The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the National Park Service (NPS), have developed a draft environmental impact statement (EIS) and land protection plan for the proposed Niobrara Confluence and Ponca Bluffs Conservation Areas. These conservation areas would build on existing conservation efforts along the Missouri River in northeast Nebraska and southeast South Dakota. In creating these areas, the agencies would work with willing private landowners, local communities, and other conservation entities to conserve wildlife habitats, increase recreational opportunities, preserve sensitive cultural sites, and maintain sustainable farming and ranching operations in the region.

The FWS and the NPS have completed a draft EIS and land protection plan for the proposed conservation areas. This joint document is now available for public review and comment. The deadline for submitting comments is June 14, 2013. (pmr)