Chat Canyon

Chat Canyon Wildlife Management Area

The Chat Canyon Wildlife Management Area (WMA) is a 400+ acre conservation area located approximately 30 miles west of Valentine, Nebraska, along the Niobrara River. Acquired in 2013 through a collaborative effort involving the Nebraska Forest Service (NFS), Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC), U.S. Forest Service, Nebraska Environmental Trust, The Conservation Fund, and the National Wild Turkey Federation, the area was permanently protected from development.

Features

  • Ecological Significance: The area is home to a diverse array of habitats, including forests and riparian zones, supporting various wildlife species.

  • Wildlife Habitat: Chat Canyon WMA is notably recognized for its high population of nesting Yellow-Breasted Chats, a songbird species that is increasingly uncommon elsewhere and has disappeared in eastern Nebraska.

  • Management Partnership: The area is co-managed by the NGPC and NFS, serving as a model for integrating forestry and wildlife management objectives. (apps.outdoornebraska.gov)

  • Recreational Opportunities: Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and photography. However, access is walk-in only, with no vehicle or ATV access permitted. Parking is available in designated areas. (apps.outdoornebraska.gov)

  • Hunting Regulations: Hunting is restricted to special hunts officially sanctioned by the NGPC and elk hunting by those holding valid permits. An access permission form, provided by the NGPC, is required for all officially sanctioned hunts. (regulations.justia.com)

Location

 

Visit

Directions

From Nenzel, Nebraska (intersection of Highway 20 and S16F spur), travel south approximately 4 miles on State Spur 16F (paved), then east approximately 2 miles on Lehrman Road (all-weather County road), and south approximately 5 miles on Anderson Bridge Road (all-weather County road known locally as The River Road). (apps.outdoornebraska.gov)

For more information, including maps and specific regulations, visit the Nebraska Forest Service's Chat Canyon WMA page.