Goal 3: Understand the Opportunities and Threats in Developing
Urban Areas and Areas of Rapid Population Growth
Most of Nebraska is rural. However, rapid growth and urbanization can
make it difficult to meet the outdoor recreation needs of any population.
As urban areas continue to expand in the eastern portion of Nebraska and
along the I-80 corridor, competition to protect natural resources becomes
difficult. Some of the threats from urbanization include the continued loss
of agricultural and outdoor recreation lands, loss of habitat, and decrease
in water quality. Large scale growth presents opportunities for an expanded
tax base and the creation of new park and recreation areas. While this
mainly applies to the Metro Region, there are several other cities that are
experiencing growth, such as Norfolk, Grand Island, Kearney, Hastings,
Columbus, and North Platte, that could impinge on greenways, prairies,
and park areas.
• Maps and data are
available to effectively
evaluate potential for
outdoor recreation within
developed areas.
• Public advocates for green
space in developed areas.
• Public has active
and passive outdoor
recreational opportunities
available to them.
Public understands and
appreciates the need to
conserve green areas for
ecological health and outdoor
recreation opportunity.
• Connectivity of amenities is
fulfilled through development
of extensive trail networks
within communities.
82 2 0 2 1 - 2 0 2 5 S TAT E W I D E C O M P R E H E N S I V E O U T D O O R R E C R E AT I O N P L A N
Aerial view of
Auburn, including
baseball, softball,
soccer fields,
and campground.
(Nemaha County)
Playing on the merry-go-round at Wilson Park in
Chadron. Wilson Park has been funded by the
LWCF. (Dawes County)
GOAL
DESIRED OUTCOMES
Action items
denoted with a green
leaf are immediate
recommendations
directly related to this
desired outcome.
