Community group to receive NRD funds for new park project

Whether you’re looking to “walk a dog or cast a rod,” a new linear park running along the bank of the Big Blue River in Beaver Crossing will have much to offer the community, says village trustee Brandon Mares. Mares and others with the non-profit Build Beaver have begun raising funds and solidifying plans for a new community enhancement to provide river access. The project will be supported in part by $10,000 from the Upper Big Blue NRD Parks Program. 

The NRD Parks Program offers financial assistance to communities for the development or improvement of natural resources in nature areas, campgrounds, and park facilities. This program is available for any city, town, county, or school located in the district. The district will consider—on a case-by-case basis—providing cities and villages with planning and financial assistance for multi-use parks and recreation improvement/development that encourages tree planting, creation of wildlife habitat, open spaces, and other enhancements of natural resources.  Previously, the Upper Big Blue NRD was also involved in the rebuilding efforts in Beaver Crossing after the 2014 tornado through the Community Tree Resource Program and Parks Program. Past NRD assistance for the Beaver Crossing city park included storm damaged tree replacement, construction of a hiking and biking trail, and improvements to the park restroom and snack shack facility.

While Beaver Crossing already has an active community park with a ball field and campground, the new park project will “bring something to the community that doesn’t currently exist,” said Mares, as it will provide a tranquil nature experience with public river access. Mares says the only way to fish the river today without accessing private property is to drop a line from the Pioneers Road bridge. This bridge is shared by vehicles, which creates a safety issue. “The west fork of the Big Blue River runs right through the backyard of Beaver Crossing. It’s a shame that we have this neat thing with no way to enjoy it.”

Mares often fished with his dad when he was young, creating memories he still cherishes today. He hopes that there are those in the community who will benefit from a place to share in special family bonding moments in nature, just as he did as a child, as well as a place to “just go down to relax and listen to the water.”

The location of the proposed park is a three-acre strip of land owned by the village on the southeast side of town. Mares is excited about this location because as a local history buff, he would like more people to know about the gristmill that used to stand there. “You can still see the concrete pylons where they dammed the river for the mill,” he said. Eventually, Mares would like to see signage at the park about the history of the place from the early days of Beaver Crossing. “I’m very passionate about this area and what it once was,” said Mares, who moved to the community from Lincoln nine years ago.

The linear park project plan is currently very simple: a walking trail, some trees, a few benches and signs, and a place to fish. “As small of a footprint as this will have, it could grow into something more over time if people enjoy it,” said Mares. While access to public lands may seem like an insignificant thing, “it's hugely important for those that don't have an acreage to still have access to nature,” he said. 

As Mares sees it, this project is about retention and growth for the community of 370 people, and a quality-of-life enhancement for all to enjoy. 

“On behalf of the Upper Big Blue, I want to congratulate the Build Beaver committee for undertaking this innovative project,” said NRD Board Chairperson John Miller. “This will be a great start for a larger project that is planned. How wonderful it will be for the public to have access to the river in a local historic location. The Upper Big Blue NRD board is very proud to be a small part of this project.”

While a timeline for the park’s development is still very tentative, Mares is planning an event in July at the site to show the community what is to come. In addition to the NRD funds, the Beaver Crossing park is also receiving support from the Nebraska Forest Service and the Seward County Legacy Fund. If you would like to be involved, contact Seward County Bridges, which is assisting in the fundraising efforts for Build Beaver.