November NEBRASKAland Magazine Features a Variety of Outdoor Activities

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NGPC news release, 10/17/08:

LINCOLN, Neb. – The November issue of NEBRASKAland Magazine has something for everyone, from outdoor cooking to deer and pheasant hunting, remembering Nebraska fish and game department’s fish seining crew, and information about two of the state’s favorite places to enjoy outdoor activities.

The opening day of firearm deer season is a special event for the Colburn family when they get together to hunt their land near the Valentine National Wildlife Refuge. In “Hunting the Home Place,” Senior NEBRASKAland Editor Jon Farrar describes how the three young Colburns, Seth, 20, Mark,18; and Joni,16, each took their deer on opening day.

“Wrapped in Bacon – Outdoor recipes even I can do,” by Associate Editor Jeff Kurrus, is a collection of quick and easy recipes. That’s not to say they are just “throw some stuff in the skillet and heat it up” meals. Instead, Kurrus gives detailed instructions for easily preparing delicious dishes in which fish and game are the main ingredients.

How many people do you know that actually look at lichens? I don’t know any either, but if you ever feel called to take a peek, Lisa Knopp tells you what you are seeing in her article, “Looking at Lichens.” Knopp, a teacher and writer who lives in Lincoln, explains why lichens are far more interesting than you might imagine.

Some Nebraskans take the opportunity to hunt pheasants – wild native birds, not the pen-raised and planted variety – for granted and often let the season slip away without enjoying a single hunt. Others, such as Jamie Vasa, who grew up in Keith County then left the state and now lives in Ontario, Canada, travel hundreds of miles to come back to Nebraska to hunt their favorite game bird. In ”Home to Nebraska,” Vasa describes why he often returns home and brings friends with him to experience pheasant hunting as it ought to be.

In “Saving Fish for Fishermen,” Jon Farrar describes how for more than 50 years the Nebraska game and fish department’s “seining crew” salvaged native fish for hatchery broodstock, display, stocking in lakes for public fishing and for sale.

Bridgeport State Recreation Area, located on the northwestern edge of Bridgeport in Morrill County, is a popular area for fishermen, campers and water sports enthusiasts. Regional Editor Bob Grier’s article “Bridgeport State Recreation Area,” explains the area’s history, habitat and recreational opportunities.

“What? Hunt turkey in the fall?” You bet. Nebraska has a terrific turkey population and Commission Outdoor Education Specialist Aaron Hershberger tells readers why fall is a great time to hunt turkeys. Hershberger also explains why fall hunting is becoming more popular and provides information on turkey hunting equipment and fall hunting tactics.

There is also an article on Powder Creek Reservoir in northeastern Nebraska, this month’s portraits from the past, outdoor news and information from across the state and some readers comments.

NEBRASKAland Magazine is published 10 times a year by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission and is available at Commission offices and newsstands across the state or by subscription from the Commission. Subscribe by calling 1-800-NEB-LAND (632- 5263) or going online to Nebraska Game and Parks Commission - NEBRASKAland Magazine.