Platte River Basin Environments Building a Legacy of Conservation

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Platte River Basin Environments Clive Ostenberg helps to preserve wildlife habitat Building A Legacy of Conservation A group of like-minded individuals in western Nebraska has met for Platte River Basin Environ- help us reach our goals. Platte tion projects add tremendous of our unique landscapes. The several years with one thing in ments, Inc., began our mission River Basin Environments, Inc., value to our region. As a taxpay- wild resources we positively mind, to preserve and restore criti- almost twenty years ago in has been awarded millions of er and steward, Platte River impact include river otters, deer, cal wildlife habitat. response to the dying wishes of dollars which has translated into Basin Environment, Inc., con- elk, and big horn sheep as well as Thanks to the generosity and our friend, conservationist, and over 25,000 conservation acres tributes to the tax base. We con- vast migrations of water fowl and vision of avid outdoorsman Clive hunting partner, Clive Osten- and thousands more in landown- tract with local farmers and all bird and upland species. Ostenberg, who left part of his estate for just such a purpose, berg. Clive's dedication to con- er restoration acres. We have a ranchers to utilize and manage This level of dedication re- more and more area residents servation and philanthropy lead steadfast commitment to "good our farmland and grass resour- quires a passion for the value of have and will have the opportuni- to his bequest to Ducks Unlimit- science" and an equal commit- ces, thus adding to our economy. our "wild resources". Since 1989 ty to enjoy public lands along the ed and The Nature Conservancy. ment to the value of stewardship Public access adds greatly to the our passion has only grown North Platte River or in the With his significant gifts, Clive and being a good neighbor to quality of life to our communi- stronger, and we encourage the Wildcat Hills. also challenged his friends to our communities. ties, and the youth programs public to join our conservation Charged with the responsibili- respond with projects that would We understand the long-term insure that our value will be, mission. ty of making this happen is create a generational legacy of need of our communities to indeed, long term. Our manage- We are Platte River Basin En- Platte River Basin Environments, Inc., a conservation. Over the last two grow and prosper. We also ment and restoration efforts, vironments, Inc., and we believe core group who originally formed the informal "Ostenberg decades we developed over 25 believe that Platte River Basin along with removal of invasive that "What we do is forever and group." Now the organization has the ability to acquire proper- conservation partnerships to Environments, Inc.'s conserva- species, contribute to the value forever is a very long time." ™ ty and facilitate potential tax benefits as well as create innovative approaches that maximize the value of the property to both parties. New land that has been acquired but is not yet accessible Nebraska Environmental Trust... A Legacy Partner until insurance issues are resolved will provide access to the funded with a portion of the North Platte River, something that is a premium, as only a few State lottery proceeds. Since public access points are available between eastern Wyoming its inception, the NET has and Lake McConaughy. Landowners have become involved in supported over 1,000 worthy the various projects and have sold property to PRBE, which projects that protect and pre- while a non-profit group, voluntarily chooses to pay property serve critical environments taxes and secures water rights to the benefit of the acquired through Nebraska. It’s mission property. is to conserve, enhance and Creation of the Clive Ostenberg Flyway is based on a vision restore the natural environ- by PRBE to acquire through purchase or conservation ease- ment of Nebraska by working ment thousands of critical wildlife acres along the North Platte with a broad spectrum of indi- River System from eastern Wyoming to Lake McConaughy. viduals, partners and agencies Diverse property ranging from river bottom and agricultural across the entire state. To that lands to rolling hills and canyons in the Wildcat Hills and west- end, they have granted ern Morrill County make up the acquired land. $120,000,000 to worthy proj- The lands currently available provide access for hours of fun ects over the last fifteen years. either hiking, watching waterfowl or taking in a brilliant west- For their steadfast support of ern Nebraska sunset. so many Western Nebraska Such a major undertaking will take patience because restora- projects Platte River Basin tion of critical habitat can take years to accomplish. Environments is honored to Fortunately, many local, regional and national groups have present the Nebraska come together to share ideas and expertise. All realize that Environmental Trust with the such projects take time and money, but based on past successes Partners in Conservation all seem to be willing to continue with "The Great Adventure." Award. Pictured are Mark Brohman, Lisa Beethe, Gloria Erickson and Hod Kosman, members of the NEbraska Environmental Trust Nebraska: Full of BUL Platte River Basin Environ- where of a vast region. Our progress and prosperity that ment Inc. along with the all of Western Conversation organi- our communities all seek. The (Biologically Unique Landscapes) our Western Nebraska sup- zation have partners, volun- Nebraska Environmental Tru- portive and sister conservation teers and contributors from st is an integral part of that And A Closer Look at the Wildcat Hills organization can envision no all walks of life. These individ- balance. better partner than the uals care about our WILD The Environmental Trust Nebraska Environmental RESOURCES and balanc- was established by a vote of Trust. The trust through its ing those resources with the Nebraska citizens in 1992. It is financial support, has encour- aged, facilitated and empow- ered our organizations to go farther and realize dreams we never thought were possible. Because of the Nebraska Environmental Trust, we have been able to peak the imagination of volunteers every- Bighorn sheep return to the Wildcat Hills By Todd Nordeen, NGPC, DIST. 1 MANAGER recent reintroduction occur- with antibiotics, the winter red, again, in the Wildcat took its toll on many of the Rocky Mountain bighorn Hills south of McGrew, NE. infected individuals, resulting sheep once again inhabit the In February of 2007, 51 in widespread mortalities southern panhandle of bighorns were captured in caused by pneumonia that Nebraska after a nearly 100- Montana and released all on was induced by the By Brad McKinney Pheasants Forever Coordinating Wildlife Biologist year absence. In March of private land in a more easter- Pasteurella bacteria. It is esti- 2001, Nebraska Game and ly location in the Wildcat mated that the outbreak of If you're a Nebraskan, you The Legacy Project, or hunting, fishing, hiking, bird Parks Commission released Hills. Prior to these reintro- pneumonia resulted in a loss live in or very near one of Plan, attempts to conserve watching and other nature- 22 bighorn sheep into the ductions, the last known of almost half of the popula- forty "biologically unique Nebraska's full array of biodi- related activities will build Wildcat Hills of western sighting of bighorn sheep in tion. This type of Pasteurella landscapes" (shown above) versity by reversing the appreciation for nature and Nebraska. The 22 sheep, con- Nebraska was in the early outbreak is common among scattered across our state. decline of rare species and provide economic diversifica- sisting of twelve ewes, six 1900s. bighorn sheep populations How these landscapes came ensuring that common spec- tion. lambs, and four rams, were Overall, the reintroduction throughout the country. to be designated is a story just ies stay common. Nebraska As an example of the captured and transported of bighorn sheep to the Although, Pasteurella and its now unfolding. Nebraska from the Pike's Peak area in Wildcat Hills of Nebraska has affect on bighorn sheep is not In the 1990’s a nation- Natural Legacy Colorado and released in been relatively successful. clearly understood, it is clear al coalition of nearly Project in Cedar Canyon Wildlife Mana- The first four years following that interactions between 3,000 organizations inc- action, over gement Area. The release of the 2001 reintroduction were bighorn sheep and domestic luding hunting, angling, 1,000 students these bighorn sheep marked characterized by high lamb sheep/goats can be fatal only and conservation groups visited the the second reintroduction survival and low adult mortal- to the bighorns. effort of bighorn sheep in ity, and by the spring of 2005, Nebraska's Natural Legacy formed to advocate in- Wildcat Hills Nebraska, following a 1981 the herd numbered around Program identifies bighorn creased federal funding Nature Center reintroduction in the Pine 60 individuals. However, biol- sheep as an "At-Risk" species for the conservation of in October of ogists from in Nebraska. Their sensitivity rare wildlife and their 2007 to partici- the Nebraska makes them a vulnerable habitats. This continu- pate in a bird- Game and species to many things such as ing effort is known as banding Parks disease and habitat loss or Teaming with Wildlife. demonstration. Commission fragmentation. However, des- In response, Congress Students were observed sev- pite their vulnerability, big- established the State Over 1,000 students visited the Wildcat Hills taught banding eral sheep horn sheep are one of the Wildlife Grants Program. Nature Center in October of 2007 to participate in techniques, coughing dur- most popular species in To ensure efficient use a bird-banding demonstration. Students were bird identifica- ing the late North America. Their majes- of State Wildlife Grants, taught banding techniques, bird identification skills tion skills and spring and tic nature, unique breeding Congress required each and about habitat needs. Panhandle students will about habitat early fall of behavior, and their low state to develop a com- have additional opportunities to attend bird-band- needs. 2005, and the impact on the land has made prehensive wildlife con- ing demonstrations during the fall of 2008. Panhandle stu- following win- them a highly sought after servation strategy for dents will have A little more than a year ago, 51 Bighorn ter proved to species by photographers, conserving biodiversity. Init- went the extra mile in their additional opportunities to sheep, that became the McGrew flock, has be a rough sea- hikers, hunters, adventurists, iated in 2003 and approved in state plan by including strate- attend bird-banding demon- become acclimated with their new home in son for the landowners and recreational- August 2005, the Nebraska gies for increasing environ- strations during the fall of the Wildcat Hills. bighorns. The ists. Natural Legacy Project was a mental education and nature- 2008. Ridge in northwest Nebraska. cough spread amongst the As with all wildlife popula- grassroots effort lead by the based recreation in the state. The Legacy Plan also iden- A third reintroduction took herd and intensified in the tions, bighorn sheep popula- Nebraska Game and Parks The Plan recognizes that tified 40 biologically unique place in January of 2005, cold weather. Three sheep tions will fluctuate. However, Commission and developed knowledgeable citizens are landscapes - areas with intact when Montana bighorn were immobilized in the late the fact that bighorns can with the assistance of a variety better stewards of the land native plant communities, sheep were released in the fall and early winter, and all now once again roam their of partners that included and make wise, long-term waterways or concentrations Pine Ridge to increase the three tested positive for native lands is a true and farm, ranch, and sportsmen political decisions regarding of rare species - on which to genetic diversity of the exist- Pasteurella bacteria. Despite astounding success story. groups, conservation agencies conservation. Encouraging focus statewide conservation ing population. The most attempts to treat the sheep and the public. Nebraskans to participate in Continued on page 2 Pheasants Forever Biologist Brad McKinney: 308-220-0052 NGPC Naturalist Anne James: 308-436-3777 PRBE President Hod Kosman: 308-632-7004 PRBE Vice President Bruce Rolls: 308-635-1556 NGPC Todd Nordeen or Emily Munter: 308-763-2940 Be A Partner...Be A Volunteer The Nature Conversancy Butch Ellis: 308-432-9582 Nebraska: Full of BUL (Biologically Unique Landscapes) And A Closer Look at the Wildcat Hills cont. from page 1 tices that reduce native plant • Conservation easements invading cedars efforts. Conservation of these diversity and promote uni- to protect areas from devel- and increase unique landscapes is expect- form habitat structure. opment plant species ed to conserve the vast major- • Exotic plant invasion, pri- • Work with ranchers to diversity, thin- ity of wildlife species in the marily cheatgrass, smooth implement planned grazing ning unnatural- state. Since 2001, Nebraska brome, Kentucky bluegrass systems ly thick stands of has been awarded well over and eastern red cedar. • Work with landowners to ponderosa pine, $5 million in State Wildlife • Lack of fire, leading to implement prescribed fire to and developing Grants for the betterment of eastern red cedar encroach- control exotic plants and water sources wildlife habitat. ment in some areas. reduce eastern red cedar den- for both cattle The Legacy Plan identified • Lack of grazing and pre- sities. and wildlife. the most prevalent threats to scribed fire on public owned • Increase biodiversity Research proj- the Wildcat Hills as being: lands. management of public lands ects, studying • Housing and ranchette Conservation strategies within the Wildcat Hills to mountain development recommended for implemen- include prescribed fire and mahogany and • Livestock grazing prac- tation include: planned grazing systems. nesting golden Currently, eagles, for Nebraska Alliance for Conservation and Environment Education partner example, are Nebraska Association of Resources Districts organiza- well underway. tions are In addition, sev- Nebraska Department of Agriculture implement- eral landowner workshops one of four bighorn sheep • Buffalo Creek Wildlife Rainwater Basin Joint Venture of Nebraska ing strate- have also been conducted populations in the state. Management Area, Natural Resource Conservation Service gies within that have provided an There exists an intact mosaic • Cedar Canyon Wildlife the Legacy exchange of information of pine woodlands and mixed Management Area, Nebraska Audubon grass prairie supporting the • The Nature Conservan- Nebraska Cattlemen Plan by regarding habitat and wildlife working with needs. largest stands of mountain cy's Murphy Ranch, Ducks Unlimited land-owners Besides State Wildlife mahogany shrubland in the • and Platte River Basin Nebraska Farm Bureau within the Grants, funding for Legacy state. And where else can one Environments Carter Can- Nebraska Forest Service Wildcat Hills Plan projects comes from find a region so rich in pale- yon and Bead Mountain on a wide such funding partners as ontological, archeological, Ranches. Farmers Union Native American and emi- The area supports a heal- Nebraska Wildlife Federation array of proj- Platte River Basin Environ- ects. These ments, Nebraska Environ- grant-migration history. thy elk herd and one of four Pheasants Forever, Inc. projects mental Trust, and the Doris The Wildcat Hills are bighorn sheep populations in Ponca Tribe of Nebraska include; Duke Wildlife Conservation home to several conservation- the state. University of Nebraska fencing to Society. owned areas, including: Locals like to say that the exclude live- The Wildcat Hills BUL is • Scotts Bluff National Wildcat Hills are "near nature The Nature Conservancy Monument, and near perfect". Working US Forest Service stock from full of superlatives. This bio- wetlands, logically unique landscape • Chimney Rock Historical with landowners and through Grassland Foundation prescribed totals nearly 420,000 acres Site, partners, the Nebraska Natur- US Fish and Wildlife Service burning to teeming with wildlife includ- • Wildcat Hills State Rec- al Legacy Project hopes to Nebraska Partnership for All-Bird Conservation reduce ing a healthy elk herd and reation Area and Wildlife keep it that way. Management Area, Wildcat Hills Wildlands Initiative: Protecting A Legacy of Conservation Butch Ellis stands on an outcrop income potential of beef produc- Management Area/State Recrea- Hills is another of rock overlooking a valley of tion. Developers - the most likely tion Area and to the east by the important focus for forested buttes, ridges and canyons. alternative buyers - often subdivide Buffalo Creek Wildlife Management this group. "Part of As he describes The Nature Area, both owned by NGPC. our mission is 'pro- Conservancy's role in the The tract was donated to the moting compatible Wildcat Hills to the small group Conservancy in 1982 by Dr. recreation and assembled, he pauses. "This is Murphy. It was held under a income-producing one of the best projects I've life estate for Myron Taylor opportunities in ever worked on," he says quiet- until his passing last summer. support of ecologi- $7+ ly. '& ,/ Taylor ran the property for cal management'," / / It is clear that this not a , 6 Murphy. Taylor and his wife says Ellis. "It is not statement he makes lightly. : Marge lived there for 52 years, that we want to Ellis has led the Conser- and they kept it in a good pro- fence off the land vancy's Panhandle duction state for livestock. and lock it up. It's Projects Office for six Management decisions on just the opposite. years, and prior to that Murphy will be made jointly Recreation is a vital worked for the U.S. Forest : by the WHWI's Coordinated part of this. And , 6 just one aspect of this," Ellis con- Service in wildlife programs. /'/$1' Resource Management Team, ranching has long been a compati- His latest project is the Wildcat land into ranchettes, result- of which Ellis is a voting member. ble use in the Wildcat Hills." The cludes. "The project has strong sup- Hills Wildlands Initiative (WHWI), a ing in habitat fragmentation and "The team is a component that truly team is exploring ways to allow port from the community. I think collaboration between three part- disruption of wildlife corridors, as makes this endeavor innovative," recreational uses that will ultimately that while that support shows a lot of ners: the non-profit Platte River well as taxing water resources. stated Mace Hack, Conservancy include bird watching, hiking, hunt- heart, it also shows that people have Basin Environments (PRBE), the WHWI partners currently own State Director in Nebraska. "As the ing, biking, horseback riding, camp- vision. If you look at communities Nebraska Game and Parks 24,000 acres of habitat, a figure that partners work together to manage ing, skiing, and other activities to that are growing, one thing most all Commission (NGPC) and the may double over the next five years. our natural and financial resources, help connect people to this special of them have in common is access to Conservancy. "We want to secure sufficient acres as well as our organizational place. The CRM team is planning public recreation land- a place The WHWI started as a way to to build a corridor sustaining the strengths and challenges, each on some livestock use, too, develop- where biological diversity is main- respond to threats to the Hills' nat- full array of biological diversity in group reaps benefits well beyond ing grazing management policies tained but used for a lot of different ural and ecological integrity. The the Wildcat Hills," Ellis says. "We are the borders of their own proper- that meet ecological targets. purposes. Together we are building landscape has largely been con- working together to identify the ties." Team members are responsi- "Preserving biological diversity is that." served thanks to ranchers, who have most strategic acquisitions in order ble for integrated resource assess- maintained the area's wide-open to draw the greatest conservation ment and long-range planning on spaces. However, the advanced age benefit from every dollar we have." the land. They make decisions of many of these ranchers combined The Nature Conservancy has about livestock use, invasive species The Wildcat Hills Wildlands Initiative with increasing housing develop- recently undertaken management control, prescribed fire, water issues, is a coalition of the following partners: ment pressure is causing conserva- of the 1,600-acre Murphy tract. It is and others. tion groups to consider the future of bordered to the north by the PRBE- Owning and managing land is just Nebraska Game and Parks Commission the Wildcat Hills. The purchase cost owned Bead Mountain Ranch, to part of the mission of the WHWI. The Nature Conservancy of land is now well beyond the the west by the Wildcat Hills Wildlife Getting people out to the Wildcat Platte River Basin Environments, Inc. Nebraska Environmental Trust Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation Wildcat Hills Wildlands Peter Kiewit Foundation Oregon Trail Community Foundation Initiative, Mission & Vision Western Nebraska Retriever Club To conserve the expan- the southern sector, These and the ecotone between increase in rural-housing- Scottsbluff National Building Corporation sive natural beauty and the escarpments are a major the Central Shortgrass development pressure National Wild Turkey Federation many native plant and ani- corridor for wildlife move- Prairie and the Northern predispose much of the Grand Slam Club / Ovis mal species in the Wildcat ment between Wyoming Great Plains Steppe. primary Wildcat Hills Conklin Foundation Hills ecosystem, our mis- and Nebraska. The north- Consequently, the Wildcat Wildlands project area to Oregon Trail Pheasants Forever sion is to maintain, enhan- ern sector is continuous Hills ecosystem has been fragmentation and loss ce, and restore native for about 55 miles along designated as a Biologi- of critical habitat. The Rocky Mountain Bird Observatory plant communities and the southern edge of the cally Unique Landscape by cost of purchasing land Nebraska Chapter of Safari Club International the wildlife they support North Platte River Valley the Nebraska Game and in the Wildlands is well Doris Duke - Wildlife Conservation Society while promoting compati- form Lyman, Nebraska to Parks Commission and beyond the net income Playa Lakes Joint Venture ble recreation and income Bridgeport, Nebraska. Is- Portfolio Site by The producing potential of Wildcat Audubon Chapter producing opportunities olated segments of the Nature Conservancy beef production. The Boy Scouts of America in support of ecological escarpments extend the (TNC). Additionally, the opportunity to maintain Mule Deer Foundation management objectives. wild-life corridor into the geographic magnitude & the geographic scale of Foundation for North American Wild Sheep (FNAWS) Our vision is to develop a mountains of Wyoming. ecological condition of Wildlands needed to unique collaborative proc- An unusual diversity of the Wildcat Hills ecosys- sustain all of the native Iowa Chapter of FNAWS ess by which all partners in prairie and motane plant tem meet the criteria of species in the Wildcat Minnesota/Wisconsin Chapter of FNAWS this effort benefit well species flourish in the the TNC Great Plains Hills ecosystem will be Natural Resources Conservation Service beyond their respective Wildcat Hills. The diversi- Initiative. lost without the imme- UNL - Research and Extension Service investments. ty of wildlife species sup- Integrity of this ecosys- diate joint effort of North Platte Natural Resources District The Wildcat Hills and ported by this vegetation tem has been conserved ranch owners, individu- US Fish and Wildlife Service adjoining prairie encom- and the unique topogra- largely because ranchers als, corporations and Nebraska Prairie Partners pass a unique and endan- phy is further enhanced maintained the wide-open agencies who are dedi- And private landowners from throughout the Wildcat Hills gered 415,000 acre ecosys- by its location in the mid- spaces within and border- cated to the conserva- tem with about 215,000 dle of the continental ing the hills. The advan- tion of this endangered acres in the northern sec- ectone between eastern ced age of many owners ecosystem. tor and 200,000 acres in and western bird species and an exponential Pheasants Forever Biologist Brad McKinney: 308-220-0052 NGPC Naturalist Anne James: 308-436-3777 PRBE President Hod Kosman: 308-632-7004 PRBE Vice President Bruce Rolls: 308-635-1556 NGPC Todd Nordeen or Emily Munter: 308-763-2940 Be A Partner...Be A Volunteer The Nature Conversancy Butch Ellis: 308-432-9582 Conservation Education in the Wildlands So, what does education (human) place within that James. In classrooms, she Science Adventures, 5th-8th Prairie Partners, and Educa- adaptations. have to do with Wildcat Hills system, because humans are teaches the students about grade camp, focuses on a dif- tional Service Unit #13, all So you can see that conser- Wildlands conservation? Edu- not rulers of the planet, but ecosystems, migration, or ferent science theme each working together to promote vation education in the Wild- cation is how we acquire tools merely a cog within that intri- adaptations and gives the stu- year & takes students on an education. lands has a broad range and to exist in the world. And con- cate wheel of life. dents a broader sense of in-depth, hands-on investiga- Conservation education is a lot of fun. Just by coming servation education is no dif- The Wildcat Hills Nature nature's scope. Sixth grade tion of that topic. Partners also includes Nebraska Game to the Wildcat Hills and ferent. It's very important for Center provides year-round students from all over Educa- who present the camp & Parks wildlife biologists tak- enjoying nature, allows people to have a connection education in classrooms and tional Service Unit #13 come include the National Park ing people on hikes to see the nature's magic to reach into to nature. It gives them bal- summer camps and activities to the Nature Center to learn Service, Nebraska Game & big horn sheep herds and a person's soul & touch it ance and a sense of all about the benefit of Parks Commission, Univer- staff photographers teaching somehow. So, we encourage connection, sparks trees during Branch Out, sity of NE State Museum, about how to get just the right everyone to come to the their imagination and an event sponsored by Riverside Zoo, Scottsbluff picture. Bird banding, in con- Wildlands and make that con- creativity, offers solace, ESU #13, Scotts Bluff Trails West YMCA Camp, junction with Rocky Moun- nection with and learn about and is good for overall National Monument, University of NE Panhandle tain Bird Observatory and NE nature. You will find nature in well being. Just getting North Platte NRD, Research & Extension Prairie Partners, gives people the Wildcat Hills is truly mag- into the wild, alone, Nebraska Game & Parks Service, North Platte Natural an in-hand look at our local ical and you too will want to can provide that con- and the University of NE Resource District, Nebraska migratory birds and their work to save that magic. nection. So conserva- Panhandle Station. The tion education in the students come to the Wildcat Hills realization that they are Wildlands immerses the ones who must take Stalking Wildflowers people within nature the steps to save these and focuses on teach- fragile ecosystems and The diversity of wildflowers ally, it is common ing about our local their species, because it's in the Wildcat Hills is extraor- for the same species ecosystems and man's their own personal future dinary because of the diversi- to flower several place within those we are shaping today. ty of ecological sites and the weeks to a month ecosystems. People need to to continue that connection The Nature Center works presence of both prairie and latter on north com- have a "sense of place" that with nature. Young children along with Children and mountain plant species in this pared to south connects them to their own are often seen "flying" outside Nature in Our Parks, a local rugged landscape. Wildflow- slopes because of environment. They need to the Nature Center with their nature/education oriented ers are especially abundant differences in accu- know what factors, plants, crepe paper wings, or hiking partnership, to get people when precipitation is above mulated heat units. and animals make up that the hills with Outdoor involved in our natural areas. average in March or April Delays in flowering environment and their Education Specialist, Anne The summer High Plains which has not been the case may also occur this year. The good news is when plants grow that there are always ecologi- under pine trees. photographing wild- cal sites with amazing combi- Remember these flowers in the Wildcat nations of wildflowers even in environmental Hills is the opportunity dry years. These treasure effects when you to frame shots in a spots are located in or near find flowers on multitude of ways. outcrops of sandstone and other sites that Given the abundance siltstone near the tops of most species, you or ends of ridges. will likely find the per- Wildflowers are com- fect setting with a little mon at the base of these searching. Early and features because most of late-day lighting are perfect the precipitation runs for photographing wildflow- down the impermeable ers. If you choose the end of sides of the outcrops the day for your wildflower and into the plant com- adventure, look for opportu- munities below. nities to capture an awesome Additionally, there are a sunset on film. number of species that are are too advanced in maturity Please remember that well adapted to growing in to make a good quality pho- these natural treasures need the cracks that naturally tograph. to be left on site for all to occur in the sedimentary Whatever the quality of enjoy. You are not allowed to deposits. your camera, you will be sadly take cuttings or transplant Look for sites that are under equipped without a 5X wildflowers from Wildcat favorable for plant growth. to 10X hand lens. The exter- Hills Wildlands properties. Wildflowers are more likely to nal beauty of wildflowers can These plant species are a crit- occur on north and east not be fully appreciated with- ical part of this ecosystem. slopes compared to south or out magnification. You will be Each wildflower species is west slopes because of less amazed at the stunning and linked to associated micro- exposure to the sun. Lower delicate art beyond the reach bial, plant, and animal evaporation rates on north of the naked eye inside the species within the natural and east slopes often result in sepals and petals of many web of life over this beautiful the formation of deeper and wildflowers. landscape. Happy stalking! more fertile soils. Addition- One of the great aspects of Volunteers keep vision alive Bill Frank and Ralph Jones Forever." Forever is not just an organi- looked across rows of trees "We're only one of many zation about hunting but planted in the corner of the volunteer organizations who more about habitat restora- field into an open space abut- help," Jones said. "When we tion and preservation to pro- ting the North Platte River. raise money we keep it here vide homes for mother pheas- “I want to see taller grass and don't send if off to ants. out there and wildlife using national headquarters. We Pheasants Forever was in- the area for ground cover,” use it to invest in habitat proj- strumental in helping acquire Jones said. “With feed, water ects, and this land is just one the land for Kiowa Wetlands and cover we should see the of them.' south of Morrill and is in a population increase.” Frank said it Frank and Jones are both is becoming members of the Oregon Trail harder for peo- Chapter of Pheasants Forever ple to take ad- and have been volunteering vantage of their time to see that trees wildlife areas rows are getting established be-cause pri- This poster is one in a series of Wildcat Hills available to educators and inter- at the "Mitchell Valley" site, vate landown- ested individuals by contacting the Prairie Partners office at 308-220-0052. property recently acquired by ers or large cor- the Platte River Basin porations lock Environments, Inc. about up so much three miles north of Haig property. Playa Lakes Joint Venture board School. “This ia a “We’re vice president with- once in a life- sets agenda for key habitat land out portfolio who are in time opportu- charge of making sure the nity to preserve A meeting of local, region- organization and local, state, Venture takes in more than plants stay alive,," Jones said the land and at al and national wildlife and provincial and federal agen- 25,000 wetlands known as with a laugh. the same time waterfowl experts may set the cies. "playas" across the southern A portion of the property al-low public agenda for future acquisition Playa Lakes Joint Venture High Plains of the United continues as farm ground as access," Jones and development of key is one of 14 habitat joint ven- States. Most of these 10 to PRBE has installed a center said. habitat land in the North tures in the United States 100 acres shallow, circular pivot, which also waters rows “It also pro- Platte Valley. and covers portions of north basins are found in the Texas of trees and shrubs that will vides future Nebraska Game and Parks Texas, eastern New Mexico, Panhandle and southern serve as additional cover for habitat for Commission and Platte River eastern Colorado, western plains, with about 200 playas the wildlife. future generations," Frank position to provide earnest Basin Environments, Inc. Oklahoma, western Kansas, identified in southeastern Frank said he and Clive said. money for other worthwhile hosted a three day event. and portions of western Colorado. Ostenberg. whose estate pro- Jones said Pheasants land acquisitions. vided the catalyat for PRBE to Joint ventures are Nebraska. Depending on the season, Ranchers have long prized the Wildcat Hills for its green pas- described by U.S. Fish and According to the Playa these basins can be concave acquire property near and along the North Platte River tures and fertile soil. Over the last century, many a cattle Wildlife as a cooperative Lakes Joint Venture web-site discs of clay or shimmering grazed these grasslands under the watchful eye of the early approach to conservation by this will be the first time the pools of water, providing and in the Wildcat Hills, were best friends and spent a lot of landowners. Today many wild animals like bighorn sheep and forming broad partnerships PLJV board and various com- habitat for waterfowl, shore time hunting and taking their elk inhabit these hills thanks to the conservation efforts to accomplish collectively mittees have met in western birds. Most playas are pri- dogs to hunting field trials. exhibited by these early ranchers. The Wildcat Hills Wild- lands is a collaborative partnership that builds upon the lega- what is often difficult or Nebraska, which was adopt- vately owned and landowner "I don't mind giving my cy of conservation established by the men and women who impossible to do individually. ed into the PLJV administra- participation in the joint ven- time." Frank said. “This par- They consist of individuals, tive boundaries in January- ture is crucial to protecting ranched these lands and understood the importance of ticular project has been most- respecting and protecting these lands for future generations corporations, conservation The Playa Lakes Joint the playas. ly done by Pheasants

Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area Cedar Canyon Bead Mountain & Wildlife Management Area WMA & Buffalo Creek

Location - 10 miles south, 1 mile west Location - 3 miles south, 4 miles west, Location - 5 miles south, 2.5 miles of Gering, NE in Scotts Bluff and 1.5 south of Gering, NE. in west of Melbeta, NE, in Scotts Bluff and Banner Counties. This area is Scotts Bluff County This area is approximately 2200 acres in size and is and Banner Counties This area is approximately 178 acres in size and is open to hunting for deer, elk, dove, approximately 4,262 acres in size and is open to deer, elk, dove, rabbit, turkey, rabbit, turkey & squirrel. It also pro- open to hunting for deer, elk, dove, and squirrel. It also provides other vides other recreation opportunities rabbit, turkey and squirrel. It also pro- recreation opportunities for horseback for horseback riders, hikers, bird watchers, and mountain bikers. vides other recreational opportunities riders, hikers, bird watchers, mountain Unique to this area is the opportunity for horseback riders, hikers, bird bikers and target shooters. to observe bighorn sheep. watchers & mountain bikers. See specific area regulations for more details. See specific area regulations for more details. See specific area regulations for more details. Playa Wetlands Nebraska’s Playas By Chris Becker, NGPC Wildlife Biologist The Forgotten Few You might be wondering, what is a playa. Game species such as turkey and deer, as well Did you know that there are thousands of playa wetlands and other wildlife habitats in Playa is a term used for wetlands that are not as non-game species will use the wetlands for always wet. These wetlands are usually filled water. Other species will live in the water when playas in southwest Nebraska? About 15,000 the Southern Great Plains. Playa Country airs by rainwater or run-off during times of heavy it is present. Eggs from some of the species to be exact. Though often overlooked, they weekly on 31 public and farm radio stations, rainfall. Nebraska's most famous playa wet- that live in playa wetlands can sit in the soil for play an important part in completing the larg- and can be heard in eastern Colorado and land complex is the Rainwater Basin region in years while the area is dry and then hatch er picture of wetlands in the plains states. T.J. New Mexico, western Kansas, Oklahoma and central Nebraska, but playa wetlands are when they fill up with water. Walker, of the Nebraska Game and Parks Nebraska and the Texas Panhandle. We wel- found throughout the state. They provide a Playa wetlands can be found throughout the Commission, explains why Nebraska's playas come inquiries from stations interested in air- unique habitat because the vegetative commu- panhandle. The Pumpkin Creek headwaters are unique, and why conservation groups and ing the program. For information about this nity is constantly changing. Within a couple south of the Wildcat Hills is just one example days of a heavy rain, aquatic vegetation can of a playa wetland in the southern panhandle. wildlife agencies across the cornhusker state program and stations and airtimes, visit the seemingly appear from nowhere. Playa wetlands provide important water are working diligently to conserve them. Playa Country Radio web site: http://www.- Many different types of plant and animal sources for species in areas that do not Playa Country Radio is produced by the pljv.org/cms/playa-country-radio species benefit from playa wetlands. receive much rainfall. Playa wetlands are an Playa Lakes Joint Venture, a partnership of To listen to past shows, visit the Playa Waterfowl and shorebirds use these areas for important component to our ecosystem in the conservation groups, wildlife agencies and Country Radio Archive: http://www.pljv.- staging and nesting areas, because of the many area and should be conserved when ever pos- private landowners dedicated to conserving org/cms/radio-show-archive different types of food that are available. sible. Pheasants Forever Biologist Brad McKinney: 308-220-0052 NGPC Naturalist Anne James: 308-436-3777 PRBE President Hod Kosman: 308-632-7004 PRBE Vice President Bruce Rolls: 308-635-1556 NGPC Todd Nordeen or Emily Munter: 308-763-2940 Be A Partner...Be A Volunteer The Nature Conversancy Butch Ellis: 308-432-9582 Preserving the land Ducks Unlimited Numerous species of birds River Basin,” said Kosman. will be used for a planning Horn Sheep, according to patiently allowed strangers The non-profit organiza- and assessment model for the Todd Nordine of the furthers legacy into their world. The tion has received a number of whole complex, which Nebraska Game and Parks Meadowlark sang its familiar grants to continue conserva- includes approximately Commission. marsh is expected to attract song as the spring breeze gen- tion efforts in that area, 12,000 acres. The heard is growing and large numbers of waterfowl. tly moved the tall grass back which Kosman said would That area includes Buffalo officials are optimistic that The real story behind the and forth restoration of the Diamond A mallard duck quietly sat Bit property started in the in a pond below the nesting 1930s, when a teenager nam- area of blue herons while ed Clive Ostenberg devel- small fish scurried about try- oped a lifelong passion for ing to avoid being a heron's hunting and wild places next meal. along the Platte River and In A recent tour of land was the nearby Wildcat Hills. A like stepping back in time as Ducks Unlimited has Gold Legacy Sponsor and traffic was not heard and the helped further the late Clive active DU volunteer, Osten- only interruption was the Ostenberg's legacy of berg helped establish the first occasional cell phone. improving wildlife habitat In Ducks Unlimited chapter in Thousands of acres was western Nebraska by restor- western Nebraska. Ostenberg purchased in the last year by a ing a wetland that will host was a successful businessman group set out to preserve thousands of migrating water- in the Scottsbluff community. habitat while also under fowl each year. late In 2007, Shortly before his death in standing the need to allow DU finished work on the 1989, Ostenberg directed the public the opportunity to project located on the "Dia- that $1.5 million of his estate see nature at its best. be dedicated toward wildlife During a tour on Monday, mond Bit" property, which was purchased by a conserva- habitat projects in western individuals from throughout Nebraska. A group of his clos- the area received a first hand tion organization dedicated to fulfilling Ostenberg's est friends, including DU vol- look at the work being unteers Hod Kosman and done by the Platte River dream. The group, Platte River Basin Environments, Bruce Rolls, formed PRBE to Basin Environments, Inc. fulfill Clive’s dream of pro- The two pieces of land Inc (PRBE), contracted with DU to restore approximately tecting important wildlife were acquired by the Creek, the the animals will be as numer- habitats and natural areas for group in the past year Murphy ous as they once were. 35 acres of seasonal wetland habitat on the property. Just future generations. PRBE has including land around Ranch, which Kosman said that he got acquired and protected many Horse Creek, east of is owned by involved in this venture days after the project was completed, the wetland be- other properties in coopera- Morrill along with Bead the Nature because of his strong environ- tion with government agen- Mountain, located south Conservancy, mental and preservation feel- gan filling with water from a nearby spring. Located only a cies and other conservation of Gering. Cedar Canyon ings. organizations, including DU. The Horse Creek land and the Bead "All we have to do is look to mile from the Platte River is in excess of 500 acres, Mountain the south and see the pres- near Scottsbluff, the said PRBE Board Ranch along sure that development causes. President Hod Kosman. with the We all want our communities The two locations are Wildcat Hills to prosper and develop, currently a work in Statethat's a given and we need progress, said Kosman, Recreation that but that development who said before the land Area. continues to place major is open to the public, Kosman pressures on our wild they must address some estimated that resources.” issues. it would take "If we can get ahead of' "We have to consider at least tow the curve, in our area, and safety issues and access to years to go take some significant land the property,” he said. through the and put it into the proper "We have some issues planning management approach, then because we have to cross process before we’ll have, forever, significant a major canal and unguarded help facilitate access to that thoughts of opening it up to open spaces to enjoy and railroad tracks. We also have a area. the public can be aired. room for our wild resources fairly complicated exit off a He said one of the grants, In addition, the Bead as our communities develop. busy highway. So we need to $125,000, came from the Mountain area is being used And forever is a long time," consider all of those.” Peter Kiewit Foundation and as a breeding area for Big said Kosman. He said they also need to do an assessment on the impact to wildlife when access is granted to the public. Bayard wins Land Judging contest In addition to the local guests, Lisa Beethe from the By Kay Grote Nebraska Environmental North Platte Natural Resource Trust in Lincoln accompa- District Education Coordinator nied the group along with Sixty students from four officials from the Nebraska area FFA chapters braved the Game and Parks Commission raw temperatures Wednesday and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The NET is one of to participate in the 2006 many who have assisted in Western Region Land working to preserve the land. Judging Contest. The event After meeting in Morrill, was hosted by the North the group traveled to the Platte Natural Resources newly acquired land at Horse District and Natural Resour- Creek. ces Conservation Service. The land offers a variety of Access to pasture land on the habitat along the North Platte Bead Mountain Ranch south River as work has been done of Gering for the contest was to remove non-native grasses, granted by the Platte River trees and shrubs. Basin Environments, Inc. Among those being "Education and proper removed is the salt cedar, stewardship of the land is very which was described as a important to our group," said plant that uses and wastes Bob Smith of Platte River more water than any other Basin Environments, Inc. "We plants, according to were very pleased to provide University of Nebraska access and be involved in a Rangeland Ecologist Pat very worthwhile educational Sixty area FFA members from four schools braved the weather Reece. event." Reece said they are doing to participate 2006 Western Region Land Judging contest host- Four individuals from the ed by the North Platte NRD and NRCS. The contest was held everything possible to control Bayard FFA Chapter, Nick it as well as Russian olive in at Bead Mountain Ranch south of Gering, owned by Platte Kizzire, Jacob Hoffman, Amy River Basin Environments, Inc. the Horse Creek area. Long and Marcus Clay swept Kosman said that eventual- the individual contest while team members Ryan Lukas- Lukassen, Kimball; Rachel ly, the Horse Creek land the Bayard team of Kizzire, sen, Dustin Wilke, Sarah Nerud, Bayard; Lawrence would be turned over the U.S. Hoffman, Clay and Rich Novotny and Tyler Weis- Burns. Kimball; Tessa Fish and Wildlife Service. Evans took home the top brook. They were coached by Armstrong, Bayard and At that point, the land team honor. Another Bayard Alan Held. Kendrah Dechant, Bayard. would become part of the team of Long, Brodee Bewe- The top two schools, Land judging is a high State Line Island property ley, Candace Ross and Jeremy Bayard 1 and Scottsbluff, are school competition that chal- with approximately four miles Reichert earned second high now qualified for the state lenges students to gain a bet- of river in one management team honors. Bayard FFA land judging contest to be ter understanding of soil unit. advisor Justin Rafferty made a Oct. 31 in Saunders County. structure and land evalua- “The public use going for- good showing, bringing 25 Individual purple ribbon tion. Students are required ward will be significantly winners were Nick Kizzire, to examine a soil profile, impacted by how the U.S. students comprising seven teams. Jacob Hoffman, Amy Long determine the surface tex- Fish and Wildlife would like and Marcus Clay, Bayard; ture, subsoil/control section to manage it," said Kosman. The Scottsbluff team of Cody Pedulla, Alex Groskopf, Tyler Kulas of Alliance; Cody texture and permeability, The group then toured the Pedulla of Scottsbluff, and slope of land and identify any Bead Mountain Ranch south Chelsea McKenzie and Christa Pulk earned third Candace Ross of Bayard. Blue conservation practices. Land of Gering. ribbon winners were James judging enables each partici- This young lady examines the land during the 2006 Western The group went from see- place overall and the second place school award. Shane Groskopf, Scottsbluff; Shawn pant to learn how to recog- Region Land Judging contest held at Bead Mountain Ranch ing wetlands to a very differ- located south of Gering. ent and more rugged land- Talkington coached the Gaseeling, Alliance; Charlea nize the physical features of scape. Scottsbluff team. Ferguson, Kimball; Rich the soil, determine land capa- practices needed for proper Environments hopes to host "Bead Mountain will stay Third place school team Evans, Bayard; Alex bility for crop production land stewardship. the 2008 State Land Judging under the ownership of Platte award went to Kimball with Groskopf, Scottsbluff; Ryan and evaluate management The Platte River Basin Contest this fall.

Pheasants Forever Biologist Brad McKinney: 308-220-0052 NGPC Naturalist Anne James: 308-436-3777 PRBE President Hod Kosman: 308-632-7004 PRBE Vice President Bruce Rolls: 308-635-1556 NGPC Todd Nordeen or Emily Munter: 308-763-2940 Be A Partner...Be A Volunteer The Nature Conversancy Butch Ellis: 308-432-9582 Appreciating our Unique Natural Vegetation over a thousand feet on the employees aged some mid- adaptations to save pre- on badlands. It's clumped south side of the North sized, rather scraggly pines cious water. Several of growth and large, bright Platte River valley. It is on rocky bluff tops. To these are rather rare yellow flower heads make composed mostly of layers their surprise they found species including summer this plant easy to identify. of highly erodible sand- some of these trees to be Western mixed- stone, siltstone, and vol- over 400 years old. These grass prairie is the canic ash. Erosion formed may be some of the oldest characteristic features include deep trees in Nebraska. The dry prairie type of the canyons, isolated buttes, conditions had limited Wildcat Hills occur- outcrops, cliffs, and bad- their growth. ring on ridge tops, lands. Soils are generally Mountain mahogany high slopes and low shallow or nonexistent on shrublands are one of the slopes where soils eroded areas. The lower, Wildcat Hills rarest plant are silty. Common gentler slopes, however, communities. This com- plants of western- have deeper soils devel- munity occurs on rocky mixed grass prairie oped from sands and silts. slopes, especially slopes include threadleaf In places, low sand dunes with course gravel and cob- sedge, blue grama, have blown out of the ble soils deposited within needle-and-thread, North Platte River valley ancient riverbeds. As its side-oats grama, and settled on the escarp- name suggests, mountain broom snakeweed, ments fringes. mahogany is a shrub com- and fringed sage. Ponderosa pine wood- mon in the Rocky The quality of lands are common in the Mountains the western Wildcat Hills, especially in to the west, mixed-grass the western half of the Nebraska's prairie escarpment. Prior to settle- populations varies with ment, Wildcat Hill's pine are eastern slope posi- woodlands had mostly outliers. tion. large, widely spaced trees Mountain Higher and an open grassy under- mahogany is quality west- story. Wildfires limited a fire-adapt- ern mixed- establishment of young ed species grass prairie trees and maintained the and typically grassy understory. Dense resprouts occurs on pines stands likely occurred vigorously steep slopes, in steep, fire-protected after fire. It and to a canyons. is also an lesser Rocky Mountain juniper important, degree was the other conifer also highly nutri- ridge tops, common in the pre-settle- tious food which gen- ment Wildcat Hills. More for deer and elk. Without orophaca, erally have fire-sensitive than pon- fire, the shrubs become slender lip limited water derosa pine, it was likely coarse and a less palatable fern, mat- development limited to rocky outcrops for wildlife. Only a few ted prickly and are there- and slopes. Due to fire sup- other plants grow in the phlox, dog fore grazed pression, eastern red mountain mahogany parsley, less by cattle. cedars have invaded the shrublands due to the and leop- Prairies on Wildcat Hills in recent coarse, rocky soils, usually ard lily. lower slopes decades. Rocky Mountain scattered prairie grasses, Leopard generally have junipers can be distin- such as side-oats grama and lilies often been heavily guished from eastern red thickspike wheatgrass. grow in grazed and cedars by their rounded On sandstone and silt- grassy invaded by tops, versus the more coni- stone exposures within the washes at cheatgrass and cal tops for eastern red Wildcat Hills occurs the the base of Kentucky blue- cedar. The two often rock outcrop plant commu- badlands. grass and have hybridize making identifi- nity. This community inter- The lily is lost many of cation difficult at times. grades with and is some- unique in having mottled, their characteristic plants Early settlers cut most of times difficult to distin- brownish-purple flowers species. the larger pines and guish from the badlands with the fragrance of morel Sand prairie occurs on By Gerry Steinauer rock outcrops, nearly bar- junipers for railroad ties, community, which occur mushrooms. The quarter- deep sandy loam soils Nebraska Games and Parks Commission, Biologist & Heritage Specialist ren badlands, and shrub lumber, and firewood. on highly eroded siltstones. sized flowers are somewhat below sandstone bluffs. and grass-covered sand Stumps of these trees can Both communities have camouflaged due to their These prairies are most The vegetation of the dunes. This diverse land- still be seen in the Wildcat sparse vegetation due to coloring. Dog parley is one common on the southern Wildcat Hills is still similar scape supports a variety of Hills, some with ax marks their harsh growing condi- of Nebraska's rarer plants. margin of the Wildcat Hills to what immigrants travel- native plants including sev- visible. Larger pines and tions - lack of soil and little It is found only in Scotts where they extend into the ing the Oregon Trail saw eral species that are rare in junipers have returned on moisture. Most rock out- Bluff and Sheridan coun- Pumpkin Creek valley. over a century and a half Nebraska. the moist lower slopes and crop and badland species ties in Nebraska. A mem- Prairie sandreed, blue ago - steep pine-covered The Wildcat Hills is a canyon bottoms. The are stunted, matted plants ber of the carrot family, grama, and needle-and- canyons, sprawling prairies, rocky escarpment that rises Nebraska Forest Service with minute leaves, all dog parsley occurs mainly thread are the dominant plants of the sand prairie. A similar prairie type is sandsage prairie, which occurs on rolling to nearly Mosaic of Plant Communities flat wind-deposited sand ple, prairie sandreed and stocks.Local ranchers refer to In contrast to prairie plant slopes. There are numerous dunes. This prairie type is sand bluestem are very well little bluestem as poverty communities that are domi- grasses and wildflowers in the most abundant in the adapted to sandy soils. An grass because cattle will not nated by grasses, there are understory, but the colors southwestern portion of abundance of these warm-sea- graze the rank growth and also mountain foothill com- and textures of these sites are the Hills. This community son tallgrasses always indi- total forage production is is characterized by the pres- cates the presence of sandy quite low on the shallow sites ence of prairie grasses with soils. Both of these grasses are where it is most abundant. a rather even scattering of deep rooted and primarily Sites where water tables sandsage. The gray colored reproduce with underground are within the rooting depth sandsage grows to about a stems called rhizomes. In con- of plants are rare in the meter tall and is trast, buffalograss, a warm- Wildlands. These wetland Nebraska's largest sage- season shortgrass, never sites support totally different brush. By Patrick E. Reece, occurs on sandy sites because mixtures of plant species Spring seeps are the only Prairie & Montane Enterprises LLC it's runners or stolons are not compared to upland sites. wetland community found able to take root in coarse The banks of intermittent on the Wildcat Hills escarp- Prairie plant communities textured sands. Buffalograss streams that flow from ment. Seeps occur on in the Wildlands are com- is very well adapted to clay springs in deep canyons are slopes where groundwater posed of mixtures of grasses, and silt textured soils. often dominated by a variety flows from between rock wildflowers, shrubs, and grass- Other site characteristics of sedge layers. Small streams often like-plants called sedges. that control the distribution species such form below the seeps. When looking at the Wildcat of plant species include soil as Nebraska chemistry, soil depth, and sedge with Sedges, bulrushes, horse- Hills Wildlands from high or tails, and mosses are com- distant view points, differ- depth to the water table. The long wide ences in colors and textures first lush shades of green that leaves that mon on the seeps them- indicate the occurrence of develop in the Wildcat Hills are distinct- dominated by mountain selves. The small streams distinctly different plant com- from late March to late April ly blue- mahogany. Skunkbush sumac below seeps are often lined munities. These seemingly are almost totally the result of green. dominates smaller areas of with Willow, Cottonwood, random patterns are actually threadleaf sedge. This grass- Many wet- shrub dominated landscape and Box Elder trees. These highly predictable because of like plant is well adapted to land sites near the bottoms of slopes. seeps and streams are vital the ecological amplitude of silty soils with relatively high are easy to These shrubs provide bril- to wildlife as they are the the dominant plant species. soil pH. It is especially abun- find liant red and orange colors only natural water sources Ecological amplitude is the dant on shallow soils less than because of after the first hard frost in the in the Wildcat Hills. range of an environmental 20 inches deep. Little the abun- fall. Canopy cover of pon- The Wildcat Hills varied variable over which a given bluestem, the state grass of dance of derosa pine, Rocky Mountain plant communities are species is able to grow well. Nebraska, is also well adapted cottonwood juniper and eastern red cedar home to over 400 species of The environmental condi- to shallow soils throughout trees that provide year-round cover that native plants and many tions in which different plant the Wildlands.This species provide spectacular fall colors munities dominated by varies from open savannah species of native wildlife. species are able to dominate gives a distinct red cast to the for several weeks after the shrubs or trees. Mountain with widely dispersed tress to This unique ecological plant communities often dif- landscape from the dense first hard frost in the Wildcat mahogany shrublands occur dense stands on favorable resource is well worth con- fer among species. For exam- bunches of red-brown seed Hills Wildlands. on long steep north and east sites. serving.