24 Nebraskaland • November 2021
D
uring Douglas' tenure, he created Venture Parks at
four popular state parks and recreation areas along
the Platte River — Eugene T. Mahoney State Park,
Platte River State Park, Schramm Park State Recreation Area
and Louisville State Recreation Area. The goal of Venture
Parks is to engage new users and create future generations
of park patrons. The expanded features were possible
thanks to innovative public and private partnerships.
The creation of the Commission's Fish and Wildlife
Education division highlights Douglas' desire to create a
conservation-minded society and getting all ages curious
about the natural world. From outdoor discovery programs
across the state to the ever-expanding Trout in the Classroom
program, the Commission is well positioned to build the
next generation of outdoor stewards.
Douglas recognized the importance of
increasing kids' curiosity in the outdoors
and engaging them at an early age. He
expanded educational programming
in parks and created a new division
to engage teachers and families with
outdoor Nebraska.
Educator Amanda Filipi teaches
elementary students about yucca pods
at the newly created Wildcat Hills Nature
Center.
JUSTIN HAAG, NEBRASKALAND
The new Schramm Education Center is at the heart of
the Venture Parks Complex and teaches guests about
Nebraska's wildlife and ecosystems.
JEFF KURRUS, NEBRASKALAND
