The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) has teamed up with Ducks Unlimited (DU) to secure a future for the Great Plains’ rich hunting heritage by funding three crucial conservation projects, with $6 million aimed directly at Nebraska’s vital prairie wetlands. This investment, through the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA), is a big win for waterfowl hunters. With additional backing from DU, Cargill, and local conservation groups, these efforts will ensure that prime hunting grounds and migration stopovers in the Cornhusker State remain robust for years to come.

In Nebraska, the project covers five significant tracts, totaling over 6,000 acres of wetlands and grasslands, sitting right in the heart of one of the most important waterfowl flyways. “This is a prime example of diverse, high-impact habitat work,” says Ele Nugent, DU’s Nebraska Conservation Program Manager. “This area includes famous waterfowl hot spots like the Rainwater Basin, Platte River, and Sandhills, which serve as key migration and nesting grounds for countless ducks and other game birds.”

The iconic Platte River, its braided tributaries, and Nebraska’s playa wetlands like the Rainwater Basin are essential to the Central Migration Flyway. For waterfowl hunters, these shallow wetlands are critical resting and refueling points for ducks before they head north to breed in the Dakotas and Canada. With this project, sportsmen and women can count on improved habitat for their next hunt and a boost in wildlife diversity.

On top of that, the project will open up 607 acres of public access for hunting, fishing, and outdoor activities. In a state where 97% of the land is privately owned, this means more opportunities for hunters to enjoy the Nebraska outdoors.

“This will significantly enhance recreational access in the state, something that’s sorely needed,” Nugent added.

Hunters will be glad to know that Nebraska’s Sandhills are home to an estimated 275,000 nesting ducks, alongside millions of other grassland birds. The Platte River is a key staging area for over a million Sandhill Cranes each spring, and the project will ensure that these birds continue to find suitable habitat. Plus, the native prairie provides rich opportunities for pollinators, adding to the landscape’s biodiversity.

While development has claimed over 80% of the Rainwater Basin wetlands and much of the Platte River’s once pristine habitat, this project is a much-needed shot in the arm. Restoration efforts here are essential to maintaining Nebraska’s vibrant waterfowl populations, ensuring that future generations of hunters will still experience the thrill of the hunt in these cherished lands. This is conservation that works for hunters, wildlife, and the rich outdoor traditions of the Great Plains.

Comments

comments