Nebraskaland

46 Nebraskaland • March 2026 A project that began with plans to replace a dilapidated boat ramp at Standing Bear Lake in Omaha grew into a major Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Aquatic Habitat and Angler Access program project that will start paying dividends for anglers this year in the form of keeper-sized bluegill and saugeyes, countless small bass and some decent channel catfish. One of the first major flood-control reservoirs built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Omaha, Standing Bear had suffered the same fate as other mid-sized waters since it was completed in 1975. Sediment washed into the lake from the watershed and shoreline erosion, and the presence of common carp had muddied the waters, creating poor conditions for gamefish. The lake, owned by the City of Omaha, was drained late in 2022 to allow for construction. A new two- lane boat ramp replaced the old ramp, and a kayak launch was also built. Breakwaters were added to protect both launches and for fishing access, and the parking lot was reconfigured to improve traffic flow. On the lake's north side, nine fishing points were constructed along a 350- yard stretch of shoreline, one of which includes an accessible fishing pier and sidewalk. Stairs and sidewalks lead to the other points. These improve a shoreline that previously was steep, lined with riprap and trees and difficult for anglers to access. Sediment removed in front of each structure and the boat and kayak launches will help keep aquatic vegetation at bay and give anglers easy access to deep water. Artificial habitat and fish attractors were placed within casting distance of the structures and in other locations around the lake. This includes 19 rock shoals, more than 100 artificial PVC fish attractors made by Connor Tjepkes and fellow Troop 308 members as part of his Eagle Scout project, and 240 cedar trees placed with the help of volunteers from the Nebraska B.A.S.S. Nation. Restocking the lake began in the fall of 2023 when a few adult bass and bluegills were moved from other area waters. Heavy rain in May of 2024 filled the reservoir seemingly overnight, and more than 50,000 fingerling bass and bluegills have been stocked since, as well as 8,000 10-inch channel catfish and 33,000 fingerling and advanced fingerling saugeyes. No black crappies were stocked, but there 2026 By Eric Fowler Aquatic Habitat Several lakes at Windmill State Recreation Area were excavated to provide depth to ensure shallow areas remain connected during low water. ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND A channel cut around Lake No. 1 at Windmill State Recreation Area will carry floodwaters away from the area. ERIC FOWLER, NEBRASKALAND

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