62 NEBRASKAland • DECEMBER 2016
Small
Harvest –
Big Impact
W
hen it comes to exalting the unique,
rugged characteristics of the Panhandle's
landscape, perhaps no better "poster
children" exist than the Rocky Mountain
bighorn sheep (O. c. canadensis). They
are always sure to turn some heads when they're spotted in
Nebraska's Pine Ridge or Wildcat Hills, where they cling to
the steep terrain and complement the scenery, along with the
regions' other big game species.
Visitors to western Nebraska who see one of these
charismatic animals are sure to list it as a highlight, and
they're usually quick to tell friends and share the photos they
capture of the animals.
For those encounters, they can largely thank the
contributions of hunters who make the Game and Parks
Commission's conservation efforts possible. Whether it is
through the state's permit auction and lottery, or through
membership in a conservation organization, these hunters
have provided funding for the species' reintroduction and
management. Todd Nordeen, a Nebraska big game manager
who supervises the bighorn sheep program, said the hunting
program has provided critical funding and that the state's
Story and photos by Justin Haag
Nebraska may not issue many permits
for bighorn sheep hunting, but the
rare hunts have been a big asset for
conservation efforts.
Terry Bogle poses with
the bighorn sheep
he harvested near
Crawford, which would
later be confi rmed as
a state record. Bogle
won the permit by
entering the lottery.
In the background are
landmarks Crow Butte,
at left, and Little Crow
Butte.
