Nature & Science

Wildlife

The wildlife program on the Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is quite diverse and unique for the Rocky Mountain Region. Wildlife habitat varies from the mixed grass prairie of the National Grasslands with prairie grouse and prairie dogs to the ponderosa pine forest along the Pine Ridge escarpment with elk and turkey.  

The Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands is also home to the most endangered mammal in North America, the black-footed ferret. 

Geological Resources

Find out about fossils, minerals, and energy sources within the plains. Researchers regard fossils as scientific tools to decipher ancient environments, to learn about ancient ecosystems.

When Albert Meng discovered bones weathering out of an eroding bank nearly 50 years ago, he could not have imagined how important his discovery would become.

Research

A good source of current scientific information for our area can be found at the Rocky Mountain Research Station. This includes recent journal articles, slides, videos and photographs.

The Rocky Mountain Research Station works at the forefront of science to improve the health and use of our Nation's forests and grasslands. The Station develops and delivers scientific knowledge and innovative technologies with a focus on informing policy and land-management decisions. 

Wildflowers

The Nebraska National Forests and Grasslands are home to an array of trees, forbs, and grasses. Of special interest to visitors is the great variety of wildflowers. Depending on the season, wildflowers can be seen on the open grasslands or in the woodland meadows of the Ponderosa pine forests. 

Check out our wildflower photo gallery to see what flowers you may encounter.