Applications for paddlefish snagging permits will be accepted by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission from July 1-14.

The application period opens at 1 p.m. Central time July 1. Mail applications must be received by Game and Parks’ Lincoln office by 5 p.m. Central on July 14, while online applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. Central on July 14.

Two anglers may submit a joint application, but the applicants must both be residents or nonresidents. The lowest preference point total between the two applicants will be used in the draw.

An angler must be 12 years old by Oct. 1, 2025, to be eligible to apply for a snagging permit.

Permits will be awarded through a random drawing based on angler preference points.

Drawing results will be available by July 20.  Applicants supplying email addresses will be notified when the draw is complete. Others should monitor their status online. Successful applicants will have until Aug. 5 to complete the purchase of awarded permits.

Permits awarded but unpaid will result in the applicant losing preference points and forfeiting the permit. Unpaid or unawarded permits remaining after the draw will be made available to the next resident applicants until the permit quota is reached.

In lieu of participating in the draw, resident anglers may purchase one preference point during the application period for $10 and nonresidents may purchase one for $20.

Snagging of paddlefish and nongame fish is permitted Oct. 1-31 in the Missouri River from the Gavins Point Dam downstream to the mouth of the Big Sioux River at mile marker 734 for anglers who have an awarded, unfilled paddlefish tag.

For more information, including an application form, read the 2025 Nebraska Fishing Guide at OutdoorNebraska.gov/guides-maps. Watch our tutorial, “How to apply for draw permits and purchase preference points” at YouTube.com/@NebraskaGameandParksCommission.

To see a summary of the 2024 paddlefish season, visit OutdoorNebraska.gov and search “fish sampling reports.”

 

Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

When summer temperatures rise, water recreation increases. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has the following tips to help those who enjoy the water do so safely:

Never swim alone – Always swim with a buddy.

Pay attention – Avoid distractions and focus on those you are swimming with and the water. Drowning is the leading cause of death for children, according to the American Red Cross, and drownings can happen in seconds, as well as in shallow waters. Staying watchful – even of strong swimmers – is encouraged and the best way to respond quickly should an accident occur.

Wear a life jacket – Children especially should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket, while swimming or wading in water, including swim areas at Nebraska state parks. Floats such as pool noodles, rafts, donuts and kick boards, are not intended to serve as life-saving devises; properly worn life jackets are.

In Nebraska, children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device. People being towed by a boat on skis, a tube, or other similar device, also must wear a life jacket. Every vessel, except sailboards, must carry a flotation device for each person on board.

Make sure the life jacket fits – Check the jacket for both weight and size limits. Life jackets should be snug and should not pop up around the ears.

Watch for waves, currents, drop-offs and underwater objects – Lakes, rivers and streams often have murky water, potentially hiding underwater hazards such as logs, currents or changes in water depth. Be prepared for the unexpected.

Avoid alcohol — Boaters and swimmers can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence also is a criminal violation and is enforced actively in Nebraska.

Watch the weather – Storms can pop up quickly in Nebraska. Check the weather in advance and monitor it during the day, if necessary. Sudden changes in weather can lead to rocky water and potential lightning strikes, both of which put swimmers and boaters at risk.

Learn what to do in an emergency – Know the signs of downing. Consider getting water safety and CPR trained, and if an emergency occurs, remember to call 911 for help.

Catch these Game and Parks education events in July

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission educators have scheduled interesting and engaging events for the curious in July.

Don’t forget to purchase a vehicle park entry permit to enter the state parks, except one is not required to park in the Schramm Education Center parking lot. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Here are some opportunities:

Flock to Birds of a Feather on July 1

Get ready to go birding by participating in the Birds of a Feather program at 9:30 a.m. on select Tuesdays at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

A different birding topic is introduced each session to begin the program, followed by a trip outdoors to the birding area. On July 1, the topic will be Birding by Ear. When you are not able to see a bird, hearing its call is the next best thing. Participants will practice identifying birds by their calls.

Schramm hosts Little Saplings on July 2

Adults looking to explore the outdoors with their young children are invited to Little Saplings, a monthly early childhood nature discovery program at Schramm Education Center near Gretna.

The 2025 series, which occurs the first Wednesday of the month, returns July 2 with the theme Life in a Pond at 9 and 10 a.m. It is designed for children ages 2-5 and their adult caregivers. The cost is $5 per child and $5 per adult.

See the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for more information.

Wise and Wild is July 8 at James Family Conservatory

Wise and Wild is a free program for those age 55 and up who love the outdoors. It will be at 2:30 p.m. on select Tuesdays at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park’s James Family Conservatory and Nature Center.

On July 8, the topic will be Turtles of Nebraska. Learn about the turtle species found in Nebraska and their adaptations, then walk down to Owen Marina to look for turtles.

Kayak Cleanup at Holmes Lake on July 8

Wildlife and people need clean and healthy spaces to live and enjoy. Join Nebraska Game and Parks Commission outdoor educators July 8 at Lincoln’s Holmes Lake for a night of service – removing trash from the lake while kayaking.

Trash bags and gloves will be provided as leaders and volunteers clean up trash from 6-8 p.m.

Volunteers are encouraged to bring their own kayaks, but a limited number of kayaks will be available on a first-come basis. Registration is required.

For more information, including where to meet, and to register, visit the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov.

Treehouse Classroom offering three programs

The new Treehouse Classroom is open at Schramm Park State Recreation Area and three fun programs for all ages are scheduled.

Nature Zines is at 6 p.m. July 9 and 28. Zines are mini magazines that can be shared to bring joy and spread a positive message about nature. Create Zines and plan on how to share them.

Nature Poetry Workshop, at 3 p.m. July 21, is a beginner poetry-writing program led by a naturalist who will guide writers through different forms of nature poetry inspired by the park’s beauty.  

All About Bullfrogs is at 10 a.m. July 29. Learn about bullfrogs, make art inspired by them and grab a net and try to catch some in Canyon Ponds.

‘Science of’ heat survival scheduled in July

Animals have developed incredible strategies to survive the challenges of extreme temperatures. Discover how Nebraska’s wildlife beat the heat July 10 as the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s popular “Science of” virtual webinar series returns.

In this series, on select Thursdays at 3 p.m. Central time, Game and Parks educators discuss some of the science behind common things regarding nature and animals.

The hourlong webinars are free, but separate registration is required for each. See the calendar event entries at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov for registration links.

Two Rivers SRA’s Outdoor Learning program continues

A new education series, Outdoor Learning, continues in July at Two Rivers State Recreation Area. All events are held from 8 a.m.-noon at the pavilion east of the Caboose Park, unless otherwise noted.

July 12 – Frog Frenzy: Learn about Nebraska’s frogs, their habitats, adaptations and more. Meet at the Lake No. 4 parking lot.

July 19 – Cicadas: Discover the world of these buzzing bugs, from underground hideouts to sky-high serenades.

July 26 – Critter Clues: Be a wildlife detective and uncover clues left behind in the wild as you observe tracks, fur, scat and more.

Train to become a Nebraska Master Naturalist

Nebraska Master Naturalist is offering its Complete Training course July 13-19 at Niobrara Valley Preserve near Johnstown.

This training provides the required 60 hours of classroom content and field activities that allows people to achieve “Certified Nebraska Master Naturalist” status after participating in the full week of training.

The training combines coursework, hands-on field trips and volunteer opportunities. The program is perfect for anyone eager to make a positive impact on their local environment.

For more information or to register, see the calendar event entry at Calendar.OutdoorNebraska.gov. Direct any questions to [email protected].

Schramm After Dark: Moth Night is July 26

Join educators from UNL Extension and Nebraska Game and Parks at Schramm After Dark: Moth Night, a moth lighting bioblitz at Schramm Park State Recreation Area on July 26.

This free event will take place from 8:30-10:30 p.m. at the park shelter next to Pond A. Vehicles with park permits may park next to the shelter, otherwise no permit is needed to park at Schramm Education Center.

Participants who bring a flashlight can search for moths at the light trap and learn about moths and Nebraska’s other nocturnal insects.

Direct questions to Jen Ruyle at 402-332-5022 or [email protected].

 

State Parks launching new Reservation Call Center

Nebraska State Parks is launching a new Reservation Call Center beginning June 18. This enhanced service is designed to improve the park guest experience when making or modifying reservations.

Park guests will see the following changes:

  • More reservation specialists will be available.
  • The center will be open on weekends.
  • There will be a queued callback system, eliminating the need to stay on hold.
  • Spanish-language support will be available.
  • The new toll-free phone number for reservations and cancellations will be 1-844-637-2757 (1-844-NEPARKS). Guests are encouraged to use this number or visit Nebraskastateparks.reserveamerica.com.
  • Call Center hours will be Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. (Central time) and Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Park guests still can call the Nebraska State Parks Information Line at 402-471-1414 for park-specific information, special event information, unique or complex reservation questions, or refund requests.

For more information about Nebraska State Parks, go to OutdoorNebraska.gov/parks.

 

Enjoy fun July events in northwestern state parks

Spend some time this summer in Nebraska’s northwestern state parks. During July, a variety of events are planned for those for all ages and interests.

Don’t forget to purchase a required vehicle park entry permit to enter the state parks. Get one at OutdoorNebraska.gov or at state park entrances.

Fort Rob to host Fourth of July celebration

Come to Fort Robinson State Park near Crawford for a celebration of Independence Day on July 4.

From 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Mountain time, on the west lawn, enjoy barbecue burgers, potato salad, baked beans and a drink for $12. Spend the afternoon with activities such as Jeep tours and guided horseback rides.

Enjoy the Western and Wildlife Art Show on July 2-4 at the Fort Robinson Veterinary Hospital. This free event will be open 10 a.m.-6 p.m. July 2-3 and 9 a.m.-4 p.m. July 4.

Wildcat Hills Bighorn Sheep Hike is July 12

Track one of Nebraska’s most iconic cliff-climbers – the bighorn sheep – during a guided Wildcat Hills hike at 9 a.m. Mountain time July 12.

While bighorn sightings aren’t guaranteed, the adventure is. Hikers will carpool from the Wildcat Hills Nature Center to the best location for bighorn viewing, which may involve a longer hike depending on their whereabouts.

Participants should come prepared to trek through uneven terrain in tall grass by wearing sturdy hiking shoes and having water, bug spray and weather-appropriate clothing. No dogs allowed.

Call the Wildcat Hills Nature Center at 308-436-3777 to RSVP.

Plant Power: How Plants Shaped the Prairie

Learn how plants helped people survive, build and thrive on the plains during Plant Power: How Plants Shaped the Prairie on July 12 at Wildcat Hills State Recreation Area.

From Indigenous knowledge to pioneer survival skills, explore how plants were used for food, medicine, shelter, tools – and more at this event at 9 a.m. Mountain time.

A guided hike to see native plants is included, so bring sturdy shoes, water, sunscreen, bug spray and weather-appropriate clothing.

Wheels in the Wild: Bicycle Show & Ride

Bring your favorite set of wheels – a vintage cruiser, trail bike, colorful kid’s bike, or anything in between – for the first Bicycle Show at the Wildcat Hills.

This free event at 9 a.m. Mountain time July 26 will begin with a bicycle safety workshop, followed by a chance to show off your ride in a fun, casual show with mini awards for Best Decorated, Most Trail-Ready, Oldest Ride and Wildest Paint Job.

Awards will be followed by a short, guided group ride along a park trail – perfect for families and riders of all experience levels. Riders should bring helmets, water, sunscreen and anything else you might need for a comfortable ride. 

Call the Wildcat Hills Nature Center at 308-436-3777 to RSVP.