District's Vision

Vision for the District

The Rainwater Basin provides critical habitat for millions of migratory birds. The basin’s name reflects both the basis of its wetland hydrology and natural precipitation cycles. A network of functioning wetland and prairie plant ecosystems provides a native grassland mosaic that gives the local community a sense of pride and connection to the Great Plains flora and fauna. The lands managed by the wetland management district serve as an example of land stewardship mimicking natural processes, and they provide an array of wildlife-dependent educational and recreational opportunities. It is only through partnerships with individuals, agencies, and organizations that this vision can be achieved and maintained.

Endangered Species

Endangered Species

The Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District plays a vital role in the restoration and preservation of essential migration habitat that supports approximately 300 remaining wild Whooping Cranes during their spring and fall migrations.

About the NWRS

National Wildlife Refuge System

The National Wildlife Refuge System, within the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, manages a national network of lands and waters set aside to conserve America’s fish, wildlife, and plants.

Items of Interest

• What WPAs are being pumped?

  October 27, 2016

  Wells at Clark, Cottonwood, Funk, Gleason, and Johnson WPAs are being turned on today, October 27.

• Report Crimes against Wildlife

  September 14, 2016

  As hunting increases this fall, a slim few may feel tempted to conduct themselves in unsportsmanlike behavior. If you see anything that violates the law on federal lands, you may call 1-844-NWR-TIPS (697-8477) or email NWR_TIPs@fws.gov 24 hours a day. You'll be asked for the type of incident as well as the date, place (refuge name or county/state) and approximate time of the incident. You may leave your name and contact information, which will aid law enforcement in the response and investigation, or you may remain anonymous. Any contact information provided will be used for official purposes only. Violations may also be reported to the Nebraska Game and Parks' Wildlife Crimestoppers line at 1-800-742-7627.

  Law Enforcement

• Hours of Operation

  Rainwater Basin Wetland Management District Office is open Monday - Friday from 8AM to 4:30PM except for Federal Holidays. Waterfowl Production Areas are open sunrise to sunset. Please feel free to call us with questions at 308-263-3000.

• Record your bird sightings on eBird

  

  See an interesting bird on one of the Waterfowl Production Area. Record your sighting on eBird. "eBird’s goal is to maximize the utility and accessibility of the vast numbers of bird observations made each year by recreational and professional bird watchers. It is amassing one of the largest and fastest growing biodiversity data resources in existence."

  eBird