The Migration
Synonymous with spring in the Kearney area; the Sandhill crane migration. After all, it didn’t get to be known as the Sandhill Crane Capital of the World by itself.
And it’s just that, drawing in visitors who hope to see the natural phenomenon first hand here in central Nebraska. One of the best places to do that happens to be just down Interstate 80 at Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary, located between Kearney and Gibbon spanning across 3.000 acres.
The mission: protect the Platte River ecosystem and the birds who rely on it. That population includes over 800,000 Sandhill Cranes (that migration we mentioned) – something you have to see to really believe, according to Marcos Stoltzfus, Director at Rowe Sanctuary.
“The sight of tens of thousands of birds alighting to roost is unforgettable. The sounds of their combined calls are unmistakable. My first time in the blind was like nothing I have ever experienced before: the color of the sun low on the horizon framing the continuous river of birds in the sky was simply astounding.” Marcos Stoltzfus, Center Director
The center is working to make the viewing experience even better for visitors with a series of renovations and additions set to be ready just in for the 2025 crane season. There were several areas of focus with education and accessibility being at the top of the list, both crucial to further support their mission.
Nicolson Audubon Center at Rowe Sanctuary
New this Season
- Education Addition + Lab
- Outdoor Pavilion
- Interactive Exhibits
- Enhanced Accessibility
- Outdoor Boardwalk Improvements
- Center Staff Working Space + Meeting Rooms
Diving Deeper
When speaking to investment in education, Rowe is bringing an entire education addition to the center’s west wing. The new space will include an outdoor pavilion, giving visitors a better view of the Platte River and the wildlife that call it home. Also included, a new lab, that will allow Rowe to expand their educational programming with regularly scheduled events.
New interpretive and interactive exhibits will guide guests from inside learning to the outdoors, allowing them to deepen their understanding of the surrounding environment with hands-on elements.
With accessibility, the work started in the parking lot with an entire relocation. This move will shield our feathered guests roosting on the river from headlights while also creating an incredible view of the river. The center is also adding an accessible entry, ensuring that all visitors feel welcome.
Along the river, a new overlook deck and boardwalk will provide stunning views through a safe and immersive experience for visitors. To help navigate all of these updates, both new and newly renovated, there will be signs placed throughout the center.
Growth of Space & Staff
With the growth of the space, the growth of the Rowe Sanctuary’s staff and volunteer program continues to be a factor. To support that growth, a conference room, multi-purpose space, and industrial grade kitchen will be included in the east wing addition. Offices will also get a refresh with renovations to maximize space.
All-in-all the updates will continue to provide a truly memorable experience that’s unique to our area for visitors and residents, alike. At Rowe Sanctuary, they believe that people must first learn about their environment before they are motivated to care for it. Which is why they are continually seeking to increase accessibility to their centers and programs with renovations and additions like these. So, with all of this in the works, what is Stoltzfus looking forward to most?
“Overall, I’m most excited about our ability to welcome others to our building and our site. Whether it’s the new one-of-a-kind exhibits, our expanded accessible trails, or the rentable meeting space overlooking the banks of the beautiful Platte River, I look forward to welcoming the public to our space.”
Simply put, these investments will enhance every aspect of what they do – from education to habitat conservation, from science-based programming to daily operations. As crane season approaches, Rowe Sanctuary is excited to be even better equipped to achieve their mission of conserving birds and the places they need now and for the foreseeable future.
Make sure to add Rowe Sanctuary to your list of places to visit come March, they (along with a few hundred thousand cranes) will be waiting!
For upcoming events at Rowe, click here.