In Nebraska, anglers must be aware of the various stamps and permits required to legally fish in the state’s waters. One of the most important is the Aquatic Habitat Stamp, which funds critical programs to maintain and improve aquatic habitats across Nebraska. In this article, we’ll explore the details of the Aquatic Habitat Stamp, who needs it, how to obtain it, and the importance of this program for the state’s fisheries and water resources.
What is the Aquatic Habitat Stamp?
The Aquatic Habitat Stamp is a mandatory stamp that must be purchased by anyone fishing in Nebraska, with a few exceptions. The stamp is included in the price of most fishing licenses, including annual, 3-day, and combination hunting and fishing licenses. The fee for the stamp is $15 for annual licenses and $15 multiplied by the number of years for multiple-year licenses. For lifetime fishing or combination licenses, the fee is 20 times the annual stamp fee.
Funds generated from the sale of the Aquatic Habitat Stamp are used to support the Nebraska Aquatic Habitat Program, which was established in 1997. This program works to improve conditions for aquatic life through better management and rehabilitation of existing resources. Since its inception, the program has generated more than $90 million for improvements to 137 water bodies in Nebraska.
Who Needs an Aquatic Habitat Stamp?
With a few exceptions, anyone fishing in Nebraska must have an Aquatic Habitat Stamp. This includes both residents and non-residents. The stamp is required for the following fishing permits:
- Annual fishing permit
- 3-day fishing permit
- Combination hunting and fishing permit
- Lifetime fishing permit
- Multiple-year fishing permit
However, there are some exceptions where an Aquatic Habitat Stamp is not required:
- Paddlefish permit
- Veteran fish/hunt permit
- One-day fishing permit (the stamp fee is included in the permit price)
How to Obtain an Aquatic Habitat Stamp
The Aquatic Habitat Stamp is included in the price of most fishing licenses and can be purchased through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s online permit system, at authorized permit agents, or at Nebraska state parks and recreation areas. Residents who register their motorized watercraft in Nebraska will pay the $5 AIS fee when they register their boat, which includes the Aquatic Habitat Stamp.
Non-residents who register their motorized watercraft in another state must purchase an $18 Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) stamp each year they boat in Nebraska. This stamp can be purchased online through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s permit system or at some state parks and recreation areas.
Benefits of the Aquatic Habitat Program
The Aquatic Habitat Program funded by the Aquatic Habitat Stamp provides numerous benefits beyond just improving fisheries. These benefits include:
- Improved accessibility to water through the installation of boat ramps, kayak launches, fishing piers, and paths to the waterfront
- Enhanced water quality and clarity that benefits the entire watershed
- Creation of wetlands and wetland complexes, promoting species diversity and richness, filtering pollution, storing sediment, and capturing nutrients that could cause harmful algae blooms
- Generation of recreational opportunities through improved waterbody health, including kayaking, camping, hunting, wildlife viewing, and outdoor photography
- Increased biodiversity by attracting or creating habitat for migratory and water birds, muskrats, beavers, otters, aquatic plants, deer, and turkeys
The Aquatic Habitat Program also provides technical assistance on reservoir design and construction methods to ensure new reservoirs incorporate features that extend their functional lifespans and fully support healthy fish populations.
The Importance of Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention
In addition to the Aquatic Habitat Stamp, Nebraska also requires an Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) stamp for all non-resident motorized watercraft launching into Nebraska waters. This stamp is a key component of the state’s efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species, such as zebra and quagga mussels.
Aquatic invasive species pose a significant threat to Nebraska’s aquatic resources, water supplies, and water infrastructure. They can be plants, fish, mussels, crayfish, invertebrates, or pathogens. Watercraft are the primary means by which these species are transported, making the AIS stamp a critical tool for protecting Nebraska’s waters.
Fees collected from the AIS stamp fund programs to educate the public about aquatic invasive species, prevent their introduction into Nebraska through monitoring and inspection, and treat existing populations. All boaters and water-based recreationists in Nebraska are encouraged to follow the Clean, Drain, Dry protocol to help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species.
Conclusion
The Aquatic Habitat Stamp is an essential tool for maintaining and improving Nebraska’s fisheries and water resources. By purchasing this stamp, anglers contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the state’s aquatic habitats, which benefits both fish populations and the overall health of Nebraska’s watersheds. The stamp also plays a crucial role in preventing the introduction and spread of aquatic invasive species, which threaten the ecological balance and recreational value of the state’s waters.
As Nebraska continues to face challenges related to water quality, habitat degradation, and invasive species, the Aquatic Habitat Stamp will remain a vital source of funding for the state’s efforts to address these issues. By supporting the Aquatic Habitat Program through the purchase of this stamp, anglers and water enthusiasts can help ensure that Nebraska’s aquatic resources remain healthy and accessible for generations to come.