permit vendors. Park income new docks installed. Construction is trail rides are typical activities for from these sources included $2,731 scheduled for 1995 on a new admin which fees are charged. Other park for resale, $141 for camping cou istration/sales building. income is derived from restaurant pons, $1,815,793.50 in entry Steps were installed by the Tele and concession sales, leases for cabin permits, and $538,174 from sale phone Pioneers at Smith Fall State sites, conservation practices, shelter of property, federal, state and local Park leading from the office down to rentals and private concession leases. reimbursements, investment interest the riverbank. Monies generated from these sources and gifts. Park Cash income from all The addition to Peter Kiewit Lodge are returned to the Park Cash Fund sources totaled $10,745,038. at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park was well under way, funded by a Program 61 7 -09 $ 1.5 million donation. A 146-acre ... tract was added on the west bound ary of the park. A 30-passenger trolley was donated by the founda APPROPRIATION PROGRAM 549 PROGRAM 617 tion to establish tour rides. General Fund 4,383,553 1,778,654 The Commission accepted title to the Chicago-Northwestern rail right Cash Fund 7,353,056 1,863,754 of-way from Norfolk to Chadron, TOTAL $11,736,609 $ 3,642,406 designated Cowboy Trail State Recre . ation Trail. Flooding necessitated closure of Dead Timber SRA in early June. Foot General Fund $ 4,358,265 $1,676,741 traffic was allowed, but the area has Cash Fund 7,034,848 1,788,177 remained closed to vehicle traffic. A new entrance road and campground TOTAL $ 11,393, 113 $ 3,464,918 are under construction. The area should reopen in the spring of 1995. . .. ) Willow Creek has a new show . ... ··•·····. >> er/latrine and dump station. PERSONAL SERVICES PROGRAM 549 PROGRAM 617 A new nature center is under con struction at Wildcat Hills SRA. Permanent $ 2,882,362 $ 1,057,012 Handicapped accessible fishing Temporary 2,410,298 565,866 piers were completed at Walgren and Lake Maloney SRA's. Benefits 1,002,057 347,699 ...... ··•· · · ...• .. ,•,•, ·.•.•.•.·.·.· ..·.·.·.-.-.-.-.-.-...... ·.·.·...... · ...... ·· .·.. ·.·.·.·.·.·.· .. ·.·. ·.· ...· · A 55-foot mast-lifting pole was ··•·••> •• ••••t•••••··•·• f&1t: installed at Branched Oak near the ... Lsv.1frot.Ati ·r ... ~ erz~4;111•·• t1\97o main ramp area. OTHER EXPENDITURES The interior roads and camping Operating Expenses 3,652,612 1,033,500 area at Rock Creek Station were and Supplies asphalted. Travel 21,249 66,810 Visitations Equipment 278,402 203, 118 Accurate counts of park visitors are difficult to obtain. Most areas have multiple entrances and nearly TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS $ 10,246,980 $ 3,274,007 half of the park and recreation areas

Iv Iv °' °'

CUMULATIVE CUMULATIVE

WAGON WAGON

WINDMILL WINDMILL

WILLOW WILLOW TWO TWO

34 34

MONIMLY MONIMLY WILDCAT WILDCAT

VICTORIA VICTORIA

SWANSON SWANSON

SUTHERLAND SUTHERLAND

SUMMIT SUMMIT

STAGECOACH STAGECOACH

SMITH SMITH

SHERMAN SHERMAN

SCHRAMM SCHRAMM

PONCA PONCA

PLATTE PLATTE

PAWNEE PAWNEE OLIVER OLIVER

OLIVE OLIVE

ROCK ROCK

LOUISVILLE LOUISVILLE

RED RED

MORMAN MORMAN NIOBRARA NIOBRARA

LEWIS LEWIS

MERRITT MERRITT

LAKE LAKE

MEDICINE MEDICINE

LAKE LAKE

JOHNSON JOHNSON

INDIAN INDIAN

CONESTOGA CONESTOGA

CHAMPION CHAMPION

FREMONT FREMONT CHADRON CHADRON

CALAMUS CALAMUS DEAD DEAD FORT FORT

FORT FORT

ASH ASH BOX BOX

BUFFALO BUFFALO

FORT FORT

ASHFALL ASHFALL BOWRING BOWRING

BRIDGEPORT BRIDGEPORT

FORT FORT

ARBOR ARBOR BLUESTEM BLUESTEM

BRANCHED BRANCHED FORT FORT

EUGE VISITATION VISITATION

ENDERS ENDERS

UNMANNED UNMANNED

WILLOW WILLOW

BUTTE BUTTE

HOLLOW HOLLOW

RIVERS RIVERS

MINATARE MINATARE

MCCONAUGHY MCCONAUGHY

MALONEY MALONEY

NE NE

ATKINSON ATKINSON

HARTSUFF HARTSUFF

CREEK CREEK KEARNY KEARNY

KEARNY KEARNY

TIMBER TIMBER

ROBINSON ROBINSON

CREEK CREEK

& &

FALLS FALLS

CAVE CAVE

SP SP

LODGE LODGE

RES RES

TRAIN TRAIN

RIVER RIVER

SRA SRA

CREEK CREEK

CLARK CLARK

SRA SRA

T. T.

SRA SRA

HILLS HILLS

SPRINGS SPRINGS

SHP SHP

ISLAND ISLAND

BILL BILL

SRA SRA

IUIAL IUIAL

SRA SRA

CREEK CREEK

SRA SRA

LAKE LAKE

SRA SRA

RANCH RANCH SRA SRA

SP SP

SRA SRA

MAHONEY MAHONEY

MILL MILL

OAK OAK

SRA SRA

TOTAL TOTAL

SRA SRA

SP SP

SRA SRA

SP SP

STATION STATION

SRA SRA

SRA SRA SRA SRA

SHP SHP

SRA SRA

SP SP

SRA SRA

SHP SHP

SRA SRA

AREAS AREAS

SHP SHP

SRA SRA

SHP SHP

SRA SRA

SHP SHP

SRA SRA

SHP SHP

SP SP

SRA SRA

SHP SHP

SRA SRA

SP SP

SHP SHP

177310 177310

1994 1994

JAN JAN

12432 12432

24850 24850

49858 49858

19016 19016

6596 6596

5250 5250

3280 3280

1000 1000

1225 1225

1000 1000

2982 2982

1500 1500

1050 1050

1746 1746

7500 7500

2073 2073

3774 3774

1050 1050

1435 1435

2300 2300 1764 1764

1400 1400

1500 1500

2334 2334

3000 3000

3500 3500 1000 1000

1500 1500

750 750

755 755

600 600

435 435 875 875

175 175

634 634

150 150

750 750

627 627

896 896

651 651

725 725

110 110

155 155

400 400

268 268

923 923

300 300

601 601

500 500

50 50

20 20

25 25

20 20

0 0

358863 358863

181554 181554

1994 1994

FEB FEB

12688 12688

27450 27450

11200 12418 12418 11200

39214 39214

19408 19408

6732 6732

4200 4200

7600 7600

1700 1700

1200 1500 1500 1200

1925 1050 1050 1925

1000 1500 1500 1000

2129 2129

1782 1782

5000 5000

2093 2093

1100 1100

3640 3640

1400 1400

1138 1138

1575 1750 1750 1575

1500 1500

2382 2382

3100 3100

1500 1500 3850 3850

1176 1176

2500 2500

550 550 770

100 100

444 444

875 875

175 175

995 995

220 220 647 647

780 780

933 933

285 285

950 950

185 185

400 400

200 200

273 273

942 942

350 350

614 614

500 500

90 90

25 25

68 68

0 0

612445 612445

253582 253582

MAR MAR

1994 1994

17750 17750

42900 42900

43190 43190

27152 27152

9418 9418

7000 7000

3300 3300

1078 1078

1100 1100

9060 9060

2800 2800

2493 2493

3125 3125

3287 3287

6000 6000

2240 2240 1850 1850

2389 2389 6367 6367 1465 1465

7371 7371

1230 1230

3040 3040

3500 3500

3400 3400

1525 1525 3332 3332

4725 4725 1600 1600

1302 1302

1166 1166

1319 1319

1000 1000

350 350

620 620

810 810

455 455

225 225

906 906

500 500

125 125

383 383

859 859

38 38

75 75

45 45

0 0

1110430 1110430

497985 497985

1994 1994 1994 1994

APR APR

18530 18530

20024 20024

34924 34924

41000 41000

15856 15856 72900 72900

14000 14000

55605 55605

13349 13349

53421 53421 11250 11250

15000 15000

2250 2250

2120 2120

2200 2200

2800 2800

3500 3500

1500 1500

2500 2500

1221 1221

4375 4375 3600 3600

3325 3325

4905 4905

4647 4647

8540 8540

7500 7500

1782 1782

5880 5880 2695 2695 1900 1900

3538 3538

1307 1307

4400 4400

5228 5228

5800 5800

4985 4985

3000 3000

6556 6556

1575 1575

6125 6125

3000 3000

2594 2594

1000 1000

1690 1690

500 500

259 259

700 700

500 500

550 550

753 753 666 666

161 161

0 0

2358251 2358251

1247821 1247821

120300 120300

MAY MAY 133699 133699

46376 46376

28000 28000

34932 34932

22750 22750

66500 66500

15000 15000

22500 22500

12276 12276 87405 87405

15680 15680

19954 19954

35000 35000

15500 15500

22890 22890

34000 34000 17057 17057

78456 78456

40250 40250 18209 18209

42000 42000

25375 25375

74242 74242

17592 17592

11950 11950

16474 16474

23058 23058

21000 21000 16409 16409

20000 20000

6400 6400

5306 5306

2500 2500

6650 6650 1500 1500

2159 2159

3055 3055

7700 7700

4460 4460

9118 9118

8100 8100

3000 3000

5200 5200

3398 3398

1700 1700

6493 6493 4500 4500

3500 3500 1884 1884

4228 4228

750 750

500 500

885 885

4039854 4039854

1681603 1681603

JUNE JUNE

117843 117843

125400 125400

1994 1994

114608 116235 116235 114608

180259 187218 187218 180259

62526 64940 64940 62526

21000 21000

44580 44580

26250 26250 11000 11000 11000 11000

54300 54300 10500 10500

31493 31493 16551 16551

24275 24275 65000 65000

33810 33810

59400 59400

49000 49000

78820 78820 22407 22407

52500 52500

84000 84000

79334 79334

15260 15260

26100 26100

22123 22977 22977 22123

12500 12500

38986 38986

35525 35525

12687 12687

20000 20000

9000 9000

3500 3500 3500 3500

7154 7154

8800 8800

9000 9000

5806 5806 4119 4119

6650 6650

8575 8575

2300 2300 6014 6014

8190 8190

5750 5750 2400 2900 2300 2300 2900 2400

5500 5500

6824 6824

5000 5000

2540 2540

8754 8754 4490 4490

7000 7000

5701 5701

500 500

5838733 5838733

1798879 1798879

122393 122393

JULY JULY

190116 190116

121500 119000 119000 121500

1994 1994

25200 25200

32292 32292

21000 21000

11653 11653

52450 52450

17190 17190

21199 21199

23675 22860 22860 23675 60000 60000

36615 36615

76500 76500

55880 55880 21480 21480

10325 10325

71000 71000

22326 22326

92922 92922 10500 11200 11200 10500

15550 15550

12600 12600

14963 14963

48552 48552

49000 49000

20000 21000 27000 27000 21000 20000

8500 8500

7430 6185 6185 7430

9900 9900

6300 6300

9500 9500

4278 4278

7525 7525 8190 8190

5000 5000

6246 6246

6750 6750

7550 7550

9448 9448

2638 2638 8000 8000

3260 3260

9092 9092

7500 7500

5921 5921

200 200

7292692 7292692

1453958 1453958

101887 101887

115885 115885

1994 1994

AUG AUG

155852 155852

54060 54060

19250 10500 10500 19250

20972 20972

10500 10500

39600 39600

14310 14310

16369 16369

50000 50000

27222 27222

82620 82620

98002 98002

69000 69000 14839 10329 10329 14839

16256 16256

23104 23104

84448 84448

38000 38000

12600 12600

31496 31496

29750 29750 29750 29750 19128 12186 12186 19128

7000 7000

7500 7500

4375 4375 9500 9500

3562 3562 8606 8606

5775 5775

6125 6125

4980 4980

3500 3500

5199 5199

6825 6825

3900 3900

7250 7250

7092 7092

5512 5512

2196 2196

2660 2660

2834 2834 7568 7568

8000 8000

4929 4929

875 875

500 500

8218615 8218615

925923 925923

SEPT SEPT

1994 1994

34442 34442

23240 23240

64913 64913

17570 15500 15500 17570

11519 19278 19278 11519

55000 55000

24510 24510

33690 33690 16075 16075

83838 83838

22085 22085 98225 98225

22476 22476 13000 13000

76346 73850 73850 76346

13860 13860

14660 14660 99294 99294

2500 2500

3941 3941

1500 1500 8100 8100

3150 3150

1200 1200

2269 2269

2906 2906

5000 5000 2975 2975

4700 4700

9117 9117

3710 3710

2500 2500

3313 3313

5950 5950

3200 3200

6650 6650

2890 2890

4358 4358

5700 5700 4500 4500

2540 2540

1200 1200 3000 3000

3140 3140

4822 4822

4000 4000

1399 1399

200 200

985 985

8747850 8747850

529236 529236

1994 1994

OCT OCT

19686 19686

15012 15012

37102 37102

15000 15000

32601 32601

51000 51000

10050 10050

56754 56754

10500 10500

50000 50000

7000 7000

2252 2252 1000 1000

1400 1400 5250 5250

2500 2500

2100 2100 5211 5211

1297 1297

4900 4900

2870 2870

8810 8810

2807 2807

1893 1893

5925 5925

3490 3490

8788 8788

1855 1855

7700 7700

8600 8600

8160 8160

6965 6965

1100 1100

2170 2170 1500 1500

4550 4550

1233 1233

2756 2756

2000 2000

1795 1795

833 833

250 250

341 341

300 300

800 810 810 800

450 450

200 200

821 821

800 800

230 230

0 0

9027342 9027342

279492 279492

1994 1994

NOV NOV

10404 10404

19608 19608

10000 10000

15300 15300

27443 27443

49875 49875

11000 11000

29994 29994

7000 7000

9800 9800

1100 1100

5250 5250 1190 1190

1260 1260

2000 2000

4500 4500

2754 2754

2150 2150 5240 5240

1575 1575

1225 1225

4855 4855

2747 2747

1001 1001

4288 4288

2905 2905

1260 1260

6524 6524

6612 6612

3500 3500

7300 7300

3681 3681

1250 1250

4200 4200

1260 1260

1250 1250

1457 1457

1200 1200

550 550

350 350

685 685

240 240

200 200

165 165

450 450

423 423

949 949

500 500 500 500

77 77

75 75

60 60

0 0

9196318 9196318

168976 168976

1994 1994 1994 1994

DEC DEC

11855 11855

44625 44625

12000 12000

18134 18134

6290 6290

4500 4500

6300 6300

1125 1125

3850 3850

1500 1500

1400 1400

1665 1665 3855 3855

1852 1852

1850 1850

8000 8000

2345 2345 1355 1355

1916 1916

4539 4539 1080 1080

1207 1207

3073 3073

1750 1750

1900 1900

1500 1500

2226 2226

3000 3000

3850 3850

1200 1200

500 500 720 720

640 640

414 414

301 301

210 210 605 605

980 980

925 925 200 200

130 130

100 100

450 450

256 256

881 881

700 700

574 574

50 50

0 0

9196318 9196318

TOTAL TOTAL

340000 340000

151150 151150

227092 227092

122625 122625

219630 219630

640800 640800

141952 141952

324000 324000

123305 123305

292005 292005

153622 153622

592419 592419 211107 211107

308040 308040

830825 830825

342603 342603 152775 152775

180249 180249

853533 853533

114550 114550

202002 202002

120300 120300

980200 980200

195825 195825

176000 176000 39350 39350

22133 22133

38900 38900

34850 34850

53350 53350

84875 84875

60000 60000

22400 22400 31845 31845

90000 90000

53082 53082 44656 44656

32700 32700

16095 16095

56666 56666

95206 95206

59325 59325

26195 26195

49625 49625

63108 63108

30889 30889

13700 13700 35183 35183

47600 47600 36550 36550

31000 31000 13812 13812

12914 12914 3700 3700 CABINS REGIS- PARTICI- CABIN AVE PART AVE DAYS TRATIONS PANTS DAYS PER REG PER PART CHADRON 840 3326 11713 3.96 3.52 ETM CABIN 4069 22787 72135 5.60 3.17 ETM LODGE 4254 15313 43612 3.60 2.85 FORT ROB CAB 1254 9071 34741 7.23 3.83 FORT ROB LODGE 1568 3989 10865 2.54 2.72 NIOBRARA 1007 4569 15085 4.54 3.30 PLATTE RIVER 3052 15485 54281 5.07 3.51 PONCA 494 1850 6702 3.74 3.62 TWO RIVERS 332 1554 4048 4.68 2.60 VICTORIA SPRINGS 64 279 945 4.36 3.39

TOTALS 16934 78223 254127 4.62 3.25

CAMPING REGIS- PARTICI- CAMPING AVE PART AVE DAYS TRATIONS PANTS DAYS PER REG PER PART ATKINSON SRA 145 357 906 2.46 2.54 BRANCHED OAK SRA 5390 17640 50072 3.27 2.84 CALAMUS SRA 2420 8181 21235 3.38 2.60 CHADRON SP 3087 9212 20950 2.98 2.27 DEAD TIMBER SRA 0 0 0 0.00 0.00 ENDERS 590 1356 4258 2.30 3.14 ET MAHONEY 6644 21647 63556 3.26 2.94 FORT KEARNY SRA 4475 13144 31957 2.94 2.43 FORT ROBINSON SP 4480 12102 30023 2.70 2.48 FREMONT SRA 6663 23760 58358 3.57 2.46 INDIAN CAVE SP 6265 16670 44667 2.66 2.68 JOHNSON LAKE SRA 4557 15683 53912 3.44 3.44 KELLER 375 1002 2486 2.67 2.48 LAKE MALONEY SRA 755 1331 3342 1.76 2.51 LAKE MCCONAUGHY 2521 9378 26133 3.72 2.79 LAKE MINATARE 1182 3197 7914 2.70 2.48 LAKE OGALLALA SRA 3091 8623 23932 2.79 2.78 LOUISVILLE SRA 8149 23865 48324 2.93 2.02 MEDICINE CREEK SRA 1258 4112 11629 3.27 2.83 MORMAN ISLAND SRA 3859 12521 24087 3.24 1.92 NIOBRARA SP 1365 4312 11041 3.16 2.56 PAWNEE SRA 3785 12551 32645 3.32 2.60 PONCA SP 2574 9000 23466 3.50 2.61 RED WILLOW SRA 770 2829 7317 3.67 2.59 ROCK CREEK STATION 1108 2263 5518 2.04 2.44 SMITH FALLS SP 727 4682 11967 6.44 2.56 SWANSON SRA 1156 2891 7516 2.50 2.60 TWO RIVERS SRA 4843 15694 39015 3.24 2.49 VICTORIA SPRINGS 906 2639 6466 2.91 2.45 WILLOW CREEK SRA 1201 3827 9369 3.19 2.45 WINDMILL SRA 2974 8015 18183 2.70 2.27

TOTALS 87315 272484 700244 3.12 2.57

28 28

late late summer. summer.

es) es) were were still still being being added, added, but but the the trail trail opened opened for for use use in in

...... <.. <.. AJ . 4 4 River. River. Finishing Finishing touches touches . . (grading, (grading, ...... ··· ··· .. •• . • . . TOT~~ TOT~~ terracing, terracing, stone stone bench 1 ...... / / ......

of of its its confluence confluence with with the the Missouri Missouri National National Recreational Recreational

Other Other

49 49

offering offering fishing fishing in in the the Niobrara Niobrara River River and and a a scenic scenic view view

Consultants Consultants 26 26 Breaux Breaux project project to to deck deck and and rail rail the the angler angler bridge, bridge,

Niobrara Niobrara State State Park. Park. This This was was combined combined with with a a Wallop Department Department of of Agriculture Agriculture 26 26

railway railway bridges, bridges, a a trailhead trailhead and and two two miles miles of of trail trail at at

Natural Natural Resources Resources 1 1 Commission Commission

Fund Fund Act Act allocation allocation of of $98,245 $98,245 to to deck deck and and rail rail two two low low

Game Game

and and

Parks Parks

16 16

Planning Planning administered administered the the National National Recreation Recreation Trail Trail

braskans braskans six six years years of of age age and and over. over. Department Department of of 87 87 Roads Roads

"walking" "walking" and and 43.7 43.7 million million for for the the "bicycling" "bicycling" for for Ne

Department Department of of Environmental Environmental Quality Quality

45 45

occasions, occasions, with with over over 100 100 million million of of

these these uses uses being being

Department Department of of 71 71 Water Water Resources Resources

(NASIS) (NASIS) summary summary showed showed an an estimated estimated 196 196 million million trail trail

Corps Corps of of Engineers Engineers 112 112 The The 1994 1994 Nebraska Nebraska Annual Annual Social Social Indicators Indicators Survey Survey

future future use use as as a a rail, rail, utility utility or or

other other transportation transportation

use. use.

REQUESTED REQUESTED BY BY TOTAL TOTAL

state state Commerce Commerce Commission Commission for for trail trail use, use, with with a a possible possible

< < ...... PIJ.Q..l~C:T.R:~'l'fEWS PIJ.Q..l~C:T.R:~'l'fEWS t t F'IJ.Q(.:t$$~Q F'IJ.Q(.:t$$~Q miles miles of of rail-trail rail-trail to to preserve preserve the the corridor corridor with with the the Inter

agreement. agreement. It It allows allows 80 80 miles miles of of rail-with-trail rail-with-trail and and 241 241

gered gered or or threatend threatend

species. species.

Northwestern Northwestern Railway Railway Co. Co. with with a a three-way three-way master master

classified, classified,

65. 65.

Of Of the the total total requests, requests, 189 189 involved involved endan NEBKOTA NEBKOTA Shortline Shortline Railroad Railroad and and the the Chicago Chicago and and

111, 111, I, I, 63; 63; Class Class II, II, 16; 16; Class Class 19; 19; Class Class IV, IV, 10, 10, and and not not The The Rails-to-Trails Rails-to-Trails Conservancy Conservancy assisted assisted the the governor, governor,

the the 414 414 projects, projects, 173 173 involved involved stream stream classifcations: classifcations: Class Class Western Western "Cowboy "Cowboy Line" Line" in in particular. particular.

tions, tions, 33 33 no no action action and and 246 246 sign-off sign-off or or no no comment. comment. Of Of the the railbanking railbanking of of the the 321-mile 321-mile Chicago Chicago and and North North

volved volved comment comment with with response, response, 60 60 comment comment with with condi support support for for Nebraska Nebraska trail trail planning planning in in general general and and for for

There There were were 414 414 project project reviews reviews processed; processed; 75 75 in State State of of Nebraska, Nebraska, which which prompted prompted much much praise praise and and

provide provide input input on on the the effect effect on on fish fish and and wildlife wildlife habitat. habitat. Network Network of of Discovery: Discovery: A A Comprehensive Comprehensive Trails Trails Plan Plan for for the the

posed posed developments developments affecting affecting streams streams and and wetlands wetlands and and with with the the research, research, public public hearings hearings and and publication publication A A of of

allows allows the the agency, agency, along along with with others, others, to to evaluate evaluate pro emphasis emphasis on on Special Special Issue Issue No. No. 5 - 5 TRAILS. TRAILS. Staff Staff assisted assisted

The The "404" "404" Permit Permit program, program, administered administered by by the the Corps Corps Recreation Recreation Plan Plan (SCORP) (SCORP) continued continued on on schedule, schedule, with with

Department Department of of Roads. Roads. Updating Updating the the Nebraska Nebraska State State Comprehensive Comprehensive Outdoor Outdoor

Nebraska Nebraska Natural Natural Resources Resources Commission Commission and and Nebraska Nebraska Comprehensive Comprehensive Planning Planning

Soil Soil Conservation Conservation Service, Service, Bureau Bureau of of Reclamation, Reclamation,

projects projects proposed proposed by by the the U.S. U.S. Army Army Corps Corps of of Engineers, Engineers, program program in in Nebraska. Nebraska.

Commission Commission staff staff evaluated evaluated potential potential benefits benefits of of new new and and improved improved outdoor outdoor recreation recreation facilities facilities under under this this

Resource Resource Monitoring Monitoring and and local local communities communities have have invested invested nearly nearly $75 . million million in in

Over Over the the past past 30 30 years, years, the the federal federal government, government, state state

near near completion. completion. ed ed to to Commission Commission projects. projects.

The The third, third, 84th 84th and and MoPac MoPac East East trailhead trailhead project, project, was was sponsored sponsored projects. projects. Some Some 40% 40% or or $100,951 $100,951 was was allocat

mile mile each each of of the the Dannebrog Dannebrog and and the the MoPac MoPac East East trails. trails. 60% 60% or or $163,250 $163,250 went went to to nine nine local local government

first-year first-year matching matching grant grant projects projects wer e e co mpleted mpleted - one In In fiscal fiscal 1994, 1994, Nebraska Nebraska received received $264,201 $264,201 of of which which

Assistanc e e Act Act 10 - year year authorization. authorization. T wo wo of of the the three three leases leases with with about about 85% 85% coming coming from from off -s hore hore leases . .

its its mandated$ mandated$ 100, 100, 000/year 000/year Nebraska Nebraska Trai l l Development Development federa l l property property and and revenue revenue from from off-shore off-shore petroleum petroleum

The The Legislature Legislature did did not not fund fund a a second second or or third third recreation recreation year year of of areas. areas. LWCF LWCF is is supported supported by by sa l e e of of surpl u s s

corridor corridor of of undisturbed undisturbed habitat. habitat. planning, planning, acquisition acquisition and and development development of of pub li c c outdoor outdoor

of of railbanking railbanking is is the the preservation preservation of of an an over over 100 - year year states states old old and and their their oiia subdivis political ion s s for for comprehe n s iv e e

of of Nebra ska, ska, where where population population as as amended, amended, loss loss provides provides is is se rious. rious. 50 A A % % bonus bonus federa l l grants - in-aid in-aid to to the the

nomic nomic development development potential potential The The Land Land in in the the and and northwest-central northwest-central Water Water Conservation Conservation tier tier Fund Fund Act Act of of 1965, 1965,

Land Land and and Support Support Water Water was was Conservation Conservation good good - especially especially Fund Fund for for the the rura l l and and eco

focus focus me etings etings in in co mmuniti es es along along the the right-of-way. right-of-way.

mental mental Phase Phase review review II II of of extensio federally federally n n of of assisted assisted same same was was developments. developments. submitted submitted after after pub lic lic

rev i ew, ew, railbanked railbanked water water resource resource Chicago Chicago project project and and North-western North-western monitoring monitoring and and Co wboy wboy e nviron Line. Line. A A

co mpr e h e n s ive ive planning, planning, special special hancement hancement studies, studies, local local grants grants planning planning for for Phase Phase I I of of two two projects projects on on the the

federal federal grant grant programs, programs, state state trail trail development development program, program, dal dal Surface Surface Transportation Transportation Efficiency Efficiency Act Act (ISTEA) (ISTEA) en

Major Major responsibilities responsibilities include include administration administration of of several several Successful Successful applications applications were were made made for for federal federal lntermo

PLANNING PLANNING & & PROGRAMMING PROGRAMMING A major effort in 1994 involved the continuing review During 1994 these programs totaled about $5 million · ohhe Federal Energy Regulatory Commission relicensing for Nebraska fish and wildlife surveys and inventories, of hydropower facilities on the Platte River - Kingsley research, land acquisition, development and mainte Hydro, Lake McConaughy and the Central Nebraska nance, technical assistance, hunter education training and Public Power and Irrigation District {Tri-County) . aquatic resource education. Federal grants totaled Nebraska continues to participate in the Missouri River $2,214,794 for fisheries projects and $2,867,020 for Mitigation Project Steering Committee with three other wildlife activities. states to address environmental concerns surrounding the When a project is approved, the work is performed at channelized Missouri River from Sioux City to St. Louis . state expense, with 75% eligible for federal reimburse Corps of Engineers, with assistance from the U.S. Fish ment. Since their inception, these programs have contrib and Wildlife Service and the four state conservation uted more than $75 million to sport fish and wildlife agencies, will evaluate land/water units that may poten programs in Nebraska. tially improve habitat for fish, migratory waterfowl, furbearers and other wildlife. Possible sites for restoration are evaluated and ranked, then forwarded to the Corps. Chute restoration {flow-through), dike modifications and water-level controls are among features under consider ation. The Corps began to acquire land for some of these projects, and plans are bing designed for review. Con struction on some prolect may begin in 1995. Several Soil Conservation Service small watershed LANDACQ. projects, Natural Resources District proposals in a ADMINIS number of communities across the state, power-line corri dor studies, airport facility development and numerous state/ county highway and bridge projects were among ongoing activities requiring Commission participation.

DEV&MAINT LANDACQ.

SURVEYS ETC. 1994 FISHERIES GRANTS -- $2,214,794

Library ADMINIS. The agency library continues to supply information needs for other divisions in a variety of areas, particularly HUNTER ED fish and wildlife. Searches for bibliographic information are done on fish and fisheries world-wide, wildlife world wide species information library and other CD-ROMs. These CDs cover the world's literature and life histories on 7,200 North American species of fauna. During 1994, over 200 journal searches were done 1994 WILDLIFE GRANTS -- $2,867,020 using the CDs, the Nebraska Library Commmission and the Fish and Wildlife . Reference Service . . Nearly 100 books were obtained through inter-library loans through Fed~ral Aid to Fish and Wildlife Restoration the Library Commission, which pays for all searching and T~e Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937 other services. and the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Act of 1950 New books, journals and reprints were added to the I are companion programs to provide financial assistance agency's cataloged collection. Microfiche were used to to st6tes for restoration activities. Administered by the preserve agency annual reports and old soil survey maps. 1 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Wildlife Program is funded by an 11 o/o excise tax on arms and ammunition and a 10% excise tax on handguns and archery equip ment, while money for the Sport Fish Program comes from a 10% excise tax on fishing tackle and equipment.

29 REALTY One of the most important roles of this division is its service to other divisions in legal record keeping, negotia 1994 ACQUISITIONS tions, appraisals, leasing and acquisition. STATE PARK AREAS Realty is involved in land acquisitions, appraisals, lease renewals, payments and cancellations, appraisal AREA COUNTY ACRES reviews, negotiations and public hearings. Activities Arbor Lodge addition Otoe 7.01 carried on during the year included: Mahoney Park addition Cass 107.64 • 25 appraisals reviewed - 9 under contract and 16 by staff. Four staff appraisals were done for the Land WILDLIFE MANAGEMENT AREAS and Water Conservation Fund. Fuhrman Cuming 219.77 • 21 tracts were appraised - 10 contracted and 11 by Alexandria addition Jefferson 316.37 , , staff. Three of the tracts was purchased during the year, with options to purchase six others. The re Alexandria addition Jefferson 120.00 mainder are in various stages of negotiation or are no Jack Sinn addition Lancaster 9.00 longer being considered for acquisition. Almeria Meadows Loup 272.20 • 9 tracts taken before the Habitat Committee or Fish Silver Creek Merrick 216.67 Access Committee and Administration were turned down for acquisition. Twin Lakes RC Rock 143.10 • 132 tracts have been purchased and designated Kiowa addition Scotts Bluff 179.30 wildlife management areas since 1977, when the Prairie Marsh West Thayer 73.16 Habitat Program began. • Taxes and in-lieu of taxes amounted to $100,738.98 TOTAL 1,664.22 on 29,105.11 acres in 41 counties. Public hearings were held on all acquisitions as re quired by state law.

Leases The Commission currently leases 75 areas through the Realty Division at an annual cost of $134,743.86 See chart for recap of leases and their costs.

1994 LEASES LEASE LOCATION COST

Accessway $ 420.00 14 canoe campsites 3,377.00 Habitat, fisheries, grazing and 44,519.86 recreation areas Office space in Omaha and Kearney 9,540.00 23 storage areas 26,424.60 18 radio towers 13,672.40 Work areas 35,550.00 Hanger space 900.00 Post Office boxes 340.00 TOTAL 134,743.86

30 WILDLIFE

On January 6, 1994, the Board of and resources being served. Hopeful Land acquisitions proceeded at a Commissioners approved combining ly those outside the agency will no pace commensurate with budget and the Wildlife and Resource Services tice an improvement in the services meeting the goals of the l 0-year divisions into a single group to be as well as enhancement of wildlife acquisition plan. called the Wildlife Division. The two and habitat resources. former divisions had similar missions, With only one year into the reor Efforts To Retain CRP which resulted in some overlap of ganization, the full effects are yet to + Formed a working group, which duties and activities. be recognized. However, the division included private sector participa Primary goals of the reorganiza experienced many program successes tion, to formulate a strate tions are improved abilities to meet in 1994. gic/operational plan. the need of wildlife and resource + Partnered with the Wildlife Man management, especially on private WHIP Highlights agement Institute & Legacy Group lands, and improvement in the effi The Wildlife Habitat Improvement for direct editorial and financial ciency with which services are deliv Program continued to be strong, partnership in national publica ered and the quality of these servic increasing in popularity. tions. es. + Requests from NRD's were at an + Correspondence with staffers and The new Wildlife Division has four all-time high. Congressional delegation to pro operating sections: + Enrollment in the Public Access vide ideas, which were adopted in • Administrative - coordinates Option was at an all-time high federal legislation introduced. administrative support, including (35.3%). + Produced and distributed three planning, budgeting, federal aid quality in-house publications liaison, employee training and Shelterbelt Program which are now being used nation computer support. Popularity skyrocketed and coor ally for CRP information. • Programs - administers the dination with the State Forest Service + Created 30,000-name data base private lands habitat program was never better - 5 more miles of of hunters/dog trainers with subse and coordinates habitat improve windbreaks were added. quent regionalized mailings solicit ment activities on public lands not ing support. The Commission was owned or controlled by the agen Wetlands Initiative Program an originator of this concept for cy. In addition, this section pro Development projects expanded this purpose and was emulated by vides regional coordination of at an increasing rate and hundreds other states. resource issues and habitat evalu of acres of wetlands were re + Participation in public forums ation. stored/protected in 1994. including special invitations from • Technical - manages state the Western Governor's Associa wildlife management areas, con Wetland Reserve Program tion for input because of recog ducts wildlife field surveys, depre The most intensive coordinated nized contribution potential. dation responses and provides effort in division history was under + Contributions to major CRP re regional recommendations for taken with the SCS, ASCS and search efforts. seasons/bags and regulations. This USFWS to develop, promote and + Provided articles to major publica section also coordinates the ad implement this program in Nebraska. tions, such as Quail Unlimited ministrative regulations for the Hundreds of man-days of effort were Magazine. division. spent to develop state criteria, con + Participated with UNL in major • Research, Analysis and tact wetland owners, evaluate ten study - CRP contract-holder Inventory - handles wildlife dered wetlands and develop man intentions - provided financial research and forensics and species agement plans. Coordinated partner support and authored questions. programs oversight, including ships among Wildlife, SCS and ASCS game, nongame, threatened and were developed and have never Wildlife Forensic Laboratory endangered species and wildlife been better. Major efforts were expended to heritage. increase and upgrade the capacity of While a number of the changes Land Acquisition the Commissions laboratory. To this focused internally on how division The division administrator chaired end, a foremost DNA microbiologist employees work with each other, the a combined aquatic and terrestrial was hired on a temporary basis. The basic intent has been directed toward habitat committee, which developed wildlife lab facitilty was revamped how to work· better with the people Criteria for Tract Evaluation. and equipped for DNA analysis at a

32 32

indications indications were were that that the the bird bird popula-

TOTAL TOTAL $499,000.00 $499,000.00

regional regional hail hail and and heavy heavy rains. rains. All All

Internship Internship for for waterfowl waterfowl assistance assistance work work

2,000.00 2,000.00

period period was was fairly fairly normal normal with with only only

mal,and mal,and the the summer summer production production Adopt Adopt A A WMA WMA other other volunteer volunteer & & services services 22,000.00 22,000.00

cold cold periods. periods. Spring Spring was was near near nor

space space

for for

wildlife wildlife

DNA DNA

analysis analysis

out out any any major major storms storms or or extended extended

UNL UNL

CSU CSU agreements agreements

& &

to to share share

equipment equipment

and and lab lab 100,000.00 100,000.00

Wnter Wnter 1993-94 1993-94 was was fairly fairly mild mild with

under under agreement agreement with with SCS SCS on on upland upland game game bird bird populations. populations.

Engineering Engineering work work on on wetland wetland restorations restorations projects projects 25,000.00 25,000.00 weather weather did did not not have have a a major major effect effect

For For the the first first time time in in several several years, years, work work at at Prairie Prairie Marsh Marsh WMA WMA

Upland Upland & & Small Small Game Game Ducks Ducks Unlimited Unlimited contribution contribution for for wetland wetland restortion restortion 20,000.00 20,000.00

NGPC NGPC Foundation Foundation funds funds for for wetland wetland projects projects 65,000.00 65,000.00

previous previous year. year.

USFWS USFWS grant grant for for field field work work on on Kiowa Kiowa WMA WMA cess cess was was 53% 53% compared compared 20,000 20,000 to to 50% 50% the the

archers archers successful. successful.

Fall Fall

shotgun shotgun suc

Nature Nature Conservancy Conservancy and and NRDs NRDs

gun gun

permittees permittees

and and 20% 20% of of

1,736 1,736

restoration restoration from from USFWS, USFWS, Environmental Environmental Trust, Trust, NRCS, NRCS,

past past few few years years 40% 40% with with

of of 9,815 9,815 Equipment, Equipment, labor labor cost cost share share for for sandhill sandhill & & stream stream 100,000.00 100,000.00

Spring Spring hunting hunting was was similar similar

to to the the

BOR BOR wetland wetland surveys surveys on on Jack Jack Sinn Sinn Pintail Pintail WMAs WMAs & &

10,000.00 10,000.00

1980' s. s.

erally erally facilities facilities below below on on the the wildlife wildlife highs highs areas areas of of the the late late

Bureau Bureau of of Reclamation Reclamation were were average. average. grant grant Populations Populations for for handicap handicap are are fishing fishing gen 50,000.00 50,000.00

except except for for 1991 1991 and and 1993, 1993, which which

GIS GIS equipment equipment from from State State Surveyer Surveyer and and USFWS USFWS

$ $ 85,000.00 85,000.00

it it has has been been below below normal normal since since then then

ITEM ITEM AMOUNT AMOUNT Production Production was was excellent excellent in in 1987, 1987, but but

with with

weather weather generally generally favorable. favorable.

COST-SAVING COST-SAVING MEASURES MEASURES - 1994 1994

Production Production was was normal normal in in 1994, 1994,

$60,000. $60,000. Temporary Temporary GIS GIS staffing staffing 7,045. 7,045. 24% 24% and and to to ML ML hunters hunters have have Turkey Turkey

ment ment and and support support with with a a value value of of 15,104 15,104 and and muzzleloader muzzleloader hunters hunters by by

reached reached with with USFWS USFWS for for GIS GIS but but equip archers archers increased increased by by 9% 9% to to were were taken taken by by 441 441 permittees. permittees.

A A cooperative cooperative agreement agreement was was season) season) because because of of permit permit limitations, limitations, open open in in 1994, 1994, and and 360 360 pronghorn pronghorn

alent alent savings savings of of $28,500. $28,500. remain remain constant constant (55,316 (55,316 regular regular allow allow herd herd recovery. recovery. Four Four units units were were

State State Surveyor's Surveyor's office office with with firearm firearm an an equiv seasons. seasons. Firearm Firearm hunters hunters arm arm hunting hunting has has been been limited limited to to

secured secured a a GIS GIS work work station station from from zleloader, zleloader, and and 804 804 during during special special 492 492 in in 1993, 1993, and and 526 526 in in 1994. 1994. Fire

Legislative Legislative Steering Steering Committee Committee 4, 4, and and son; son; 150 150 by by archery, archery, 3,050 3,050 muz 1984 1984 to to 263 263 in in 1991, 1991, 412 412 in in 1992, 1992,

needs needs assessment assessment agreement agreement 33, 33, 085 085 with with during during regular regular firearm firearm sea years years from from a a previous previous high high of of 175 175 in in

Group Group coordinated coordinated a a cooperative cooperative year. year. Total Total take take was was 41,089 41,089 deer deer - increased increased substantially substantially in in recent recent

An An intra-divisional intra-divisional GIS GIS creased creased Working Working slightly slightly over over the the previous previous permittees. permittees. Archery Archery participation participation has has

Establishment Establishment of of Agency Agency GIS GIS Hunter Hunter success success and and harvest harvest in cess, cess, with with 61 61 antelope antelope taken taken by by 526 526

Deer Deer Archery Archery hunters hunters scored scored 12% 12% suc

January January 1995. 1995. Research Research & & Management Management below below desired desired numbers. numbers.

be be presented presented to to the the Commission Commission in in with with the the remainder remainder of of the the range range well well

feedback. feedback. The The plan plan is is scheduled scheduled to to work. work. o/o o/o 61 61 were were in in the the North North Sioux Sioux Unit, Unit,

cities cities to to introduce introduce concept concept and and get get for for non-paid non-paid internships internships pronghorns pronghorns for for field field in in the the Panhandle. Panhandle. About About

public public sessions sessions were were held held in in four four students students were were successfully successfully Estimates Estimates recruited recruited showed showed about about 4,200 4,200

landowners landowners in in affected affected areas, areas, and and savings savings in in time time and and money, money, lope lope numbers numbers and and decreased decreased about about 13% 13%

ment ment Plan. Plan. Staff Staff met met with with individual individual processing processing resulting resulting Aerial Aerial surveys surveys in in significant significant indicate indicate that that ante

sentation sentation to to develop develop an an Elk Elk Manage Volunteers Volunteers were were recruited recruited Antelope Antelope for for data data

lished lished with with outside outside stakeholder stakeholder savings. savings. repre

An An elk elk planning planning team team was was estab substantial substantial dollar dollar and and personnel personnel 1993. 1993.

Elk Elk Management Management Plan Plan southeast southeast Nebraska, Nebraska, resulting resulting from from 3,269 3,269 in in in in 4,309 4,309 1990 1990 to to in in

unteer unteer program program was was established established 1987 1987 and and in in 1993 1993 deer deer losses losses varied varied

$500,000. $500,000. An An "Adopt "Adopt a a Wildlife Wildlife Area" Area" ytlt ytlt available. available. vol However, However, between between

estimates estimates from from Volunteer Volunteer USFWS USFWS Laboratory Laboratory Programs Programs of of Highway Highway mortality mortality data data was was not not

the the United United States, States, based based on on original original permits permits were were issued. issued.

over over any any similarly similarly functional functional lab lab in in established. established. was was adopted adopted in in 1989, 1989, when when 2,461 2,461

cost cost of of $75,000, $75,000, an an 80% 80% savings savings training training agreement agreement with with increased increased NRC NRC was was each each year year since since this this season season tions should have shown a major ber. This project is attempting to The upland game unit conducted recovery from lows of recent years. assess the effects of successive years needs assessments on the ring-necked The grouse population was the of fall discing on pheasant, insect pheasant, sharp-tailed grouse and brightest spot during fall hunting and plant composition and density on prairie chicken. seasons. 3, 100-acre study sites compared with Non-routine survey work included The grouse season was much paired 100-acre control sites. This is searching for sharp-tailed grouse in improved over 1993. Hunters aver the last year of discing. Evaluation of the Panhandle, running routes in aged 1.83 birds per day; sharptails the area will continue for the next pheasant country on the newly devel composed 57% of the harvest and several years to determine how long oped August Roadside Survey, issu prairie chickens 43%. Total harvest is it takes for the area to return to its ing survey cards to Sandhills land expected to be well above the original state. owners on grouse brood observa 39,000 birds taken in 1993. A multi-state study on use of CRP tions while haying, and developing a The fall rural mail carrier survey lands by pheasants in the High Plains new annual report for upland game showed a pheasant population com had its first field season. This study is that will combine all data on all parable to 1993. Opening weekend cooperatively funded by Kansas, Ne upland game species into one report. success was best in the northeast and braska and South Dakota game This report will also include data on southwest. The total harvest will agencies and conducted through the each species since the first year it probably be close to the 613,000 Kansas Cooperative Fish and Wildlife was reported. level of 1993. Research Unit. Permits were issued to 35 con Summer quail surveys indicated a Pilot work was conducted on a trolled shooting areas for 1994-95. population similar to 1993. Prelimi technique to search for nests in nary results indicate success re hayed or burned fields relatively Waterfowl mained below par for the third year quickly and thoroughly using a truck, The waterfowl program extends in a row. Total harvest remains in the two searchers and a driver. Although well beyond the hunting season-set 250,000 range. Quail cooperators many hayed fields were searched, no ting process both in scope and time. averaged 0.7 coveys flushed per attempt was made yet on burned Waterfowl are counted each January hour. Normal success is about one fields. as part of a national survey. There covey flushed per hour hunted. A study on the feasibility of rein were 244,000 ducks counted - Meetings and studies during the troducing ruffed grouse to Nebraska 202,000 (83%) mallards, plus year included: Contributions to litera was initiated in June, with primary 202,000 Canada geese. The annual ture for the final report on the Com work conducted along the Platte Central Flyway-wide white-fronted mission's contribution to a 1988-90 River. goose survey was not done due to study on the structure of vegetation Nebraska participated in a needs the presence of large numbers of at sharp-tailed grouse nests, the assessment on several wildlife species other geese, particularly snow geese, publication of "Weeds of Nebraska by the Wildlife Management Institute. which created a hazard to the air- and the Great Plains" by the Depart ment of Agriculture, which included several comments on the value of weeds by agency personnel and PERMITS HARVEST % SUCCESS eight draft manuscripts of insect pests SEASON 1993 1994 1993 1994 1993 1994 and their management from a total DEER resource view. Archery 13,798 15,104 3,581 4,150 26 27 Meetings attended included the Firearm !54,402 55,316 30,767 33,085 57 60 Midwest Pheasant Study Group and Muzzleloader 5,701 7,045 2,282 3,050 40 43 the Midwest Fish and Wildlife Con Special Gun 1,263 1,435 647 804 51 66 ference. Presentations by the upland Tota1 .76;164 ·.· 7 13)9.QQ i/ .37. /277 4JA)89 H > game unit incl uded talks to new ANTELOPE hunters at a seminar at Schramm Archery 492 526 77 61 16 12 Aquarium, two presentations at Uni Firearm 710 441 577 360 81 82 versity of Nebraska-Lincoln classes, Tcita1 · 1,262 and a workshop at the Outdoor TURKEY Woman's Workshop-Halsey. Spring Archery 1,563 1,736 246 352 16 20 The second year of two successive Spring Shotgun 9,774 9,816 3,672 3,917 38 40 fall discings was conducted on a Fa ll Archery 550 616 86 188 16 19 habitat manipulation evaluation study Fall Shotgun 5,51 8 5,478 2,764 2,889 50 63 at Branched Oak WMA in Novem- t<>tai •.•...... ·...... 1> ·17,4015 \ J 7:i$4lt E>P!:>7 •• 7;~7s -

34 34

sightings sightings were were reported reported in in Nebraska Nebraska season. season. animals. animals.

nearly nearly twice twice as as many many confirmed confirmed furharvest furharvest permit permit holders holders after after the the mals, mals, most most likely likely offspring offspring of of released released

evaluated. evaluated. In In the the spring spring of of 1994, 1994, survey survey sent sent to to a a random random sample sample of of mortalities mortalities involved involved untagged untagged ani

monitored monitored and and stopover stopover sites sites are are vest vest is is estimated estimated by by use use of of a a postal postal ly ly trapped. trapped. Six Six of of the the seven seven otter otter

migration migration of of whooping whooping cranes cranes is is lations lations and and harvest harvest effort. effort. The The har fishnet fishnet and and five five that that were were accidental

Each Each year, year,

the the

spring spring and and fall fall relationships relationships between between harvest, harvest, popu two two animals animals accidentally accidentally taken taken in in a a

Whooping Whooping

Cranes Cranes

these these species, species, and and investigate investigate the the ties ties were were verified verified in in 1994, 1994, including including

up up

from from 35 35

fledged fledged

in in

1993. 1993.

monitor monitor the the population population trends trends of of groups groups of of otters. otters. Seven Seven otter otter mortali

fledged fledged during during the the breeding breeding

season, season,

harvest harvest of of 12 12 confirmed confirmed furbearing furbearing reports reports species, species, involved involved family family

these these boxes boxes in in 1994; 1994; 43 43

kestrels kestrels

program program are are and and to to estimate estimate 10 10 probable). probable). the the annual annual Several Several of of the the

and and Seward. Seward. Kestrels Kestrels used used 17 17 of of

Pimary Pimary duties duties of of the the furbearer furbearer confirmed confirmed or or probable probable (10 (10 confirmed confirmed

back back of of 1-80 1-80 s igns igns between between Omaha Omaha

Furbearers Furbearers ed ed in in 1994 1994 were were considered considered either either

coln coln monitored monitored 48 48 nest nest boxes boxes on on the the

Twenty Twenty otter otter observations observations report

the the Raptor Raptor Recovery Recovery Center Center of of Lin

for for establishing establishing the the sites. sites. bag bag limits . .

The The Sierra Sierra Club Club of of Omaha Omaha and and

the the nation nation to to retain retain the the point point system system

otter otter sign sign near near some some of of the the release release

Kestrels Kestrels

1994. 1994. Nebraska Nebraska was was the the only only state state in in aerial aerial survey survey in in March March to to document document

Banding Banding vital vital part part is is of of Kestrel Kestrel project. project. extension extension of of the the hunting hunting season season in in documentation documentation of of mortality, mortality, and and an an

Duck Duck hunters hunters en joy ed ed a a 10 -day -day volved volved monitoring monitoring otter otter sig htings, htings,

wide wide aerial aerial s urv brara brara ey. ey. rivers. rivers. In In 1994, 1994, efforts efforts in

counted counted during during the the December December flyway w ere ere made made on on the the E lkhorn lkhorn and and Nio

In In 1994, 1994, spring spring 105,000 105,000 of of Canadas Canadas 1991 1991 when when w ere ere the the last last releases releases

success success story. story. in in Nebraska Nebraska were were completed completed in in the the

others, others, is is truly truly a a Efforts Efforts wildlife wildlife to to management management re-establish re-establish river river otters otters

many many sportsmen, sportsmen, sportswomen sportswomen River River Ottters Ottters and and

& & This This effort, effort, Endangered Endangered with with the the cooperat Species Species ion ion of of

Nongame, Nongame, Threatened Threatened ka's ka's 25 25 year year old old restoration restoration project. project.

eastern eastern Nebraska Nebraska as as part part of of Nebras

WMA WMA were were banded banded and and released released in in local local storms storms influence influence fur fur prices. prices.

the the captive captive flock flock at at Sacramento Sacramento Europe Europe to to international international economics economics to to

recaptured. recaptured. About About 3 00 00 goslings goslings from from ranging ranging from from political political conditions conditions in in

200 200 previous ly ly banded banded birds birds were were An An incredible incredible variety variety of of factors, factors,

were were banded banded in in the the Sandhills. Sandhills. Over Over Nebraska's Nebraska's wild wild furbearer furbearer resources. resources.

program, program, about about e vents vents that that 1,100 1,100 influence influence Canadas Canadas the the demand demand for for

wide wide average average of of 7 7 44. 44.

In In the the fifth fifth year year of of a a five-year five-year local, local, national national and and international international

increase increase

from from

the the 1980

- 1994 1994 state

winged winged teal. teal. Biologists Biologists also also keep keep abreast abreast of of

from from

the the 1993 1993 count count of of 698 698 and and 56% 56%

species species included included gadwall gadwall and and blue totalled totalled 4, 4, 143, 143, also also a a five - year year high. high.

1, 1,

163 163

bald bald

eagles, eagles,

a a 67% 67%

increase increase

15% 15% of of the the total. total. Other Other important important Furharvest Furharvest permits permits sold sold for for 1993 - 94 94

Eagle Eagle Survey Survey produced produced a a

count count of of

average. average. Mallards Mallards comprised comprised about about and and red red fox fox was was a a five - year year high. high.

Results Results from from the the 1994 1994 Midwinter Midwinter Bald Bald

at at 120,000 120,000 birds, birds, slight ly ly above above otes, otes, muskrats, muskrats, bobcats, bobcats, raccoon, raccoon,

degree degree of of eag l e e activity activity occurred. occurred.

ducks ducks in in the the Sandh ill s s was was estimated estimated started started in in 1941. 1941. The The harvest harvest of of coy

several several other other ne st st s it es es wher e e some some

The The 1994 1994 breeding breeding population population of of the the fifth fifth high est est since since the the survey survey was was

and and conservation conservation officers officers monitored monitored

rains rains during during spring spring migration. migration. the the high est est

since since

1987 -88 -88

and and

was was

and and Scotts Scotts Bluff Bluff counties. counties. Biologists Biologists

winter winter precipitation precipitation and and

frequent frequent

previous previous

season. season.

Coyote Coyote harvest harvest wa s s Sherman, Sherman, Saunders, Saunders, Garden, Garden, Gage, Gage,

fresh fresh

water water

being being

available available

from from

excep t t opossum, opossum, was was up up from from the the bald bald eagles eagles fledged fledged from from 5 5 nests nests in in

was was attributed attributed

basically basically to to ample ample The The harvest harvest of of all all animals animals surveyed, surveyed, During During the the breeding breeding season, season, 9 9

Rainwater Rainwater Basins Basins were were minimal. minimal. This This taken taken during during the the 1993-94 1993-94 season. season. Bald Bald Eagles Eagles

loss es es from from avian avian cholera cholera in in the the a a total total of of about about 170,000 170,000 animals animals reintroduction. reintroduction.

For For the the second second year, year, waterfowl waterfowl reported reported in in the the mail mail survey, survey, showed showed are are all all positive positive signs signs of of a a successful successful

healthy. healthy. The The harvest harvest of of animals animals for for fur, fur, as as untagged untagged animals animals and and family family groups groups

wan wan indicated indicated th e e population population was was pers pers and and archery archery deer deer hunters. hunters. of of otter otter reports reports and and presence presence of of

However, However, a a fall fall count count in in Saskatche Section Section managers, managers, fur fur buyers, buyers, trap a a the the 1993 1993 survey. survey. The The large large number number

spring spring population population was was made made in in 1994. 1994. furbearer furbearer biologists, biologists, district district Technical Technical tions, tions, a a substantial substantial improvement improvement from from

more more than than 80%, 80%, by by a a no no variety variety estimate estimate of of of of people, people, the the including including of of otters otters was was observed observed at at three three loca

geese geese that that occurs occurs in in Nebraska Nebraska is is populations. populations. Information Information is is collected collected segment segment of of the the Platte Platte River, River, but but sign sign

proportion proportion of of total total white-fronted white-fronted surveys surveys are are used used to to track track furbearer furbearer limited limited in in scope, scope, involving involving only only a a

plane plane and and observers. observers. Field Field Since Since studies, studies, the the lab lab usual usual work work and and postal postal The The aerial aerial survey survey in in March March was was ------,

than in all other states in the flyway River, resulting in exceptional pro zine to produce "liftout" publications combined. The 19 sightings, which duction for both the tern and plover. featuring each of the state's endan accounted for 38 different cranes, Bluebirds gered species. The series was was a record for sightings reported With encouragement from the launched in December 1992 with in Nebraska during migration. In nongame bird program, a new publication of" Nebraska's Vanishing addition, there were 7 probable and grassroots organization was formed Species." In 1994, liftouts featured 12 unconfirmed reports of whooping to facilitate management of blue the whooping crane, mountain plo cranes in the state. During the fall birds. Bluebirds Across Nebraska ver, flying squirrel, and the American migration, there were 5 confirmed (BAN) will now conduct annual sur burying beetle. sightings, involving about 22 individ veys, assemble and collect results, Cooperative Conservation ual whooping cranes. One group of and publish an annual directory. The Program 8 birds stopped at Funk Lagoon Commission will continue to help with A total of $5,000 was awarded in WPA and stayed for almost three reproduction and distribution activi contracts to 12 nongame species weeks. Three more whooping cranes ties. BAN will also develop, coordi conservation projects. Up to $1,500 joined the first 8 at Funk making this nate and promote a variety of con was provided per project. Projects group of 11 birds the largest single servation and education projects and included nongame and endangered sighting reported here. workshops. species exhibits Peregrine Falcons at a nature center Platte River lnstream Flow near Gering and the State 4-H Camp Efforts to re-establish falcons in Efforts were made to secure sup at Halsey; plant and protect habitat Nebraska that began in 1988 were porters for the Commission's Platte for a wide variety of nongame ani rewarded in 1992 by the first suc River instream flow applications filed mals along the MoPac Trail near cessful nesting attempt since the turn with the Department of Water Re Lincoln; provide of the century. an outdoor class sources (DWR) in 1993. Information room that includes a habitat planting In 1994, two new adults ap al brochures and fact sheets describ and wildlife educational materials for peared at the Woodman Tower in ing the purpose and implications of an Omaha elementary school; pro- · Omaha. A new female (84R), re instream flow appropriations were vide bat roosting boxes near an leased in Kansas City in 1992, gained developed and distributed. DWR elementary school and a video on the territory by killing the previous scheduled a hearing on the applica bat conservation for use in the class occupant female (33R) in a battle on tions for early 1996. room; facilitation of research to March 29. The new male falcon Endangered Species Llftouts determine effects of changes in prai (54T), released in Omaha in 1989, In continuing efforts to promote rie dog populations on burrowing and the new female produced three resources, nongame staff again owls; identify blood parasites in eggs, which hatched around June worked with NEBRASKAland Maga- raptors, and compile data from rare 18. Only one chick, a female, sur vived to fledging. The female chick was banded on July 8. No peregrine falcon activity was reported in the Lincoln area in 1994. Least Tern & Piping Plover Nesting surveys of least terns and piping plovers were conducted on the Platte, North Platte and Elkhorn rivers. Surveys found 627 terns and 215 plovers along the Platte River and 24 terns and 8 plovers along the Elkhorn at three different sandpit sites. On the Platte River, of 20 sand pit sites (predominately in the central Platte reach) and 33 riverine sandbar sites were used by terns and plovers during the 1994 breeding season. Scouring ice flows during the winter 1993-94 and extensive flood ing during the spring of 1993 created excellent sandbar nesting habitat """"'.._""''"' ~~ ~ along the lower reaches of the Platte John Dinan, non-game biologist, right, and John Side/ of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conduct piping plover and least tern count along the Platte River in eastern Nebraska.

35 plant collections needed to develop of the study. Information was used on the "Alkaline Wetlands of the conservation programs. by the Parks Service to prepare its North Platte River Valley." A new Consultations report on the scenic and recreational long-term study to monitor the Over 350 proposed land and river segments and proposed nation groundwater levels of saline wetlands water development projects requiring al park. along Rock Creek in Lancaster Coun permits or authorization from state Surveys continued on red-shoul ty was initiated in cooperation with and federal agencies were reviewed dered hawk nesting, conducted at a the Natural Resources Conservation for impact on endangered and known probable nest site in Fonte Service {formerly the SCS). Study sites threatened species. Most projects nelle Forest and along the Elkhorn are on WMAs along Rock Creek, would have no adverse effects. River south of West Point. Survey south and east of Ceresco. While some projects would have work entailed the use of a taped call The Nebraska Pesticide Protection caused adverse impacts on endan and visual observation. A nest was Program entered its second year of gered and threatened species, those confirmed at Fontenelle Forest but working with landowners to meet impacts were averted by modifying nesting was not verified in the West federal restrictions on the use of the projects with the cooperation of Point area. pesticides within close proximity to project sponsors and the appropriate Data from the 1993 survey of the populations of endangered or threat state and federal agency. Elkhorn River for mussels was com ened plant species. The only major Comments and recommendations piled and published in a report enti change to the program was transfer were developed and provided to the tled "A Survey of the Union id Mol of responsibility for Fl RA {Federal Federal Energy Regulatory Commis lusks of the Elkhorn River Basin, Insecticide and Rodenticide Act) to sion on the revised draft of the Envi Nebraska." This report represents the the Nebraska Department of Agricul ronmental Impact Statement regard most current and extensive survey ture {NDA) from the Environmental ing the operation of Platte River and information on the mussels found Protection Agency {EPA). power generation projects that are in the Elkhorn River. Blowout penstemon recovery pending license reissuance. Recom Survey work was again conducted efforts continued with the grazing mendations were made on reopera in Kimball and Box Butte counties for and management research project tion of the projects that would pro the mountain plover, a state-listed entering its second year. For this vide benefits to endangered and threatened species. One nest with phase of the project,. the experimen threatened species, waterfowl, and eggs was found. This is a significant tal populations of blowout penstemon sandhill cranes. record, since finding nesting sites of established in 1993 were fenced and the plover is extremely difficult and a two-year grazing rotation was Natural Heritage rare. initiated. Natural occurring popula The Nebraska Natural Heritage As in previous years, the Heritage tions of blowout penstemon were Program continues to collect, update Program received numerous reports again inventoried and monitored. and disperse information on the rare and observations of nongame wildlife Two new populations of penstemon species and natural communities of and plants. A number of these re were discovered in east-central and Nebraska. The pogram collects oc ports are for species being tracked south-west Cherry County. currence data for over 650 plant and by the Heritage Program and are Survey and monitoring work con animal species and more than 50 entered into the Heritage database. tinued for the western prairie fringed natural community types. Currently, Remaining records are maintained in orchid. No new populations were the database has processed over a manual file for future reference. found, but several populations were 5,000 occurrence records for species Heritage work for rare animal at record high numbers, although no and natural communities. In the past species was significantly limited the plants were observed at other sites. year, 50 formal and 150 informal last half of the year due to the de The Heritage botanist conducted requests for Heritage data were parture of the Heritage zoologist. field training of orchid habitat identi processed for state and federal Subsequently a number of annual fication for the Department of Roads agencies, local governmental entities, surveys, special projects and data {DOR) wetland biologists. A joint consultants, private organizations updates were not able to be complet survey of three DOR projects was and individuals. ed. then conducted at several sandhills The Natural Heritage Program Natural community work concen locations. continued to provide rare species trated on sandhill fens, saline wet and community information to the lands and alkaline wetlands. Fen National Park Service for the GAP work was a continuation of the sur Analysis Project for their Niobrara vey and inventory studies begun in River study. Heritage staff were 1992. The alkaline wetland survey instrumental in defining and review started in 1993 was concluded with a ing the rare species/habitat portion NE BRASKAland special article/liftout

36 ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST \ I The Trust was created by legisla 11 ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST BOARD tion in 1992 in order ••• to con serve, enhance and restore the natu 1st District ral physical and biological environ Vincent Kramper State Agency Representatives ment in Nebraska, including the air, 498 190th St. Game and Parks Commission Rex Amack, Director land, ground water and surface Dakota City NE 68731 P.O. Box 30370 water, flora and fauna, prairies and Home Phone: 402-987-3560 forests, wildlife and wildlife habitat, Lincoln, NE 68503-0370 Lynn Roper and natural areas of aesthetic or Phone: 402-471-5539 11 3227 S. 29th St. Fax: 402-471-5528 scenic values • The Trust is funded Lincoln NE 68502 Department of Health through the Nebraska Lottery, re Home Phone: 402-423-8060 Dr. Mark B. Horton, Director ceiving 25% of the proceeds until Office Phone: 402-473-1831 July 1, 1997. In fiscal year 1993-94 P.O. Box 95007 Susan Seacrest the Trust received $2,732,953 for Lincoln, NE 68509-5007 6540 Crooked Creek Dr. three quarters of a year's activities. Phone: 402- 471-2133 Lincoln, NE 68516 Fax: 402-471-0383 Home Phone: 402-423-5790 Dept. Office Phone: 402-434-27 40 of Water Resources J. Michael Jess, Director 2nd District P.O. Box 94676 John Ellsworth Lincoln, NE 68509-4676 9749 Fieldcrest Dr . Phone: 402-471-2363 • Omaha, NE 68114 Fax: 402-471-2759 "1 Home Phone: 402-391-0104 Department of Agriculture Office PHone: 402-344-4000 Larry E. Sitzman, Director David Wilken P.O. Box 94947 362 N. 41 st Ave . Lincoln, NE 68509-4947 Omaha, NE 68131 Phone: 402-471 -2341 Home Phone: 402-558-2549 Fax: 402-471-2759 Office Phone: 402-444-4638 Dept. of Natural Resources Gail Yanney Dayle E. Williamson, Director The Nebraska Environmental 6520 Rainwood Rd. P.O. Box 94876 Trust Fund completed its first grants Omaha, NE 68152 Lincoln, NE 68509-4876 Phone: 402-471-2081 award cycle in 1994. 142 applica Home phone: 402-571-81 l 0 Fax: 402-471-3132 tions were received, processing more Office phone: 402-552-6700 than $31 million in project requests. 3rd District Dept. of Environmental Quality Randy Wood, Director The Trust funded projects ad Bradley Hansen P.O. Box 98922 dressing critical habitat areas, sur PO Box 173 Lincoln, NE 68509-8922 face water quality, ground water Hemingford, NE 69348 Phone: 402-471 -4231 quality and the creation of recycling Home Phone: 308-487-3838 Fax: 402-2909 markets and reduction of solid waste Office Phone: 308-487-3805 volume and toxicity. Forty-nine appli Fax: 308-487-3839 cations were funded, totalling Charles Jura Legislation creating the Trust stipu $3,816,644. 1203 53rd St. lated it would be part of the Game The Trust is governed by a fif Columbus, NE 68601 and Parks Commission for adminis teen-member board, including three Phone: 402-563-1416 trative purposes only. The Board citizens representatives of each con Dick Mercer was further authorized to contract gressional district and six agency RR 4 Box 293 with the Commission for administra directors. The Trust employs only one Kearney, NE 68847 tive support and office space. full-time person. Phone: 308-234-9549

38 38

25 25 ity ity s r e Univ

0 0 1 ) ) er th o ( s s n o i s ivi d ub S

3 3 cy cy n Age e e t a t S

5 5 School School

31 31 t t i prof - non Private Private

13 13 profit profit - for ate ate v Pri

19 19 s s NRD

12 12 l l Individua

4 4 County County

3 3 a a i Consort

3 3 ty ty n Cou / ty i C

14 14 es es ti Ci

CATEGORY CATEGORY BY BY APPLICANTS APPLICANTS

0.00 0.00 5 $1,1 : : Request rant rant G Minimum Minimum

00 00 . $3,001,000 : : Request rant rant G Maximum Maximum / / 58 58 . $192,389 t: t: s Reque Grant Grant Average Average

.. ..

·-· ·-· ·•· ·•· ...... ·.· .· .· . . -·-·.·-:- ·:. :: ..·. ,:•,• ,:•,• ,·,·.· ,·,·.· ooo+ ooo+ J $3l,000 . REQUEST$ REQUEST$ TOTAL TOTAL REQUESTED REQUESTED 142 142 . .

0% 0% cified cified e p s amount amount no no

3% 3% 5 5 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 than than e e mor

13% 13% 18 18 $1,000,000 $1,000,000 to to . 01 01 $300,000

10% 10% 14 14 $300,000 $300,000 to to $200,000.01 $200,000.01

15% 15% 21 21 $200,000 $200,000 to to $100,000.01 $100,000.01

15% 15% 22 22 $100,000 $100,000 to to $50,000.01 $50,000.01

15% 15% 20 20 $50,000 $50,000 to to $25,000.01 $25,000.01

15% 15% 22 22 $25,000 $25,000 to to 01 01 . $10,000

% % 5 1 19 19 or or $10,000 $10,000 ess ess l

REQUESTS REQUESTS OF OF PERCENT PERCENT REQUESTS REQUESTS OF OF SIZE SIZE NUMBER NUMBER REQUEST REQUEST

CYCLE CYCLE GRANT GRANT 1994 1994

Fund Fund Trust Trust Environmental Environmental Nebraska Nebraska

APPLICATIONS APPLICATIONS OF OF SUMMARY SUMMARY