WAHOO, Nebraska -- Under beautiful skies, just over 200 enthusiastic 5th and 6th grade students from across the district gathered at the Lake Wanahoo NRD Recreation Area on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, for the annual Spring Conservation Sensation. The Lower Platte North Natural Resources District (LPNNRD) was thrilled to once again host this hands-on environmental education event, traditionally held on the first Wednesday in May.

A vibrant group of students from Aquinas Catholic Elementary (David City), Logan View Elementary, David City Public Elementary, North Bend Central Elementary, and Wahoo Elementary schools participated in the day's engaging activities. Staff from LPNNRD led multiple sessions focusing on key aspects of water quality, water quantity, forestry, and wildlife. In addition, guest presenters contributed their expertise: staff from the University of Nebraska Extension discussed seed dispersal; the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission presented on amphibians, reptiles, and Nebraska’s variety of wildlife; and students from Newman Grove High School conducted a drone discovery session.

During the event, the students discovered and examined microorganisms; assessed the turbidity and water quality of Lake Wanahoo; learned about carrying capacity; investigated the fascinating behaviors of wildlife; observed firsthand Nebraska amphibians, reptiles, and other wildlife pelts and skeletons; explored seed dispersal through a relay race; experienced the process of tree planting using a tractor-driven planter; and explored the capabilities of drone technology. The day culminated in an engaging presentation by Wildlife Encounters, where students had the opportunity to get up close with creatures such as an armadillo, a grey parrot, and a blue-tongued lizard, among others.

The Lower Platte North NRD is proud to host the annual Spring Conservation Sensation each year on the first Wednesday in May, providing hands-on outdoor learning experiences for fifth and sixth grade students within the district. Information regarding registration for the 2026 event will be available in early spring next year. For additional details, please visit lpnnrd.org or contact the Lower Platte North NRD at 402-443-4675.

Students from North Bend Central Elementary explore the bank of Lake Wanahoo for macroinvertebrates.