Volume 92, Issue 10, 2014
December 2014
- Identifier:
- nela.2014_092_10
- Title:
- Volume 92, Issue 10, 2014
- Issue Name:
- December 2014
- Date Issued:
- 2014-12-01
- year:
- 2014
- month:
- December
- Season:
- Autumn
- PDF filename:
- NL_92.10_2014_Dec_Spreads_Entire.pdf
- Publisher:
- Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
- Format:
- Periodical
- volume:
- 092
- issue:
- 10
- number:
- 092.10
- Decade:
- 2010s
- Type:
- Rights Holder:
- Copyright Nebraskaland Magazine/Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, all rights reserved.
- Extracted Text:
-
Publis hed by
y the Nebr a s k a Ga m e a nd Pa r k s C o m m is s io n si nc e 1926
NEBRASKAland
December 2014
An abandoned farmhouse sits as an oasis in the midst of a cornfield southwest of
Sprague in Lancaster County. Photo by Brad Moser.
NebraskalandMagazine.com
$4.95
INSIDE
While Photographing Otters ● Kregel Windmill Museum
Ice-Fishing ● Eagles in a Trap ● Winterfest
Crazy Horse Rides On ● Cold Amphibians ● Product Reviews
NEBRASKAland Magazine
Volume 92
●
No. 10
●
December 2014
F EAT U R ES . . .
16 Other Than Otters
P
S
E F
24 Winterfest at the Parks
HOTOS AND TORY BY RIC OWLER
BY JEFF KURRUS
28 Three Camps
S
P
M H
30 A Turn Through Time
TORY AND HOTOS BY
ARK
ARRIS
The Kregel Windmill Factory Museum
STORY AND PHOTOS BY AMY KUCERA
34 Preparing for Winter
When You Can’t Read the Calendar
STORY AND PHOTOS BY DAN FOGELL
36 Two Trappers,Two Eagles, One Lesson
B E F
J G
40 Crazy Horse Rides On
Y RIC OWLER AND ULIE
24
●
30
●
EISER
BY AMY KUCERA
D EPARTM EN T S . . .
Comment .........................................................4
Mixed Bag.......................................................6
In the Field ....................................................44
Portraits from the Past ..................................46
Product Reviews ...........................................47
Classifieds .....................................................48
In the Kitchen ...............................................50
Wine & Dine Guide ......................................51
Gift Guide .....................................................52
The Last Stop ................................................54
NEBRASKAland Gift Collection .................55
O N TH E W EB . . .
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NEBRASKALAND MAGAZINE, VISIT
NEBRASKALANDMAGAZINE.COM AND VIEW OUR INTERACTIVE
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NEBRASKAland (VOL. 92 / NO. 10, ISSN 0028-1964) is published monthly, except
for the combined Jan./Feb. and Aug./Sept. issues, by the Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission, 2200 N. 33rd St., Lincoln, NE. Periodicals postage paid at Lincoln,
Nebraska, and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to
NEBRASKAland, P.O. Box 30370, Lincoln, NE 68503-0370.
2 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
16
●
Cover: Photographing river otters, such as this one, isn’t as easy as it
appears to be. See story on page 16. Photo by Luke Kathol.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 3
Photo Special
Thank you so much for the
NEBRASKAland Collector’s
photo magazine. I thoroughly
enjoyed the “armchair” tour
of our state! Keep up the
good work.
Carolyn Keil
Lincoln, Nebraska
First Time Fishing
I thought I’d tell you a fun little story that happened this past
summer. I took my four grandkids down to fish on a private
pond near Crete. This was their first time fishing so they were
very excited. We baited up hooks and managed to get all four
poles in the water. After about five minutes nine-year-old
Zacharie excitely exclaimed “I got a fish!” The next second,
seven-year-old Henry screamed, “I got a fish too!” The two
boys were working their reels pulling in their first catches ever.
You can image our surprise when the one fish emerged from
the water and it had both hooks in its mouth! The boys starting
screaming, “We caught the same fish!”
This story will be told around the table for many years, even
when these young boys are grandpas. Cousins went fishing for
the first time, and the first fish they caught was the same fish!
Smiling Grandma,
Linda Ward
Raymond, Nebraska
KANSASland
I have lived in Kansas for almost 2 years now after spending
my years up to retirement in the state of Nebraska. We still
enjoy reading the magazine and learning more about Nebraska ...
wish Kansas had a KANSASland magazine.
Edward Jankowski
Eudora, Kansas
This mottled channel catfish was caught at Halleck Park
Lake in Papillion by Derek Guyton of Bellevue last summer.
Dan Eby of Lexington displays
his love for walleye fishing on
his vehicle.
If you have a unique outdoor
message plate you would like
to share, or know someone
who does, e-mail a photo (highresolution, JPEG format only,
please) of it to Eric.Fowler@
Nebraska.gov, along with your
name, hometown and a brief
description of the interests
expressed on your license plate.
CONSERVATION OFFICERS
NORTHWEST
Officer
City
Jim Zimmerman (S) Gering
Commissioners
Chairman - Lynn Berggren, Broken Bow
Vice Chairman - Jerrod Burke, Curtis
2nd Vice Chairman - Dr. Kent Forney, Lincoln
Dr. Mark Pinkerton, Wilber
Rex Fisher, Omaha
Mark Spurgin, Paxton
Mick Jensen, Blair
Dick Bell, Omaha
Norris Marshall, Kearney
MAGAZINE STAFF
Communications Director Christy Rasmussen
Editor Jeff Kurrus
Art Director Tim Reigert
Associate Editor Amy Kucera
Regional Editors Eric Fowler, Julie Geiser,
Justin Haag, Jenny Nguyen
Contributing Editor Michael Forsberg
Regular Contributors Bill Hager, Chris Helzer,
Lisa Knopp, Gerry Steinauer
Circulation Donna Robinson
For address changes and questions about
your subscription, e-mail Donna.Robinson@
Nebraska.gov or call 800-632-5263
Advertising Sales Manager
For advertising information contact
Shane G. Gilster, 402-742-0125
Email: shanegilster@gmail.com
SOUTHEAST
Officer
Levi Krause (Sup.)
William Krause
Mike Luben
Dan Zuehlke
Heath Packett
Darin Gress
Douglas Kramer
Dina Barta
Stacey Lewton
Dudley Sorensen
Russell Mort
Dan Evasco
Rich Berggren
Travis Shepler
City
Louisville
Auburn
Colon
Cortland
Eagle
Hebron
Lincoln
Lincoln
Lincoln
Waverly
Nebr. City
Papillion
Waterloo
Lincoln
Phone (402)
949-0593
274-8063
443-6392
806-9084
210-0888
768-8665
890-6465
890-6463
890-7140
937-3422
209-1506
616-5961
619-1355
613-2312
Ak-Sar-Ben Aquarium
21502 W. Highway 31 Gretna, NE 68028
Phone 402-332-3901
ADMINISTRATION
Officer
Craig Stover (Adm.)
Duane Arp (Ass.)
Jeff Clauson (Ass.)
City
Lincoln
Lincoln
Lincoln
Phone (402)
471-5531
471-5531
471-5531
Omaha Office
8495 Frederick Street, Omaha, NE 68124
Phone 402-595-2144
Nebraska Wildlife Crimestoppers 1-800-742-7627
Headquarters/Southeast District Office
2200 N. 33rd Street Lincoln, NE 68503
Phone 402-471-0641
Jerry Jacobitz of Pawnee City submitted a photo of a white
hummingbird from his backyard feeder.
While photographing last summer, Lisa Woerly of Lincoln sent in this image of water skiers at Branched Oak Lake near Raymond.
Any program that receives federal funding from the National Park
Service, or the United States Fish and Wildlife Service prohibits unlawful
discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, age, gender, marital
status, national origin, age, disability or political affiliation. Any person
who believes he or she has been discriminated against in any program,
activity, facility, or service, should contact the Nebraska Game and
Parks Commission, Lincoln, NE 402-471-0641, the Equal Opportunity
Commission, Lincoln, NE 402-471-2024, TTY/TDD 402-471-4693;
United States Fish Wildlife Service, Civil Rights Coordinator, 4401
N. Fairfax Drive, Arlington, VA 22203; Director, Equal Opportunity
Program, U.S. Department of Interior, National Park Service, 1849 C
Street NW, Mail Code 0008, Washington, D.C. 20240-0001.
SOUTHWEST
Officer
City
Phone (308)
Roger Thompson (S) N. Platte (office) 535-8025
(cell) 530-3097
Ray Dierking
Brkn. Bow
870-0322
Michael Thome
Cozad
529-8146
Matt Andrews
Elwood
746-2418
Dirk Greene
Imperial
882-0015
Dale Johnson
Kearney
440-3847
Brian Piernicky
McCook
340-6627
Brandon O’Neal
N. Platte
530-3157
Nicholas Fix
Ogallala
289-0427
Bryce Streger
Ogallala
289-1169
Rich Routh
Rep. City
920-0367
Tim Williams
Grand Is
380-7331
Pat George
Kenesaw
402-705-9989
Matt Brandt
Loup City
202-0819
Andrew Heyer
Cozad
402-613-2241
Alex Hasenauer
Wellfleet
660-4671
City
Norfolk
COMMISSION
C
COM
OM
OMMIS
M SIO
SION O
SI
OFFICES
F CES
FFI
ES
S
Anne Crofford of Falls City sent in this
Chimney Rock photograph.
Greg Hesse
Scott Brandt
Dan Kling
Frank Miller
Sean McKeehan
Terry Brentzel
Phone (308)
(office) 763-2940
(cell) 641-6138
Rushville
760-3647
Gering
631-0663
Harrison
430-0572
Valentine
402-389-0444
Bridgeport
279-9133
Oshkosh
458-7650
NORTHEAST
Officer
Tom Zimmer (Sup.)
NEBRASKAland Magazine Copyright 2014, all rights reserved.
NEBRASKAland is available in audio from the Nebraska Library
Commission Talking Book and Braille Service, Suite 120, 1200 N St.,
Lincoln, NE 68508. 800-742-7691. NEBRASKAland Magazine and the
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission reserve the right to reject any
advertising not in keeping with the agency mission.
Rates: $18 for one year; $33 for two years; $44 for three years. Nebraska
recipients must add appropriate sales tax. To subscribe call
1-800-NEBLAND (632-5263), or go online to: NebraskalandMagazine.
com.
Send your comments to:
Jeff Kurrus, Editor
NEBRASKAland Magazine
P.O. Box 30370
Lincoln, NE 68503
or e-mail Jeff.Kurrus@Nebraska.gov
Please include your postal address and
telephone number.
Letters may be condensed and edited
for clarity. Photographs are welcome
and will be returned.
4 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
COMMISSIONERS
Director Jim Douglas
Northeast District Office
2201 N. 13th St. Norfolk, NE 68701
Phone 402-370-3374
Southwest District Office
301 E. State Farm Rd. North Platte, NE 69101
Phone 308-535-8025
Northwest District Office
East Hwy. 2, Box 725 Alliance, NE 69301
Phone 308-763-2940
Bassett Office
524 Panzer St., Box 508 Bassett, NE 68714
Phone 402-684-2921
Kearney Office
1617 First Ave. Kearney, NE 68847
Phone 308-865-5310
Phone (402)
(office) 370-3374
(cell) 649-8053
Dale Davis
Bassett
760-0712
Steve Oberg
Columbus
910-3366
Daniel Roberts
Fremont
719-1108
Randy Pomplun
Fullerton
308-550-0489
Jeff Jones
Hartington
762-5022
Jon Reeves
Kennard
889-8508
Doug Pollard
Ord
308-730-7050
Alex Frohberg
Ponca
241-7615
Cory Krause
West Point
380-6410
Jonathan Andreasen O’Neill
340-3981
Mitch Johnson
Wausa
613-8612
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 5
Paddlefish
Stocking in
Central Nebraska Canal System
6 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
For now the population will grow primarily
from stocked fish, which will be done in coming years with
paddlefish fry from Gavins Point National Fish Hatchery
in Yankton, South Dakota. The fry will then be raised in
Nebraska hatcheries.
Primitive characteristics of the paddlefish include a
skeleton composed of mainly cartilage and a deep forked,
elongated tail fin – the upper lobe being longer than the
lower lobe, similar to sharks. They are also equipped with
an elongated paddle-like snout called a rostrum.
Paddlefish swim through water with their mouths open
to collect tiny crustaceans, insects and have adaptations
specifically for filter feeding on zooplankton. ■
PHOTO BY JULIE GEISER
By Julie Geiser
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission recently
stocked 990 paddlefish at Gallagher Canyon and Midway
Canyon reservoirs located south of Cozad.
The 12-inch paddlefish have been stocked in efforts to
offer anglers a chance in central Nebraska to be able to snag
or use bow and arrow on mature paddlefish.
“We hope to establish a sufficient population so that a
season can be implemented similar to that on the Missouri
river,” said Dave Tunink, assistant administrator of the
Commission’s fisheries division. Tunink commented that
“it will take a high density population to establish a season,
which we hope to do in the canal system.”
According to Tunink, the canal systems should be a good
place to establish populations of paddlefish as the water
levels are good with deep, open water in the canyon
reservoirs. “The habitat is there for them, reservoir paddlefish
grow well and as the fish get larger people may start to see
them surfacing and rolling to feed,” Tunink stated.
It will take several years to establish a paddlefish
population in the canal system, which will hopefully lead
to a season on the fish.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 7
T in robber
Tra
b
Sam Bass
Travelogue Sponsors
By Julie Geiser
Big Springs
ocated at exit 107 on Interstate 80, the small town of Big
oc
Springs may be small but it’s big on history.
S
Sp
From outdoor opportunities, a night spent at an old-time
motel, great food and history, this small town offers I-80
m
travelers a look to the past.
The restored Phelps Hotel Bed & Breakfast gives guests a
great place to stay similar to its opening on New Year’s Day
in 1886. The Phelps Hotel was a stopping place for Union
Pacific (UP) railroad workers who carried side-arms for protection against
would-be robbers and Indians. The “House of Three Chimneys,” as the hotel was
Big Springs
referred to, was a landmark for pioneers.
Enjoy some “Grub at Gunpoint” at the Sam Bass’ Saloon and
Steakhouse. In 1877, the Sam Bass gang robbed the UP express
train No. 4 of $60,000 in $20 gold coins at Big Springs, the largest
robbery of a UP train. Legend states that part of the $20 gold pieces
are still buried in the area. Along with history and old photos, the
menu of appetizers, sandwiches, burgers and their self-proclaimed
best hand-cut steaks in the area are hard to beat.
For those looking for a day in the outdoors, Lake McConaughy is
a 40-minute drive from Big Springs. With plenty of sandy beaches
and a campground with amenities, Lake McConaughy is a great
way to spend a day at the beach camping, boating, jet skiing and
parasailing. The lake is a popular walleye fishery along with white
bass, wipers, northern pike and channel catfish.
Ash Hollow State Historical Park is a mere 22-minute drive
from Big Springs. The scenic State Historical Park’s visitor’s
center offers a look back at the Oregon-California Trail where
the old wagons still show
their mark across the landscape at
Windlass Hill.
The visitor’s center covers the history of the area and hosts exhibits
describing prehistoric animals, early man and indigenous people. The
park features a landmark cave, spring and creek, a sod house and
an old restored stone school house along with the site of an original
trading post.
Hunters will want to visit Clear Creek Wildlife Management Area
north of Big Springs. Clear Creek includes a 2,500-acre waterfowl
refuge on the North Platte River, a 600-acre controlled
waterfowl hunting area providing more than
2,000 acres of public hunting lands open to
excellent deer, turkey, pheasant and waterfowl
hunting, as well as fishing and bird
watching.
For more information, visit
Outdoornebraska.org, and
Ci.big-springs.ne.us. ■
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The Phelps Hotel Bed & Breakfa
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8 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 9
Late-season Deer Hunt
By Jeff Kurrus
When I first started hunting deer in Nebraska, a colleague
at the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission told me how
deer migrate to new haunts late in the season. But I didn’t
believe him. To prove him wrong, I spent 21 straight days in
December and January hunting those same places I’d been in
September without seeing the first deer. I’m a slow learner.
Where they could be found, I learned, was near thermal
cover, such as cedar trees and tall grasses like big bluestem.
But they may not move much, knowing the caloric trade-
off that such forays require.
When they do move, it will
be toward food sources still
viable throughout the winter,
foraging for waste grain in
crop fields and nibbling on
any green they can find in
alfalfa fields.
Now, when I stop seeing deer in
my early-season honeyholes, I know
it’s time to move to my late-season
stand locations. ■
Cast-iron Cooking for the Holidays
Bring your family, bring your friends and
make plans to visit the Nebraska Prairie
Museum in Holdrege. See the 16’ wide
buffalo mural, a life-size buffalo, a two-bearded wild turkey and a sandhill
crane. For more information about visiting the museum and the
interactive museum map of our exhibits, check out our website.
By Dylan Tegtmeier, Nebraska Outdoor U!
I
10 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
you should be ready to cook with it.
Start out with a thawed spiral
ham and stud the cloves onto the
ham, then use toothpicks to stick
pineapple all over the outside of
the ham. Next, cover the ham and
pineapple with a good coat of brown
sugar. Pour pineapple juice into the
pan, too. Then, add soda in with the
pineapple juice – a can of Sierra
Mist will work just fine for this.
Now, you will put the lid on and
begin to cook this with 24 charcoal
bricks on top and 12 on bottom
because you’ll probably be using a
larger Dutch oven.
To make the honey glaze, just mix
brown sugar and honey in a heated
pan to melt the sugar. Feel free to
add some nutmeg to this too. As the
ham continues to cook at about 180
degrees, add the honey glaze and
cook to your liking. Cooking this
at 180-200 degrees will put a good
amount of flavor in the meat but will
take longer too, usually 2-2½ hours.
Experiment with the heat and cook
time until you find what works best
for you.
A Christmas meal with friends and
family usually includes a cobbler of
some sort as well. Peach cobbler is
my favorite. A very simple cobbler
recipe is this: one cup of flour,
one cup of sugar, and one cup of
margarine or butter. Mix this together
until it is the consistency of mashed
potatoes. Grease the bottom of your
nebraskaprairie.org
308-995-5015
N. Hwy 183 Holdrege
Hours: Mon-Fri: 9 am-5 pm | Sat-Sun: 1-5 pm
)LQGXVRQ
)DFHERRN
PHOTO BY JEFF KURRUS
know it is the holiday season
when I enter the house in my
snow-covered boots after a morning
of December deer hunting and am
instantly greeted by the smell of
fresh baked treats. The warmest
memories, such as these, are those
that will last a lifetime, and one
of the best ways to create these
memories is by doing some seasonal
cast iron cooking.
A nice, sweet ham is a Christmas
favorite. Most folks, my family
included, have a special recipe to
make the ham just right. This recipe
will get you started, but feel free to
write down notes and adjustments to
the recipe for next time, until you’ve
made it your own secret recipe.
If you regularly cook with your
cast iron, you’ve probably already
established a nice patina of non-stick
seasoning on your irons, from years
of tender loving care. But if you’re
new to cast iron cooking, you’ll
need to season your cookware before
getting started.
The object is to put a layer of
resident grease on your iron to
protect it from rust and aid in
cooking. To do this, make sure your
iron is scrubbed clean and dry. Then,
spread a thin layer of vegetable oil
on it and place it upside down in
your oven at 375 degrees with a
piece of tin foil under it to catch the
grease drippings. After 1 hour, let
your iron cookware cool, and then
pan with butter. Pour in your pie
filling of choice into the pan, cover it
with your flour topping, mix, and put
your Dutch oven lid on. Every brick
usually brings about 15 degrees of
heat when using smaller ovens. So to
cook this at 350 degrees you’ll need
about 13 bricks on top and 11 on the
bottom. This should work for 10-14
inch ovens.
Visit OutdoorU.org and start
your own pathway to exciting and
memorable experiences.
Get outside
SKILL LEVEL:
and see what the
Beginner
Nebraska outdoors
Intermediate ✔
has for you. ■
Advanced
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 11
Nebraska Bird Library
Sponsored by
y
Red-bellied Woodpecker
Song or calls: Rolling “churr” or “chivchiv.”
Description: Black-and-white barred back;
white uppertail coverts; barred central tail
feathers; white belly with a small reddish
patch or tinge. Male has more extensive red on
head, having red on both the crown and nape.
Females only have red on the nape.
Habitat: Fairly open forest stands, often in
river bottom forests. Often seen in orchards,
urban parks and gardens.
Where in Nebraska: Common permanent
resident in eastern Nebraska. Extends west
along major river systems. Regular breeder.
Status: May be extending its breeding range
northward and westward.
Fun Facts: As many as half of all redbellied woodpecker nests in some areas get
invaded by starlings. Excavates its nest in 7-10
days. ■
To learn about more birds visit
NebraskaBirdLibrary.org.
PHOTO BY STEVE ZECHMANN
Elks Lodge Seek Hides
By Connor Graham
The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks, known as the local Elks Lodge
in most small towns, is again accepting donated deer hides from the beginning
of the November firearm deer season through the end of the January antlerless
deer season. Donated hides will be
shipped to a tannery to be turned into
soft leather and made into gloves
for wheelchair-bound veterans or
used for craft kits that are distributed
to veterans at VA Medical Centers
across the world as part of the Elks
“Help a Vet” program.
Before the hides can be shipped,
they have to have all excess fat, flesh
and both heads and tails removed,
then table or stock salt must be
rubbed into all fleshy surfaces.
Volunteers at the drop-off locations
do most of this work, but hunters are
welcome to do it themselves before
dropping off the hides. Care must
be taken in the skinning process,
however, as even small holes can
result in the hide being ruined during
the tanning process.
Contact your local Elks lodge for
more information. ■
12 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
EXPLORE NEBRASKA’S PAST
$29/year – Includes 4 issues
of Nebraska History and
4 of Nebraska History News
www.nebraskahistory.org/magazine
402-471-3270
facebook.com/pages/Nebraska-State-Historical-Society
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 13
Archery On
Fire
by Jerry Kane
By Cara Pecek
Last December, on a day when
temperatures barely climbed out
of the single digits, hundreds
of people braved the weather,
inspired, perhaps, by their favorite
character from the movie Brave.
That character is Merida, an
independent young woman who
also happens to be good with a
bow and arrow. Brave, along with
the Hunger Games books and
movies, has led to a surge in the
popularity of archery, and that
popularity helped draw hundreds
to Platte River State Park that cold December day for a day of free archery, hot
chocolate, s’mores and memories made with family.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has led the way on making
opportunities to practice archery available, and this December 6, two more
free family archery events are planned. These events will take place at the new
Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center, 4703 N. 44th St, in Lincoln
and at the Roger G. Sykes Outdoor Heritage Education Complex at Platte River
State Park. Both events will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and feature free archery,
as well as other activities, games and refreshments.
More information about both events is available at Archeryonfire.com. ■
Contact the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission at 402-471-0641 or visit OutdoorNebraska.org for more information.
Visit HuntSafeNebraska.org for a list of hunter education classes and BoatSafeNebraska.org for a list of boating safety
classes.
November 29
Families on Target
December 13
Classic Christmas
Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center,
Lincoln, 10 a.m., 402-471-6141
Eugene T. Mahoney SP, Ashland, 402-944-2523
Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center,
Lincoln, 1 p.m., 402-471-6141
December 1
Bobcat hunting and trapping season opens
December 12
First segment of white-fronted goose hunting season closes
December 1-31
Muzzleloader deer hunting season
December 1-31
Public Land cow elk hunting season
December 1-31
Private Land cow elk hunting season
December 2-22
Bighorn sheep hunting season
December 6
Archery on Fire
Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Education Center,
Lincoln, 402-471-6141
December 6
Introduction to Archery
December 14
Christmas Bird Count
Ponca SP, Ponca, 8 a.m., 402-755-2284
December 16
Snipe hunting season closes
December 16
Duck and coot hunting season in Zone 2 Low Plains and
High Plains (first segment) closes
December 16
Duck and coot hunting season in Zone 4 closes
Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, North Platte,
5:30-8 p.m., 308-535-8035
December 22-23, 26-29
Roger G. Sykes Outdoor Heritage Education Complex
open to public, Platte River SP, Louisville, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,
402-471-5547
December 23
Duck and coot hunting season in Zone 1 closes
December 25
Christmas Day
Game and Parks offices closed
Platte River State Park (SP), Louisville, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.,
402-234-2520
December 26-31
Yule Log Quest
December 6
Fort Robinson Historical Christmas Dinner
Platte River SP, Louisville, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 402-234-2217
Fort Robinson SP, Crawford, 5 p.m., 308-665-2900
December 27
Snow Run, Quest for the Yule Log and Fruitcake Fling
December 6, 13, 20
Christmas in the Woods
Ponca SP, Ponca, 402-755-2284
Ponca SP, Ponca, 402-755-2284
Archery antelope hunting season closes
December 8
Hunter Education Field Day
December 31
Platte River SP, Louisville, 402-234-2520
December 13
Decorating Nature for the Holidays
Wildcat Hills Nature Center, Gering, 9 a.m., 308-436-3777
Find Food, Find Quail
December 19-22
Christmas with the Codys’
December 31
Archery, Mule Deer Conservation Area and Statewide
Whitetail Buck deer hunting seasons close
December 31
First segment of light goose hunting regular season closes
PHOTO BY ERIC FOWLER
November 30
Dad’s Day at the Range
By Jeff Kurrus
Throughout the winter, quail require a lot of energy to survive sub-zero
temperatures. As a hunter, use this to your advantage. Look for heavy thermal
cover, just like when hunting white-tailed deer (see page 10), and food sources
not covered by snow or ice. Quail would rather not expend energy they do not
have moving long distances for
food.
Search for annual seeds
and grain, starting with giant
ragweed, then western ragweed,
corn, sorghum, soybeans,
sunflowers, osage-orange and
dogwood. Foods that also provide
energy include wheat, acorns,
and millet, while smartweed and
switchgrass are considered poor
sources of energy.
As long as you keep cover and
food in mind, especially during
this time of the year, you’ll find
birds. ■
When quail hunting during the winter, look for
food sources not covered by heavy snow or ice.
14 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
NEBRASKAland
and
Visitor
See Jenny Nguyen’s
“Vietnamese-style Roasted
Quail” recipe on page 54 of this
issue.
October’s winner of the
Visitor drawing was
Tom Odvody of Dodge, Nebraska,
who found the Praying Mantis on
page 31. Readers are encouraged to
contact NEBRASKAland within 10
days after this issue’s publication
with the correct page number and
name of this issue’s “Visitor” – a
critter found in Nebraska. We will
then gather the correct entries and
draw one to win a NEBRASKAland
Magazine mug. To enter each
month, write:
NEBRASKAland Visitor
2200 North 33rd Street,
Lincoln, NE 68503.
Or e-mail:
Tim.Reigert@Nebraska.gov
with “Visitor” in the subject line of
the message.
HINT: This issue’s visitor is not
on page 7, 15, 34 or 56.
The Praying Mantis is named
for its prominent front legs, which
suggests the position of prayer.
They are formidable predators and
have triangular heads poised on a
long “neck,” or elongated thorax,
that can turn 180 degrees to scan
their surroundings.
Typically green or brown and
well camouflaged on plants,
mantis lie in ambush or patiently
stalk their quarry. They use their
front legs (equipped with spikes) to
snare their prey which are usually
other insects – however, they will
also eat others of their own kind.
The most famous example of this
is the notorious mating behavior of
the adult female, who sometimes
eats her mate just after, or even
during, mating.
Females lay hundreds of eggs
in a small case, and nymphs
hatch looking
much like tiny
versions of
their parents.
Information obtained
from National Geographic.com.
Visitor image by Donna Robinson.
Bugguide.net is a good site for identification.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 15
Other Than
Otters
A love-hate relationship.
Kind of.
Photos and story by Eric Fowler
I hate river otters. Well, sort of. I used to
love them. Then I volunteered to do the
story on the species in the October issue of
NEBRASKAland Magazine. And now I hate
them. Kind of.
It was, I thought, a plumb assignment. A
radio telemetry study to look at river otter
range and movement in the central Platte
River Valley was about to begin. I’d always
loved watching otters in the zoo. I’d captured
a few average photos of one from a photo
blind on Clear Creek. The study meant I’d
know where an otter was, which would
guarantee some great photos. Right? Wrong.
Had I done any research, I would have
known odds were stacked against photo
ops. For otters spend their days sleeping
in underground dens. When they do emerge
at night, they swim underwater. Research
technician Kent Fricke was tracking otters
and put me in at the front door of a den with
an otter in it countless times (I could count
them, but am afraid to). As the mornings and
nights in a photo blind at various sandpits
and sloughs in Hall County added up, I
16 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
ABOVE: A wood duck and her
duckling swim through a slough
that parallels the Platte River in Hall
County.
BELOW: The sun sets over a
partially frozen sandpit along the
Platte River in Hall County.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 17
became convinced the otters knew I
was there and were messing with me.
The transmitters have a sensor that
causes the “beep, beep, beep” heard on
a receiver to pick up speed when the
otter is moving. And the closer it is, the
louder the beep. At times, the bleeping
beeping was so loud and fast I thought
an otter was going to crawl in the blind
with me. I now know they were just
running around the den, laughing.
Only twice did I actually see an otter.
The first time it was way too dark to
get a usable photo. The
second time, after Fricke
had moved on to greener
pastures, Dave Remple
put me on a Platte River
den at the Crane Trust
south of Grand Island,
and I finally connected.
By then, it was too
late.
18 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
ABOVE: A pair of beavers wrestle
outside their den on an island in
the Platte River owned by the Crane
Trust south of Alda. They emerged
minutes after I captured the only
photo of a river otter I was able
to get while working on the story
that appeared in the October 2014
edition of NEBRASKAland.
RIGHT: Wild grape vines dip into the
water of a Platte River slough.
OPPOSITE: A belted kingfisher
perches on a shrub next to a Platte
River sandpit.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 19
Wild turkeys feed along a Platte
River slough on a winter evening.
My disdain for the subsurface, subterranean, nocturnal rodents had
grown beyond comparison. Despite my efforts, it was Fricke, Remple,
Sam Wilson, and even Bob Grier, a now retired NEBRASKAland
staffer, who were filling the files with great photos of otters they
20 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
stumbled upon ... during the day, no less. Lucky punks.
There was a consolation prize. Several, actually. Otters aren’t the
only critters that live in the maze of sloughs and sandpits along the
Platte River. Spend enough time in a photo blind in those haunts,
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 21
or on the way to
and from them,
and you will have
many other photo
opportunities. The
best of those are
presented here.
But I still hate
otters. A little
anyway. ■
22 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
OPPOSITE ABOVE: A raccoon
wades in a slough at dusk.
OPPOSITE BELOW: A mink
pauses along a bridge.
RIGHT: A great blue heron makes
a short flight to a deadfall after
fishing in the slough.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 23
Winterfest at the Parks
Three Places for Winter Fun
Ponca State
Park Winterfest
Events
Calendar
By Jeff Kurrus
T
PHOTO BY JENNY NGUYEN
he anticipation of the holidays is sometimes too much to bear for some little ones. Parents
will do just about anything to get the kids out of the house, for even a few hours, before
the big day arrives. Last year, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission provided more
options for parents with its Winterfest celebrations at Platte River, Ponca and Eugene T.
Mahoney state parks. And this year the Commission will be doing so again.
But just as there is a pulse in the air before the holidays, there is sometimes a post-Christmas
lull that envelops a home. The state park system has you covered again with a host of
activities all the way through February to get you through the winter months.
So check your list of this year’s events, each sure to keep the family together a little longer
before and after the most exciting time of the year.
Ponca’s Fruitcake Fling draws competitors of all ages.
November 29 - December 20 Christmas in the Woods
Each Saturday, Ponca will feature seasonal activities
including old-fashioned holiday crafts, lighted hayrack
rides, free cookies and wassail, groomed cross-country
ski trails, a sledding hill and ice skating. A 30 percent
discount lodging package will be offered.
December 14 Christmas Bird Count
This all-day event coincides with the National Audubon
Society Christmas Bird Count. Birdwatchers of all ages
are invited to compare notes and sighting reports. A
chili feed will follow.
December 27 Winterfest
This event features the park’s 3K Quest for the Yule
Log, the National Championship Fruitcake Fling,
seasonal crafts, lighted hayrack rides and more.
January 1 First Day Hike
Ponca State Park is offering a healthy start to your
new year with this event. Guests are welcome to take
part in unguided hikes from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. At the
conclusion of their hike, participants are encouraged
to stop in at the Missouri National Recreational River
Resource and Education Center to warm-up and enjoy a
complementary cup of hot cider and cookies.
January 16-18 Women’s Wellness Weekend
This new workshop includes presentations and activities
on health and wellness, relaxation, meditation, selfimprovement, outdoor recreation and more.
February 1 Super Bowl Sunday Mini-lodge Package
Special lodging discounts and incentives are available
for Super Bowl weekend.
PHOTO BY JENNY NGUYEN
February 14-15 Birds & Breakfast
The focus of this event package is the Great Backyard
Bird Count and Valentine’s Day. Slated for this event are
bird counts and tours, a Saturday morning breakfast,
complementary wine or cider, lodging discounts and
other activities.
Ponca also remains one of Nebraska’s premier wildlife
viewing destinations, featuring 20 miles of hiking trails
along the Missouri River.
Pinning a nose on a “reindeer” was part of Ponca State Park’s Winterfest event last year.
24 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 25
Eugene T. Mahoney
State Park
Winterfest
Events
Calendar
Platte River State
Park Winterfest
Events
Calendar
December 6 Archery on Fire Event
This fun family archery event will run from 10 a.m. to
4 p.m. Participants, from beginners to seasoned
veterans, will enjoy the great facilities at Platte River
State Park’s Roger G. Sykes Outdoor Heritage Education
Complex. For more information visit ArcheryOnFire.com.
December 13 Classic Christmas
Kids can come and have their photo taken with Santa
Claus from 1:30-4:30 p.m. at the Activity Center
Building. Portraits will be taken by NEBRASKAland
Magazine photographers. Families can also decorate
cookies, make ornaments or create holiday greeting
cards for local veterans. Enjoy free horse-drawn wagon
rides for a memorable and unique tour of the park.
There is a $2 admission fee.
PHOTO BY JEFF KURRUS
January 3 Yule Log Quest
This exciting event for family and friends starts at
3 p.m. as teams use a series of clues to find the location
of the yule log. The day will also consist of other
events, including a kindling hunt for kids, crafts, story
time and s’mores by the fire. An evening hayrack ride
caps off the day.
For additional information on the Winterfest events at any
of these locations, including Platte River State Park, visit
Outdoornebraska.gov/parks.asp.
Kids can make gingerbread houses and other seasonal crafts at
Platte River State Park this winter.
January 10 “Ice Bowl” Disc Golf Tourney
The tournament is from 1-4 p.m. All proceeds go to
Hunters Helping the Hungry.
January 24 Cold Day, Warm Hearts and Family Fun
Bring the whole family to the Owen Marina from
3-6 p.m. to learn about surviving the winter wilderness
and to enjoy fishing and birding activities. Stay to
create memories with the children and grandchildren
while making winter crafts and enjoy roasting hot dogs
and s’mores over an open fire. There is a $2 fee for hot
dogs and s’mores.
February 11-14 Valentine’s Special
Reserve a cabin or lodge room at regular price and add
a Valentine’s Special Package for only $55. This deal
includes a meal for two and gift package delivered to
your room or cabin.
Events at other Nebraska State Parks
December 6 20th Annual Historical Christmas Dinner
This event, hosted by Fort Robinson State Park, includes
the “Light Up the Fort” celebration.
PHOTO BY JEFF KURRUS
PHOTO BY ERIC FOWLER
Making s’mores kept the young ones warm at last year’s Yule Log Quest event at Platte River State Park near
Louisville.
26 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
December 13 Decorating Nature for the Holidays
Participants will gather at 9 a.m. to create garland
feeders and nature-inspired ornaments while enjoying
hot chocolate and cookies at the Wildcat Hills Nature
Center. Call the center to preregister.
December 19-22 Christmas at the Codys’
At Buffalo Bill Ranch State Historical Park, view the
Christmas-decorated home and enjoy roasted chestnuts,
holiday music, carriage rides and visits with Santa.
Santa Claus will once again make a stop at Eugene T. Mahoney
State Park this season.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 27
Three Camps
Story and photos by Mark Harris
Jeff Nelson of Lincoln spends quality
time with his pal, Yegang, on Holmes
Lake.
I
often wondered about those bucket-sitting people as I
whizzed by Lincoln’s Holmes Lake and Bowling Lake.
What are they catching, what drives them? So over the
course of two winters, I slid out to visit.
There are three camps of people when the topic turns to
ice-fishing: those who haven’t tried it but think it might be
fun, those who do it every chance they get and those who
think both other groups are nuts. There also seem to be
common denominators in this predominantly male group
at the lakes: many grew up in small towns, most are allaround outdoorsmen and all are thankful to have their winter
pastime just a short drive from home.
Also notable are those with cherished childhood memories
of family outings. Some are eager to build a bond with their
own. When Eric Einspahr’s daughter entered the world
four years ago, he pondered their life together. “I thought
28 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
about how I wanted her to remember
me and how I remember my dad,” he
said. “I have great memories of warmweather fishing trips growing up so
I reconnected with the outdoors with
her future in mind. Fishing summers
again became such a passion that I felt
a void when winter came.” It was then
that Eric reinvestigated the contents
of his father’s homemade, hand-medown ice-fishing gear box. That box
brought Eric to the ice and someday
his daughter will join him – when she’s
ready for the cold.
On behalf of those who love winter
outdoor activities, I’ll explain. We
don’t enjoy being cold – which is the
crux of the misunderstanding – we
like the challenge of existing outdoors
in whatever nature gives. And we
dress for it. We’re fairly comfy. Being
in cold weather brings a profound
alertness and an element of euphoria: it
is daring.
Ice-fishing here comes in short
stretches. Ice less than four inches
thick is unsafe, and hazards are
not always obvious. Lake ice also
alters form no matter the thickness,
producing one of nature’s most
mesmerizing sounds. Newly forming fissures sound like
empty 50-gallon metal drums being pulsated by cushioned
drumsticks.
Across the lake everyone has their fishing formula
and lures vary widely, most commonly including some
combination of jigs with corn or grubs, or colorful artificial
flies for panfish and trout. Those few with fish finders
have a massive advantage. With his finder on Bowling
Lake, Blake Hauser of Lincoln pulled crappies and bass
at a baffling tempo using grubs on a teardrop jig. Within
flickering lights dancing onscreen like a World War II radar
image, Blake pointed out his lure, the lake bottom and the
approaching school of fish.
Josh Hoover-Rathjen prefers using a Salmo Darter lure, or
jigs with wax worms. His finder pinpointed black crappie at
On behalf of those
who love winter
outdoor activities,
I’ll explain. We
don’t enjoy being
cold – which is
the crux of the
misunderstanding –
we like the challenge
of existing outdoors
in whatever nature
gives.
Holmes Lake. “It’s not just about
finding where they are: teasing helps,
just a gentle tug as they approach,”
Josh said. He mostly catches and
releases, and aims for walleye and
catfish but finds them most elusive.
He’s happy with crappie.
“It’s a more active sport with a fish
finder,” said Eric Einspahr. “You drill
a hole, stick the finder down, and if
nothing is there you move on. You
don’t have to sit for half an hour to see
if something bites.”
But some prefer the mystery of
Blake Hauser of Lincoln pulls crappies from Bowling Lake with the advantage of his
what’s beneath, or maybe it’s not only
Vexilar fish finder.
fish they are after. Some seek pure,
uninterrupted time with a best buddy
while others want solitude to recharge.
chop a hole. A common tool where he comes from, it’s a
Ukrainian immigrant Petr Korol is one of several Eastern
sharp metal spike on a five-foot hand-carved shaft.
Europeans I met and “zimnya ryealka,” or ice-fishing, is
“Good for Ukrainian bears too?” I asked.
deeply rooted in his culture. He used his “plyushnya” to
“Yes, yes!” he said, smiling but serious. With gestures and
broken English we spoke on a windchilled morning. As he fished barehanded my gloved fingers burned. I
asked him how he endured it. “Nobody
gloves ice-fishing in Ukraine,” he said.
In his homeland, Petr used to fish
the enormous Dnieper River where he
once had to enlarge his hole to retrieve a
100-pound catfish. Asked if he had any
fishing tips, he responded, “Don’t go
out if the wind is from the east or when
the moon is new. Everyone in Ukraine
knows that.”
Wind or moon in their method or
not, on thick-enough ice you will see
them out there – those devoted Lincoln
anglers – content in their surroundings,
silently watching their line. Think them
courageous or crazy as you pass, they
don’t care either way as long as the fish
Salmo Darter lures are one way to attract bluegills.
are biting. ■
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 29
A TURN
THROUGH
TIME
THE KREGEL WINDMILL
FACTORY MUSEUM
Story and photos by Amy Kucera
n the period of settlement on the
Great Plains, those who moved
across and occupied the vast
expanses of open prairie during
the early-1800s were required to
live near rivers and streams in order
to easily access water. That is, until
the development of the modern
windmill.
In 1854, the self-regulating farm
windpump was invented by Daniel
Halladay. Better known now as
the windmill, it made its debut
at the time when farm and ranch
operations were widely developing
throughout the country.
The Kregel Windmill Company
was one of more than 1,000 windmill
factories that soon developed in the
United States. Named for owner
and operator George F. Kregel, the
factory was run continuously at the
same location in downtown Nebraska
City from 1903 to 1991. There,
Kregel would produce water pumping
windmills, as well as provide water
supply equipment, and the services
of installation, windmill and well
maintenance and repair. The “ELI”
brand he created was named in memory
of a departed friend.
I
Art Kregel took over the company from
his father George in the 1940s.
30 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
Fingerprints prove that most items inside the Kregel Windmill Museum are as they were left last,
and remain intact and untouched. Unlike other museums, dust is part of the charm.
His gearless design was unique. A
direct-stroke machine – one revolution
of the wheel produced one stroke of
the pump – it was made with both an
8½- and 10-foot fan. The ELI was
designed to pull itself out of the wind
and, in the case of a stiff gust which
may blow other windmills apart, to
engage the self-locking mechanism,
preventing damage to the equipment.
A rare, all-wood mill was designed but
few were manufactured. The second
design included a wood and steel blade,
and the final design was made entirely
of steel.
Due to the rationing of raw materials
during World War II, the factory halted
production but continued to provide
windmill-related services. George’s
son Arthur took over the business in
the 1940s and kept it in operation until
his death in 1991. Heirs of the factory
donated it to the museum’s non-profit
organization in 1993. In order to
preserve the interior contents from
structural damage, a protective outer
shell was built around the factory in
2011.
Visible fingerprints among dust
show the items have not been moved
from their original location. A note
remains on the desk from Arthur’s
wife, Louise, asking if he had made an
appointment to have his ears cleaned.
Detailed ledgers line the shelves –
many written with pencils sharpened
to nearly nothing and saved with a
collection of others like it reiterating
the utter frugality of the times. Visitors
have remarked the factory is extremely
well-preserved; it appears as though the
workers had just stepped out for lunch.
There is such a tremendous amount
of history in the location, even the
factory outhouse situated in the
Nebraska City
The Kregel Windmill Museum is one
of 14 museums located in historic
Nebraska City.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 31
a viable future. The resurgence of wind
power development, combined with
the trend toward a more sustainable
human existence through investment
in renewable energy, proves a living
lesson exists among the artifacts. And
though rural and small-town museums
generally receive less attention than
their urban counterparts, those working
to preserve the museum hope to change
that, aiding in the revival of interest in
these pioneer emblems through the use
of hard work and word-of-mouth.
The old-fashioned way. ■
Plan your visit to the factory at
Kregelwindmillmuseum.com.
View
more images of the Kregel
V
Windmill
Factory Museum.
W
Everyday items in the museum include hand-written notes from Louise Kregel to her husband, Arthur.
alleyway is listed on the National
Register of Historic Places.
Though it is rare to see an ELI
windmill on the landscape, a
fully-restored version, originally
manufactured in the one-story factory,
now stands in the parking lot across the
street from the museum.
When the factory reopened as a
museum in 1993, the opportunity to
provide unique educational experiences
to the public was realized. TouchHundreds of bottled samples of sand,
gravel and soil from each ELI windmill
drilled and installed in eastern Nebraska
and western Iowa can be found at the
factory.
32 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
screen kiosks complete with the
re-creation of ambient noises of the
once roaring factory machines guide
tourists through the experience.
As a museum, its purpose has
become to help people understand
that innovation, resourcefulness,
hard work and thrift are keys to
living successfully through changing
times. The factory demonstrates how
Americans have historically relied on
and continue to use renewable natural
resource energy to enhance their
quality of life. As the last historic and
intact windmill factory known, it is
now an exclusive reminder of this era
in time.
The museum retains the promise for
Visitors have remarked that the museum is so well-preserved, it appears as though the
workers have merely stepped out for lunch.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 33
Preparing for Winter
When You Can’t Read the Calendar
Story and photos by Dan Fogell
Each spring, we once again see amphibians and reptiles across the
landscape, but only after they have used a variety of tactics to survive
through the harshest time of the year.
L
ook at the calendar. Winter is coming. This means
breaking out sweatshirts, coats, and making sure the heat
works in our homes and cars. We are ready for winter
when it arrives, though we may not always like it. But how
do animals – specifically amphibians and reptiles – prepare
for winter? How do they know it’s coming? And where do
they go?
When it comes down to it, amphibians and reptiles do
two things: breed and prepare for winter. Body condition
is an important factor contributing to survival during harsh
winters. Preparing for winter means eating – building up
energy reserves so what little metabolic activity occurs
during winter can continue uninterrupted.
More importantly, there must be enough energy for
the following spring as reproductive success is directly
dependent on feeding success. For frogs such as the boreal
chorus frog, accumulated sugar molecules from food act as
a cryoprotectant – a sort of biological antifreeze – protecting
This copperhead, muddy from spending six months
underground, is slowly warming up in the early spring sun.
Boreal chorus frogs use high amounts of glucose in their
tissues as a cryoprotectant that allows them to survive
below-freezing temperatures.
Amphibians, such as this Plains spadefoot, take advantage of
summer’s abundance of insects to build up energy stores for
the long Nebraska winter.
34 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
As fall days grow shorter, timber rattlesnakes may travel miles to return to the safety of an overwintering den which they share with
other snake species.
them through the winter by making it difficult for ice to
form in their tissues.
Unable to read a calendar, amphibians and reptiles need
to recognize environmental cues to know winter is just
around the corner. A drop in temperature is a great cue. But
sometimes temperatures stay warm through the fall
and into the first weeks of winter. Thus another important
cue is photoperiod: the length of time daylight is available.
As winter approaches, daylight availability becomes shorter.
Although it might be warm out, the shorter days will
warn animals to prepare for the cold that will inevitably
come.
Where these animals spend winter is dependent on their
life history, but two key criteria determine their location:
oxygen and above-freezing temperatures. Amphibians and
turtles are mostly aquatic and will spend winters buried
in the mud below and around water bodies and survive by
breathing through their skin. They can extract oxygen from
water, and with metabolic activity being reduced at colder
temperatures, they can obtain enough oxygen to stay alive
while completely submerged. Box turtles are non-aquatic
so they dig themselves deep into the soil for the winter, but
like chorus frogs, they too produce a biological antifreeze to
protect their cells.
Lizards and snakes have to be more selective about their
overwintering sites. They still have to breathe and remain at
above-freezing temperatures, so their best course of action
is to get underground below the frost line. This is easier
said than done. Lizards can actually dig, and in places with
loose soils, they bury themselves deep enough to keep from
freezing. In other places, they can simply burrow beneath
large rocks for the winter.
Snakes, however, have the most difficulty finding a winter
home. In areas with rocky ledges they can crawl deep into
crevices and stay cozy, especially if these rocks face to the
south. Places like this are rare, so usually snakes of multiple
species share the most optimal sites. But what most snakes
depend on are the burrows of other animals: crayfish,
rodents, badgers and prairie dogs all dig burrows that go
deep underground, and snakes are opportunists. When they
find a nice burrow, they use it.
After a six-month nap or so, most amphibians and reptiles
emerge and start their new season of feeding and breeding.
Sadly, some will not survive the winter. But this ensures that
only those with the best survival skills will live to pass on
their skills to future generations. ■
Strong legs and claws help the ornate box turtle dig to a safe
level for the winter, but as a backup plan they also produce a
biological antifreeze in their body tissues.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 35
Two Trappers, Two
Eagles, One Lesson
By Eric Fowler and Julie Geiser
T
feet of exposed bait. As is the case with any law, game or
otherwise, they aren’t always followed.
Twelve-year old Grant Jensen of Gothenburg had been
trapping for two years and didn’t know about the law when
he set a trap on a rabbit carcass in a center pivot track on his
family farm during Christmas break last year. The homeschooled sixth grader enjoys trying to outsmart the animals,
checks his trap line daily, sometimes even at lunchtime,
and was hoping to catch a coyote that had been using the
nearby fence crossing. He wasn’t sure what he’d caught as
he approached, but remembered thinking “whoops” when he
saw the bird with the unmistakable white head. “I was really
nervous and scared when I saw that it was an eagle,” Grant
said. “I thought I’d have a big fine or have to go to jail.”
Grant’s mother, Karla, was equally worried. “We knew
this was a federal offense,” she said.
PHOTO BY NIC FRYDA
wo Nebraskans learned the hard way last winter why
it is illegal to set traps on exposed bait. They were
both lucky that the bald eagles they unintentionally
caught lived to fly again.
While bald eagles and other birds of prey such as
hawks and falcons are adept hunters, they are not opposed
to taking a free meal when given the chance. Their keen
eyesight allows them to easily spot a dead rabbit or deer on
the ground below. Terrestrial predators such as coyotes and
bobcats also take advantage of an easy meal, using their
keen sense of smell to home in on dead animals.
Trappers once commonly took advantage of the latter and
set traps around carcasses, hoping to catch an unsuspecting
coyote as it walked in for a bite. But because of the
possibility of an aerial predator stopping by, the practice
was banned long ago, and traps can’t be set within 30
An immature bald eagle drawn to a deer carcass on land near the Platte River southwest of Elm Creek found itself caught in one of
the traps illegally set out by a trapper hoping to catch furbearers.
36 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
PHOTO BY ERIC FOLWER
Eagles caught in traps last winter illustrate why law prohibits
setting traps on visible bait.
Betsy Finch (let) and Janet Stander treat the beak of a bald eagle at the Fontenelle Forest Raptor Recovery rehabilitation center
near Elmwood before the bird, which was caught in an illegal trap near Cozad last December, was returned to the wild in April.
Knowing the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
offices were closed, and not knowing who to call, Karla
finally reached Commission Conservation Officer Mike
Thome and Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation
District biologist Mark Peyton, who freed the eagle, a
mature male. They then contacted Fontenelle Forest Raptor
Recovery, which took the bird to its rehab facility in
Elmwood for treatment.
Not two weeks later, hunters reported finding a similar
sight – an immature female bald eagle caught in a trap set
next to a deer carcass – on a Platte River Recovery and
Implementation Program site southwest of Elm Creek.
Biologists Ryan Chramosta and Nic Fryda freed the
immature male and also sent it to Raptor Recovery.
It didn’t take Conservation Officer Dale Johnson long
to find out only one person had permission to trap on the
property. When he asked the suspect, a 47-year-old Kearney
man, if the traps were his, he said they were. Johnson then
told the man he’d caught an eagle.
Commission conservation officers issue five or six
citations each year for exposed bait and investigate two or
three times as many cases. This wasn’t the first time Johnson
had worked this kind of case. “Every one that I’ve ever
done, in my opinion, they did it knowingly,” Johnson said.
“It was an intentional violation.
“I think the majority of the trappers understand why we
have that regulation. And even though they would maybe
like to trap on bait, most of them are not willing to take that
The Law on Bait and Traps
“It is unlawful to use any bait in plain sight within 30
feet of foothold traps set on dry land. Bait is defined as
fish, animal flesh, fur, hide, entrails or feathers.”
– 2014 Nebraska Hunting Guide
The remarkable recovery of the bald eagle since
DDT and other organochlorine insecticides linked
to its demise were banned in 1972 reached its
pinnacle when an ever-increasing number of the
birds allowed it to be removed from the federal list
of threatened and endangered species in 2007.
While it no longer has the protection of the
Endangered Species Act, bald eagles are still
protected by several state and federal laws, most
notably the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
Individuals who “take” an eagle can be prosecuted
in state or federal court, be ordered to pay civil
or liquidated damages of up to $5,000 and be
sentenced to up to one year in jail. This is on top of
any fines related to criminal charges for violation
of game laws. “Take” does not simply mean kill. It
also includes pursue, shoot, shoot at, poison, wound,
capture, trap, collect, molest or disturb.
DECEMBER 2014• NEBRASKAland 37
PHOTO BY DINA BARTA
The adult eagle’s leg, left,
suffered bruising and broken
skin but healed with no
permanent damage. The
immature eagle was not so
lucky, as you can see the
swelling on its right foot,
below. The trap caught its rear
toe, or hallux, and the loss of
blood caused the appendage
to die, necessitating its
amputation.
PHOTO BY DINA BARTA
38 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
we generally have to euthanize them. It’s mandated (by the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service),” Finch said, noting that
raptors with one leg are not able to hunt or perch and would
most likely die of starvation.
Had either bird died or been put down due to its injuries,
the perpetrators could have been assessed $5,000 in
liquidated damages, the value placed on a species, on top of
other fines.
The immature eagle was caught by the hallux, its hind
toe. The loss of blood caused the toe to die, forcing Finch
to remove it. Some rehab centers would have put the bird
down. “We feel they need a chance,” she said. “I think they
can survive. We’ve had birds come in missing toes and that
was not the reason they came in.”
The mature eagle Grant caught suffered severe bruising
on the leg that was caught in the trap. Finch said they were
initially concerned that the trap had limited the blood supply
to its foot and it would not heal, but in time, it finally did.
As it turned out, the eagle needed time to recover from
another malady: lead poisoning. Fairly common in raptors,
which can ingest the lead by eating fish or game that, or
parts thereof, contain shot, sinkers or bullet fragments.
Lead poisoning is treated by injections of a chelate, which
binds to the lead and can be excreted by the bird. Without
treatment, “it certainly would have debilitated her,” Finch
said. “There’s no other way they can get rid of it. It could
have eventually killed her.”
Finch would rather trappers follow the laws so they
don’t catch raptors, but hopes they do turn the bird over
to them if they do. In 39 years of treating birds, she has
had to euthanize several eagles and other raptors that had
been caught in traps. She treated some she suspects were
caught by individuals who were trapping over exposed bait,
knew it was a violation and that reporting the injured bird
would lead to a ticket so they simply released it despite its
injuries. “We’ve had birds come in that were skin and bones
that were released from a trap with their leg hanging by a
thread,” Finch said. “It’s much more humane to put them
down at that point than to have them starve to death. But
sometimes injuries look worse than they actually are.”
Thome also hopes to not have to free another raptor from
an illegal trap. “Trapping is an important part of wildlife
management with a heritage that should be passed down
to younger generations,” he said. “Promoting the trapping
heritage using ethics and proper rules and regulations will
keep the sport around for others for years to come.”
Grant won’t be catching another eagle. He said he knows
all of the rules now. So do his parents. “This was a learning
lesson for us all,” Karla said. “We should have read through
the regulations better.” ■
PHOTO BY ERIC FOWLER
chance.” Johnson cited the Kearney man for trapping over
exposed bait and not tagging his traps. He paid a $100 fine
on each count, plus court costs.
Like a state trooper deciding whether to issue a citation
or a warning for speeding, conservation officers have
digression in cases like this. Thome chose to not cite Grant.
“He’s a good kid learning how to trap and learning about the
outdoors,” Thome said. “He’s learning about stuff that not
every 12-year-old is trying to learn about. While other kids
are playing video games, he’s out experiencing the outdoors
and that’s a good thing.
“And in this case it seemed more of a situation where
Grant was young and new to trapping and probably truly
didn’t know that what he was doing was wrong. It probably
served just as much good, especially for a 12-year-old, to
learn about how to do it the right way as opposed to being in
trouble and getting a ticket. I’d rather see Grant continue to
trap since there aren’t near as many kids that age who have
been getting involved in trapping.”
Things could have ended differently had the eagles not
recovered enough to be released. Betsy Finch of Raptor
Recovery said the group treats birds each year that have
been caught in traps, but they don’t see eagles every year
and it was rare to have two. Often, treatment is not possible.
“If the foot is broken or the leg is broken above the foot,
PHOTO BY ERIC FOWLER
Finch, Stander
and Commission
Conservation Officer
Dina Barta work to
capture the eagle from
the flight pen prior to
its release.
Grant Jensen watches as the eagle he unintentionally and
illegally trapped is released by Conservation Officer Mike Thome
on the family’s farm near Cozad.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 39
Crazy Horse Rides On
By Amy Kucera
NEBRASKA STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, 11055-2241-18
Beyond his untimely death at Fort Robinson,
the legendary Oglala Lakota warrior lives on.
I
t was the year of the stealing of
100 horses, as the Lakota winter
count keeper Horn Chips (Ptehé
Wóptuh’a) would describe 1840-41,
when Miniconju Lakota Rattling
Blanket Woman (Tasina Hlahla Win)
gave birth to a son near Rapid Creek in
present-day South Dakota.
Though the child received the name
In The Wilderness (Cha-O-Ha) at birth,
he would eventually take on the name
of his Oglala Lakota father, His Horse
Is Crazy (Tašúke Witkó), and would be
better known as Crazy Horse.
PHOTO BY AMY KUCERA
The death of Crazy Horse at Fort Robinson, depicted as ledger art by Amos Bad Heart
Bull (Wanblí Wapháha), an Oglala Lakota witness to the event.
A group of young riders cut a trail alongside a stretch of the Crazy Horse Memorial Highway near Chadron on the first day of the
17th annual Crazy Horse Memorial Ride.
40 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
Though no known photo of him
exists, even at an early age the
appearance of the young Crazy Horse
was said to be striking. He had fair skin
to match his curly, light colored hair,
for which he was given the nickname,
Curly (Gigi) by relatives.
In 1854, the young Crazy Horse
witnessed the opening engagement
of war between the U.S. Army and
Lakota warriors near Fort Laramie in
present-day Wyoming. It was the start
of nearly a quarter-century of warfare
that would forever change the nations
who called the Great Plains home. The
incident, known as the Grattan Fight,
began when a detachment of soldiers
was sent to arrest an indian who had
killed a cow that had wandered into
camp. When a soldier immediately
opened fire on the peaceful people,
killing Chief Conquering Bear (Mató
Wayúhi), Lakota warriors fought back
and killed the remaining combatants.
A decade later, Crazy Horse grew
to be revered as a leader following
his brave acts in war. He led warriors
at the Battle of Rosebud in 1876,
when General George Crook’s army
was halted by Lakota and Northern
Cheyenne forces.
Crazy Horse was also a war leader
in the Battle of Little Bighorn on June
25-26, 1876. Commonly referred
to as “Custer’s Last Stand,” united
tribes including Lakota, Arapahoe and
Cheyenne warriors overwhelmingly
defeated the U.S. 7th cavalry led by
General George Armstrong Custer,
who was killed in the battle.
With victory came much celebration,
but life on the open prairie would
soon change dramatically for Plains
tribes. After the harsh winter of 1877
weakened his band, Crazy Horse made
the difficult decision to surrender to
federal troops on May 6, in order to
protect his people.
They camped awaiting relocation
to the reservation on the Powder
River as promised to him by the U.S.
government. However, amid rumors
of an escape, he was brought to Fort
Robinson to be arrested on September
5, 1877. Crazy Horse had been
apprehensive to go, but did not fully
resist soldiers until he was led to be
confined at the Fort’s guardhouse.
Accounts of this historic moment
vary. When the warrior realized he
was entering a jail, he struggled for his
freedom. A great commotion ensued,
during which Crazy Horse was stabbed
twice with a bayonet.
His second cousin, Oglala Lakota
holy man Nicholas Black Elk (Hehaka
Sapa), described the death of Crazy
Horse to Nebraskan writer John G.
Neihardt, as translated in Black Elk
Speaks:
They took him to a little prison with
iron bars on the windows, for they
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 41
NEBRASKA STATE HISTORICAL SOCIETY, RG2063.PH000018-000006
“Crazy Horse never got to ride out of
Fort Robinson,” said ride organizer Bamm
Brewer, an Oglala Lakota from Pine Ridge.
“We ride out of here for him.”
Several Lakota chiefs gathered at the dedication of the Crazy Horse monument at Fort Robinson circa 1934.
42 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
returning to Beaver Creek. His body
was scaffolded in the traditional
manner and later buried by his father in
an undisclosed location. It is speculated
his body was moved numerous times
in order to evade the destruction of his
final resting place.
To this day, reconciling the effects of
a tumultuous history between nations
is ongoing. Beyond the controversy
that continues to surround the details of
his birth and death, efforts in Nebraska
continue to honor the legacy of his life.
A museum at Fort Robinson includes
a detailed history and Plains Indian
artifacts from the era, as well as
items found during the reconstruction
of buildings by the Nebraska State
Historical Society in the 1980s. Aside
from the 1865 Soldier’s barracks, the
original cabins surrounding the parade
grounds, including the adjutant’s
office where Crazy Horse died, were
destroyed in the early 1900s. A stone
marker, usually found adorned with
prayer ties, tobacco and other offerings
from visitors, now stands near the site
where the warrior was slain.
From a humble beginning with
a handful of riders to the largest
gathering of the Lakota horse nation,
the Crazy Horse Memorial Ride is a
growing tribute to the Oglala Lakota
war chief, as well as warriors of
yesterday and today.
“Crazy Horse never got to ride out
of Fort Robinson,” said ride organizer
Bamm Brewer, an Oglala Lakota from
Pine Ridge. “We ride out of here for
him.”
Riders camp overnight at Fort
Robinson State Park and gather the
next day, forming a circle at the Parade
Grounds for a moment to honor his
legacy before embarking on an 80-mile
ride from Crawford to Pine Ridge,
South Dakota.
“There is a spiritual level to the
ride,” said Brewer. Before the journey,
he smudges, or purifies, the participants
with the smoke of sage, a plant sacred
to the Lakota people.
Now in the 17th year, riders traverse
part of the Crazy Horse Memorial
Highway, a designation of U.S.
Highway 20 from Hay Springs to
Fort Robinson that was dedicated in
November 2010 by Nebraska Governor
Dave Heinemann.
As those in front carried flags and
eagle staffs, Brewer and more than 200
riders traveled through the Pine Ridge
escarpment led by the “spirit horse” – a
designated riderless horse to honor the
spirit of the warrior.
Native filmmakers have partnered
with The Nebraska Commission on
Indian Affairs and Platte River Pictures
the legendary leader continues
to inspire new generations to do
the same.
As a group of young Lakotas on
horseback awaited their signal to ride
out of the Fort, they rested under the
shade of an old, towering cottonwood
tree – one of the many silent witnesses
to the history of what happened here.
“Crazy Horse, the veterans, the
youth and the unity of the bridging of
cultures – without those purposes, the
ride would not exist,” Brewer said.
“The ride is for everybody. ■
View “The Crazy Horse Project” at
Crazyhorseproject.tumblr.com.
PHOTO BY AMY KUCERA
had planned to get rid of him. And
when he saw what they were doing,
he turned around and took a knife out
of his robe and started out against all
those soldiers. Then Little Big Man,
who had been his friend…took hold of
Crazy Horse from behind and tried to
get the knife away. And while they were
struggling, a soldier ran a bayonet into
Crazy Horse from one side at the back
and he fell down and began to die.
Of the 17 eyewitness accounts from
that day, all but one point to his murder
by a soldier at the guardhouse. In an
interview years after the incident, Little
Big Man (Wicasa Tankala) claimed
Crazy Horse stabbed himself in the
struggle.
After the injury, Crazy Horse was
taken to the adjutant’s office and
tended by assistant post surgeon
Dr. Valentine McGillycuddy. Crazy
Horse’s father and stepmother had
immediately traveled from the Pine
Ridge after hearing the news and,
together with his cousin, Touch the
Clouds (Mahpíya Iháhtagya), were with
their son at the time of his death.
As word of his death spread, the
sound of drums and cries of mourning
could be heard throughout the land.
A procession, led by his parents, took
his body on a travois and traveled out
of Fort Robinson the next morning,
to create a documentary about the
event. “The Crazy Horse Project”
has formed a collective of indigenous
artists, collaborating to express what
it means to be Lakota. The movie is
scheduled to be released next year.
“One of Fort Robinson’s main
attractions is its unique and diverse
history,” said Mike Morava,
superintendent at Fort Robinson State
Park. “Assisting the riders in honoring
Crazy Horse every year is one of
the rewarding aspects of working at
present-day Fort Robinson.”
This history now includes the
gathering of all nations in unity, to
preserve the Lakota way of life, just as
Coleman Eagle Elk (Hehaka Wanbli) wears traditional regalia while dancing at the annual Oglala Lakota Wacipi in Pine Ridge, South
Dakota. The three day celebration of Lakota culture also features food, art and a rodeo.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 43
Another Family Heirloom Retired
The cold, wet truth about wader repair.
By Justin Haag
A
nyone who has spent much time in boot-foot chest
waders has surely experienced it: a wet crotch and
wet socks. Wader construction keeps getting better,
but it’s a sad day when the dam of fabric intended
to keep you dry inevitably gives way and moisture
seeps to places you’d rather it not.
I recently upgraded to a new pair of 3mm neoprene
waders, but I just didn’t have the heart to let go of the old
ones. They were one of the first gifts given to me by my
wife when we were newlyweds. Any gift from a spouse that
is sure to result in hours and dollars spent in the field is an
expression of true love and should gain its place as a family
heirloom. Not to mention the fact that it’s always good to
have a spare set available for the wader-less among your
hunting or fishing party.
In an effort to find a repair, I went to the location only the
brave should go to find important information: the Internet
message boards. The experiences shared online include using
a variety of patching chemicals such as Aqua Seal, made for
the task, Shoe Goo, a great product which obviously has a
name for another purpose, and even Flex Seal – the “as-seenon-TV” stuff that floats a boat patched with a screen door.
Aqua Seal and Shoe Goo gained the most favor in
44 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
comments, by the way, as Flex Seal works best with some
sort of backing, such as the window screen on the boat. In
a pinch, a few commenters suggested putting your legs in
a couple of trash bags, secured tightly to your body with
duct tape, before dropping them in the old waders. As one
who loves to incorporate duct tape in projects, this sounded
mighty time-efficient and attractive. But, because I planned
to write about it, I decided to further my research and find
something a little more permanent.
Story short: I couldn’t find any product specialists who
recommended attempting to fix a set of waders nearing 15
years of age. The time and money, and chance of failure,
is too great, they tell me. One issue that makes repairing
waders such as mine much more difficult is cracked boots.
When rubber gets old, it oxidizes and breaks down, creating
a myriad of fissures in an area that gets a lot of stress from
movement.
So, there you have it: Another family heirloom that has
been demoted to decoration status. I may keep them, and
some trash bags, around to use as a spare set anyway.
When it comes down to it, it’s likely to be the crotch
of a friend, and not mine, that suffers most. And isn't
that OK? ■
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 45
▲
My sister, Kim Schaaf, and father, Lyle Clemens, were featured in
the April 2014 NEBRASKAland Magazine with my dad's 19½ pound
pike. I cannot be outdone once again by my sister! I am enclosing a
picture of my mother, Jeanne Clemens, and me which was probably
taken the summer of 1966 at Porter's gas station in Clay Center. Mom
is holding her 33 pound, 8 ounce buffalo, which was a state record.
Mom caught the monster buffalo on a spinner using 8-pound test
line. The fish measured 38 inches long and 27 inches around (I am
guessing the fish and I were about the same size!).
– Lisa (Clemens) Hadenfeldt,
Scottsbluff, Nebraska
▲
This picture is of Terry Rasmussen and
his dog, Hank, in northern Howard County.
We hunted there in the '50s to the '80s.
Great times.
– Hank Lokke,
Omaha, Nebraska
Christmas Gift Ideas
Options for the outdoor enthusiast in your family.
Reviewed by Robert Gaia, Joel Jorgensen and Jeff Kurrus
T
hroughout the year
NEBRASKAland Magazine tests
a number of products so you
don't have to. Here is a list of
some of the best we've come
across in 2014. ■
Veterans and aspiring birdwatchers alike
need an in-depth tome to satisfy their
thirst for knowledge and to complement
compact identification field guides.
National Geographic’s Complete Birds of
North America is an excellent addition to
the bookshelf or coffee table for anyone
interested in learning more about the lives of bi
birds
d they
h
know and the ones they hope to one day see. Plus, at $25, it is priced right as a
gift to yourself or the bird-lover on your list. JJ
Music lovers who spend a considerable time outdoors need a
portable speaker system that has both high quality sound and
durability. The Jacket by Altec Lansing excels at both. Shock
resistent, the Jacket can pair with Apple, Android and BlackBerry
devices. But its best feature is its battery life, ensuring up to
eight hours of continuous playback on a single charge. It also
comes with an AC adapter. Retail price: $130. To learn more
about the Jacket and Lansing's waterproof version, the Life Jacket,
visit Alteclansing.com. JK
Guideline Eyegear has the ideal frames for the outdoor runner in
your family. The new Spray model is polarized, lightweight and has
vented lenses to help prevent fogging. Retail price: $50. Available at
Glpolarized.com. RG
Attach a Dakota timepiece to your loved one's hunting
backpack on Christmas morning. Including luminescent
hands and markers, a compass, thermometer, red LED
microlight and integrated carabiner, this gift is perfect for
your outdoor enthusiast. Retail price: $40. Visit
Dakotawatch.com to see their complete list of styles. JK
▲ The first photo shows 35 rabbits. Hunters from left are Harry Skoog, Louis Bokelman, Ernest Bokelman, Ted Bokelman and William
Bokelman. They were hunting near Genoa in 1923. The second photo is of Max Bokelman with a coyote he shot with a .22 caliber rifle in
probably October of 1947 near Ulysses. Thanks for a great magazine which always has great photography.
– Herm Bokelman,
Venice, Florida
Send contributions to: Portraits from the Past, NEBRASKAland Magazine, P.O. Box 30370, Lincoln, NE 68503-0370. Or e-mail to
Tim.Reigert@Nebraska.gov. Photos should show people enjoying Nebraska outdoor activities, such as camping, boating, hunting or fishing, and must have
been taken before 1980. We will give priority to unusual photos or activities. When possible, please include a story about the photograph and identify the
people, places and approximate date it was taken. Photos will be returned.
46 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
The Maniac boot series from Wood N’ Stream is the most comfortable boot
I’ve had on my feet in years. This 8-inch waterproof hiker, available for men
with 400 or 800 grams of Thinsulate, features excellent ankle support and an
easy-to-lace design. Ideal for archers and upland game hunters. Retail price:
$159. Available at select outdoor retailers. RG
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 47
BOATS/BOATING
ATTENTION: BORN IN 1986 or after: you are required
to complete a Boating Safety Course in order to operate a
boat or jet ski. Go to: Outdoornebraska.ne.gov/boating/
guides/boating/bgeducate.asp and click on Outdoor
Calendar for a list of classes in your area.
DOGS
DUCKDAWG RETRIEVERS - Raising exceptional
yellow and black Labradors. 30 month written health
guarantee. Duckdawg.com North Platte, NE (308) 5343659.
PREMIER GUNDOGS TRAINING KENNEL, Inc:
Nebraska state licensed gundog training kennel specializing
in training programs for waterfowl and upland hunting
retrievers, spaniels, pointing Labradors and all gundog
pointing breeds. Dale-Kris Taylor (402) 787-2048,
Premiergundogs.com.
FLATLANDER KENNELS INC, Scottsbluff, Nebraska.
This region’s premier full-time retriever training facility
for the serious hunter or AKC and HRC hunt tester. Trainer
of NE, CO, KS and SD’s first and only GRHRCH’s!
Training, puppies and stud dogs available for all levels of
hunt tests and gun dogs. Chris Jobman (308) 249-0707,
Flatlanderkennels.com.
FISH/FISHING
FISH FOR SALE. Catfish, largemouth bass, smallmouth
bass, perch, crappie, bluegill, walleye, rainbow trout,
grass carp, minnows. Pleasant Valley Fish Farm, 72645
U.S. Highway 83, McCook, NE 69001. (308) 345-6599.
from the comfort of your own home, go online to
OutdoorNebraska.org and click on Purchase a Permit
under Licenses and Fees.
FOOD/GIFTS/HOME
HOMEBREWING/BEER AND WINEMAKING.
Fermenter’s Supply, 8410 K Plaza, Suite #10, Omaha,
NE 68127. Phone orders only, (888) 655-2739. Advice
line (402) 593-9171. Fermenterssupply.com.
GUIDES/OUTFITTERS
CANOE - KAYAK - TUBE RENTALS on the
beautiful Niobrara River with Dryland Aquatics at
Sparks, Nebraska. Your Niobrara River Specialist.
(800) 337-3119. Drylandaquatics.com, info@
drylandaquatics.com.
VACATIONS/RESORTS
WANTED
WANTED – VOLUNTEER INSTRUCTORS. Interested
in making a difference? Get involved in teaching the
next generation of hunters. Call Heather Weihe at
(402) 471-5662 or E-mail: heather.weihe@nebraska.gov.
Classified Rates: 85¢ per word, minimum $15.
Closing: First business day six weeks before issue
date. Classified ads are accepted on a first-come,
first-served, space-available basis. Classified
Ads, NEBRASKAland Magazine, P.O. Box 30370,
Lincoln, NE 68503-0370. Telephone (402) 471-5473.
Fax: (402) 471-1984. E-mail: ngpc.ads@nebraska.gov.
THE OLDE MAIN STREET INN. A historic bed and
breakfast listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Beautiful dining room with fireplace. Headquarters for
General Nelson Miles, Wounded Knee Incident, 1890-91.
115 Main Street, Chadron, NE 69337 (308) 432-3380.
Chadron.com/oldemain.
BIG BLUE RANCH & LODGE - Enjoy fishing,
horseback riding, hunting and prairie chicken viewing
on working cattle ranch in Southeastern Nebraska.
Beautiful log lodge with fireplaces, kitchens & big
covered porches, overlooks 20 acre lake. Bigblueranch.
com (402) 865-4335.
NEBRASKA LAKE MANAGEMENT. Biological lake
surveys, fish stocking, rough fish control, lake aeration,
algae control, aquatic weed control. Rob Hofpar, Aquatic
Biologist, licensed, insured and qualified. (402) 784-6005
Valparaiso - (888) 850-2460 Nelakes.net.
BLUE CREEK LODGE - Oshkosh, NE. 13,000-acre
farm and ranch resort. Located by Crescent Lake National
Refuge and State WMA. First-class lodging, fishing and
hunting, boat rentals, waterfowl, upland bird, coyote
and mule deer hunting, family reunions, meetings and
getaways. Visit Bluecreeklodging.com or call (308) 7729912.
GET YOUR FISHING PERMIT online today! Don’t
wait until tomorrow to enjoy Nebraska’s great outdoors
by going fishing with the family. To purchase a permit
TAKE AN IN-STATE VACATION this fall! With
affordable rates and locations with a view, visit a Nebraska
48 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
state park or recreation area. Go to OutdoorNebraska.org
and click on State Parks to look at the multiple options
available to you and make reservations at state park
facilities located across Nebraska.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 49
Vietnamese-Style Roasted Quail
Perfectly roasted quail in just 10 minutes.
By Jenny Nguyen
E
Servings: 2
Prep Time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
Cooking Time: about 10 minutes
Ingredients:
4 whole quail
2 tablespoons of soy sauce
2 tablespoons of Ponzu sauce
4 teaspoons of sugar
1 teaspoon of five-spice powder
1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
3 tablespoons of rice cooking wine (or dry sherry)
1 green onion, white and light green parts chopped
kosher salt, to taste
1 tablespoon of oil (or melted butter)
Dipping Sauce:
1 tablespoon of lemon juice
½ teaspoon of salt
1 teaspoon of cracked black pepper
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, Ponzu, sugar, fivespice, ginger, rice wine and green onion. Rinse quail under
cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Salt well inside
50 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
PHOTO
PHOT
O BY JENNY
JENNY NGUYEN
NGUYEN
NGUYE
N
very culture has its own “pub food.” For Americans,
it’s burgers, fries and Buffalo wings. For Vietnamese
people, pub food or “mon nhau” consists of dishes
such as duck blood soup, toasted dried squid,
pickled meats, and various salads and sausages made
from parts of animals most westerners would throw away.
Growing up, I cannot say that I appreciated these foods.
Some family parties and dinner invitations were spent in
angst as my brother, Ngoc, and I watched the adults munch
away at pig ear salad and tripe. Often, the only thing we
found edible at the table was the shrimp chips.
This is not to say that Vietnamese pub food isn’t good.
Unlike Anthony Bourdain, at 10 years old my palate just
could not deal with sausage that still resembled the pig’s
head or a gelatinized pool of duck blood garnished with
peanuts and chopped up liver. “I hope you don’t get sick,
mom,” I said as I watched her slurp up the bright, red
mixture from a Styrofoam bowl – I think I accused her
of being a vampire at one point. And sure enough, her
Americanized stomach failed her. I remember watching her
run across the street to get to the bathroom as my dad and I
were thinking, “I told you so.”
Though some dishes required some nerve to eat, there
were many that were more “normal” and delicious. Roasted
or fried quail was one of them – a dish that I happily
gnashed and gnawed with eager hands and teeth. I was too
young to drink beer then, but I can tell you now that there
are few greater things in life than eating perfectly roasted
meat and grabbing at beer bottles with greasy, salty hands.
Asian-spiced bobwhite quail served with a lemon dipping sauce.
and out and place in a zip-close bag. Pour the marinade into
the bag, massage and refrigerate for 2 hours.
2. Take birds out of the refrigerator and let them reach
room temperature before cooking. Turn broiler on high. Oil
the grates on a roasting pan with rack and preheat it in the
oven. Remove quail from the marinade and paint the birds
with butter or olive oil.
3. Roast the quail for 5 minutes breast-side down. Flip
breast-side up and roast for another 2 to 3 minutes, or until
skin turns golden. Turn them over on their wings and roast
for 1 minute on each side. Do not leave the oven, because
it does not take long for the broiler to burn food. Combine
dipping sauce ingredients and serve on the side. This recipe is
also perfect for grilling and frying. ■
This recipe and photograph originally
appeared on Jenny's Food for Hunters blog
at Foodforhunters.com.
R
Read
Jenny's NEBRASKAland blog
""Midland Musings."
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 51
52 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 53
W
NE
THE TALE OF JACOB SWIFT
This 48-page, all-ages photo fiction book is an endearing story about
T
tthe struggles and triumphs one swift fox family goes through to raise
ttheir sons in the harsh, but beautiful, shortgrass prairie of North
America. Written by NEBRASKAland Magazine Editor Jeff Kurrus
with a foreword by Chadron State College's Teresa Frink and
photographed by the award-winning Rob Palmer, Jacob is a mustha
h
have
avve
e for nature lovers everywhere. $16.99 PUB-2732
HAVE YOU SEEN MARY?
This 44-page, all-ages photo fiction book tells the story of one sandhill
T
ccrane's search for his lost mate. Written by NEBRASKAland Magazine
Editor Jeff Kurrus with photography by NEBRASKAland Magazine
E
C
Contributing Editor and award-winning photographer Michael Forsberg,
Mary will not only entertain but also educate readers about these
M
ffascinating birds.
Hardcover $16.99 PUB-2728
The Power of a Picture
W
P
hotographs are placeholders in life, capturing moments in a way that no other visual medium
can. Sure, we can shoot a video, slow it down and display a freeze-frame of a cupping mallard
or flushing quail, but nothing beats having that special moment captured on “film” the way that a
camera can.
Last pheasant season, while hunting with Mark Vrtiska near Columbus, it was evident early
in the hunt that his dog, a Vizsla named Pinnie, was tiring quickly. Pinnie flushed several birds for us
within the first hour, but as the afternoon went on she slowed considerably more than we did.
Finally, not 200 yards from our vehicle, she lay down in the middle of a trail and refused to get
up. “She’s just about done,” Mark said, and we both knew that he was not just speaking about that
particular day. As Mark made his way back to Pinnie, I stayed put. This was not a moment for me, so I
photographed from afar.
He stopped above her and began to talk. Then, kneeling down, he began to pet her. Finally, when she
still refused to move, he helped her stand up and sparked enough enthusiasm that she
was able to limp her way back to her dog box.
Afterward, Mark wasn’t sure what the future held for Pinnie. One more season?
One more hunt? He didn’t know. What was undeniable to him was the end would be
coming soon, and I knew that even though it would be tough to swallow, I had captured
what has become one of my most memorable photographs in the field, one of a hunter
helping another back to the truck.
Jeff Kurrus
October 20, 2014
54 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
NE
Softcover $9.95 PUB-2728S
NEBRASKALAND MUG
This large, 14-ounce, tan
ceramic mug features a bighorn
ram and the NEBRASKAland
logo.
Ceramic Mug – $6 MUG-2013
Set of 4 – $20 MUG-2014
W
NE
2015 NEBRASKALAND CALENDAR
The NEBRASKAland Calendar is a lasting reminder to
friends and relatives – whether near or far away – of
you and home. Spectacular, full-color, all-Nebraska
photos highlight every month. A tremendous value.
$9.95 CAL-2015
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 55
NEBRASKA LIFETIME PERMITS
A great gift for grandchildren or graduates!
Treat someone special to the gift that lasts a lifetime . . . a N
Ne
Nebraska
eb
brras
ras
a ka
Lifetime Permit. Available to Nebraska residents and nonresidents,
it is the ultimate gift for any hunter or angler and an investment in the
e
future. All funds go into escrow, with the interest used to help supportt wildlife
ilild
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and fisheries management programs.
Get
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et a tthree-year
hree year ssubscription
ubscription ttoo ssave
ave tthe
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Now you can save 70% off the cover price
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for three years! Don’t miss out on this
award-winning magazine about Nebraska!
Lifetime Hunt Lifetime Fish
Get it for yourself and send it to the special people
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on your gift list. Every issue is filled with
breathtaking photographs and informative,
enter taining articles about Nebraska’s outdoor
activities, history, parklands, people and wildlife.
e..
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$18 for one year SUB-2901
Lifetime Hunt/Fish Lifetime Fur Harvest
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Residents
Residents
Residents
Residents
(0-5 years old) $148.50
(6-15 years old) $219
(16-45 years old) $300
(46+ years old) $219
(0-5 years old) $307.50
(6-15 years old) $366.50
(16-45 years old) $446
(46+ years old) $366.50
(0-5 years old) $425.50
(6-15 years old) $573
(16-45 years old) $699
(46+ years old) $573
(0-5 years old) $148.50
(6-15 years old) $219
(16-45 years old) $300
(46+ years old) $219
Nonresidents
Nonresidents
Nonresidents
(0-16 years old) $738.50
(17+ years old) $1,181
(0-16 years old) $632
(17+ years old) $951
(0-16 years old) $1,251.50
(17+ years old) $1,871
Lifetime Habitat Stamp
$400
Lifetime Waterfowl Stamp
(Great value – 64% off the cover price – 10 issues)
$100
$
$33 for two years SUB-2902
W
NE
(Better value – 66% off the cover price – 20 issues)
$44 for three years SUB-2903
Hunting for just the right gift for your
special hunter? Fishing for the perfect
present for your favorite angler?
Hunting and fishing permits are
passports to outdoor fun, and the
ideal gifts for that hard-to-buy-for
outdoor enthusiast on your list.
(Best value – 70% off the cover price – 30 issues)
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Prices include agent issuing fee.
PERMIT
Resident Hunt and Fish Permit .................. $40
40
Resident Hunt Permit .................................. $14
4
Resident Fish Permit .............................. $28.50
50
0
Nonresident 2-day Hunt* ............................ $56
56
Nonresident Hunt Permit ............................ $81
Nonresident Fish Permit ........................ $60.50
Four colorful, 16-page issues of
Trail Tales per year, featuring
puzzles, games, drawings, photos
and interesting articles about nature,
Nebraska and the outdoors. Send
Trail Tales to a youngster, just $8 for
one year or $15 for two school years.
(4 issues each year)
(20 issues of NEBRASKAland Magazine and 8 issues of Trail Tales Magazine - two years worth)
BEAUTIFUL NEBRASKA
FIELD GUIDE TO
WILDFLOWERS
OF NEBRASKA
AND THE GREAT
PLAINS
A COLLECTOR'S EDITION
This special photo edition
features breathtaking images
of Nebraska’s landscapes,
wildlife and parklands. This
120-page, full-color collection
includes photographs taken
by NEBRASKAland's awardwinning staff, as well as by
NEBRASKAland subscribers.
This special edition is free
now with your one-year
subscription for only $18.
$9.95 MAG-0841
56 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2014
Out-of-print for 21
years, this classic,
time-honored favorite
has been updated and
reprinted. 384 pages,
279 color photos,
two color maps, 83
drawings, 6” by 91/8”,
paperback.
$29.95 PUB-2729
call toll-free
1-800-742-0056
2015 NEBRASKA
PARK PERMIT
Visit more than 80
beautiful state park and
recreation areas across
the state.
Annual Park Permit – $25
25
5
Duplicate Park Permit – $
$1
$12.50
12 5
50
0
22015
015 WIILDLIFE
LDLIFE HA
ABITAT
BITAT ST
TAMP
AMP
Required of resident hunters and trappers
age 16 and over and all nonresidents. Not
required for resident hunters and trappers
age 69 and over or resident veterans age 64
and over who hold a valid veteran or senior
hunt/fish permit.
Note: Printed with your annual permit - see
image above.
W
NE
Reading
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Re
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to enjoy!
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$40 for two years SUB-2926 (you save $8.00!)
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Permits will be mailed after November 1, 2014. Three- and five-year permits also
available online. *Valid for two consecutive days of upland game or waterfowl
hunting during the same calendar year.
$8 for one year SUB-2920
$15 for two years SUB-2921
NE
2015 ANNUAL HUNT AND FISH PERMITS
TS
Habitat Stamp – $20
W
NE
2015 NEBRASKA MIGRATORY
WATERFOWL STAMP
This stamp is required for all nonresidents waterfowl
hunters and all resident waterfowl hunters
age 16 and over. Not required for resident hunters age
69 and over or resident veterans age 64 and over who
hold a valid veteran or senior hunt/fish permit.
Note: Printed with your annual permit - see image
above.
Waterfowl Stamp – $5
NEBRASKA GAME AND PARKS BUCKS COUPONS
The perfect gift for all outdoor enthusiasts, these “bucks”
may be used to purchase any Nebraska Game and Parks
Commission merchandise, including subscriptions and
permits. Available only in booklets with five $5 certificates.
$25 MIS-1919
These certificates will be accepted by all Nebraska Game and Parks offices where Nebraska Game and Parks
goods and services are sold. These certificates cannot be exchanged for cash.
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland
To see additional permits (and to order permits online) go to OutdoorNebraska.ne.gov
57
2015 Gift Collection Order Form
To order: mail this form to the address below, fax it to (402) 471-1984, call toll-free 1-800-742-0056 using your VISA or MasterCard, or go to NebraskalandGifts.com.
Charges for hunting and fishing permits will appear on credit card statements as separate transactions from other purchases.
For delivery by Christmas, orders must be received by December 17, 2014.
Your Name
Address
City/State/Zip
Phone (8 a.m. – 5 p.m.)
E-mail
Permits Permits good for their calendar year. For example, a 2014 permit expires December 31, 2014
Please provide the following information about the people for whom any fishing and/or hunting permits
are ordered on this form or on another sheet of paper. The last four digits of a permit holder’s Social
Security Number (SSN) are required for all hunting and fishing permits.
NEBRASKA PARK PERMITS
QTY
Name
Last 4 digits SSN
Address
PARK PERMIT TYPE
FEE
Annual Park Permit`
$25
Duplicate Park Permit
$12.50
TOTAL AMOUNT
City/State/ZIP
Date of Birth: Month
Weight
Day
Year
Sex
Hair Color
Height
HUNTING AND FISHING PERMITS
Eye Color
QTY
TYPE OF PERMIT(S)
Name
Last 4 digits SSN
Address
City/State/ZIP
Date of Birth: Month
Weight
Day
Year
Sex
Hair Color
Height
Eye Color
TYPE OF PERMIT(S)
PERMITS & STAMPS
2014
2015
Resident Hunt and Fish Permit ......................$40.00 ❏
$40.00 ❏
Resident Hunt Permit ....................................$14.00 ❏
$14.00 ❏
Resident Fish Permit .......................................$28.50 ❏
$28.50 ❏
Resident Fur Harvest Permit .........................$16.00 ❏
$16.00 ❏
Nonresident Fish Permit .................................$60.50 ❏
$60.50 ❏
Nonresident 2-day Hunt .................................$56.00 ❏
$56.00 ❏
Nonresident Hunt Permit ..............................$81.00 ❏
$81.00 ❏
Migratory Waterfowl Stamp ............................$5.00 ❏
$5.00 ❏
Habitat Stamp (required with all hunting permits) .......$20.00 ❏
$20.00 ❏
TOTALS
Lifetime Hunt Permit .............................................see previous page
Lifetime Fish Permit ..............................................see previous page
Lifetime Hunt and Fish Permit .............................see previous page
NEBRASKAland Magazine Subscriptions
For subscriptions to NEBRASKAland Magazine,
please call toll-free 1-800-632-5263
or go online to
NebraskalandMagazine.com
Gift Items
Lifetime Fur Harvest Permit.................................see previous page
Lifetime Habitat Stamp .................................................. $400.00 ❏
Lifetime Nebraska Waterfowl Stamp ............................ $100.00 ❏
Prices include agent issuing fee where applicable. No sales tax on permits and stamps.
TOTAL PERMIT ORDER $
Enter this total on the PERMITS and STAMPS line below.
Enter totals for gift items below on line A
Nebraska residents please add state and local sales tax on the following items.
QUANTITY
ITEM NUMBER
ITEM DESCRIPTION
Mail order form with your payment to:
NEBRASKAland Gifts
P.O. Box 30370, Lincoln, NE 68503-0370
PAYMENT METHOD
❏ Check
❏ Money Order
❏ VISA
Credit Card Number
Security code (3 digits on back of card)
Expiration Date
Daytime Phone
❏ MasterCard
Shipping and Handling Charges
for Mail and Fax Orders
$0.01 – 0.99 ................................... $0.70
$1.00 – 4.99 ................................... $2.50
$5.00 – 10.99 ................................. $3.95
$10.01 – 25.00 ............................... $5.95
$25.01 – 50.00 ............................... $7.95
$50.01 – 75.00 ............................. $10.15
$75.01 – 100.00 ........................... $10.95
$100.01 and over............................FREE
Shipping and handling not required for
subscriptions.
For overseas shipping please call about
extra mailing fees that may apply.
COLOR
UNIT PRICE
TOTAL AMOUNT
(A) GIFT ITEMS $
SHIPPING & HANDLING CHARGES $
See accompanying text box
SUBSCRIPTIONS $
SALES TAX $
PERMITS & STAMPS $
TOTAL ALL ITEMS $
For additional orders provide information on another sheet of paper. Please provide complete mailing information for items to be sent to additional addresses.
Order online at NebraskalandGifts.com (more items available online - some 90% off!)
DECEMBER 2014 • NEBRASKAland 59
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