NEBRASKAland

VOL. 52 / NO. 5 / MAY 1974 Published monthly by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission. Fifty cents per copy. Subscription rates $5 for one year, $9 for two years. Send subscription orders to NEBRASKAland, Box 30370, Lincoln, Nebraska 68503. commission Chairman: Gerald R. (Bud) Campbell, Ravenna South-central District, (308) 452-3800 Vice Chairman: James W. McNair, Imperial Southwest District, (308) 882-4425 Second Vice Chairman: Jack D. Obbink, Lincoln Southeast District, (402) 488-3862 Arthur D. Brown, Omaha Douglas-Sarpy District, (402) 553-9625 Kenneth W. Zimmerman, Loup City North-central District, (308) 745-1694 Don O. Bridge, Norfolk Northeast District, (402) 371-1473 William G. Lindeken, Chadron Northwest District, (308) 432-3755 Director: Willard R. Barbee Assistant Director: William J. Bailey, Jr. Assistant Director: Richard J. Spady Assistant Director: Dale R. Bree staff Editor: Lowell Johnson Editorial Assistants: Jon Farrar, Ken Bouc, Faye Musil Photography: Greg Beaumont, Bob Grier, Steve O'Hare Layout Design: Michele Angle Farrar Illustration: Duane Westerholt Advertising: Cliff Griffin Circulation: Juanita Stefkovich Copyright Nebraska Game and Parks Commission 1974. All rights reserved. Postmaster: if undeliverable, send notice by form 3579 to Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Box 30370, Lincoln, Nebraska 68503. Second class postage paid at Lincoln, Nebraska Travel articles financially supported by Department of Economic Development Ronaid J. Mertens, Deputy Director John Rosenow, Travel and Tourism Director Contents FEATURES PANHANDLE CARP SHOOT FUN IS WHERE YOU FIND IT 8 THE TROUBLE WITH ELEPHANTS 12 INTERPRETING THE PAST 14 STATE PARKS SPECIAL 18 THE PRICE OF DESTRUCTION 36 PRAIRIE LIFE/FEATHERS 38 NOTES ON NEBRASKA FAUNA/REDEAR SUNFISH 42 DEPARTMENTS SPEAK UP TRADING POST 49 COVER: Sailboat regatta at Lake McConaughy. Photograph by Lou Ell. OPPOSITE: A common resident of the marsh, the American bittern is rarely discovered in the open. It utilizes shoreline plant growth as protective concealment and camouflage, enabling it to spear fish and frogs. When surprised, it will thrust its bill skyward and freeze, relying on its position and vertically striped breast plumage to imitate its surroundings. Photograph by Greg Beaumont.

Speak up

Better Hunters

Sir / My compliments to Dr. James Hatter for writing; and to you for publishing, "Needed —New Systems and Ethics of Hunting" in your January issue. You are the first I've encountered who put the responsibility for the present plight of the good hunter in the U.S. where it belongs —on our system of encouraging more and more "hunters" to buy arms and equipment and "go out hunting" as a Constitutional "right", without any preparation or education, or without any obligatory test of their qualifications. Dr. Hatter has been impressed, as I have, by the European approach to hunting, and his suggestions are excellent, but I am a little skeptical that his remedies can be attempted here without an important first step —examination for hunting licenses which in turn will demand a modification of the ethic of the market place.

I hunted for 5 years in Germany. In order to get a license there I had to pass a very comprehensive examination —on guns and ammunition and their adequacy for various types of game; on the identification, habits and behavior of all game animals and birds in Germany; on German hunting law, in cluding the rights of landowners, and the obligations to the holders of hunting leases; on the traditions and ethics of the hunt; on game management —particularly as related to the obligations of the landowner to care for the game on his preserve; and most important, on the cardinal rules of safe gun handling. All my life I've been a hunter and amateur naturalist, but I studied hard for two weeks before facing that examination. One of my boys began hunting in Germany. By the time he passed his examination, he was a thoroughly reliable hunting companion.

Then, having passed our exams and qualified for licenses, we still didn't get them until we produced hunters' liability insurance policies, guaranteeing our financial responsibility for any accident to persons or property which might result from our negligence.

In my opinion, these two requirements for hunting licenses should be as mandatory in the United States as they are in Europe. Both are demanded of automobile operators — so they shou Id be of people who go afield with guns. Strict licensing of guns makes little sense, but strict examination of the qualifications of those who propose to shoot them in public areas seems to me imperative.

The requirement for examining shooting license applicants will deter many prospective customers for guns, ammunition and hunting clothes. Placing troublesome obstacles in the way of obtaining hunting licenses will result in diverting to other recreation all except the people who want to hunt enough to take some trouble over it. License examinations don't seriously reduce the number of automobiles in this country, but hopefully they do improve their quality. License examinations will, however, in my estimation, considerably reduce the number of hunters in the U.S. But, they should very materially improve the quality of those who do hunt, and this is what those who love hunting and deplore the bad name it has acquired of late should be seeking by every means at their disposal. I agree with Dr. Hatter that it's up to us, the hunters, to pull up our own socks as a first means of defending ourselves and our participation in a great sport. But I feel that the most pertinent lesson we can learn from the Europeans in this connection is to control the quality of our hunters. Better hunter landowner and hunter-general public relations will inevitably follow.

E. F. Rivinus McLean, Va. My Sonnet on Gypsying When I go out walking, and trample in the woods, The rustic feel of the woodland gets in my blood as I go. My spirits inebriate to a heavenly day on earth! Not any brand of wine nor mighty little pill bestirs me so! My complexion takes on a new, new rosy hue That no costly preparation can ever achieve or do. My hair gets combed with the rush of the breeze, The salon of beauty care is all there with ease. The season's best any time I am under sky-covered trees, Nature's wonders are before me in any direction that I look. With no time to fret as I pass the ageless scenes, That instills a memory picture not found in any book. As I tarry along, I think that life's a picnicking puff, Only one regret I have —I don't go woods-trampling enough! Teresa Brizendine Plattsmouth, Ne. 68048 Ready to Visit

Sir / My wife and I are both Nebraskans and think your magazine is tops. We just love the good stories and all the great photos. Hats off to all your staff and to Lou Ell, Jon Farrar and Greg Beaumont.

Every time we get the next NEBRASKAland we get homesick and we hope to make a trip back to Knox and Holt counties and also visit all the great parks and lakes in your state, and still our state. It's always so wonderful to say "Hello" personally to people back home.

Mr. and Mrs. Leonard Franek Medford, Ore. Uncover a Bridge

Sir / I am a covered bridge fan, and a friend told me that in September, 1972 there was a photo in a Boston newspaper showing a small, new, covered bridge being dedicated in Nebraska. It connects Ginger and Nutmeg Islands.

Can you or any of your readers tell me where to locate those islands and the bridge? Or where to write to get more information? I would like to see and photograph the bridge on my next visit to Nebraska as I am a native.

Ella Haubold Longmont, Colo.

We have not been able to get any leads on such a bridge. If any of our readers are aware of it, we will be happy to pass on the information. (Editor)

Court House Fan

Sir / How I truly love your magazine— I read every word in it. I am especially fond of the historical articles. The last issue (January 1974) had one especially dear to me as I collect pictures of county courthouses. In the article you mentioned the one at Aurora in Hamilton County. The past summer we made our usual trip to Cozad and stopped at a station near town. I had purchased a card of the court house, and a young attend ant who waited on me looked at the card as if he had never seen it. He said, "Don't you just love that building? I would like to move it brick by brick to my place, then set it up again."

You can't say all young people don't appreciate the old things. This incident came to mind as I read this article, so decided to let you know I am another devoted fan of NEBRASKAland.

Mrs. Irene Mayle Long Lane, Mo.

Panhandle Carp Shoot

by Ken Bouc

AS FAR AS blunders go, introduction of the common carp in North American waters in the last century would be hard to top. About the only good thing to say for this species is that it provides a good subject for some fishermen who have become so proficient that game species could not take the pressure.

This could include archers of the Panhandle Bowhunters Association, who have been turning their attention the past several years to the carp in Lake Minatare northeast of Scottsbluff. A sort of unofficial signal to start the season of arrowing the big yellow fish is the club's annual carp tournament, which is scheduled this year for June 1 and 2.

Last year, the 56 entrants in the tournament bagged 212 carp which weighed a total of 1,247 pounds. And, by the end of the summer, the club's members had taken between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds of carp from the lake.

While archers would have to clobber many more carp to make a noticeable dent in the population of a lake the size of Minatare, their efforts are still commendable. According to Bob Thomas, chief of the Game and Parks Commission's Aquatic Wildlife Division, taking carp with the bow and arrow has several advantages, even if it does not greatly affect the species composition of a lake.

"The archer makes a positive use of these fish, rather than just turning up his nose at them and complaining about their presence. As long as the carp are there, archers should have the fun of going after them," he Said.

And have fun is just what the 56 entrants of last year's contest at Lake Minatare did, especially Bill Ruzicka of Scottsbluff. Ruzicka, now president of the Panhandle Bowhunters, took top honors at last year's event with the biggest carp, a 193/4-pound whopper.

He edged out Dennis Figg on Sunday, the second and last day of competition. Figg had arrowed a respectable fish earlier in the competition, and was holding his breath as the clock ticked toward the end of the tournament. But when he saw Ruzicka steer his boat from the flooded trees along the shore line and hoist the big fish, Figg knew he would have to settle for runner-up spot in the big-fish division of the tournament.

Figg walked away with the honors for total weight of carp, however, with 174 pounds, while Glenn Schmidt had the greatest number, 40 fish. Dave Deitrich garnered the dubious honor of turning in the smallest fish, one that weighed a mere 1 Vi pounds, but friends claimed the little fish was a tougher target. Bruce Sliger won honors for the largest fish for competitors under 16 with a 93/4-pounder. All the winners hail from Scottsbluff.

The tournament was timed to catch the carp during their spawning period, when they are most vulnerable to archers. All along the shoreline of the lake and in canals feeding into it, carp could be seen rolling and splashing at the surface as they broadcast their eggs at random.

Many of the contestants, including Figg and his party, opened the contest by working the canal banks. The water was murky and the fish could be seen only when they surfaced. The downfall of many of the carp was that they returned to the same spot, usually near some submerged brush or overhanging branch, every three or four minutes.

Most of the archers working the canal would position themselves where they could watch one stretch of water, noting spots frequented by carp. Then, they would sneak into position. But, if they were noisy or let their shadow fall on the water, or stood in the open silhouetted against the sky, they were often out of luck. Carp didn't get to be so numerous by being careless or dumb. If the fish had an idea that an archer was poised above, they would move on or stay deep.

If the bowmen did everything correctly, they would get a shot. It was often at nearly point blank range, but the opportunity was so fleeting that they did not have time to properly draw, anchor, aim and release. Thus, many shots went wide of their mark despite the short range.

Archers also checked the shallow, rocky runs farther up the inlet canal. There, Figg's party surprised 20 or 30 carp of about 6 pounds, and the action picked up. The carp were visible in the shallows the whole time, and they knew it, as they raced frantically up and down the canal. There were a lot of opportunities for shots, but they were farther and the targets were moving at top speed. Each shot offered a chance to score, but also promised a better than-even chance of a direct hit on a rock.

Other tactics used during the contest included wading in the shallow waters among the flooded trees along the shoreline. Later in the tournament, contestants took to small boats pushed by whisper-quiet electric motors. Depend ing on weather conditions, time of day and whims of the fish, all methods were productive at one time or another.

Taking fish (Continued on page 45)

FUN IS WHERE YOU FIND IT

All across the state, people are seeking those special places to enjoy outdoor excursions. There are many such retreats, suited to nearly everyone. But, most are off the beaten path and a little exploring may be necessary to find the most ideal. However, that, too, can provide enjoyment Photograph by Bob Grier 8

FUN IS WHERE YOU FIND IT

Nebraska's park system offers a wide range of places, facilities and settings to fill the recreation bill. Even without going far from home, there should be a place to pull in your camper or set up a tent. There are places to rest, some to challenge endurance, others just to ponder nature Photographs by Lou Ell

FROM THE mighty Missouri to the foothills of the Rockies, from the Republican River across the Platte and Sand Hills to the Niobrara, and from the man-made reservoirs in the southeast to nature's splendid Pine Ridge in the northwest, Nebraskans this year will spread out in search of recre ation and their own "special spot".

In search of fun in the sun —seclusion or communion, primitive or convenient, excitement or seren ity—outdoor recreation means many things to different people. For many reasons, the least of which is not the fuel shortage, Nebraskans will stay at or near home more now than for many years. To some, this might seem serious, but others have always stayed home so it won't be anything to cry about.

To see Nebraska and still enjoy oneself is hardly difficult. Nebraska has plenty of variety. It isn't just endless flat land covered with corn. The first criteria for recreating in Nebraska is to get off the ribbons of concrete that traverse her. Head out to the hinterlands whether it be by car, camper, cycles or on foot.

Search the bluffs of the Missouri, sample nature with all your senses. Look down on the Mighty Mo and listen for the steamboat whistle around the bend. Delight in her wildflowers unmarred by auto exhaust and other alien, city smells. Taste the wild fruits she bears.

Climb the high buttes in the western plateaus and gaze out on a panorama you'll find nowhere else. That dust cloud over yonder could be a wagon train. Picnic in the shade and watch the shifting patterns of fluffy clouds drift over the verdant land. Stand in the moon light and watch as stars speckle the black sky and coyotes cry to the hills.

In Nebraska's river valleys, water is the stellar attraction. It's there to swim in, fish in, ski and boat on. And, just to lie in. Submerge your body in the Platte and be still. Deer come down to drink, blackbirds feed their babies in the willows, quail scurry through the brush. Better than a crowded metropolitan beach or pool you say? You bet.

Pull your camper into a wayside area and converse with fellow wanderers. Feel the camaraderie in camp; the kids hesitant at first but soon running and playing as only they can do. Fish in the nearby lake late in the afternoon, not really caring to catch any thing—just being there with a fishing pole as a companion is enough. The smell of supper cooking on a campfire wafts across the still waters.

In the morning, on to another place. North perhaps, across the hills where magpies fly and cattle, belly-deep in the prairie grass, graze. There's a tree. Stop and spread out the blankets. Beside a shallow, cool stream, the kids explore.

The canoe glides silently down the fast-moving Niobrara. Trout live here —people don't. Artifacts abound —people don't. History is etched in the banks of the rivers —the meandering water has exposed it before you like the pages of a book.

The horse labors under you up the steep slope toward the ridgeline. Dust eddies at the horse's hooves and the smell of pine permeates the stillness. A muley darts into the trees above, on the high ground, and be hind you lies the fort. How many Sioux sat here before and watched the soldiers below.

Gaze upon the many grand vistas, wiggle your toes in her waters, feel the grass between your toes, walk in the soil and sand. Nebraska lies there waiting for you to find it and revel in it.

the Trouble with Elephants.

by Ken Bouc

WINTER IS A slow time for superintendents of Nebraska's state parks and recreation areas. It's a time to paint picnic tables, rest up from the summer's seven-day work week, and refine and improve favorite fireside stories.

For a yarn-spinner with the classic country style of Dallas Johnson, now superintendent of Victoria Springs State Recreation area, 20 winters have been plenty for him to perfect the delivery of his favorite tale. The events themselves make for a good story, but his presentation has turned them into some sort of masterpiece.

"Had a bunch of danged elephants runnin' around tearin' up Arnold State Recreation Area back in '53 when I was superintendent there," Johnson will drawl during a lull in one of those typical get to gethers.

He'll pause, like that's all there is to the story. Then he might munch a few peanuts or potato chips and wash them down with a long swallow of whatever's handy, while all in earshot mull over the incongruities of such a situation. How could elephants get onto a state recreation area in the middle of the Sand Hills, and what could they possibly be do ing there?

Not until his teaser brings curiosity to the boiling point does be continue, and then with such practiced reluctance that it seems he really is tired of Telling the story.

"Back then, we had the haying rights on the area leased out. Well, one day this ol' boy comes over, the lessee that is, all excited and worked up, babbling about this bunch of elephants eatin' up his hay. Now, I didn't quite know what to make of all this, sort of took me by surprise, you see. Well, after lookin' at him and listenin' for a while, I drove over to see what he was talking about. And, sure as hell, when I get there I see there's these six elephants all standin' around eatin' the grass.

"Now I don't know if many of you would know how an eleptonTeats grass. He doesn't just chew the tops off like any kind of cow or sheep. No sir! He reaches down with his trunk, kinda wraps it around a big bunch, then pulls it up, roots and all. This happened in August, and thte grass was pretty high and even gpne to seed, so the elephants would just nibble the heads off the grass they'd pulled up and throw the rest away.

"This particular piece of ground was sorta marshy apyjtow, and those elephants were maJung some mighty big, deep tracks. What with the tradks, uprooted grass and all the other kinrjyflf mess six elephants make, that little area was gettin' to be a fearsome sight.

"So, I walk over to this seedy lookin' little guy who seemed to be tendin' the critters, but I'd just as well have tried talking to one of those elephants. This guy couldn't speak enough English to amount to a hole in the snow, and he sure didn't act like he understood any thing I was saying. I s'pose we carried on back and forth for about 10 minutes, and all this time those danged elephants kept right on stompin' and chompin' ".

After a few moments, Johnson washes down a few more peanuts and then gets back to his yarn.

"Finally, this other guy shows up, apparently the boss of the elephant herder. This second guy didn't look much better'n the first, wearin' a grubby gray shirt that barely looked like it might have been white once upon a time. But, at least this one could speak English.

"I started all over again with this guy, and it turned out that the elephants were from a carnival at the fairgrounds, which were right next to the recreation area. There was no fence on the property line, so I could see how they wandered too far. Any way, I pointed out the boundary and politely asked him to move his blankety-blank elephants back to the fairgrounds.

"Now I suppose I expected him to be polite back, and to apologize for his mistake, but no sir. He got real big-mouthed, and started rantin' and ravin' and cussin' me out about the price of hay in Texas. This, too, kinda took me by surprise. I just couldn't see what the price of hay in Texas had to do with this bunch of elephants tearin' up my recreation area in Nebraska.

"I finally figured out that, a few weeks back, he'd had to pay $2.50 a bale for hay in Corpus Christi Texas. Then, on his way up here, he'd seen all this unmowed along the roads in Nebraska. All this 'waste' incensed him, and he wasn't about to let our bluegrass go unused while he had to buy expensive hay for his animals. So, he flat refused to move his elephants.

"Now it was my I told him I didn't g his troubles in Texa was for him to get those elephants off state land, and pronto.

"He came back at me with more about the economics of herding elephants in Texas and gave me another decfufe about wasting bluegrass, but 1 wasn't hearin' any of it. I was so *mad by/that time that I could hardly talk, but I did manage to get one message through to that guy.

"I looked him right in the eye and announced that I was going to get a rifle. 'If them elephants are still here when I get back, I'm going to shoot five of 'em,' I told him"....

With his listeners hanging in suspense, Johnson usually chooses this point in his story for a refill of peanuts and another sip or two.

Finally, someone breaks down and asks why he was only going to shoot five elephants, when there were six of them out there.

"Well, you know," bled, "that carnival fella the same thing. So, I told hii only going to shoot five lousy elephants so's I can last one to drag t(ie dead on|$ off.

"Then I stomped back to| truck where The guy who owned lease I asked him if he had a allowed that he had a .30-06- back in town. just fine,' I said, loud pnMphfor the elephant owner to go ge it. I'm gonna shoot me some ele phants"

"We grabbed tN place and headei there. F was even! thinkin' about th* I was dead sure llpas in the right and perfectly entitl^to shoot those ele phants. Only one thought kinda slowed me down. An '06 is some it's not quite an ele I was wonderin' all the ere just where the devil elephant, and just what doesn't go down.

en I got back to the rec ed a sigh of relief. All six elephants:were back on the fair grounds^srde of the boundary, staked out next to the buckin' chutes at the rodeo arena. Apparently, that carnival guy must have figured out that I was just mad enough and ornery enough pnd foolish enough to do exactly what I said I would.

"Lookin' back on the whole thing, I'm suri: glad I didn't have to shoot those poor critters just because their owner and I had an argument. And, I'm glad I didn't have to risk being charged by a wounded elephant or have an elephant stampede flatten half of my rec area. But, on the other hand, you just can't have a bunch of smelly of elephants thunderin' around on a public area."

Johnson has had a number of years to think about the situation. Most of them were spent as superintendent of Ponca State :Park, but a recent transfer has returned him to the same general area as superintendent of Victoria Springs State Recreation area, with the Arnold facility as a satellite area.

"Tomorrow, if somebody showed up with six elephants at Victoria Springs or Arnold, I think I'd handle it the same way. We'd have about one go-around, then I'd go lookin' for another '06."

Sticks and stones are archaeologist's reading material, and his stories are told with artifacts and documentation

Interpreting the Past

by Roye D. Lindsay State Parks Archaeologist

HUNDREDS OF thousands of persons annually visit various areas of historic importance within the Nebraska Parks System. In order for visitors to relate to the historical significance of a park, the former role of that area must be interpreted. This is done in several ways, including special display boards containing explanatory text, dioramas, displays and audio-visual shows. Reconstructed or renovated buildings help the visitor to visualize the historic site as it was during part of its use.

As an example, Fort Hartsuff, which was abandoned as a military post in 1881, became a farm headquarters, and the former post hospital was used as a livestock shed for many years. After being acquired as part of the State Parks Bureau in 1962, renovation began and the hospital was largely completed by 1967, and it is now one of four of the original nine permanent structures, which are restored and open to the public.

Displays, renovation or other interpretive media must convey an interest ing story to the visiting public. In addition to being interesting, the story must be accurate and factual. This accuracy must be based upon sound archaeological and documentary research.

Documentary research is just what the term implies —delving into all available written records pertaining to an important historic site. These records may include personal or official let ters, telegrams, military orders, diaries or census reports.

Documented history is often combined with interpretation derived from existing buildings and park lands. This is what makes such parks as Buffalo Bill's Ranch and Arbor Lodge the popular historical parks they are. Both William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody and J. Sterling Morton were important figures historically. Both communicated widely, as did various members of their families. As a result, we have a wealth of documentary evidence to help enhance the park visitor's appreciation of the respective sites which detail the lives of these important and fascinating people.

Some of the historical parks in our system have no remaining structures as do Arbor Lodge and Buffalo Bill's

Ranch. At such parks it may be necessary to replicate buildings to aid in the interpretation of the site. For such reconstructions, it is critical to do thor ough documentary research long before work actually begins, if they are to be valid. It is also necessary to utilize archaeological research to determine exact building locations and dimensions. As a secondary benefit, the artifactual material recovered during excavation may be used in interpretive displays.

Fort Kearny State Historical Park is an excellent example of how documentary research can and should be combined with archaeology. Extensive military records, diaries of Oregon Trail travelers and other similar sources have provided us with a great deal of information on life and features at Fort Kearny. By utilizing old records and plans, plus archaeological evidence, a stockade and carpenter/blacksmith shop have been reconstructed. Plans are presently being made for reconstruction of the fort's powder magazine, but like other projects, this reconstruction at Fort Kearny will be preceded by extensive documentary research backed up by careful and complete archaeological excavation.

A similar situation exists at Fort Atkinson, just north of Omaha. This

A page from the post surgeon's record at Fort Hartsuff, in 1876, far left, might include anything from notes on local fauna and flora to how things went at the officers' annual military ball. Above, Roye Lindsay explains the objectives and plans of excavation and other work at Fort Atkinson near Omaha. Although from nearby school, many of the youngsters had never visited the fort before. The excavation here is preliminary to reconstruction of part of the barracks and walls of the fort stockade, which will then be used as a visitor center

14 NEBRASKAland MAY 1974 15  

very important fort was built in 1820 and abandoned in 1827. No part of it remains above ground except for recently reconstructed segments. These reconstructions were also based upon documentary evidence combined with archaeology. The bastions have been built and plans are underway to reconstruct portions of the barracks which also comprised part of the stockade.

Some parks may have features which are so old that no written records exist. Several prehistoric Indian sites may exist in a state park, but in order to be of educational value to the visitor, the background and relative importance of such sites must be interpreted. Since no written description of the prehistoric residents' lifestyles is available, we must rely largely upon archaeological excavation to provide data.

Gathering information through archaeology is a unique task requiring specialized skills. The actual excavations must be conducted by competent individuals under the supervision of well-trained, experienced, professional archaeologists.

Nearly all archaeologists in America are anthropologists who specialize in reconstructing cultural systems. Archaeologists utilize evidence gathered through controlled excavation and recovery. After thorough analysis, the archaeologist attempts to reconstruct the subsistence patterns, family structure, settlement patterns and other elements of the lifestyle of the people who occupied the site under investigation. As an anthropologist, he is able to utilize his knowledge of other cultural systems to help reconstruct and interpret many of the activities which took place at the area under investigation.

Two of the several state parks which contain significant prehistoric Indian sites are Ash Hollow near Lewellen, and Indian Cave State Park in southeast Nebraska. At this time, Indian Cave has not been examined and developed. However, the visitor to Ash Hollow will be able to enjoy seeing an actual cave dwelling which was intermittently utilized over a span of several hundred years. This cave shelter has been improved for the visitor's comfort and for protection of the site by the erection of a beautiful, modernistic interpretive building. Inside the cave structure, the visitor will be able to view the original cave as it appears since excavation. On display are numerous artifacts of the type recovered. Other interpretative devices will help explain the significance of the site.

The interpretive devices, designed to improve the understanding of facts derived from archaeological and docu mentary research, serve to enhance the visitor's wholesome and worthwhile outdoor experience in the State Park System. As a further benefit to the public, scientific and historical information is shared through publication of research results.

The Game and Parks Commission, through the Nebraska State Parks Bureau, is committed to playing an in creasing role in interpreting Nebraska history. This educational thrust will make future visits to the various Nebraska state parks a more enjoyable experience for the entire family.

Nebraska Parklands

by Dale Bree, Chief Bureau of State Parks Photograph by Bob Grier

IN OUR American heritage there is a deeply rooted love of the outdoors. Though we live in a world beset with turmoil, crisis and various shortages, the people's interest in outdoor activities continues to grow. The more complex our society, the more important the simplicity of nature may become. In the opinion of many, the greatest facility for learn ing and study, exercise and fun, enjoyment and personal renewal, is the outdoors. For many, it holds a precious meaning and vital importance to the well being of our society and country.

Outdoor recreation serves to enhance the physical, cultural and general well-being of the people. It is also a big, serious business because of its high economic impact.

Although Nebraska's State Park System is relative ly young, it now serves approximately six million visitors per year, and prides itself on its service to the people. Existing recreation opportunities provided by state parks are many. We also must be flexible enough to adapt facilities for new forms of recreation. In essence, people control their outdoor destiny.

Challenges of the future are very great, but the opportunities many. Nebraska, with its wealth of natural resources, provides options for development over the next decades that remain tremendous. There are, of course, problems of space, distribution, money, increasing visitor demands, the destructive attitudes of some users, and others.

Yet, there is no reason why we cannot overcome these problems in the state park program. Our park system is vital for the present population and will be come increasingly so in the future.

During the past 20 years, participation in outdoor recreation has increased faster than the population. Predictions are that the population will nearly double by the year 2000, and that participation in outdoor recreation will increase threefold.

According to studies, Americans have made leisure into an 83 billion dollar per year business, which reaches outlays for national defense. These expenditures going into travel, sports, equipment, campers, boats, summer houses and other related items, extend into many aspects of the nation's economy.

Regardless of how much talent, wealth or education people possess, our living patterns are determined to a great extent upon where priorities are placed in their values of a good life. The state park system is challenged at present to improve the quality of people's recreation so that it will serve to make a greater contribution to them and society.

In the Nebraska State Park System, we have tried to analyze and think positively in respect to these affects. There are indications that some of our remote park areas will suffer some decline in visitation. How much, we don't know at this time. It seems equally obvious that other park areas in the system, those close to sizable population centers, will see visitation increases.

There are some 90 areas in the Nebraska State Park System located near communities, throughout the state. Nebraska park areas, regardless of location, will no doubt be visited by more Nebraskans whose travel may be limited by a short supply of motor fuel.

The automobile is a great machine to get people to a park area, but this year the travel will probably be more restricted. The energy crisis will perhaps force park visitors to use fewer areas instead of trying to visit five or six in a short vacation period. Rather, the vacationing public may have to spend more time at one or two areas. This can well serve to improve the quality of the visitor experience away from the busy highway. Also, I strongly suspect that many Nebraskans are go ing to find it pleasant to visit state park areas on a casual and impromptu basis; perhaps finding that they have in recent years overlooked some great family fun and enjoyment.

I believe that visitor ingenuity will develop more ways to get to the state parks this year, and I feel certain that whichever park area you choose to visit, you will be rewarded by the outdoor experience and learn much about your state's beauty, resources and history. Among improvements visitors will find this year are modern rest rooms at the west Wegand area; paved roads and trailer dump stations at Louisville Recreation Area; paved roads and pads at the east Lake Ogallala and Kearney Recreation areas; and electrical hookups for campers at the main campground at Fremont State Recreation Area.

Improved or new boat ramp facilities will be in operation at Merritt, Minatare, Johnson, Box Butte, Maloney, and Lake McConaughy state recreation areas.

Visitors this year will find some park areas under going construction. We ask for your patience and observance of signs until the work can be completed. Areas scheduled for recreation access road construction are Ash Hollow, Arbor Lodge and Fort Atkinson state historical parks; Merritt Reservoir, River View Marina, Box Butte and Sherman state recreation areas, and Indian Cave State Park.

Road paving at these areas is being accomplished under the State Recreational Road Paving Program in cooperation with the state Department of Roads. Visitors are urged to check with the Game and Parks Com mission concerning construction status at areas involved in the road-work program.

This agency again urges visitors to plan ahead, allowing sufficient time for use of facilities during peak use days, especially on holidays and weekends. Each season we experience increased conflict on high density areas between users such as boaters, swimmers, campers, picnickers, fishermen and waterskiers. It is our hope that all users will work harmoniously for the enjoyment and best interests of all concerned.

Whatever your choice of recreational activity, be Nebraska's park areas can fill your needs. Visit your state parks this year! Have a safe and happy experience.

FROM THE rolling Missouri River bluffs at Indian Cave State Park to the scenic beauty of the rugged, forested Pine Ridge at Fort Robinson and Chadron state parks and all points in be tween, the Nebraska State Park System touches almost everyone during their pursuit of sport and recreation.

The Game and Parks Commission's Bureau of State Parks encompasses over 90 areas, each classified in one of four categories —state parks, recreation areas, wayside areas and historical parks.

State Parks provide an all-inclusive package of facilities and activities from housekeeping cabins to horseback trail rides.

Recreation Areas are keyed to a specific use, possibly water sports or fishing and camping at a flood control lake.

Wayside Areas are smaller and geared to day-use by travelers and for such things as picnicking.

Historical Parks preserve Nebraska's great historical heritage, including early army forts and houses of American greats like "Buffalo Bill" Cody and J. Sterling Morton. These areas offer something of interest for that bit of historian in everyone.

Many areas offer camping facilities, with length of stay ranging from 2 days on wayside areas to 14 days at recreation areas. Fees run from $1.00 to $2.50 for overnight camping, with future increases to be based on the number of facilities and conveniences offered.

Four of the state parks and one recreation area, Victoria Springs, have housekeeping cabins available on a reservation basis. To make reservations, contact the superintendent at the respective park. Camping is on a first-come, first-served basis on all areas providing such facilities.

Nebraska's five major parks are located in scenic country, with two in the Pine Ridge and three along the Missouri River. Ponca Park, in the northeast corner of the state, features a scenic overlook which encompasses a broad expanse of the Missouri Valley. All state areas are categorized according to facilities or main purpose, ranging from the major parks to small wayside areas intended primarily for picnicking or other day-use. Most of the areas offer camping facilities

State Parks / 16,000 Acres of Outdoor Fun

AS DIVERSE as the state itself, Nebraska's five state parks offer an all-inclusive package of fun and activities to delight almost everyone.

Trail rides, historical tours, hunting, fishing and sightseeing aplenty are but a few of the activities to be found at a state park. Four of the parks have guest cabins, organized tours and trail rides. Three have a community-size swimming pool to cool folks down on the hottest day.

Nebraska's newest state park, Indian Cave, promises to be one of the most unique areas in the State Park System. The park borders on about 3 miles of the Missouri River and includes some of the finest of that scenic territory. Located just south of Brownville, the park offers 3,000 acres of wooded bluff lands, geared to non-consumptive use including picnicking, hiking, primitive camping and exploring. Most of the park can be reached only by foot —an ideal situation for those trying to break away from the hectic pace of everyday life.

Indian Cave is accessible via the main county road just north of Shubert on Nebraska 67. Road construction and park development are an on-going process, and visitors should heed all construction signs and regulations.

Rich in wildlife and native plants, the flora in the

Photograph by Lou Ell   Photograph by Bob Grier Photograph by Greg Beaumont

park is among the most varied in the state because of the relatively high rainfall and diverse habitats. History buffs will find much to explore, including the St. Deroin Cemetery. The thriving river community founded by Joseph Deroin in 1854 was destroyed by the ever-changing Missouri River, although the St. Deroin schoolhouse still stands.

Set in the heart of Pine Ridge Country, both Fort Robinson and Chadron state parks in the northwest corner of Nebraska are starting points for anyone interested in the beauty and pageantry of the Old West.

Dull Knife, Crazy Horse and the Sidney to Deadwood Trail —their names still echo over the barracks and parade grounds of historic Fort Robinson. Today's visitor will find a modern but picturesque restaurant, cabins, lodge, a spacious campground, put-and-take trout fishing in a cool stream and magnificent scenery to admire or explore.

Chadron State Park, south of Chadron, is an up-to-date recreation complex with rustic log cabins and modern, group facilities in a setting of babbling brook and ponderosa pine.

Both Chadron and Fort Robinson offer horseback rides over the rocky butte country, and the bygone days of the working cowboy are recalled at the sundown chuckwagon barbecue and hayrack rides at Fort Rob. Jeep rides are also offered at the fort.

Overlooking the mighty Missouri River Valley, Ponca State Park and its close neighbor, Niobrara State Park, let the visitor explore the trails of Lewis and Clark through hardwood forests and sandy river islands. Both parks are on Nebraska's northeast border just off Nebraska 12. Ponca's many campgrounds are complete as any in the state, with paved pads for trailers and campers, and easily reached shower and restroom facilities.

For those looking for a memorable vacation or a place to set up a weekend camp within a few miles of home, each of the five state parks provides the key to uncounted days of fun and relaxation.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Fort Robinson 3 mi. W. Crawford $1.50 E 50 R $14-18 11,082 20 Lodge, restaurant, rides, museums, fee trout fishing Chadron | 9 mi. S. Chadron $1 + R Pool $ 7-14 801 1 Lagoon Group camp, rental boats Niobrara 1/2 mi. S., 1 mi. W. Niobrara $1 + E50* R Pool $ 7-14 405 3 Rental boats Ponca 2 mi. N. Ponca $2+ E 50« River Pool $ 9-14 803 Missouri River overlook, boat ramp on river Indian Cave Straddles Nemaha-Richardson County Line P 3,000 Under development, may be closed without notice. Road completion Jan. 1975. R-Nonpower p_Primitive Camping *-Check at Park Headquarters

Recreation Areas / the sportsman's Domain

RECREATION Areas are only surpassed in size and development by the five state parks. Keyed to one major type of outdoor activity, the more than 50 Recreation Areas across the state form the backbone and fiber of the Nebraska Park System.

For thousands of people, Recreation Areas answer the need for outdoor sport and relaxation within easy reach of the 8-to-5 office man and the weekend sports enthusiast. Recreation Areas provide everything from a sanctuary for buffalo and elk to an opportunity to catch a limit of trout within easy driving distance of Omaha and Lincoln.

Areas like the Salt Valley Lakes in eastern Nebraska, Fremont Lakes, and Louisville Lakes south of Omaha, provide summer and winter fun for country and city dweller alike.

Two Rivers Recreation Area near Venice is a popular summer area for urban fishermen. The area has fee trout fishing for those not able to travel to the lakes and streams of western Nebraska to enjoy the exciting rainbow and brown trout.

Buffalo and elk roaming the Wildcat Hills Recreation Area south of Gering are representative of the great herds of such animals that once virtually covered Nebraska's hills and prairies. Visitors to the western Nebraska area will also enjoy some of the most grandiose scenery in the state.

Camping i Special Trailer Parking ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Alexandria Lakes 4 mi. E. Alexandria 394 46 R U Concession. Important Oregon Trail site at nearby Rock Creek Arnold Lake 11 mi. S. Arnold 18 22 if R On upper reaches of Loup River Atkinson Lake 1 mi. W. Atkinson 36 14 R U Upper end Elkhorn River Bluestem 2-1/2 mi. W. Sprague 483 325 A Popular Salt Valley lake Bowman Lake 1/2 mi. W. Loup City 23 20 w R West edge Loup City on Middle Loup River Box Butte 9-1/2 mi. N. Hemingford 612 1.600 U On Niobrara River near scenic Pine Ridge Branched Oak Lake 3 mi. N. Malcolm or 4 mi. W. Raymond 3,795 1,800 A 4 U Largest lake in Salt Valley Complex Bridgeport Bridgeport 127 70 A U Sandpit lakes on North Platte River Brownvilte Brownvilte 23 Riv. River access, historical river town Champion Lake 1/2 mi. W. Champion 3 11 On Frenchmen Creek Conestoga 3 mi. S., 1/2 mi. W. Emerald 486 230 A Cottonwood Lake 1/2 mi. E., 1/2 mi. S. Merriman 180 60 A U West edge of Cherry County, sandhill country Crystal Lake 1-1/2 mi. N. Ayr 33 30 R Animal Research Center east of Hastings Dead Timber 4 mi. N., 1-1/2 mi. W. Scribner 150 50 R Native grass museum, centennial tree planting Enders Reservoir 5 mi. E., 4-1/2 mi. S. Imperial 3,643 1,707 A U On Frenchman Creek, modern restrooms Fremont Lakes 3 mi. W. Fremont 401 269 $1.50 2.53) 1 A 2 U Rental boats, camping fee Gallagher Canyon 8 mi. S. Cozad 24 400 A On Tri-County Irr. Canal Hord Lake 2 mi. E. Central City 64 20 R U Station on Overland and Morman Trails Johnson Lake 7 mi. S. Lexington 50 2,061 A U Camping fee-modern showers Kearney 3/4 mi. E., 1 mi. N. Fort Kearny State Historical Park 130 24 R U Camping fee. Pioneer Village nearby Lake Maloney 6 mi. S. North Platte 132 1,000 A • U Buffalo Bill Ranch nearby Lake McConaughy 5,492 34,700 Eagle Canyon 4 mi. N. U.S. 26, on Eagle Canyon Road P A U Southside Lake Mac, scenic area Gate 13 3-1/2 mi. S. 14 mi. W. Jet. Nebr. 61 and 92 P A U Large cedar tree planting Martin Bay 12 mi. N. Ogallala 120 A U Concessions nearby, at north end of 162 ft. high Kinsley Dam Omaha Beach 1/2 mi. S., 18 mi. W. Jet. Nebr. 61 and 92 100 A U Near Clear Creek Waterfowl Refuge Otter Creek 3/10 mi. S, 12 mi. W. Jet. Nebr. 61 and 92 5 0 11 A U Boats, concessions nearby Lake Ogallala 9 mi. NE Ogallala 339 320 A U Concessions nearby Lewis and Clark 15 mi. N. Crofton 1,221 7,349 Bloomfield A Access to Lewis & Clark Lake Oeep Water A Access to Lewis & Clark Lake Miller Creek A Access to Lewis & Clark Lake Santee A Near Santee Indian Village, access to Lewis & Clark Lake South Shore A Access to Lewis & Clark Lake Wiegand East A U Concession, scenic shelterbelts Wiegand West A Scenic shelterbelts Long Lake 20 mi. SW Johnstown, county road 30 50 A U Secluded primitive campsite Long Pine 1 mi. N. Long Pine 154 Scenic canyons Louisville Lakes 1/2 mi. NW Louisville 142 50 R U Camping fee, Platte River access Medicine Creek 2 mi. W., 7 mi. N. Cambridge 6.726 1.768 -j- A U Rental boats Memphis Lake Memphis 160 48 Rental boats, site of old ice plant Merritt Reservoir 25 mi. SW Valentine, county road 6,147 2,906 A 4 U Concession Nat'l Forest, Ft. Niobrara and Valentine Nat'l Wildlife Refuges Minataro Lake 4 mi. E., 4 mi. N. Scottsbluff 812 2,158 -y A 5 U Waterfowl refuge, concession, Scottsbluff Nat'l Monument nearby Olive Creek 1-1/2 mi. SE Kramer 438 175 A U One of Salt Valley lakes Pawnee 2 mi. W., 3 mi. N. Emerald 1,906 740 U Near Lincoln, State Capitol, U.N., etc. Pibel Lake 9 mi. S., 1 mi. E. Bartlett 43 24 R Secluded Sand Hills lake Ravenna Lake 1 mi. SE Ravenna 53 30 R Primitive camp area on South Loup River Red Willow Reservoir 11 mi. N. McCook 4,320 1.628 A U Rental boats, concession Riverview Marina Nebraska City on Missouri River 37 A River access Rock Creek 4 mi. N., 1 mi. W. Parks 1651 50 -j- R U Rockford 7 mi. E., 2 mi. S. Beatrice 286 150 A U Mud Cieek Watershed Project Sherman Reservoir 4 mi. E., 1 mi. N. Loup City 14,721 2,845 Stagecoach 1 mi. S. Hickman 412 195 A 5 mph boating near area Swans on Reservoir 2 mi. W. Trenton 13,957 4,973 T A U Two Rivers 1 mi. S. 1 mi. W. Venice 644 320 S Concessions, camping fee, fee trout fishing Verdon Lake 1 mi. W. Verdon 301 45 R Near Indian Cave State Park Victoria Springs 7 mi. N. Merna or 7 mi. E. Anselmo 64 6 R Boat rental, housekeeping cabins $9-14 Wagon Train 2 mi. E. Hickman 720 325 A+ U 5 mph boating Walgren Lake 5 mi. SE Hay Springs 80 50 R Waterfowl refuge, Old Jules Country Wildcat Hills 10 mi. S. Gering 8931 Game refuge with buffalo and elk R-Restricted to non-power craft. A-All craft allowed. A*-Restricted 5 mph boating. S-Supervised. U-Unsupervised. P-Primitive Camping. Photograph by Lou Ell

Wayside Areas / Time Out for the Traveler

GONE ARE THE days of the Oregon Trail traveler, when rest and relaxation were hard to come by on the hazardous and arduous trek across the state. Today's voyager enjoys a unique system of wayside areas that provide scenic breaks from the long hours on the road.

State Wayside Areas give the traveler a relaxing interlude beside a cooling lake or in a shady grove of trees. Two 1-80 areas, Mormon Island and Windmill, offer intensely developed camping facilities with park ing pads, showers, a refreshing lake for swimming, fishing and non-power boating, and plenty of area for loafing in the sun.

Located at the Grand Island interchange, Mormon Island is one of a series of small lakes formed when fill material was removed for construction of the interstate. The area is named for several Mormon families that camped on the island during the winter of 1884-1885.

Windmill Wayside Area atthe Gibbon Interchange was another stopping place for early Nebraska travelers. The area is named for Windmill Crossing, used by Pawnee Indians during their annual trips to hunt buffalo.

Three large replicas of the original wooden wind mill now decorate the area. The largest, standing over 60 feet high, has a 20-foot wheel made up of over 200 wooden fanblades. It was first raised in the 1890s, and was rebuilt for the park area in 1973. Five lakes, one with a man-made swimming beach, provide lively water sports, including canoeing and sailboating. Several of the lakes offer fishing action, and a three-day permit can be purchased at the headquarters building.

Not all wayside areas are located on I-80. Cochran, south of Crawford on Nebr. 2, provides a picnic and hiking area on the edge of Nebraska's scenic Pine Ridge. A hiking trail crosses the area and winds upward to a scenic vantage point featuring a view of the buttes and rocky formations that ring Crawford to the north. Fireplaces and sanitary facilities are available for over night campers.

Chalkmine Wayside Area, south of Scotia, gives visitors the opportunity to tour one of the few shaft mines in the state. The area is available for day-use only, and anyone wishing to explore the mine's many tunnels should carry a flashlight, as sufficient light is available only at the mine entrances to allow limited sightseeing. The cave maintains a 40-degree temper ature all winter, and during the summer months re mains 20 degrees cooler than the outside air.

Nebraska's first Wayside Area, Blue River, just off U.S. 6 south of Milford, remains one of the most popular. Set in scenic Blue River woodlands, the park offers river access for fishing as well as regular camping facilities.

For travelers heading across country, or just across counties, Wayside Areas provide a break from tedious driving, places of relaxation and some pleasant diver sion in this fast-paced modern world.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION American Legion Memorial 1/2 mi. N. Hastings 7 Museum at nearby Hastings Beaver Creek 1 mi. W., 1 mi. N. Hazard 17 6 Hy. 2 sandhills route Beaver Dam 4 mi. SE junction Nebr. 12 and U.S. 20 5 Near Ponca State Park Blackbird 2 mi. NW Decatur 150 50 Overlook on Missouri River Blue River 5 mi. N. Dorchester 14 River access Blue Valley 1/2 mi. S. Seward 9 River access Chalkmine 2 mi. S. Scotia 9 0 One of two mines in Nebr. Cheyenne Wood River Interchange, 1-80 6 mi. S. Crawford 18 14 15 R Morman settlements Scenic NW., Nat'l Forest nearby cocnran Crosstrails 1/2 mi. W. Fairmont 7 OLD 5 mi. E. Hastings 7 On old Des Moines, Lincoln, & Denver Hy. Elkhorn 1 mi. N. Norfolk 44 A AAA At Game and Parks district office Little Nemaha Lodgepole Unadilla 4 mi. E. Bushnell 13 4 A U Highest point in Nebr. nearby Millstone 1 mi. E. Meadow Grove 4 Interpretation of old millstones on site Mormon Island Grand Island Interchange, 1 80 92 61 $2.50 R u Camping fee Mormon Trail 1-1/2 mi. S., 3 mi. W. Clarks 3 1 On railroad near Clarks North Loup 4 mi. N. St. Paul 20 River access Pioneer 3 mi. N. Ceresco 8 Near Swedish settlement Republican Valley 2-1/2 mi. W., 1 mi. N. Guide Rock 3 Willa Gather Home nearby Union Pacific Odessa Interchange, 1-80 26 12 R Modern picnic ground. On 1-80 War Axe Shelton Interchange, 1-80 9 16 R Modern picnic ground. On 1-80 Windmill 154 14 $2.50 # u Camping fee, modern picnic grounds. On 1-80 biDDon intercnange, i-ou R-Restricted to non-power craft. A-All craft allowed. A*-Restricted 5 mph boating. S-Supervised. U-Unsupervised. P-Primitive Camping.

Historical Parks / Preserving Nebraska's Past

NEBRASKA'S eight State Historical Park areas detail the conditions and times during the state's development, including the first representation of governmental authority in the Louisiana Purchase, at Fort Atkinson in 1820, to the role of Fort Hartsuff in protecting settlers on the frontier. Another important park in the system preserves a famous prehistoric site that depicts the life of early man in North America.

Fort Atkinson was built on the bluffs overlooking the Missouri River north of present-day Omaha, on a spot designated by Lewis and Clark after their meetings with Indian tribes of the area. The fort was an establish ment of authority in the lands of the Louisiana Purchase following the war of 1 81 2. It was one of a proposed string of forts between the mouth of the Missouri and the mouth of the Yellowstone River in Wyoming. Development is presently underway, and a temporary interpretive center has been set up at the fort. Construction has replaced the corner of the original fortress.

Fort Kearny, located near the town of the same name but differently spelled Kearney, represents the westward migration of people to the Oregon Territory and west coast in search of free land and gold. Built in 1848 on the south side of the Platte River, the fort was used by cavalry, artillery and infantry troops until the end of the Indian Wars. Fort Kearny had a ringside seat to the opening of the West, providing protection to set tlers and migrants, and a station for stage lines and pony express. Today's visitor to the fort will find a large collection of artifacts and relics of early frontier life housed in a modern interpretive center and museum. A replica of the stockade and the blacksmith/carpentry shop has been built, and the various features of the original fort are marked. Nearby Kearney State Recreation Area provides camping, swimming and fishing for those wishing to spend some time near the his torical site.

Another early outpost, Fort Hartsuff near Ord, played an important role in the growth of early Nebraska. During the "settler-military" phase of our nation, forts like Hartsuff were built from the Appalachian Mountains to the Rockies. Built for the protection of settlers from Indians, they encouraged further settle ment in the area. Fort Hartsuff was established in 1874 along the North Loup River. The buildings were made of grout, a low-grade concrete, and the guardhouse, post adjutant's office, commissioned officers quarters and dispensary still stand, Each houses displays of armaments and equipment common in the military during the period.

J. Sterling Morton's home, Arbor Lodge, is located on the west edge of Nebraska City and is one of the most historically significant houses of the West. Morton was acting Governor for a time, then became U.S. Secretary of Agriculture under President Cleveland in

  1893. His former home, now a 52-room mansion, and surrounding tracts of ornamental trees and orchard, proclaim Morton's interest in trees. On March 31, 1874, then Governor Robert Furnas issued the first Arbor Day proclamation, giving wide-spread impetus to the holiday and furthering Morton's programs of tree planting. In addition to the mansion, a carriage house contains many examples of early-day horse drawn vehicles including a stagecoach, surrey, sleigh and other coaches.

Another famous Nebraska house belonged to the legendary William F. "Buffalo Bill" Cody at North Platte. There, Cody wintered after touring with his famous Wild West Show. Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park tells the story of this colorful man who took the wild west to the world. His exploits before his stage career are well documented, including his stints as a Pony Express rider and as a scout for the military. Both the house and barn are filled with Cody memorabilia, and a log cabin that he used during his ranching days on the Dismal River is also standing on the park grounds.

Ash Hollow State Historical Park on U.S. High way 26 east of Lewellen, was formed from another famous stop on the Oregon Trail, as well as being an important prehistoric site. Ash Hollow Cave, first excavated in the 1930s, documents a period of Indian cul ture about the era of the beginning of Christianity. Reproductions of the artifacts of early North Americans are on display in a unique interpretive building enclosing the cave.

Another historical area near Ash Hollow is the Blue Water Battlefield, site of the first confrontation between the Sioux Indians and the U.S. Army. Still undeveloped, the area is located north of Lewellen.

One of the Pony Express stations used to advance the mails through Nebraska will be rebuilt at the developing Rock Creek State Historical Park east of Fair bury. "Wild Bill" Hickock started his career as a bad man at Rock Creek when he killed the unpaid former owner of a relay station. Very striking samples of Oregon Trail ruts may still be seen in the park.

Champion Mill State Historical Park is located on the Frenchman River in Champion. It is the last remaining water-powered mill in Nebraska, and was in operation from 1884 until it was purchased as a State Historical Park in 196 . The three-story mill had to give up its flour-milling during World War II because of labor shortages. It remains an active reminder of the days when wagons lined up for several blocks waiting to unload their wheat though.

State historical parks offer a touchstone for any one interested in the life and times of early America. The founding of the country, the building of a way of life and the cultural achievements of bandits and states men—all may be witnessed on a visit to Nebraska's historical parks.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION Arbor Lodge Nebraska City N Admission fee, Antique vehicles, arboretum Ash Hollow 1/2 mi. E., 3 mi. S. Lewellen Prehistoric, historic geology Blue Water Battlefield 1/2 E., 3 mi. S. Lewellen Undeveloped Buffalo Bill Ranch 1 mi West North Platte N Historical movie, early buildings Champion Mill Champion Oniy water powered mill in Nebr. Fort Atkinson 1 mi. E. Fort Calhoun Historic fort Fort Hartsuff 2-1/2 mi. N. Elyria Post Civil War fort Fort Kearny 4 mi. S., 4 mi. E. Kearney Exit or 2 mi. S., 3 mi. W. Minden Exit, 1-80 N Slide presentation Rock Creek Station 6 mi. E. Fairbury Undeveloped Photograph by Lou El N-State owned concession

Roads to Recreation

Improved access is necessary for all-season use

NO AMOUNT OF foresight, planning and development that might go into an idyllic recreation area is worth a hoot unless people —for whom the area is built —can use the area and enjoy its many facilities.

Many areas have been established in Nebraska, but it is not enough to acquire the land and develop it extensively unless there is a system of safe, convenient access roads. Without decent roads, the parks would be just inaccessible temptations during much of the year.

Improvement of such roads has been a concern for some time, and in July of 1961 the State Legislature initiated a program to help provide them. Called the Access Road Fund Program, that early law fell short of meeting the needs of the state for several reasons. The law provided funds on a 50-50 matching basis with counties to assist in constructing access roads to state parks, recreation areas and special-use areas, but it prohibited use of funds for any area where motor boating was not allowed, and did nothing about road construction within the parks or other areas.

Financing of the program was at the rate of $10,000 monthly, with funds coming from state gasoline tax collections. Then, the Legislature in 1963 revised the program into the State Recreation Road Fund, which now carries the project of supplying funds. Monies come from the general fund, plus 50 cents of each motor vehicle registration fee, and this goes for construction and maintenance of hard-surfaced access roads.

Since its inception, the State Recreation Roads Fund has made nearly 3A of a million dollars available each year for such projects. Local residences, farms and other business enterprises also derive benefits from the construction of such roads, but justification for the expenses involved in the improvements hinges solely on the public demands for the recreational opportunities found at the end of the roads.

At the Game and Parks Commission, the State Recreation Roads Fund was from the beginning a cooperative effort with state and local governments and the Nebraska Department of Roads, which is responsible for actual planning and construction.

The Commission supervises over 200 state-owned or managed recreational areas in Nebraska and these are broken down into five different classifications State Parks, Recreation Areas, Historical Parks, Way side Areas, and Special Use Areas. The need for public access roads to these areas has made the Game and Parks Commission the prime beneficiary of the Recre ation Roads Fund.

From across the state, about $20 million of construction projects was anticipated, each standing in line for the approximately $750,000 made available

Photograph by Norm Hellmers

by the fund each year. It became obvious that demands far exceeded the supply of money available.

So, the 83rd Legislature moved to help control the enormous task of programming the projects by enacting a bill directing the Game and Parks Commission to develop a one-year and a long-range, five-year plan to "contribute to the orderly development of an integrated system of access roads."

The revised 1973 State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP), with input from citizens and representatives from all state agencies as well as fed eral agencies having an interest in outdoor recreation opportunities in the state, will provide the planning necessary to keep the access road development up-to date in the heavy growth periods ahead.

Under the 1961 law, the fund could only be used for paved roads directly to a recreational facility, but no farther. This was changed to provide roads to the centers of the areas, and finally, authorization was given to use access road monies for all recreational roads, including all interior park roads and paved parking areas.

Since 1961, more than 250 miles of paved access roads have been constructed or are under contract at a cost of $13.5 million.

On July 1, 1974 (the beginning of the state's fiscal year) a total of eight access projects will be forwarded for approval under the first one-year plan. Included on the program are road systems for Sherman Reservoir, Stolley Park, Big Indian Reservoir, Plattsmouth State Special Use Area, Cottonmill Lake, Killdeer State Special Use Area and Walgren Lake.

Usually, the one-year construction program will consist of projects selected from the five-year plan, but some room for unforseen developments has been built in, and as new priorities appear, changes can be readily made to incorporate them.

The energy crisis has had a profound effect on access road construction. And, with prices continually on the up-swing, the total cost of each project has sky rocketed over the years. In 1961, a mile of road improvement cost in the neighborhood of $40,000. Today, the same mile could cost nearly $85,000.

The energy crisis that has helped raise the costs has also triggered a greater demand for outdoor recreational opportunity close to home. Witness the thou sands upon thousands of visitors each year to the Salt Valley Lakes in southeastern Nebraska. The urban dweller needs such "backyard-close" areas offering fishing, hunting and camping facilities.

The safe, convenient access road turns the recreation area into a complete package of outdoor enjoy ment for everyone.

Yes, the costs are high, but the need is even greater....

THE PRICE OF DESTRUCTION

by Faye Musil

NOBODY estimated the cost of dragging picnic tables out of lakes, of replacing toilet paper stolen from restrooms, or of whitewashing obscenities from various public walls. Even so, the cost of vandalism amounted to more than $16,000 on 23 manned Nebraska park and recreation areas in 1973.

Park managers actually see that $16,000 loss doubled because of the resulting inability to obtain federal aid matching monies. By matching the $16,000 with Land and Water Conservation Fund monies, on a 50-50 basis, some $32,000 would have become available for acquisition of additional recreational lands or develop ments on others. Picnic tables, firegrates, a few trees, camping pads, a boat ramp, many projects could have been constructed from the original $16,000 matched with federal funds.

But you, as a Nebraskan, were cheated out of all those possible facilities by the vandal, and his pathetic, anti-social behavior. Actual losses were much greater than the $16,000 too, because damage at unmanned areas must be added in.

If someone shoots holes in your windows chances are that you will be angry. But that same damage on a park —does that upset you? Government is impersonal it's hard to relate destruction on government lands to personal costs. But, it can be, for it's money out of your pocket. It's that picnic table you could have used in the park, only there weren't funds to buy it. The money had to be spent to pay men to drag the existing tables out of lakes, and to repaint them, and to repair them, and sometimes to replace them. Or, to pay for the many other losses that same malcontent caused.

And, damage to personal property of park visitors was not even included in estimates of 1973 vandalism costs turned in by park superintendents.

There are hidden costs, too. Four new conservation officers were hired in 1973. Their major responsibility is to enforce laws on state park and recreation areas, and vandalism is one of the major law violations on these areas. How much of their salaries could be saved if there were no vandalism? How many park maintenance men would be unnecessary if grown-up children didn't seek to defy authority by destroying their own and their neighbor's —sandbox?

A conservation officer described one aspect of the problem quite briefly: "There is probably not a stop sign in the entire world," he said, "that has not been shot at least once — unless it has been up for less than six months."

Vandalism is neither exciting nor novel. It's been around for a long time. It would seem that vandals are people who are unequipped to deal with their world. It's a copout. It's easy to destroy —difficult to build. Vandalism, in many cases, is a crime committed by people unable to channel aggression into constructive work. And vandalism is a crime, not just a prank. Are you of fended by the cost of government these days? Think about the cost of repairing the destruction of just a few persons.

The destruction ranges from pulling hoses from aerator pumps —the life-support systems of fish stocked in a lake at Fremont —to the total destruction of an entire area at Lake McConaughy where toilets were burned, along with picnic tables, fire grates were cut off, and a well smashed. Damage costs range widely, from over $6,000 estimated at Fremont Lakes to no cost at all on several smaller, less-used areas.

Not all vandalism is malicious. A great deal of it is probably just inexcusable thoughtlessness. Fishermen drag picnic tables onto the ice for seats, then leave them there. Like small children, they expect a nursemaid to pick up their toys, yet they forget to tell anyone where they strewed their treasures. Come spring, the ice melts and the tables sink.

Young trees, expensive nut and hardwood trees, are cut to make roasting (Continued on page 47)

Prairie Life Feathers

by Jon Farrar Photographs by Jon Farrar

IF THE BIRD is a marvel, the feather is a miracle." That is how one writer described this engineering wonder of the animal world. Feathers are extremely light yet structurally strong. They are a more versatile covering than the skin of a bat's wing or the steel of aircraft. Despite all of modern man's advanced technology, feathers are still the most efficient insulating material known. And, as if all that were not enough, feathers are also the unrivaled adornment in the animal kingdom.

Zoologists generally agree that the feather evolved from the reptilian scale some 155 million years ago. Even today the scales of a bird's foot are made of the same horny substance that covers a snake or lizard, and the early stages of a feather's development are nearly identical to those of a reptile's scale.

More than anything else, feathers made flight possible. Had they not evolved, birds would probably still be on the ground. But, they have many other uses as well —they in sulate birds from the extremes of the environment, afford protection against injury, make waterbirds buoyant and play an important role in behaviorial displays.

Many people think that feathers are all pretty similar, differing only in size and color. Most birds, though, have five distinct types, each specialized to meet particular needs (see next two pages).

Contour feathers cover the bird and give them their shape. They are the feathers that make flight possible. Each contour feather has a central shaft or quill, with a flat web on either side. In microscopic view, the web is an interlocking network of arms and crossarms creating the lightest, strongest structure imaginable.

The upper half of a semiplume looks much like a contour feather, but the lower half of the web is loose and fluffy. Because of this structure, semiplumes are important insulating material.

Down feathers are even more fluffy than semiplumes and are the most important insulating material on a bird. The shaft of a down feather is either poorly developed or entirely absent. In place of the well-developed web are fluffy filaments that wave off in all directions. Waterfowl have an abundance of down feathers to insulate them from their wet, cold environment. Grouse, pheasants and owls also have luxuriant coats of down but other birds, like wood peckers or kingfishers, have few if any.

Filoplume feathers are the sparsely scattered "hair" encountered when plucking a bird. Their function is not yet understood, but some zoologists have suggested that they may be sensory structures, sensitive to changes in pressure on the feathers around them.

The fifth type of feather is the powder down. Powder down looks something like down feathers, but unlike any other feather, they are constantly disintegrating into a talc like powder. Their function is also open to speculation, but it is known that birds with poorly developed oil glands —herons, bitterns and some other wading birds —have the most extensive areas of powder down feathers. This suggests that the powder is used the same as oil, to groom and waterproof the feathers. One researcher who studied the great blue heron, proposed that the powder down is used by fish-eating birds to remove slime from their feathers after feeding.

Over the millions of years that birds have been evolving, many factors have influenced the total number of feathers that each species has. Birds that live in cold climates usually have a greater number. In general, larger birds have more feathers than smaller birds. An ornithologist plucked over 25,000 feathers from one whistling swan; another counted only 940 on a hummingbird. Within any species, the number of feathers is reasonably consistent from one in dividual to another, though. The number may vary slightly between sexes. There may even be seasonal differences on the same bird. A goldfinch, for example, may have as many as 1,000 more feathers in winter than in summer. The age and general health of a bird are also in fluencing factors.

A bird's first feathers begin to develop while still in the egg, after about six days of incubation. The first sign of the developing feather is a small pimple on the skin called the dermal papilla. Eventually, the papilla develops into three distinct layers. The outermost layer becomes a horny sheath, the middle layer the actual feather, and the innermost layer, the blood vessels that will nourish the growing feather. In a matter of days, a pinfeather has formed —a compressed, rudimentary feather enclosed in a bluish, protective sheath.

As more days pass, the feather forces out of the sheath and grows until it has reached its full size and characteristic shape. Then, the open ing in the base of the shaft, through which its nourishment flowed, pinches off and the feather becomes dry and horny. From that point on, the feather is nonliving tissue and any damage to it is permanent.

Just as the number of feathers that a bird has is influenced by many factors, so too is the rate at which feathers grow. Healthy birds on normal diets grow feathers more rapidly than sickly birds. Some types of feathers grow more quickly than others. And, ornithologists have found that for some unexplained reason, feathers grow more rapidly during daylight hours than they do at night.

The young of ground-nesting birds typically develop feathers at an earlier age than the young of birds that nest in more inaccessible locations. Quail, for example, grow their feathers so rapidly that some are able to fly when only a week old. The young of eagles and hawks, on the other hand, may spend weeks under the doting care of their par ents before venturing into the air on their own wings. Feathers, it seems, have provided prey species with the means of escape sooner than those leading more sheltered lives.

At first glance, a bird's feathers appear to be evenly distributed over the entire body. This was probably the case for all primitive birds and is still true for a few living species such as the ostrich and penguins. The feathers of most modern birds,

38 NEBRASKAland MAY 1974 39   though, are restricted to definite patches or tracts. The bare patches between these feather tracts are covered by neighboring feathers. Birds that live in colder climates generally have smaller, featherless tracts, often covered with a dense layer of down.

Almost every bird has a naked patch on the central region of the breast. These bare areas of skin are used by adult nesting birds during incubation. The parent simply raises the surrounding feathers and nestles the warm, bare "brood patch" over the eggs.

Because fully grown feathers are dead, they eventually become worn and damaged. Since they cannot be repaired, birds periodically renew their cloak of feathers in a process called molting. During their lifetime, all birds pass through a series of plumages typical for their species.

The first feathery covering that any bird has is called its natal plumage. The natal plumage is made up only of down feathers. Precocial chicks those that are highly independent at hatching like killdeer or ducklings have their down coats before hatch ing. Altricial chicks —those hatched naked and helpless like the common crow or robin —acquire their first covering of down several days out of the egg. Most passerine birds perching songbirds —lose their natal plumage before leaving the nest, generally within three weeks. The young of gallinaceous birds, birds of prey, shore birds and waterfowl, may stay as "downies" for a longer period of time.

The next covering of feathers is called the juvenal plumage and is made up primarily of contour feathers. Generally, the juvenal feathers are colored differently than those of the adult. Juvenile robins, for example, have speckled breast feathers rather than the brick red of the adult.

Sometime between late summer and early winter, most young birds undergo another molt and develop their first winter plumage. In some species this plumage is identical to the adult's. In others it may be different than either parent or may, as is often the case, resemble the plumage of the mature female.

During late winter or early spring, yearling birds of most species under go a prenuptial molt and assume their first breeding plumage. For the males this generally means growing the brightly colored feathers that will be used to attract a mate and intimidate rival males.

Once mature, birds molt their feathers in cycles that are typical for their species. Most birds molt at least once a year, generally during the summer months after the breed ing season. In species where one sex assumes a bright plumage during courtship, there may be two molts, one prior to the breeding season to grow the flashy colors of courtship, and one just after to return it to drab colors for concealment.

During a normal molt, feathers are not dropped randomly nor all at once. Generally, just a few feathers are replaced at a time — seldom enough to prevent a bird from flying. Ducks and geese are exceptions to this though, and lose all their flight feathers at the same time. For several weeks they must feed on the water and escape their enemies by swim ming into rushes, or diving. Prior to this flightless period, the brightly colored males molt into a drab hen like plumage that makes them less conspicuous. Once the wing feathers are replaced, the males molt again and by mid or late autumn, are coming back into their bright nuptial plumage.

Even though feathers are replaced periodically, they require constant care. Bathing, preening and rear ranging the feathers is an important part of every bird's daily routine. If the web of a feather is torn open, a bird will pull it through its bill again and again to rearrange the structure of the web. Some birds, as the great blue heron, go one step further and use comb-like structures on the toes to groom the feathers. During each preening session, a bird rubs its bill across the opening of the uropygial gland, an oil-producing gland lo cated above the tail, and works the grooming secretion into each feather.

Perhaps the most striking feature of any feather is its color. The infinite combinations of colors in intricate designs explain man's age-old fascination with feathers, and their importance in almost every culture's custom and dress.

Feather color can be produced in two ways. The more drab colors, the browns and blacks, result from colored pigments. Blue, violet, most greens and all iridescent colors are usually made possible by a special ized feather structure. A flattened, twisted surface covered with thin, laminated layers of a horn-like material changes the angle at which light strikes the feather, producing colors in much the same way as the surface of a soap bubble. The East ern bluebird appears blue not be cause it contains colored pigment, but because all the colors of the spectrum that strike the feathers are absorbed except those in the blue range. Thus, only blue light is re flected and is the only color we see.

A bird's color can make a lot of difference in how other animals relate to it. Colored feathers can either advertise or conceal. Some African buzzards use bright colors to advertise their bad taste to potential at tackers. A conspicuous color, like black, is used by some gregarious species such as crows and black birds, to attract others to the flock. Most often, though, color is used as an advertisement to attract the attention of the opposite sex or to threaten members of the same sex consider the brilliant red of a male cardinal.

But, just as often, a bird's plumage helps it to hide. Most birds of prey are rather drab colored, making them less conspicuous both to other predators and to animals they hope to prey upon. Birds that are the regular fare of predators are not only drab colored, but also cryptically marked to better match their environment. Downy and hairy wood peckers, that hunt up and down the trunks of trees for insects, have mottled plumages of white and black to blend in with the light and shadow areas of the bark. The American bit tern, a wading bird of the marshes, has a white breast streaked with brown, vertical stripes. When the bird is alarmed, it stretches its head and neck skyward to reveal the rush like camouflage on the breast. The nighthawk, an insect feeder that roosts on the ground during the day, or the young of the killdeer and curlew, shorebirds that nest in grassy meadows, all wear mottled patterns of brown and black to match the grass and its shaded areas.

Feathers have been evolving for millions of years, so it's not surprising that they have taken on some rather unusual forms —forms best suited to each bird's specialized way of life. Kingbirds and flycatch ers, birds that capture insects in their open mouths while in flight, have hair-like feathers on either side of the bill that funnel prey down the gullet. Cedar waxwings have unexplained drop-shaped tips on the flight feathers that resemble red sealing wax. Owls depend on a noiseless descent to capture their prey, and have evolved feathers with downy filaments that muffle the sound of their wings. Woodpeckers, which often lean back while cling ing to the bark of trees, have unusually stiff tail feathers to add needed support. Male turkeys have grown brushes of hair-like feathers on the upper parts of their breasts, and numerous birds have long, or nate feathers that form top-notches on the head. The male sharp-tailed grouse has specialized tail feathers that produce rattling sounds during courtship dance.

Feathers —those marvelous structures of insulation, flight and display; in every imaginable size, shape and color.

Five distinct types of feathers have been identified and described by ornithologists. Contour feathers have a central shaft with a flat web on either side. These are the feathers that cover a bird and make flight possible. Semiplumes also cover the body but are fluffy at the base to provide insulation. Down feathers are even more soft and airy, and are the most important insulating material on a bird. The powder-down feathers of wading birds are constantly disintegrating into a talc-like powder used for preening. The function of the hair-like filoplume is not fully understood but some have suggested that they are sensitive to changes in pressure

NOTES ON NEBRASKA FAUNA...

Redear Sunfish

by Don Gabelhouse, Jr.

THE REDEAR SUNFISH, Lepomis microlophus Gunther, aptly named for its orange to red cresent-shaped opercular flaps, is a species typical of the deep south, but is common in the Mississippi basin from Illinois south to Florida and Texas. General body shape of the redear is like that of the bluegill, but much of the similarity ends there. Adult redear are pale olive colored dorsally, silver laterally or with faint brownish mottling, and dark, olive-colored spots. The breast and belly range from yellowish to brassy. Young redear have eight vertical bars which almost disappear with age.

Redear have been stocked outside of their natural range in combination with and in place of bluegill for several reasons. Redear have a greater growth potential than do bluegill and are in fact the largest fish in the genus Lepomis, which includes the pump kinseed, orange-spotted, green, and bluegill sunfish. Of the family Centrarchidae, only the basses and crappies grow to larger sizes than do redear. The world record redear weighed 4 pounds 8 ounces and was taken from a Virginia pond, while Nebraska's state record of 1 pound 6 ounces was caught from Conestoga Lake.

The second reason redear are stocked with bluegill is the differences in ecological niches be tween the species. Little competition for food exists between redear and bluegill except at very small sizes, and both species can thus inhabit the same water at little expense of the other. Redear seldom utilize surface insects for food as do bluegill, but prefer to congregate in deep water around sunken trees and logs 42 and eat benthic or bottom organisms such as mollusks, crayfish, and aquatic insect nymphs. Upon finding a snail, one of the redear's favorite food items, the fish will assume a vertical position and actually dive headfirst into the bottom. The redear is equipped with an extremely heavy set of pharyngeal arches which bear rounded, molar-like teeth adapted for crushing the shells of snails and clams.

The most important reason why redear have been stocked with or in place of bluegill is that the redear has a reduced reproductive or recruitment potential. Overpopulation, which so often occurs in ponds stocked with bluegill, does not usually result when redear are substituted.

Several factors influence reproduction as well as the fate of young. Reproduction is often inhibited by turbid water and lack of habitat. Unless the water contains adequate vegetation and brush for food items which can be readily seen, redear will not develop sufficiently to spawn. It is generally considered that a redear must be at least five inches long to spawn. This is a much larger size at maturity than required for bluegill. The problem of reproduction is further complicated be cause redear are very sensitive to cold temperatures. Regardless of the population structure, whether the fish are in good condition or not, redear mortality is high during the winter. In the south, cold snaps have been known to kill entire populations of redear. Cold temperatures can thus directly kill redear, but may also reduce their resistance, which allows bacterial infections to cause death. Redear that live through a harsh winter often come out in poor condition and resorb their ovaries for needed body metabolism so that a spring spawn does not occur, or is reduced. When reproduction does occur, redear spawn in the spring when water temperature in the shallows reaches 68 to 75° F. Typical of sunfish, redear sweep out circular nests and the male protects the young while they are on the nest. This spawn is often greatly reduced by predation by bass and other carnivores. Very little spawning activity occurs during the summer, but another spawn often takes place in late summer or early fall. This hatch of young is born at a time when zoo plankton populations have declined, so very little food is available and little growth is accomplished during the first year. These small fish enter the winter in poor condition and do not survive if winter is harsh. States as far north as Nebraska seldom have winters where temperatures do not reach freezing and redear very rarely develop strong year classes. If the second spawn does survive the winter, growth rates never do catch up to those of the spring spawn.

Several other stocking combinations which include redear have proven somewhat successful. The most popular combination to date is bass, redear and bluegill. The stock ing of redear and large channel catfish has been shown to work well because the catfish spare the young more than bass do, and exert pressure upon the intermediate size. Hybrid green and redear sunfish have exceptionally high growth rates and have been stocked with bass.

The extent to which redear have proven worthwhile in management schemes in Nebraska has been limited. Only Conestoga Lake near Denton and Fremont Lakes 2, 14, and 18 West contain redear populations of any consequence. The future for this native southern fish in cold northern plainsstatesappears limited. Redear fishing is usually best during the spring spawning season, but they can be caught all summer and fall by using worms on a No. 6, longshanked hook with two small split shot placed four inches above so that the bait can be jigged slightly off the bottom. No bobber or large weights should be used because redear are sensitive to resistance and often reject the of fering if weight is detected.

When the earth is soft and warm and ready to receive new roots, you can plan for all those tomorrows. For the seedlings you plant will one day stretch to the sky, bringing joy and beauty to all those who behold their majesty. Arbor Day is more than a day. It's the spring and summer and winter of life, the planting and growing and renewing that brings promise of life eternal. Bring joy to your little corner of the world. Plant a tree for tomorrow. FOR YOUR FREE "Plant a Tree For Tomorrow" Booklet, WRITE: ARBOR LODGE 100, NEBRASKA CITY, NEBRASKA 68410

PANHANDLE CARP SHOOT

(Continued from page 7)

with a bow and arrow is probably at least as old as hook-and-line fishing, and is perfectly legitimate in many Nebraska waters even for game fish. Some areas, however, must be closed to archery fish ing because of heavy public use or extreme vulnerability of game species.

The bowman and carp are especially suited to one another. Since he is considered a nongame fish, the archery sea son on the carp is open year-round. While archers may take game fish during special seasons, many are satisfied to direct their attention to carp at least part of the time, thereby taking a good deal of the pressure off game fish.

Shooting carp rather than game fish is also safer as far as legal aspects are concerned. Since minimum size limits are now in effect on bass throughout the state, and on pike in the eastern portion, the bowman is responsible for making accurate estimations of the bass or pike's size before loosing an arrow. If he should happen to nail a 23-inch or less pike or 11-inch bass, he has violated the law and cannot release that fish. With carp, however, there is no size limit.

Besides the sport they provide, carp could also give archers some good eating.

"If you approach carp with an open mind and some good recipes, they make enjoyable eating. They can be smoked, pickled, baked, fried and even converted into fish chowder. In fact, the Game and Parks Commission offers a brochure with a few of these recipes", Thomas said.

"Archers going after carp certainly do no harm to a lake's fishery resource, and they might be doing a bit of good." Thomas concluded, "At any rate, I'm glad to see them taking one of the major fish introduction blunders of the past and turning it into a recreational resource."

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PRICE OF DESTRUCTION

(Continued from page 37)

sticks. Then, people complain that the Game Commission does not provide shade for their picnic area.

Older trees are barked to death by people fascinated by hatchets. According to Ted Stutheit, assistant chief of the State Parks Bureau, many people are just like children. Give them a hammer and nails and they'll hammer on anything. Trees are getting too scarce, he said, to allow weekend woodsmen to destroy them.

And there's the ridiculous, shortsight ed man who becomes annoyed because he gets stuck in the mud, so he rips the walls off a toilet to get himself out. He never thinks that repair of the out house will divert funds from needed construction projects-from the very black topping he wants to see.

All of these things are a challenge to normal, well-adjusted citizens. You are a member of a community somewhere. You probably visit a park or recreation area occasionally. And, there are some things you can do about vandalism. To begin with, don't destroy your own castle then shiver in the cold. And, if an act of vandalism is observed, report the culprit.

Secondly, and probably most difficult, you can help to divert aggression from destruction. Studies have shown that community involvement in a facility does much to reduce destructiveness. If the very people who would probably damage an area were involved in building it, chances are good that they would become its protectors. Perhaps more and bigger projects are needed locally, or nearby state areas could use improve ments undertaken by area residents.

Places where Boy Scouts, Campfire Girls, and school groups have helped plant trees and erect signs are the places

NEW EXCLUSIVE BIG RED ITEMS For Informotion Write Todoy IDEAS INC. The Idea People P.O. Box 82867 Lincoln, Ne. 68501 MUTCHIE'S Johnson Lake RESORT (formerly Collins Resort) Lakefront cabins with swimming beach • Fishing tackle • Boats & motors • Free boat ramp • Fishing • Miniature train rides • Swimming • Cafe and ice • Boat- ing & skiing • Gas and oil • 9-hole golf course just around the corner • Live and frozen bait • Pontoon, boat & motor rentals. WRITE FOR FREE BROCHURE or phone reservations 785-2298 Elwood, Nebraska Plant o Tree for tomorrow! For details, write: The Notional Arbor Day Foundation Box 100 Arbor Lodge Nebraska City, Nebraska 68410 J'S OTTER CREEK MARINA NORTH SIDE LAKE McCONAUGHY HWY. 92-OPEN YEAR AROUND ALL MODERN MOTEL • CAFE • BAIT • TACKLE GAS • BOAT RENTALS # HUNTING & FISHING LICENSES • CHRYSLER BOATS MOTORS SALES • SERVICE ON & OFF SALE BEER • PHONE LEMOYNE 308-355-2341 P.O. LEWELLEN, NEBR. 69147 JAY & JULIE PETERSON THE PINES Rooms and Cabins Adjacent to the Finest Trout Stream in Nebraska. Ph: (402) 273-4483 Long Pine, Nebraska 69217 "More than wildlife and Parks"... THE NEBRASKA GAME and PARKS COMMISSION FISHERMEN HELP YOURSELF Hold-a-Rod IPCO's Hold-a-Rod stores favorite rods and reels in the correct vertical position-prevents tan- gling—releases all damaging tension. Hand- some 6"x18" fish shaped select-grain hardwood wall mounting plaque. Beautifully finished. Stores five inland water size rods and reels. Looks great on any wall. Great gift for yourself or friend. On green display cards at fine sports counters everywhere. D 25* FOR CATALOG AND FILLETING INSTRUCTIONS D$1.00 INCLUDES EMBROIDERED FILLET TEAM PATCH Name Address. Zip IPCO Dept. 214 541 W. 79th St. Minneapolis, MN 55420 NEBRASKAland MAY 1974 47   Browning Our EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT PLAN on all BROWNING products will save you up to 20%. This includes guns, ammunition, archery, cloth- ing, boots, tents, canoes, gun cases, rifle scopes and fishing equipment. Inquire ... it will save you $$$. Big discounts on other sporting goods. plum m PHONE: 643-3303 P. O. BOX 243 SEWARD, NEBRASKA 68434 GUN DOG TRAINING All Sporting Breeds Each dog trained on both native game and pen-reared birds. Ducks for retrievers. All dogs worked individually. Midwest's finest facilities. WILDERNESS KENNELS Henry Sader-Roca, Nb. (402)435-4212 68430 French's Paradise Modern Motel & Apart- ments—Air conditioned - Cafe - Boats - Bait Tackle Shop - Good shing — Guides — Li- nses — Public Ramp Visit Us Seven Miles West, One South of North End of Dam. Right on the Shoreline of Lake McConaughy. LEMOYNE, NEBRASKA 69146 Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd French Phone: Area Code 308, 355-2102 Crews' Jigs Vz-Dozen for $1.00 includes postage and sales tax 3/16-ounce White, Yellow or Black Free: fishing information with your order Order from: Paul D. Crews 509 West J St. Ogallala, Nebr. 69153 FRIENDSHIP INN WESTERN PARADISE East U.S. 30-Ogallala, Neb. Phone (308) 284-3684 One block to "FRONT STREET" MEMBER • Color Cable TV • Air-conditioned • Group hunting and fishing rates • Family units • Phones Help U.S.!! P*Wt united- 33 can do it with your help! Let's Pull Together Send $1.00 Information. Gift and UNITED WEE Story UNITED WEE / Box 82867 Lincoln, NE. 68501 TAKE A LOOK AT YOUR STATE PARKS For a fun-filled vacation not far from home, discover the outdoor splendor of Fort Robinson, Ponca, Chadron, or Niobrara. Send for complete details from NEBRASKAland, Box 30370, Lincoln, Nebraska 68502 or call Park Superintendent LIVE-CATCH ALL-PURPOSE TRAPS Writ* tor FREE CATALOG Low 09 $4.95 Traps without injury squirrels, chipmunks, rabbits, mink, fox, rac- coons, stray animals, pests, etc. Sizes for every need. Also traps for snakes, sparrows, pigeons, crabs, turtles, quail, etc. Save on our low factory prices. Send no money. Free catalog and trapping secrets. MUSTANG MFG. CO., Dept. N-34, Box 10880, Hoostoo, Tex. 77018 Call early and save! LOW OUT-OF-STATE RATES START AT 5 P.M. THE LINCOLN TELEPHONE CO.

where less damage occurs. Park superintendents on manned areas and Parks Bureau administrators in the Lincoln office for unmanned ones, can give you suggestions on ways that your community can help. Such hometown efforts not only make a park or recreation area a more pleasurable place to be, but also give people more of a stake in its continued attractiveness.

Another possibility is to provide alter nate ways of expending aggression and hidden talents. One park administrator tells about his whittling board. His experiences on park areas showed him that people have a real destructive urge to carve on wood. Picnic tables, walls of shelter houses and cabins, trees, just about anything made of wood is vandal ized by the Kilroys and young lovers who seek to record their presence or gain a bit of recognition.

So, the superintendent erected a simple frame structure with a good-sized chunk of wood attached. Sure enough, it was soon carved to the hilt —but the park benches, cabins, and picnic tables were much less defaced.

There must be thousands of ways to deter or divert the kind of aggression that destroys public facilities. Few people, however, devote much thought to it. Probably the malicious vandal can't be deterred by words, or even alternatives. Chances are he's angry, or distressed, or both —beyond his capability to cope with his own emotions. As the song goes, "You can't talk to a man with a shotgun in his hand." It could be that only solutions to our society's larger problems will help him. But that doesn't excuse him, and there is even less excuse for the thoughtless individual who damages or destroys carelessly, without thought. It's a sad commentary on the society we live in that people are too bored, or too frustrated, or too immature to direct their energies toward something worth while. Perhaps destruction is the only thing that seems to offer a challenge. If so, this is a challenge to turn intelligence and strong backs to solution of a problem that even the experts haven't been able to scratch the surface of. How do you stop a vandal?

Hopefully, the answer will be found.

48

FORT KEARNEY MUSEUM Over 100 years of world-wide collecting have produced this unique and unusual visit with the past. Over 10,000 items from all parts of the world. TO KEARNEY Or Phone: (308) 236-8951 Write for brochure: P.O. Box 84, Kearney, Nebr. 68847 FORT KEARNEY MUSEUM GLASS-BOTTOM BOAT RIDES A crystal-clear, spring-fed Nebraska lake filled with thousands of fish, over 14 different varieties in all for you to see. And we do mean see! Our boat has a 2 x 12 foot picture window and will comfortably seat up to 24 people.

OUTDOOR NEBRASKAland of the Air

SUNDAY KHAS KMMJ KBRL KRFS KXXX KLMS KRGI KODY KOTD KCOW KFOR KCN! KAMI KUVR KGFW KMA KNEB KTCH KVSH KHUB WJAG KBRB KICS KJSK KEYR KICX KRNY KTNC KROA- FM KSID KCSR KYNT KGMT KBRX KNLV KKAN KOLT KMNS KRVN KJSK-FM Hastings (1230) 6:45 a.m Grand Island (750) 7:00 a.m McCook (1300) 8:15 a.m Superior (16001 9:45 a.m Colby, Kan. C790) 10:15 a.m Lincoln (1480) 10:15 a.m Grand Island (14301 10:33 a.m North Platte (12401 10:45 a.m Plattsmouth (1001 12 Noon Alliance (I4001 12:15 p.m Lincoln (1240) 12:45 p.m Broken Bow (12801 1:15 p.m Cozad (15801 2:45 p.m Holdrege (13801 4:45 p.m Kearney (13401 5:45 p.m Shenandoah, la. (960) 7:15 p.m Scottsbluff (9601 9:05 p.m FRIDAY Wayne (15901 3:45 p.m Valentine (940) 5:10 p.m Fremont (1340) 5:15 p.m Norfolk (780) 5:30 p.m Ainsworth (14001 6:00 p.m SATURDAY Hastings (1550) 6:15 a.m Columbus (900) 6:30 a.m Scottsbluff (690) 7:45 a.m McCook C1360) - 8:30 a.m Kearney (1460) 8:30 a.m Falls City (1230) 8:45 a.m Aurora (103.1) 8:45 a.m Sidney (1340) 9:15 a.m Chadron (610) 11:45 a.m Yankton (1450) 11:55 a.m Fairbury (1310) 12:45 p.m O'Neill (1350) 4:30 p.m Ord (1060) 4:45 p.m Phillipsfeurg, Kan. (1490) 5:15 p.m Scottsbluff (1320) 5:40 p.m Sioux City, la. (620) 6:10 p.m Lexington (880) 9:15 p.m Columbus (101.1) 9:45 p.m DIVISION CHIEFS MAY 1974 Dale R. Bree, Parks Harold K. Edwards, Resource Services G1eit R. Foster, Fish Production Carl E. Seffmann, taw Enforcement Jack Hanna, Budget and Fiscal Ken Johnson, Game Earl R. Kendle, Research Winston Lindsay, Operations and Construction Lloyd Steen, Personnel Bob Thomas, Fish Management Delvin White!ey, Federal Aid Jim Wofford, Information and Education CONSERVATION OFFICERS Ains worth—Max Shown Iter, 387-1960 Albion—Robert Kelly, 395-2538 Alliance—Richard Furley, 762-2024 Alliance—Richard Seward, 762-4317 Arapahoe—Don Schaepler, 962-7818 Auburn—James Newcome, 274-3644 Bassett—Leonard Spoering, 684-3645 Bassett—Bruce Wiebe, 684-3867 Bellevue—Mick Bresley, 291-9315 Benkelman—H. Lee Bowers, 423-2893 Bridgeport—Joe Ulrich. 262-0541 Broken Bow—Gene Jeffries, 872-5953 Columbus—Lyman Wilkinson, 564-4375 Crawford—Cecil Avey, 665-2517 Creighton—Gary R. Ralston, 358-3411 Crofton—John Schuckman, 388-4421 David City—Lester H. Johnson, 367-4037 Fairbury—Larry Bauman, 729-3734 Fremont—Andy Nielsen, 721-2482 Geneva—Kenneth L. Adkisson, 759-4241 Gering—Jim McCole, 436-2686 Grand Island—Fred Salak, 384-0582 Hastings—Norbert Kampsnider, 462-8953 Hay Springs—Marvin E. Kampbell, 638-526? Lexington—Loren A. Noecker, 324-3466 Lincoln—W. O. Anderson, 432-9013 Lincoln—Ted Blume, 475-8226 Lincoln—Dayton Shultis, 488-8164 Lincoln—Ross Oestmann, 489-8363 Lincoln—Leroy Orvis, 488-1663 Lincoln—Gene Tlustos, 466-2959 Mtlford—Dale Bruha, 761-3134 Norfolk—Marion Shafer, 371-2031 Norfolk—Robert Downing, 371-2675 North Plotte—Dwight Allbery, 532-2753 North Platte—Gail Woodside, 532-0279 North Platte—Richard Lopez, 532-6225 North Platte—Jack Robinson, 532-6225 Ogallala—Parker Erickson, 284-2992 Omaha—Dick Wilson, 334-1234 Omaha—Roger A. Guenther, 333-3368 O'Neill—Roger W. Hurdle, 336-3988 Ord—Gerald Woodgafe, 728-5060 Oshkosh— Donald D. Hunt, 772-3697 Plattsmouth—Larry D. Elston, 296-3562 Riverdole—Bill Earnest, 893-2571 Sidney—Raymond Frandsen, 254-4438 South Sioux City—Virgil Gosch, 494-4384 Stapleton—John D. Henderson, 636-2430 Syracuse—Mick Gray, 269-3351 Tekamah—Richard Elston, 374-1698 Valentine—Elvin Zimmerman, 376-3674 West Point—Ray Still, (402) 372-5676

The Game and Parks Commission has a new outdoor newspaper which is a companion piece to NEBRASKAland. It keeps you posted on all the happenings in the great Nebraska outdoors-hunting, fish- ing, camping, regulations, ecology, just about everything for the nature lover and sportsman. It is, however, available only to NEBRASKAland subscribers, so order now for a friend, hunting host, anyone you want to do something special for. Yes! I want a subscription to NEBRASKAland and the new Afield and Afloat! one-year $5 two-year $9 Name. New Renewal Address Town State Zip A Full House of Reading Pleasure And you can deal a friend this winning combination ANNOUNCING A NEW SERIES OF NATIVE WILDLIFE PRINTS ABOUT THE ARTIST: Tom Kronen has acquired wide artistic experience. For nearly 20 years he has worked as an artist, providing advertising art, illus- trating architecture, and creating fine art. While employed by the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, he modeled and designed U.S. stamps, cards and official fish charts. His specialty has been wild- life in all its delicate beauty. ABOUT THE PRINTS: All prints are beautifully framed for your convenience. You Save Money Too! 9" x 11" frames are wood and finished in rich black and gold. A buff-colored mat sets off the color- ful wildlife print to best advantage. Color combinations go with any texture or color on your wall at home or in office. The frame size is ideal, too, for groupings. You must be completely satisfied or we will refund your money. A limited quantity of prints available personally signed and numbered by the artist-only 500 of any one kind. TO: Nebraskaland P.O. Box 27342 Omaha, Nebraska 68127 Gentlemen: Date. ueriueinen: Please ship me postpaid (U.S. only) the print/s specified below. PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY INDIVIDUAL PRINTS $8.95 ea 8.95 ea 8.95 ea No. N474 Raccoon No. N574 Red Eared Sunfish No. N674 Gadwall Ducks SAVE 10% ON SET OF THREE a 24.16 Total (one each of three kinds) Be sure to include sales tax if applicable IMPORTANT: Residents of Nebraska must add 2Vfe% sales tax, and residents of Omaha and Lincoln must add an addi- tional 1 % of the purchase price for sales tax. My check is enclosed Money order enclosed Charge my Bankamericard American Express Master Charge PRINTS SIGNED AND NUMBERED BY ARTIST $14.95 ea 14.95 ea 14.95 ea 44.85 Total NAME ADDRESS CITY STATE ZIP If more than one print ordered, prints will be in one package to one address. If more than one gift shipment wanted, please enclose names and addresses on separate paper with this order. REDIT CARD NO. MASTER CHARGE ALSO GIVE 4 DIGITS BELOW YOUR ACCOUNT NO. SIGNATURE: EXPIRATION DAT   For an Easy Travel, Family Fun Vacation Stay as many days as you want on one admission fee. Motel and meals for as little as $10 per adult, $4 per child per day. Camping $2 per day. THE HAROLD WARP 12 Miles South MINDEN, NEBR. 68959 Adults-only $2.00 Minors 6 to 16-75^ Little Tots Free FROM CRACKERS TO CORSETS: The People's Store, completely stocked with "general merchandise" returns folks over forty to a well-known child- hood scene; provides a startling contrast for younger generations between merchandising methods of yesterday and today. A china cat, "dozing" in the cracker-barrel, is so realistic that it has been worn smooth by visitors attempting to pet it. "MAN THE THROTTLE OF OLD 967": Standing in front of the old depot from Lowell, Nebraska—which was the western terminus of the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy railroad from 1872 to 1882—il an I889 Baldwin locomotive. It was re-built in I9I4 and continued in service until I953. Standing between the Baldwin and the depot is a narrow-gauge, wood-burning locomotive built in the middle I800 s. YESTERDAY'S "RANCH HOUSE": Conventional building materials were scarce and expensive on the plains, so early settlers turned to the material at hand and built themselves sod houses which were surprisingly comfortable—warm in the winter and cool in the summer. This modern day replica took 11 acres of sod. It is fur- nished with authentic furniture from the days of the pioneers. ONE OF THE TOP MORE WORK, LESS SWEAT: Man's first attempts to power his machinery and equipment are revealed in the Village's Power House display of early gasoline engines, trucks and tractors. Here is the greatest collection of antique tractors in the world—all authentically restored. U.S. ATTRACTIONS Everything Americans have used since 1830-at work, at play, in the home. Two- hundred fifty antique autos, 100 tractors, locomotives, airplanes, fine china, home fur nishings, paintings, sculpture, much more. Twenty-four buildings include Indian Stockade, Pony Express Station, Pioneer Church, Sod House, People's Store, Land Office, Pioneer Depot. You can see it all in chronological order by walking less than a mile, but it will absorb you for hours. Write for FREE Picture Folder- Also information on special rates for tour groups ON THE WEST TRAIL