OutdoorNebraska

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 35 Working with landowners on depredation issues, gauging satisfaction Game and Parks continued to work with landowners in 2023 to reduce wildlife damage issues to agricultural property while respecting their needs and that of science-backed wildlife management. Timely technical assistance for damage associated with game species was given to more than 500 people across Nebraska. Excessive snowfall in northern and western Nebraska last winter resulted in increased wildlife/hay storage issues being addressed, with a variety of depredation options. Ten big game meetings, multimedia outreach through the agency's website, radio shows, emails and news releases helped keep the public informed about tools and resources available to prevent depredation. Because hunting is the preferred management tool in big game depredation situations, the agency continued aggressive big game permitting to control populations in areas of greatest damage concern. A survey also was launched for 2022 to evaluate depredation response and landowner satisfaction. Responses came in from 35 counties with a 39% return rate. Overall, landowners who contacted Game and Parks believe the agency has a great response time, does a good job providing technical advice, believe the depredation options used helped reduce damage, and would work with us on future depredation issues. Omaha's Standing Bear Lake renovated Standing Bear Lake was the recipient of a much-anticipated Aquatic Habitat and Boating Access project in 2023. The project focused on improvements to the boat ramp on the south side of the lake and angler access on the north side. Early in the year, the water level was lowered about 20 feet in the 135-acre northwest Omaha lake so construction could start in early spring. The boat ramp was upgraded to a double ramp with two docks. The ramp was protected from wind and wave action with an Americans with Disabilities Act-accessible jetty. A separate kayak launch was developed to help relieve congestion at the boat ramp. Angler access to the north shore was improved with a series of "bump outs" and a wooden pier. The main lake basin was enhanced with underwater rock shoals, rock vegetation barriers and weighted cedar trees enhancing the diversity of habitat conditions for sport fish. Once construction was completed and water levels improved, largemouth bass and bluegill were stocked. Black crappie and channel catfish also are scheduled to be stocked. This was a cooperative project by Nebraska Game and Parks, City of Omaha Park and Recreation Department and the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers. Funding was provided by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Aquatic Habitat and Angler Access Fund and Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration. Mule deer forage for food around hay bales during winter.

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