OUTDOOR NEWS

Park amenities to open up Memorial Day weekend

It's time to visit a state park! Starting Memorial Day weekend, all park amenities, including most pools, will open for the season. This includes guided horseback trail rides, paddleboating, Jeep tours and more. All state park pools will open Saturday, with the exception of Niobrara State Park, which is set to open Saturday, June 3. Check our calendar for fun events scheduled over the weekend, such as birding hikes and living history. Fishing is another great way to spend the holiday weekend. You can pick up a permit at our website.

Survey indicates higher pheasant, cottontail, turkey numbers

Pheasant, cottontail and wild turkey population measurements indicated higher numbers in Nebraska in 2017 compared to the previous year, according to the April Rural Mail Carrier Survey. If spring and early summer weather is moderate, production of young should be good this year, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The population measurements indicated an increase in pheasant numbers that was highest in the Southwest region. The increase in wild turkey numbers was highest in Panhandle and Southeast regions. The Central and Southeast regions saw the greatest increase in cottontail numbers. The Republican region had the greatest increase for quail; however, statewide population measurements were slightly lower than in 2016. Visit us online to see the full report.

Ponca State Park aquatic center grand opening June 3

The public is invited to the grand opening of the new aquatic center at Ponca State Park on June 3. A welcome will kick off the event at 11 a.m., with guest speakers and a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The aquatic center will open at noon, with food and concessions available. Family activities will start at 1 p.m. The aquatic center, which replaces a swimming pool that was built in 1956, can accommodate 250 people and showcases a combination of water features designed to provide water recreation for all ages. Features for the new heated pool include a 172-foot long water slide, climbing wall, diving board, zero-depth entry, and spray features designed for small children. The bathhouse features a concession area for swimmers and park visitors. The concrete hike/bike trail that runs from Ponca to the park will connect to the aquatic center. A park entry permit is required.

Stay safe while boating

As you enjoy the water this summer, keep these boating safety tips in mind to have a safe and fun experience.

• Wear a Life Jacket – Children under age 13 and anybody on a personal watercraft are required by law to wear a United States 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.
• Avoid Alcohol – Boat operators can become impaired with less alcohol than motor vehicle drivers due to heat and dehydration. Boating Under the Influence is a criminal violation and is enforced actively in Nebraska.
• Have All Required Safety Equipment – This will help boaters be prepared if an emergency occurs. Life jackets, throw cushions, fire extinguishers and bailing devices are required on most boats. For a list of what is required on a boat, check out the 2017 Boating Guide.
• Be Wary of Surroundings – The best boat operators constantly are looking around for other boats, personal watercraft, swimmers, stumps and other hazards. Speeds in excess of 5 mph are prohibited if within 30 yards of any other vessel, swimming area or dock.
• Take a Boating Safety Course – Anyone born after Dec. 31, 1985, who operates a motorboat or personal watercraft in Nebraska must have successfully completed the Nebraska boating safety course. Find classes and register at our website.