Wild & Scenic Rivers Act

Gold & blue logo featuring the words "Wild & Scenic Rivers" surrounding a stylized river and the text "50 years, 1968-2018."

The Wild & Scenic Rivers Act, the legislation that created the Niobrara National Scenic River, turned 50 years old in 2018. This Act protects special waterways that are considered extraordinary for one or more reasons, called "Outstandingly Remarkable Values." The Niobrara National Scenic River has five such values.

Waterways can be designated as wild, scenic, recreational, or any combination of the three. About 1/4 of 1% of river miles are protected under the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act in the United States. For more on Wild & Scenic Rivers, click here.

 
 
A woman turns an interactive wheel on an exhibit about water.
Water/Ways Exhibition

Dive into all aspects of water! Brought to you by the Smithsonian Institute's Museum on Main Street and Humanities Nebraska.

A waterfall flows from a bank into the Niobrara River.
Splash! A Water Symposium

Special guest speakers will explore the usefulness, beauty, inspiration, and science of water in this fun day for kids and adults.

Last updated: April 13, 2020

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Mailing Address:

214 W US Highway 20
Valentine, NE 69201

Phone:

402 376-1901

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