Nebraska state parks reducing hours due to staffing shortages

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LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – Some of Nebraska’s state parks are going into the summer with reduced hours, according to game and park officials.

They’re asking park-goers to call ahead before visiting a park to check activity times and availability.

Hours will be affected at Eugene T. Mahoney State Park and Platte River State Park starting on Saturday.

Mahoney State Park’s aquatic center will no longer be open on Tuesday and Thursday, according to a press release.

Platte River State Park’s Outdoor Heritage Education Complex will be closed, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Annually, game and parks hire around 900 workers across the state to help with operations during the summer.

But this year, there have only been about half the needed staff to operate some activities, officials say.

“We appreciate everyone’s support and patience as we make the necessary changes to adapt to the current staffing challenges,” Parks Division Administrator Jeff Fields said.  “We will do our best to still provide many excellent recreational opportunities that people expect in their parks.”

Anyone interested in a position can go to outdoornebraska.gov/careers.

Lifeguards, shooting range staff, housekeepers and concession workers are needed for the summer.

“Working in the parks is enjoyable and the diversity of opportunity helps build skill sets that are attractive on future job applications,” Fields said.  “Opportunities also exist in the Fish and Wildlife divisions of the agency.”

Categories: Nebraska News, News