05/26/2025
In the heart of Nebraska’s Sandhills, a unique and vital ecosystem thrives. These wetlands, including marshes, meadows, and fens, are filled by groundwater and scattered across the Loup, Platte, Elkhorn, and Niobrara river regions. While most are freshwater, some are salty due to natural alkali in the soil.
Mostly located on private ranchlands, these wetlands are cared for by ranchers whose cattle depend on the surrounding grasslands. They're not only essential to the ranching economy but also a haven for wildlife, including endangered species like the whooping crane and Topeka shiner.
Sandhills wetlands are Nebraska’s most intact wetland type, but they face ongoing threats from changes to the watershed and invasive plants. Still, they provide critical support for migratory birds, rare turtles, and outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, kayaking, and wildlife watching.
Learn more: https://brnw.ch/21wSTPc
