OutdoorNebraska

2020 Annual Report • Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 7 P A R K A T T E N D A N C E When COVID-19 was first reported in Nebraska in mid-March, Game and Parks took immediate action to limit activities and operations of facilities where social distancing would be an issue. Within five weeks, we had established new operational routines consistent with state and federal health measures that would allow us to begin offering services again. Campground service, for example, was restored Memorial Day weekend, and most activities at most locations were phased back in by mid- to late-year. Available activities fluctuated, of course, as we responded to surges of coronavirus cases in various parts of the state. Though there were disruptions, we were able to keep our essential functions going uninterrupted and were able to keep the safety of our staff and public as our No. 1 priority. Still, our bottom line took a hit in some areas. Cabin and lodging rental cancellations and refunds resulted in a loss of approximately $3.2 million for the fiscal year (FY). Additional losses were realized in activity fees and resale sales, down nearly $600,000 combined. Fortunately, an increased demand for outdoor activities resulted in higher-than-average attendance at parks and campgrounds. Fiscal-year revenue for camping was up by nearly $630,000 in FY20 compared to FY19, and as the calendar year progressed vehicle park entry permit sales outpaced previous years. I N - H O U S E C H A N G E S N E C E S S A R Y Given the uncertainty of the potential or lingering affects of the pandemic, Game and Parks took the pandemic year as an opportunity to re-examine our Continuity of Operations Plan. The plan outlines actions and protocols the agency takes to ensure the safety of Game and Parks' staff, facilities and the public, while providing for the continuation of essential operations during an emergency. A large and successful effort was invested to modify workspaces and work schedules; expand or improve communication processes in order to thoroughly inform agency staff and the public of the status of agency facilities relative to the ever-changing impacts of the pandemic; and acquire personal protection equipment for staff. By the end of June 2020, nearly $500,000 was spent on masks, hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, gloves, recommended cleaning solutions, and facility accommodations, such as clear acrylic barriers to separate the public from staff. We have applied and are beginning to receive some federal reimbursement of these expenses through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency and the CARES Act funding. We're optimistic the introduction of vaccines will allow us to get back to more normal operations in the year ahead and that the public's growing interest in outdoor activities will remain top of mind. Our great outdoors is a major contributor to the Good Life Nebraska has to offer. NICK SAUVAGEAU, NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKS COMMISSION

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