Olson Nature Preserve

Take Me to Olson Nature Preserve

The Olson Nature Preserve (ONP) is truly a unique little corner of the world! Tucked into an area of approximately 112 acres, several interesting ecosystems invite further exploration. Located at the eastern edge of the Nebraska Sandhills, characteristic blowouts and gullies comprise the western edge of the preserve. A bur oak grove, clinging to the steep slope, borders the eastern edge of the Sandhills. A person may observe typical prairie plants on the hot, dry Sandhills and walk just 100 meters or so to view ferns growing in the moist, cool forest. Wetlands, which fill the area at the base of the oak grove, abound with typical Loup River Watershed wetland plants and animals.

History

In 1992, a group of local citizens approached four beneficiaries of the Grant and Berenice Olson estate to request that an ecologically diverse portion of their 1,200-acre ranch be set aside for public use. Norm Smith of Albion directed an extensive feasibility study of the area to substantiate the need for this unique outdoor classroom. The beneficiaries unanimously agreed to the arrangement. Prairie Plains Resource Institute took ownership of a 77-acre tract in 1995 and later worked out an agreement to lease an additional 35 acres from Niewohner Farms. Since that time, the preserve has become a hub of activity for area schools, Scouts and countless other groups.

Unique Features

ONP lies at the easternmost tip of the Sandhills and includes more than a half-mile stretch of Beaver Creek, a perennial spring-fed stream that forms the geological boundary between the Sandhills and the rolling loess hard lands to the east. In addition to Beaver Creek, ONP's natural assets include a cottonwood grove, oxbow wetlands, lowland tallgrass and Sandhills prairie, oak forest covering an extensive east-facing escarpment, and a small sandy canyon area.

Stewardship

The ONP Land Stewards are educators and community members who take responsibility for overseeing the preserve with the advice and leadership of Prairie Plains, ensuring that the outdoor classroom is serving its purpose.

Prescribed burning has been conducted on occasion, and many Scout projects, including cedar removal, trail design and bench and shelter construction, have improved the condition and usability of the preserve. Grazing has also been used as a management tool.

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Location

Located 8 miles north of Albion, Nebraska, on Highway 14, left on Y Road one mile to entrance gate.

GPS Coordinates

Latitude/Longitude: 41.800 -98.105

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