Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is dedicated to educating all Nebraskans about our state’s amazing wildlife, plants and natural resources. Knowing how people want to engage with education is as diverse as our natural resources, we have developed a variety of interactive resources.
Lesson Plans
These free, downloadable lesson plans provide fun and engaging learning activities on a variety of topics — from birds to prairies, animals to pollinators … and some just-for-fun activities, too!
Looking for some fun craft activities to encourage children to combine a love for exploring in nature with their creative side? Then the Nebraska Game and Parks’ Pinterest page is just what you are looking for. Be sure to follow us for new activities daily.
Wild What’s Up
Head out to your backyard, local park or state park area to explore. You’ll find lots of amazing things (and make plenty of memories, too!). While you are exploring, you’ll likely find things you are curious about and maybe don’t have an answer for. So send us your nature-related questions by emailing ngpc.wildwhatsup@nebraska.gov. Lauren Darnold, one of our dedicated educators will email you back with an answer to your question. Each week, we’ll pick a few of the best to be featured on our video series. Visit http://outdoornebraska.gov/wildwhatsup/ to watch the full video series.
Like our Project WILD Facebook page and get daily updates on what is going on in nature. We’ll highlight a different wonder of nature each day to show you Nature Rocks!
Nature Videos
Join us as we explore the wild world of nature. From adaptations and phenology to life cycles and pollination, we’ll discover it all! Each mini-series will explore one topic in-depth to provide a well-rounded investigation and help students critically think about the topic.
The Science of… Series
The ‘Science of…’ series is designed to explore the science behind everyday things people see or hear about nature or animals — even sometimes those found in their own backyard. This series is perfect for anyone curious about our natural world.
The webinars are free, but each requires a separate registration. A list of the webinars, with registration links, can be found on the Nebraska Game and Parks Facebook page.
Science of… Series Youtube playlistNature Tails
Nature Tails is a free virtual nature series designed for preschoolers. Each week, Game and Parks outdoor educators from across the state will kick off nature-themed sessions by reading a children’s book tailored to the theme. Afterward, educators will lead a quick activity for children and their families.
Nature Tails Series Youtube playlistNebraska Species
Snakes of Nebraska
Snakes come in all sorts of colors and sizes. How can you tell what type of snake is living in your backyard? Through this webinar, we will explore the different types of snakes that call Nebraska home. Dennis Ferraro with University of Nebraska-Lincoln with show live snakes, chat about their unique characteristics and reveal interesting facts about their habitats.
Nebraska Wetlands
World Wetlands Day: Lincoln, Nebraska’s Legacy
Wetlands are a cornerstone for a thriving Nebraska ecosystem. Over the years, Nebraska has redefined our relationship and commitment to wetlands.
In celebration of World Wetlands Day on February 2, 2021, guest Speakers Ted LaGrange and Grace Gaard from Nebraska Game and Parks Commission shared interesting scientific facts about wetlands and answered questions about Nebraska’s wetlands.
Watch ‘World Wetlands Day: Lincoln, Nebraska’s Legacy’
Community Science
Looking for a way to engage in nature AND help scientists at the same time? Then community science is for you. Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has several community science projects ready for your help!
Learn more about Community Science
Wildlife Guides
Available to download and print for free, these regional wildlife identification guides can aid in your exploration of Nebraska’s diversity of plant and animal species. These quick reference guides provide information of the region, help with species identification, and provide tips for wildlife viewing. They can be used for personal or educational purposes.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has multiple Facebook pages that provide information, links and resources to educational content. Like them all! Plus, once you’ve liked a page, you will receive invites to new Facebook Live videos!
