By Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is opening parts of Box Butte Wildlife Management Area to firewood collection for those who obtain permission.
Non-commercial firewood users who receive permission may cut and collect any fallen dead timber in specific areas of the property north of Hemingford from Feb. 1 to March 10. Those with an approved authorization form will receive a map of areas open for harvest and vehicle access, and will be urged to use safe practices while cutting.
Firewood harvest aids in Game and Parks’ management of areas at Box Butte subject to excessive down timber from cottonwoods, willows and other hardwoods along the fluctuating shoreline each year. The logs and branches become a hazard to boats when the reservoir's water levels rise in spring.
The free authorization form may be obtained by contacting Hunter Baillie, Game and Parks district wildlife manager, or Nate Rau, wildlife biologist, at 308-763-2940, or by stopping by the Game and Parks Commission’s northwestern district office, 1317 West Third Street, in Alliance.