OutdoorNebraska

Management 22 Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 2025 Annual Report Management Grassland conservation collaboration benefits many species Nebraska's grasslands are among the state's most valuable features — sustaining wildlife, supporting rural livelihoods, protecting soil and water, and anchoring one of North America's largest intact grassland ecosystems. In 2025, Nebraska Game and Parks and partners advanced work to conserve these landscapes while strengthening the statewide network that supports them. In its first full year, the Nebraska Grassland Alliance grew into a vibrant community, engaging more than 100 individuals from over 50 organizations. The Alliance hosted its first in-person and virtual All-Alliance meetings and unveiled NebraskasGrasslands.org, the state's first shared platform for grassland resources and collaboration. On the ground, Game and Parks and partners completed 222 habitat projects improving nearly 89,000 acres of prairies, wetlands and other natural areas. This included 110 grassland-focused projects covering nearly 77,000 acres. These efforts — supported by ranchers, tribal partners, conservation groups and private landowners — enhanced native vegetation, soil health, carbon storage and wildlife habitat. A notable highlight came from Box Butte County, where a Morrison's Bumble Bee was documented — the third confirmed Nebraska sighting since the Bumble Bee Atlas launched in 2019. The Phillips family property near Hemingford, restored to native grassland in 2022 with seed mixes exceeding standard Conservation Reserve Program recommendations. They also enrolled their land in the Open Fields and Waters Program, demonstrating how partnerships can restore habitat, support wildlife and provide public access. These initiatives reinforce Nebraska's leadership in safeguarding one of the continent's last great grassland strongholds, ensuring healthy ecosystems and resilient communities for generations. Stocking fish to provide the best fishing opportunities Nebraska Game and Parks' enhanced stocking program for lakes and rivers bolsters fish populations, providing both experienced anglers and beginners the chance to enjoy fruitful fishing outings year-round. In 2025, Nebraska's five fish hatcheries grew and made available more than 57 million fish for stocking. In all, 22 species were placed into nearly 300 water bodies statewide. Stocking helps supplement populations with limited natural survival, low natural reproduction or high angler utilization. Rainbow trout are stocked in the East Branch of Verdigre Creek at Grove Lake Wildlife Management Area. ERIC FOWLER

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