Joel Jorgensen, Nongame Bird Program Manager, and Stephen Brenner, an
avian ecologist in a partnership position with Audubon Nebraska and the
Commission, set up mist nets to capture American woodcock at George D. Syas
Wildlife Management Area. ERIC FOWLER
"I truly value working with Nebraska Game and Parks
because of the passion and professionalism of the
people who make up the agency. They care deeply
about conserving Nebraska's natural resources and
always put conservation at the heart of their work.
Game and Parks is a trusted, credible partner that
welcomes collaboration; our combined strengths and
resources make a real difference for wildlife, habitat,
and people."
— Kristal Stoner, Audubon Great Plains Executive Director
"
"
SUCCESS STORY
RESEARCH ACCESS INNOVATION STEWARDSHIP
Innovative Aquatic Restoration
In collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Nebraska Game and Parks recently completed a major
aquatic restoration project at Harlan County Lake's
Methodist Cove.
Once choked by sediment and disconnected from the main
reservoir, the cove was transformed into a vibrant fish and
wildlife habitat. The project restored the cove's depth and
reestablished a channel to connect it with the lake during
most years. This will improve spawning and overwintering
areas for fish, especially crappie.
Habitat structures made from repurposed cedar trees and
rock features were added to provide cover, and shorelines
were stabilized. New jetties also were added to enhance
angler access.
Upstream sediment removal and pond restoration also
created additional habitat for fish and waterfowl.
Funded through a federal-state partnership, this long-term
project showcases how Game and Parks' Aquatic Habitat
Program revitalizes aging reservoirs, enhances recreation,
and strengthens Nebraska's aquatic ecosystems for
the future.
Water fills the portions of Methodist Cove where a channel was dug to connect the cove to the lake and sediment was removed at Harlan County Lake. Soon
after this photo was captured in Oct. 2024, the construction road crossing the channel was removed. ERIC FOWLER
Harlan County Reservoir
Methodist Cove Restoration Project
15
