By Allison Peck
Nebraska drivers now have a new way to support wildlife conservation, outdoor recreation and youth education simply by choosing a specialty license plate for their vehicle.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission offers several conservation-themed license plates through the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles that benefit important programs across the state. These license plates provide a visible way for residents to show pride in Nebraska’s natural resources while giving back to efforts that protect and improve them.
Three designs — featuring a bighorn sheep, sandhill crane and ornate box turtle — benefit the Wildlife Conservation Fund, which supports the conservation of at-risk, threatened and endangered species in Nebraska. Funds contributed to the Wildlife Conservation Fund are matched with other grants, meaning each dollar donated can turn into four dollars of support for wildlife projects statewide.
In addition to the wildlife plates, motorists can choose a trail-themed “Bike/Walk Nebraska” plate to benefit state park trail maintenance. Proceeds from these plates help maintain and improve the extensive trail systems enjoyed by hikers, bikers and outdoor enthusiasts across Nebraska.
Specialty “mountain lion conservation” plates — introduced in 2016 — continue to support wildlife education programs focused on conservation practices and outdoor stewardship for youth.
Each of the specialty plates is available for a standard fee of $5, with an option to purchase a personalized plate for $40. Under both pricing options, a significant portion of the fee goes directly to the conservation or improvement funds tied to the specific plate type.
Drivers interested in ordering a conservation license plate or learning more about the designs and causes they support can visit the Nebraska DMV or the Outdoor Nebraska website for details on how to apply and how their contribution helps protect Nebraska’s fish, wildlife and outdoor spaces.
Whether supporting at-risk species, state park trails or conservation education, these specialty plates offer a simple and meaningful way for Nebraskans to give back to the state’s natural heritage.