OutdoorNebraska

Service 33 Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 2025 Annual Report Honoring tribal heritage through partnership In 2025, Nebraska Game and Parks played a central role in preserving and protecting 69 sacred artifacts returned to Nebraska from the Smithsonian Institution — one of the largest tribal repatriations in Smithsonian history. These belongings, including moccasins, a beaded bag, a bow and a small doll, were removed from the Lakota after the Battle of Blue Water in 1855 and are deeply meaningful to the descendants. Ash Hollow State Historical Park remodeled museum space to meet preservation standards and is providing a secure and respectful home for these items while the descendants' family determines next steps. Superintendent Tamara Cooper has built strong, trusting relationships with the family, supporting them through research, guidance and respectful stewardship. This collaboration ensures the tribe's voices, history and cultural sovereignty remain at the center, reflecting Nebraska Game and Parks' commitment to honoring and preserving Indigenous heritage. Special enforcement to ensure safe recreation Throughout the summer, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission conservation officers conducted special enforcement patrols focusing on state recreation areas and other Commission- managed properties throughout the state. The special patrols focused on proactively reducing the potential for alcohol-related boat and vehicle accidents. The efforts focused primarily on weekends from late May through the end of August, with conservation officers conducting high-visibility patrols on and off the water. Visitors to those areas were reminded that alcohol consumption on park and wildlife areas is prohibited on all roadways, designated swimming areas and parking areas. Consumption of alcohol also is prohibited between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. and where posted with signs. A grant from the Nebraska Department of Roads Office of Highway Safety helped fund this special enforcement effort. A new call center improved customer service to those requesting reservations, including at these Chadron State Park cabins. JUSTIN HAAG New reservation call center enhances customer service In June 2025, Nebraska State Parks launched a new Reservation Call Center to provide a smoother, more convenient experience for guests making or modifying park reservations. The upgraded service includes more reservation specialists, weekend availability, a callback system that eliminates long hold times, and also offering Spanish-language support — making it easier for all visitors to plan their park experiences efficiently. The call center welcomed more than 5,000 calls in its first six months and promises to be an important tool into the future. This enhancement supports Nebraska State Parks' commitment to improving visitor services, reducing frustration, and making park experiences more accessible and enjoyable for everyone, while helping staff serve guests more effectively.

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