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36 2019 Annual Report • Fisheries Fisheries R E H A B I L I T A T I N G W A T E R S F O R F U T U R E R E C R E A T I O N The Aquatic Habitat Program works to improve conditions for aquatic life through better management or rehabilitation of existing resources, and collaborates with partners to build new waters to make them the best they can be. Funding is provided by the purchase of the Aquatic Habitat Stamp, which is included in the price of a fishing license. This is why the program is aimed at improving habitat for fish that anglers love. Major projects in 2019 were: • The Conestoga Reservoir rehabilitation was completed, producing a fantastic recreational area for Nebraskans. Investments in the angler and boating access will provide facilities for anglers, birders and hikers and bikers. Work began in 2011, and three years of construction were needed to modify the outlet structure, excavate over one- half million cubic yards of sediment, stabilize shorelines, install sediment retention cells and build wetlands to protect water quality. The Aquatic Habitat Program, Nebraska Environmental Trust, Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, Environmental Protection Agency and Sport Fish Restoration provided the funding for this $8 million project. • A major coolwater stream restoration project on Dry Spotted Tail Creek is underway. Efforts to restore natural stream function, riparian and wetland habitat has involved the replacement of the straightened and incised channel with a new, constructed reach of meandering stream to support healthy aquatic and wetland communities. Public access improvements will be included when the project is completed in 2020 with help from Platte River Basin Environments, Trout Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited. • Fort Robinson State Park's Grabel, Cherry Creek and Ice House ponds are being rehabilitated. They are being excavated to remove sediments, water-control structures are being modernized, shorelines are being shaped for better access and underwater habitat structures are being installed to improve fishing success. Maintaining fishing opportunities throughout construction is a goal of this project.