OutdoorNebraska

2022 Annual Report • Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 3 Sincerely, Timothy McCoy Director Fr o m t h e d i r e c t o r Nebraska Game and Parks had a tremendously rewarding 2022, celebrating the Aquatic Habitat Program, updating our recruitment, retention and reactivation plan, and providing access and support for outdoor recreation activities and education. At the same time, we were focused on water — or rather the lack of it. Wildfire raged across portions of the state, and Game and Parks assisted other state and federal agencies in containing and preventing them. Wildfires affect people, communities and the natural resources we manage for the long term. While the lack of rain dropped water levels in our lakes, it provided the opportunity to make improvements to our boat ramps across the state. We were able to repair some and extend others, which will improve and increase access and opportunity for years to come. These improvements were partially paid for by the Nebraska Aquatic Habitat Program, which is funded entirely by anglers. The program enhances aquatic ecosystems by implementing restoration techniques in streams, lakes, reservoirs and the watersheds that feed them. In addition to improving aquatic habitat and water quality, the program improves boat and bank angler access. When the program launched in 1997, it was the first of its kind in the nation. The program requires an Aquatic Habitat Stamp, which is included with each fishing permit sold. The program has generated more than $90 million for priority improvements to 137 water bodies so far. To celebrate the program's success and milestones, we spent a Saturday in June at the recently renovated Conestoga Lake, our largest Aquatic Habitat Program project. Families and fishers came out and enjoyed many fun activities on the water. These improvements and investments in our natural resources are possible thanks to many partners in conservation and our valued constituents. Outdoor enthusiasts, landowners and conservationists help shape our priority initiatives. In 2022, we completed our five-year R3 plan to grow and maintain participation in outdoor pursuits. On-the-ground efforts also were in play. We introduced thousands of Nebraskans to outdoor skills at our parks, special events and outdoor expos. Workshops helped hundreds of people take their skills to the next level. We hosted our first conservation kayak clean-ups at water bodies in urban areas; expanded our community fishing nights; and more. Being accessible and listening to our constituents remains a priority for the Commission. We involve the public in our decision-making process through public meetings and events and garner feedback through emails, surveys, meetings and phone calls. Fish and wildlife research and survey results that guide our management are shared by staff and are available online. I am proud of the successes Game and Parks saw in 2022. It was only possible because of our dedicated and talented staff, who believe wholeheartedly in our stewardship of the state's fish, wildlife, park and outdoor recreation resources. Nebraskans and our visitors value their outdoor resources. We know the outdoors is important to our quality of life, mental health and well-being — and time outdoors truly is time well spent.

• Cover