Nebraska Game and Parks Outdoor Calendar
Game and Parks Events
Sunflowers are more than Nebraska’s iconic blooms—they’re a window into the fascinating science of plants. This virtual program explores how sunflowers grow, their unique adaptations for tracking the sun, and how they reproduce and produce seeds. You’ll also learn about their role in local ecosystems, interactions with pollinators, and the history of sunflowers in Nebraska. […]
August 31st, 2026| 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm (CT) Register Here Nebraska’s grasslands, covering half the state, support ecology, economy, and culture while fostering biodiversity, resilience, and food production. I will offer an overview of grassland ecology/management and introduce lesson plans and trunks with hands-on materials on ecosystems, soils, plants, carbon cycling, human impacts, […]
Soil may seem simple, but it’s full of life and plays a critical role in Nebraska’s ecosystems. This virtual program explores what soil is made of, the organisms that call it home, and how it supports plants, wildlife, and people. You’ll learn about different soil types found across the state, how soil forms and changes […]
August 10th, 2026 | 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm (CT) Register Here Learn how the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s Watchable Wildlife Grant Program supports projects that connect people with Nebraska’s wildlife and natural resources. This presentation will highlight eligible project types, funding opportunities, and examples of projects that enhance wildlife viewing, conservation education, and […]
Volunteer Guide to Helping Increase Prescribed Fire on the Landscape July 20th, 2026| 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm (CT) Register Here Volunteering to help on prescribed fire can take on many different forms. From showing up and carrying a drip torch, to having conversations with strangers we will dive into how you can dedicate time […]
Fireflies light up Nebraska summer nights, but there’s a lot more to these glowing insects than meets the eye. This virtual program explores the biology, behavior, and life cycle of fireflies, including how and why they produce light, how they communicate, and their role in local ecosystems. You’ll also learn where to find them, what […]
Effects of Climate Change on Species and Ecosystems June 15th, 2026| 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm (CT) Register Here This presentation will discuss how climate change is impacting species and ecosystems, both directly and by exacerbating non-climate stressors. Conservation strategies to address this issue will also be discussed. Presenter: Rick Schneider, Retired, Volunteer for Conservation, […]
The Platte River is one of Nebraska’s most important waterways, supporting wildlife, people, and ecosystems across the state. This virtual program explores the river’s unique shallow channels, sandbars, and seasonal flows, and how they create critical habitat for species like migratory birds, fish, and amphibians. You’ll learn about the river’s role in Nebraska’s ecology, its […]
Bison are more than Nebraska’s iconic grassland giants—they’re a window into the science of ecology, behavior, and conservation. This virtual program explores how bison live, what they eat, and the ways they shape prairie ecosystems. You’ll learn about their social structure, seasonal movements, and adaptations that help them survive harsh winters. This is a free […]
Ferns may seem like quiet, leafy plants, but their life cycle and adaptations are full of scientific wonder. This virtual program explores the different types of ferns found in Nebraska, how they reproduce through spores instead of seeds, and the roles they play in local ecosystems. You’ll learn how ferns survive in diverse habitats, their […]
Paddlefish are one of Nebraska’s most unique and ancient fish, with a prehistoric look and fascinating biology. In this virtual program, we’ll explore their unusual paddle-shaped snout, how they feed on tiny plankton, and what makes their life cycle so special. You’ll learn where paddlefish live in Nebraska, the challenges they face, and why they’re […]
From tree canopies to backyard feeders, squirrels are some of Nebraska’s most visible—and entertaining—wildlife. This virtual program dives into the science behind their behavior, from how they communicate and navigate the world to the fascinating ways they store food and build nests. We’ll explore the species found in Nebraska, what they eat, how they survive […]