Eastern red cedar and other invasive tree species have encroached upon grasslands in nebraska including on ourwildlife management areas (wmas)

The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission received a $936,000 Formula Grant from the U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service Region 6 under the Wildlife Restoration and Basic Hunter Education and Safety program (CFDA 15.611) for the period August 1, 2025, through July 31, 2027. This grant funds invasive tree species management and grassland habitat restoration on public lands surrounding Merritt Reservoir in Nebraska. The project addresses the encroachment of eastern red cedar and other invasive woody species that have degraded grassland habitats critical to wildlife species including greater prairie-chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, mule deer, and pronghorn. By restoring grassland habitat conditions around the reservoir, this initiative will enhance both wildlife populations and recreational hunting experiences in the affected area.

The Wildlife Restoration and Basic Hunter Education and Safety program, authorized under the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937, distributes formula-based grants to eligible state fish and wildlife agencies for habitat restoration, wildlife management, and hunter education activities. As a formula grant recipient with extensive experience implementing similar conservation initiatives, the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission will deliver habitat management services through direct implementation on state Wildlife Management Areas, contributing to the broader federal objective of conserving wild birds and mammals and restoring their ecosystems.

Invasion of woody tree species reduces habitat for grassland species such asgreater prairie-chickens, sharp-tailed grouse, mule deer, and pronghorn.public lands surrounding merritt reservoir have become infested with eastern red cedar and other invasive trees.managing for grassland habitat around merrit reservoir will increase habitat for grassland wildlife species andenhances recreational experiences for hunters.