January-February 2021 • Nebraskaland 51
the centennial will be available in late spring 2021. Players
have a chance to win up to $40,000, as well as various
outdoor experiences and other great prizes. Lottery funds
benefit the Nebraska Environmental Trust, which invests in
conservation.
Learn about nature. Habitat tours across the state will
give an in-depth look at the ecology of the state park lands
that Nebraska Game and Parks manages.
Collect some gear. Through a partnership with GROW
Nebraska, merchandise celebrating the centennial including
T-shirts, stickers and more will be available for sale online.
A series of collectible "challenge" coins will be distributed
throughout the state for guests to earn and collect while
participating in events and online contests.
Celebrate history. A traveling history trailer featuring
artifacts from the state park system will share a hands-on
experience of the parks system's rich history at events across
the state. Also, a time capsule recording the state parks
system as it is today will be sealed in a commemoration
ceremony, to be opened in 100 years. The capsule will remain
on display at a state historical park location.
Take advantage of opportunities for students.
Educational programs for students will highlight the
relationship between outdoor recreation and the natural
world. Lesson plans and virtual
workshops will be available for
elementary school educators.
With a special centennial
video challenge, middle and
high-school students can
submit a one- to two-minute
video about their favorite
state park memory, making
sure to highlight the
people, place or experience
that made it memorable.
Winners will receive
prizes.
Get involved. The
centennial celebration
will include 100
hours of coordinated
volunteer projects
to build community
relationships through
giving. Tree plantings also will
be coordinated across the state to commemorate the
centennial milestone while adding to the beautification and
preservation of park landscapes.
N
To learn more, go to YourNEParks100.org.
PHOTO
BY
ALEX
WILES
Nebraska's State Historical Parks, including Arbor Lodge, will be featured on a Nebraska Educational Television documentary.
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