Located in south-central Nebraska, the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture is a collaborative effort aimed at conserving and restoring habitat for migratory birds and other wildlife. The joint venture, established in 1991, brings together federal, state, and private organizations to protect and manage the Rainwater Basin, a region of over 3.2 million acres characterized by shallow wetlands and grasslands.

The Rainwater Basin, situated within the Great Plains region, serves as a crucial stopover point for millions of migratory waterfowl, songbirds, and shorebirds during their spring and fall migrations. The region is home to over 200 species of birds, including the American Golden-Plover, the Long-billed Dowitcher, and the Snow Goose. The joint venture's primary goal is to maintain and enhance the natural processes of the Rainwater Basin ecosystem, ensuring that the area remains an essential habitat for these species.

A key component of the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture is the conservation of wetlands and grasslands. The joint venture works with landowners to restore and preserve these habitats through the creation of wetland complexes, the reintroduction of native vegetation, and the implementation of sustainable grazing practices. For example, the joint venture has worked with the Platte Island Goven School to restore a 270-acre wetland complex in York County, providing essential habitat for migratory waterfowl. Additionally, the joint venture has collaborated with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture to develop a Rainwater Basin Wetland Management Plan, which provides guidance for landowners on managing wetlands and promoting biodiversity.

The Rainwater Basin Joint Venture also places a strong emphasis on scientific research and monitoring. The joint venture has partnered with the United States Geological Survey (USGS) to conduct research on the ecology and hydrology of the Rainwater Basin. This research has helped inform conservation efforts, such as the creation of a decision support tool that helps landowners and conservation managers determine the most effective restoration strategies for specific habitats.

In addition to its conservation efforts, the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture also engages in educational and outreach activities. The joint venture has developed educational materials, such as the Rainwater Basin Habitat Education Program, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of the Rainwater Basin ecosystem. The joint venture has also established partnerships with local schools and community groups to promote environmental education and stewardship.

The Rainwater Basin Joint Venture serves as a model for collaborative conservation efforts in Nebraska and beyond. By bringing together diverse stakeholders and leveraging scientific research and expertise, the joint venture has been able to achieve significant conservation gains in a complex and dynamic ecosystem.

In the context of traveling through Nebraska, the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the state's natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The Rainwater Basin's shallow wetlands and grasslands provide a dramatic backdrop for witnessing the spring and fall migrations of millions of migratory birds.

Visitors can explore the Rainwater Basin by driving the Rainwater Basin Scenic Byway, a 165-mile route that takes travelers through some of the joint venture's most critical habitats. Along the way, visitors can stop at one of the many public access areas, such as the Tarnov Wildlife Management Area in Hamilton County, to observe the incredible diversity of bird species that inhabit the Rainwater Basin.