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Free Fishing and Park Entry Day is Saturday, May 17

A couple walks a trail at a Nebraska state park

No permit, no problem! This Saturday, May 17, is Free Fishing and Park Entry Day, the one day each year when you can fish and visit state parks without needing to purchase a permit for the day.

So grab a rod and reel, find a park near you, or pick one of many fun events planned at various state parks. The outdoors is for all to enjoy, and that's what this annual event is about.

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A cluster of zebra mussels on some rocks in Nebraska

Learn about Nebraska's invasive species during awareness days

Invasive species affect every Nebraskan, and you can be part of the solution. Recently, Gov. Jim Pillen declared May 26-30 as Nebraska Invasive Species Awareness Week — an opportunity to learn more about these species and how you can help.

To celebrate, Game and Parks is hosting a series of educational webinars, as well as an in-person event, "Know Your Nebraska Invasives Day," on May 31 at Pawnee State Recreation Area. Join us — and remember to clean, drain and dry your watercraft when you go boating!

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An RV parked at Fremont Lakes State Recreation Area.

Pack fun, not frustration, with these camping season tips

Camping season is here! As you plan your next outing, follow these simple steps for guaranteed fun and less frustration — such as getting your park entry permit ahead of time if possible; practicing campfire safety; and following good camping etiquette. Don't forget to bring a fishing pole!

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Silhouettes of native grasses against a sky at dusk

Enroll in CRP now through June 6

Agricultural producers and private landowners wanting to enroll in the Conservation Reserve Program, or CRP, can do so until June 6.

The competitive program, administered by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Farm Service Agency, provides annual rental payments for land devoted to conservation purposes. Participants receive tools to conserve wildlife habitat, sequester carbon and improve water quality and soil health, among other benefits. 

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OUTDOOR OPPORTUNITIES

A couple poses by a Trail Trek sign

Trails challenge launching May 17

Looking for a fun outdoor challenge? Your Parks Adventure: Trail Trek is back for year two, starting this Saturday. Pick from more than 50 designated trail locations across the state.

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Mark Spady holds up an enormous walleye he caught during the Midwest Walleye Challenge

Walleye Challenge heating up; still time to join

We are right in the middle of the best months for catching walleye. If you haven't yet, join the Midwest Walleye Challenge; participants are already logging some pretty impressive catches.

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A truck and RVs camped at Red Willow State Recreation Area

Red Willow, Swanson taking reservations

Exciting news: Starting May 15, campers can book reservations to stay at Red Willow and Swanson Reservoir state recreation areas. Also, Fremont Lakes is once again taking camping reservations.

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POPULAR ONLINE

The 2025 Big Game Guide on a black background

Big Game Guide now available online

It's hot off the press! An online version of the 2025 Big Game Guide is now available to view online. Print copies of the guide should be available by the end of the month.

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People boating at Calamus Lake.

Boat safe this summer

May 17 kicks off National Safe Boating Week — a great time to remind yourself how to stay safe while boating. Wear a life jacket every time you are on the water, know state boating laws, and prepare before launching.

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Storm clouds gather above a Nebraska state wildlife management area.

How to read different cloud shapes

No doubt about it, clouds can make some interesting shapes. But what do they mean? Read more as educator Alie Mayes explains cloud types and what different formations signal to us about the weather.

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