Nebraska Game and Parks hosted the 2024 Midwest State Park Executive Conference at Ponca State Park, welcoming representatives from Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, South Carolina, Michigan, and Kansas. Set against the picturesque Missouri River bluffs, the conference immersed attendees in Nebraska’s landscapes, cultural heritage, and demonstrated the strength of partnerships in enhancing state parks.
With the theme “Empowering State Parks through Partnerships,” the event opened with a warm welcome from Deputy Director Jim Swenson and Parks Division Administrator Jeff Fields. NASPD President and CEO Lewis Ledford provided updates on America’s State Parks, followed by keynote speaker Dr. Jim Sutfin, Superintendent of Millard Public Schools. In his presentation, *Leadership Lessons Learned from the Boat*, Dr. Sutfin shared insights on resilience, teamwork, and service, encouraging attendees to foster growth and stay mission-focused.
The conference offered sessions on weather emergency preparedness and law enforcement. In the emergency preparedness session, participants shared strategies for handling weather-related events, enhancing response and recovery efforts in state parks. The law enforcement session examined credentialing practices, comparing how states designate park rangers and superintendents as law enforcement officers, and discussing transitions between credentialed and non-credentialed roles.
Attendees enjoyed excursions to Nebraska’s iconic locations. At Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area, they toured the new marina development, which supports increased recreation and tourism opportunities. In Niobrara State Park, attendees enjoyed stunning river views and learned about collaborative efforts with the National Park Service.
A visit to Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park offered a glimpse into a prehistoric ecosystem, where fossils are preserved in 12-million-year-old volcanic ash. This site underscored the impact of partnerships with educational and scientific communities, highlighting Nebraska’s role in paleontological preservation and public education. More info.
At Crofton’s Haymarket & Pulley Museum, attendees explored Doug DeShazer's notable hay pulley collection. Crofton Dam Race organizer Heidi Marsh shared how local volunteers and Lewis and Clark State Recreation Area collaborated to create a community event promoting outdoor recreation and healthy lifestyles, attracting athletes to enjoy scenic views and challenging terrain.
Fort Atkinson State Historical Park offered a historical experience complete with reenactments and cannon firing, showcasing Nebraska’s dedication to heritage preservation. Partner David Genoways, Chairman of the Fort Atkinson Foundation, and John Winkler, General Manager of the Papio Missouri NRD, highlighted collaborative programs supporting military communities and Nebraska Game and Parks' dedication to partnerships.
A day at Ponca State Park gave attendees opportunities to test their skills at the shooting range, enjoy scenic riverboat tours with bald eagle sightings, and marvel at the tri-state overlook.
Throughout the conference, attendees enjoyed home-cooked Nebraska favorites, including Runzas (bierocks) and a buffalo dinner expertly prepared by the Platte River State Park restaurant staff.
Nebraska Game and Parks was honored to host the Midwest State Park Executive Conference and looks forward to future gatherings that will continue to inspire collaboration and strengthen partnerships among state parks across the region. Special appreciation is extended to Nebraska Parks Administrator Jeff Fields for the invitation, and to Margot Desrocher, Reservation Program Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, for her efforts in coordinating this successful event. More about Nebraska State Parks here.