Boyer Chute

Just a few miles east from our little town, you will find the Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge. We are fortunate to have this prairie-like natural habitat so close by, and we have gone there often. 

"Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge was established in 1992 to restore and protect fish and wildlife habitat in and along the Missouri River. The refuge is one of more than 550 refuges across the country. The National Wildlife Refuge System is the largest network of lands and waters in the world set aside for the benefit of wildlife.

The Boyer Chute (or channel) lies at the center of the refuge and runs parallel to the Missouri River. The chute carved out its path from an island formed by the Boyer River. It was blocked in 1937 to make boat travel on the river easier, not knowing that this would disturb valuable  wildlife habitat.

The Papio-Missouri River Natural Resources District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers worked together to restore the Boyer Chute. With the help of other conservation partners, the 

chute is once again a functioning part of the Missouri River. This cooperation continues today to benefit fish, migratory birds, endangered species, and resident wildlife." (Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge brochure)

As a couple we have been there often, and also, Gary likes to make the short drive there even more often, and go for long walks along the water, and through the fields. A great place to go to over the weekend, after a busy week of work/ministry - walking, praying, and enjoying God's amazing creation.

On a recent visit, he came back with some photos of animal tracks - deer, turkey, coyote, racoon, and fox footprints. So thankful for the opportunity to live close to this refuge.