1. These rules and regulations shall apply to all persons entering, using, residing in, visiting, or who are otherwise within the boundaries of any district owned or controlled park or recreation area administered by the District.
2. The special regulations contained in Rule 6 shall apply to all persons entering, using, residing in or visiting the areas for which such special regulations are adopted.
3. District real property shall be open to public access only after the rules and regulations governing the use of the area have been adopted by the board.

1. Camping is defined as the temporary lodging out-of-doors for outdoor recreational purposes and presupposes occupancy of a shelter designed for such purpose (i.e. sleeping bag, tent, trailer or other recreational vehicle).
2. Campground means a designated area developed for camping with individual campsites and may include such facilities as shelters, tables, grills, toilets or improved pads for recreational vehicles. Water and/or electricity may or may not be provided.
3. Campsite means that space in a Campground for the use of one camping party and one camping unit. Campsites in a Campground are designated by individually numbered posts. Water and/or electricity may or may not be provided. 
4. Camping Party means a group of no more than 6 people, or a family (parents, or guardians, with minor children) allowed in one campsite.
5. Camping Unit means the maximum combination of camping equipment allowed in 1 campsite. The allowable combinations of camping equipment are: 1 passenger vehicle and 2 tents; or 1 motorized vehicle towing a camping trailer and 1 tent; or 1 recreational vehicle, 1 towed passenger vehicle and 1 tent.
6. District means the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District.
7. Law enforcement officer means any duly constituted and credentialed law enforcement officer, local, state or federal, including Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Conservation Officers.
8. Manager means the general manager of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District, or his/her designee. 
9. Operate means to ride in or on and to control the operation of a snowmobile.
10. Operator means every person who operates or is in actual control of a snowmobile.
11. Owner means a person, other than a lien holder, having property in or title to a snowmobile, entitled to the use or possession thereof.
12. Person means any individual, partnership, corporation, the state and its agencies and subdivisions and anybody of persons, whether incorporated or not.
13. Primitive Campground means an area established for camping with limited facilities where individual campsites are not designated.
14. Recreation area means all District owned or controlled parks and recreation areas, administered by the District.
15. Recreational Vehicle means a motor vehicle designed for living quarters.
16. Register means to provide written information on forms provided in order to occupy a specific campsite in a Campground. 
17. Roadway means that portion of a highway or recreation area interior road, designed or ordinarily used for vehicular travel
18. Snowmobile means a self-propelled vehicle designed for travel on snow or ice, steered by skis or runners and supported in part by skis, belts or cleats.
19. Youth Camping means a designated general area, without facilities or individual campsites, for use by Youth Organizations.
20. Youth Organization means an organized group of young people 18 years of age and younger, sponsored by and accompanied by adult representative of the organization including but not limited to the Boy Scouts of America or Girl Scouts of America, or church sponsored groups. Youth organization does not include families of members of the organization. 

1. Abandonment of any vehicle or other personal property is prohibited and such property may be impounded by the manager or law enforcement officer.
2. Leaving any vehicle or other personal property unattended for longer than 24 hours, without prior permission of the manager, is prohibited and any property so left may be impounded by the manager or law enforcement officer. If any unattended vehicle or other personal property is suspected of having been used in any illegal activities it may be immediately impounded by a law enforcement officer.
3. In the event unattended property interferes with the safe or orderly management of the recreation area, it may be impounded.
4. Any vehicle or other personal property impounded will be at the expense of the owner.
5. Any personal property impounded and not claimed within 30 days will be disposed of by the NRD.

1. The operation or use of aircraft on lands or waters other than landing areas designated in special regulations is prohibited. 
2. Where water surface is designated as a landing area, the operation or use of aircraft on the water within 500 feet of bathing beaches, boat docks, piers, ramps or within 1 mile of water control structures is prohibited. 
3. Except in extreme emergencies involving the safety of human life or threat of serious property loss, the air delivery of any person or thing by parachute, helicopter or other means without prior written permission of the District is prohibited.
4. The provisions of this section shall not be applicable to aircraft engaged in official business of the federal or state government or the District or used in emergency rescue or forced to land due to circumstances beyond the control of the operator.
5. The operation of aircraft shall be in accordance with current regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration.
6. The launching or landing of sailplanes, gliders, balloons, body kites, hang gliders, ultra lights and other devices designed to carry persons or objects through the air in powerless flight is prohibited without a written permit from the District specifying the conditions under which such launching or landing is to be conducted.

1. The operation or use of any audio device, including a radio, television set, musical instrument or a device producing noise such as an electric generating plant, a motor vehicle, a motorized toy or other equipment driven by a motor or engine in such a manner or at such time so as to unreasonably annoy or endanger persons in campgrounds, picnic areas or at other public places or gatherings, is prohibited.
2. The operation or use of a public address system, whether fixed, portable or vehicle mounted, on lands, waters or highways, is prohibited, except when such use or operation is in connection with a public gathering or special event for which a permit has been issued.
3. Power units used to generate electricity shall not be operated between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m., nor at hours of the day if the operation causes a disturbance for other uses or visitors. 

1. Begging is prohibited. 
2. Hitchhiking or the soliciting of transportation is prohibited, except in emergencies and cases of vehicle breakdown.
3. Commercial and/or private soliciting of any kind is prohibited, provided that this shall not apply to transactions with authorized concessionaires.

1. Camping is permitted only at locations designated as Campgrounds, Primitive Campgrounds or Youth Camping Areas.
2. Camping is permitted for a maximum of 14 consecutive days on any single Campground or Primitive Campground during any 30-day period.
3. The installation of permanent camping facilities is prohibited.
4. The digging or leveling of ground at any campsite is prohibited except with permission of the manager.
5. All vehicles and trailers must be on paved or gravel surfaces except as otherwise permitted.
6. Camper units may not exceed 8 ½ feet in width and 40 feet in length as defined by Nebraska Revised Statutes.
7. Camping equipment must be completely removed and the sites cleaned prior to departure.
8. Quiet shall be maintained in all campgrounds and camping areas between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m.
9. Where indicated by appropriate sign at the entrance to a designated Campground, Primitive Campground or Youth Camping Area, permission to enter or occupy such area is reserved to campers between the hours of 10 p.m. and 8 a.m. No other persons shall have permission to enter or occupy such areas unless specifically authorized by the manager.
10. Campgrounds

• 10.01 Campsites are designated by individually numbered posts.
• 10.02 The pitching of tents or parking of trailers or other camping units is permitted only at designated campsites.
• 10.03 Campsite capacity is limited to 1 Camping Party of no more than 6 people, or a family (parents, or guardians, with minor children) and one Camping Unit (1 passenger vehicle and 2 tents; or 1 motorized vehicle towing a camping trailer and 1 tent; or 1 recreational vehicle, 1 towed passenger vehicle and 1 tent.
  • 10.03.a Exceeding a campsite capacity may result in the camping party being required:
    • 10.03.a-1 To acquire and register for an additional campsite, if 6 available
    • 10.03.a-2 Or being evicted from the Campground.
  • 10.04 Only 1 electrical user is allowed per campsite with an electrical hookup. Plug-ins shall not exceed the number of receptacles provided at the pedestal.
  • 10.05 Registration 10.05.a Each camping party must register at the Campground to occupy a campsite. A responsible person of a camping party shall register for the group by filling out the Camping Permit registration form. The registration form shall include at a minimum:
    • 10.05.a-1 Campsite number
    • 10.05.a-2 Date
    • 10.05.a-3 Length of stay
    • 10.05.a-4 Amount of fee deposited
    • 10.05.a-5 Number in camping party
    • 10.05.a-6 Name of person registering
    • 10.05.a-7 Address of person registering
    • 10.05.a-8 License number of vehicle or camping trailer
    • 10.05.b Camping Permit
      • 10.05.b-1 A Camping Permit is valid only for the Campground where purchased
      • 10.05.b-2 It is the responsibility of the camping party to complete the pay envelope, tear off the receipt which shall be the Camping Permit, and deposit payment in the pay envelope into the drop box provided.
      • 10.05.b-3 The Camping Permit shall be displayed in the space provided on the individually numbered post at the campsite occupied so as to be readily visible for inspection.
      • 10.05.b-4 Camping Permits are non-transferrable.
    • 10.05.c Fees
      • 10.05.c-1 The rental period begins with the day of registration.
      • 10.05.c-2 All fees must be paid in full at the time of registration.
      • 10.05.c-3 The Fee is $15.00 per day for Recreational Vehicle campsites with electrical hookups.
      • 10.05.c-4 The Fee is $5.00 per day for tent campsites.
      • 10.05.c-5 Multi-day payments for periods up to a maximum of 14 days are accepted.
      • 10.05.c-6 Camping Permits expire at 2 p.m. on the last day paid for at the time of registration.
      • 10.05.c-7 Failure to register and pay the required fees will result in eviction from the Campground.
    • 10.05.d Rental Conditions
      • 10.05.d-1 The campsite must be occupied by a member of the camping party on the first night of the rental period.
      • 10.05.d-2 Camping equipment placed on a campsite by an unregistered party or any equipment left on a campsite after the end of the rental period may be removed by the NRD. Such equipment may be claimed by contacting the campground staff or the NRD office.
      • 10.05.d-3 Camping parties intending on occupying the same campsite for the next night must re-register by 2 p.m., unless they have pre-paid for a multi-day period at the time of registration. 

• 11.01 No individual campsites are designated.
• 11.02 Registration
• 11.02.a No Registration is required for camping in a designated Primitive Campground.
• 11.03 Fees 11.03.a No Fees are charged for camping in a designated Primitive Campground.

• 12.01 Youth Organizations are the only ones allowed to camp in Youth Camping Areas.
• 12.02 Camping is allowed anywhere within a Youth Camping Area. Campsites are not designated.
• 12.03 Youth Organizations must have a responsible adult supervising the group at all times.
• 12.04 Registration
  • 12.04.a A Youth Organization adult leader may reserve a Youth Camping Area for a specific Youth Organization for specific dates by contacting the NRD office.
  • 12.04.b Registration at the NRD office is required at least 3 business days in advance of the date of the intended camping.
  • 12.04.c The Registration shall include; 12.04.c-1 Name of the Youth Organization 12.04.c-2 Number of adult leaders or supervisors
  • 12.04.c-3 Number of young campers (those 18 years old or less)
  • 12.04.c-4 Name, address and phone number of the adult in charge who is camping with the Youth Organization
  • 12.04.c-5 Dates of the camping event
  • 12.04.c-6 Youth Camp Area requested
  • 12.04.d Fees
    • 12.04.d-1 No fees are charged for Youth Organizations in a designated Youth Camping Area. 

1. Picnic shelters are available on a first come first serve basis.
   • 01.01 Picnic tables are not to be removed from picnic shelters.
   • 1.02 Picnic tables are not to be removed from designated picnic areas.
   • 01.03 Visitors are responsible for cleaning up picnic shelters, picnic tables and the surrounding grounds immediately after use.
2.  Amphitheater
   • 02.01 The Amphitheater may be used for daytime or night time events.
   • 02.02 The Amphitheater may be used between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. unless an organization or responsible person has reserved the Amphitheater.
   • 02.03 Amplified sound is permitted between the hours of 8 a.m. and 10 p.m.
   • 02.04 Visitors are responsible for cleaning up the Amphitheater and surrounding grounds immediately after use.
   • 02.05 The Amphitheater is available on a first come first serve basis unless it has been reserved.
     • 12.04.e An organization or person may reserve the Amphitheater for specific dates by contacting the NRD office.
     • 12.04.f Registration at the NRD office is required at least 3 business days in advance of the date of the occasion.
     • 12.04.g The Registration shall include;
       • 12.04.g-1 Name of the Organization if it is an event of an Organization
       • 12.04.g-2 Name, address and phone number of the Responsible Person who will be at the event
       • 12.04.g-3 Type of event (Nature talk, college class, wedding, etc.)
       • 12.04.g-4 Expected number of people in attendance
       • 12.04.g-5 Date, time and length of event
       • 12.04.g-6 Amplified sound equipment and/or lights 

1. The District may establish a reasonable schedule of visiting hours for all or portions of a recreation area and close to public use all or any portion of a recreation area when necessary for the protection of an area or the safety and welfare of persons or property, by the posting of appropriate signs indicating the extent and scope of such closure.
2. All persons shall observe and abide by officially posted signs designating closed areas and visiting hours.

1. Dogs, cats and other pets are prohibited unless they are crated, caged or on a leash or otherwise under physical restrictive control at all times.
2. Pets are prohibited in public eating places and food stores, public buildings and on designated swimming beaches. This paragraph shall not apply to guide dogs.
3. Dogs, cats or other pets running at large and observed by an authorized person in the act of killing, injuring or molesting humans or wildlife may be disposed of, in the interest of public safety and protection of the wildlife.
4. In park areas where hunting is permitted, the use of hunting dogs is allowed, provided the area is open to hunting and the dogs’ owners or handlers accompany and have control of such dogs and are responsible for the actions of such dogs. 
5. Grazing or ranging domestic animals or poultry is prohibited without prior written authorization by the District.
6. Horseback riding and the use of pack animals is permitted only on roadways and on designated areas.
7. Riding or hitching horses or other saddle or pack animals in campgrounds or picnic areas or within the immediate vicinity of trail shelters, eating or sleeping establishments or other areas of public gatherings, except where trails and facilities are provided for such use, is prohibited.
8. Riders shall slow their horses to a slow trot or walk when passing persons on foot or bicycle.
9. Pedestrians on trails shall remain quiet when horses or pack animals are passing. 

1. The use or possession of explosives is prohibited, except upon written permission of the District.
2. The use or possession of fireworks is permitted only in areas or portions of areas designated for such use by appropriate District posting.
3. No permission is granted for the use or possession of such fireworks in other than designated areas and such possession and use shall conform to applicable laws of the State of Nebraska.
4. Organized fireworks displays, open to the general public without charge and sponsored by a responsible agency or organization, may be permitted by written authorization by the District and the state fire marshal. 

Under normal conditions, the following fire rules would apply:

1. The kindling of any fire is permitted only:
   • 01.01 In designated camping and picnic grounds when the fire is confined in a fireplace provided for the use of visitors; or
   • 01.02 In grills; or
   • 01.03 In locations specified by the manager; or
   • 01.04 In stoves or lanterns using gasoline, propane, butane gas or similar fuels.
2. Fires must be kindled in such manner that no tree, shrub, grass or other combustible matter will be set on fire or caused to be set on fire.
3. When no longer needed, the fire shall be completely extinguished.
4. Leaving a fire unattended is prohibited.
5. Throwing or dropping a lighted cigarette, cigar, pipe heel, match or other burning material is prohibited.
6. The kindling of fires on recreation area lands owned or controlled by the District may be prohibited by the manager by posted signs when the fire hazard makes such action necessary.
7. The manager, during such periods of time as he or she may prescribe, may prohibit smoking on any recreation area lands, including roads and trails, by the posting of appropriate signs.
8. The kindling of fires or the use of any type of cooking device is expressly prohibited on any designated swimming beach.

1. Fishing is permitted on all recreation area lands subject to general fishing regulations and to specific local regulations.
2. Any area or portion of area may be closed to all or any form or method of fishing by posting of appropriate signs.
3. Fishing from or within 20 yards of any public boat ramp, boat dock, mooring area or swimming beach is prohibited.
4. Fishing from motor road bridges is prohibited. 
5. Hunting or the use of firearms, bow and arrow or other projectile devices is prohibited on District recreation areas with the following exceptions:
   • 05.01 District recreation areas or portions thereof are open to hunting subject to general hunting regulations from the first Tuesday following Labor Day to April 1, unless prohibited or restricted by appropriate signs or specific area regulations. 12
   • 05.02 Hunting is prohibited within 100 yards of any public-use facility or activity area, including picnic areas, campgrounds, private cabin and concession areas, boat ramps and parking lots.
   • 05.03 District recreation areas or portions thereof open to hunting in accordance with general hunting regulations and special area regulations.
   • 05.04 Firearms used by law enforcement officers in performance of their duties.
   • 05.05 Firearms used in training sessions by law enforcement personnel or firearms or other projectile devices used in exhibitions authorized by the District.
   • 05.06 Firearms or other projectile devices authorized for use by the public on designated ranges.
6. Trapping of furbearers on District owned or a controlled land is authorized only by special permit issued by the District.
7. Applications for trapping permits shall consist of a letter directed to the District requesting such a permit to trap at a specific area or areas.
   • 07.01 Applications shall be filed no later than August 31 of each year.

1. Consumption of alcoholic beverages on recreation area lands owned or controlled by the District is permitted with the following exceptions:
   • 01.01 Consumption is prohibited on all roadways, parking areas, designated swimming areas, Youth Camping Areas and the archery range.
   • 01.02 Consumption of alcohol may be prohibited on any park or recreation area or portions thereof with the use of appropriate signage.
   • 01.03 Consumption is prohibited between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.
   • 01.04 Containers of alcoholic beverages whose single liquid capacity is greater than one gallon are prohibited.
2. Except as provided in Section 1 above, the possession of a bottle, can or other receptacle containing an alcoholic beverage that is open, or that has been opened, or whose seal is broken, or the contents of which has been partially removed is prohibited, except this 13 section does not apply to:
   • 02.01 An open container stored in the trunk of a motor vehicle or, in the case of a motor vehicle without a trunk, an open container stored in some other portion of the vehicle designed for the storage of luggage and not normally occupied by or accessible to the operator or passengers, or
   • 02.02 An open container stored in the living quarters of a motor home or camper.
3. Presence in a recreation area when under the influence of alcohol, or drugs, to a degree that may endanger oneself or another person or property or may cause unreasonable interference with another person’s enjoyment of a recreation area, is prohibited.

1. Sports events, pageants, re-enactments, regattas, entertainments and the like, characterized as public spectator attractions or participant activities, are prohibited unless written permission therefore has been given by the District.
   • 01.01 Such permits shall be issued only after a finding that the issuance of such permit will not be inconsistent with the purposes for which the area is established and maintained and will cause the minimum possible interference with use of the area by the general public.
   • 01.02 The permit may contain such reasonable conditions and restrictions as to duration and area occupied as are necessary for the protection of the area and public use thereof.
2. Public meetings, assemblies, gatherings, demonstrations, parades, religious services and other expressions of views are prohibited unless written permission therefore has been given by the District in accordance with District policy.
3. The filming of still or motion pictures of lands and facilities owned or controlled by the District for commercial purposes is prohibited unless written permission therefore has been 14 given by the District.
4. Applications for a Special Occasion Permit shall be received by the District not later ten (10) days prior to the requested special activity and shall set forth the following:
   • 04.01 the name of the applicant;
   • 04.02 the date, time, duration, nature and place of the proposed activity;
   • 04.03 an estimate of the number of persons expected to attend; and
   • 04.04 a statement of equipment and facilities to be used in connection therewith.
5. As a condition of the permit issuance, the District may require the filing of a bond with satisfactory surety payable to the District, to cover costs such as restoration, rehabilitation and cleanup of the area used and other costs resulting from the permittee’s activity. In lieu of a bond, a permittee may elect to deposit cash equal to the amount of the required bond. 

1. The possession, destruction, injury, defacement, removal or disturbance in any manner of any building, sign, equipment, monument, statue, marker or other structure or of any animal or plant matter and direct or indirect products thereof, including but not limited to petrified wood, flower, cane or other fruit, egg, nest or nesting site or of any soil, rock or mineral formation, artifact, relic, historic or prehistoric feature or of any other public property of any kind, without prior permission of the manager is prohibited.
2. The gathering or possession for personal consumption or use of only such fruits and berries as the manager may designate is permitted.
3. All such fruits and berries shall be picked only by hand.
4. The gathering or collecting of such objects for the purpose of sale is prohibited.
5. The destroying, digging, removing or possession of any tree, shrub or plant is prohibited.
   • 05.01 The collection and possession of dead wood found on the ground for use as fuel in campgrounds or picnic areas is permitted except as posted by appropriate signs.
6. Dead timber which has been cut down and stockpiled for removal from the recreation area by authority of the manager may be further cut and removed from the area by the public for personal consumption at home, with the permission of the manager.
7. The removal of dead timber for the purpose of sale is prohibited.
8. Entering, climbing upon or tampering with District or District contractors’ motor vehicles and motorized or power equipment is prohibited. 

1. Temporary portable shelters can be erected on District owned waters.
2. Temporary shelters must be removed daily.
3. Permanent type shelters are prohibited.
4. Ice fishing is prohibited after February 10.
5. The door to any fish shelter shall be constructed so that it can be opened from the outside at all times when in use and the shelters may be locked when not in use.
6. The District shall remove, burn or otherwise destroy or dispose of such structures found on the ice after February 10 each year.
7. Hole size made for ice fishing on any area under jurisdiction of the District shall not exceed ten (10) inches in diameter.
8. Daily waterfowl hunting blinds may be installed and used on District recreation areas, provided that no blinds may be installed and used on areas posted as closed to such activities.
9. Waterfowl hunters installing and using daily blinds on District recreation areas shall be responsible for removing such blinds and other personal property from the area at the close of hunting each day.
10. Nothing contained herein shall give permission to install seasonal or permanent blinds on District recreation areas. 
11. Hunting blinds and other personal property remaining on a District recreation area following close of hunting shall be impounded in accordance with Chapter 4, Paragraph 01 of this rule.
12. No person shall enter upon any area or portion of any area, which is temporarily closed to general public access and which is posted with appropriate signs.
13. Digging or seining for any purpose on District owned or controlled areas are prohibited. 
14. No publicly owned personal property may be removed from any area or be moved from its general location without specific permission from the manager. 
15. Management personnel are specifically authorized to remove structures and facilities in accord with applicable regulations.
16. Failure by the permittee to remove his or her ice shelter by the dates specified and in the manner stipulated in these regulations shall be cause to revoke such permit.

1. All garbage, papers, cans, bottles, waste materials and rubbish of any kind must be deposited in places or containers designated for the disposal thereof or removed from the area.
2. Draining or dumping refuse or wastes from any trailer, or other vehicle except in places or receptacles provided for such use is prohibited.
3. Cleaning food, fish or fowl or washing clothing, vehicles, campers or articles of household use at campground hydrants is prohibited.
4. Polluting or contaminating in any manner any watershed, water supplies or water used for drinking purposes is prohibited.
5. Fish entrails or other inedible parts of fish may be disposed of by placing in a trash receptacle provided.
6. Placing fish entrails or other inedible parts of fish into fresh waters or onto public land is prohibited.
7. Depositing any body waste in or on any comfort station or other public structure, except into fixtures provided for that purpose, is prohibited.
8. Placing any bottle, can, cloth, rag, metal, wood or stone substance in any plumbing fixtures of such structure or station is prohibited.
9. Urinating or defecating, other than at the places provided therefore, is prohibited.
10. Using District refuse containers or other refuse facilities for dumping household or commercial garbage or trash brought as such from private property is prohibited.

1. SCUBA diving is defined as swimming with the aid of self-contained underwater breathing apparatus (air tanks) and shall not apply to snorkeling.
2. SCUBA diving is prohibited within two hundred (200) feet of the limits of designated swimming, boat mooring and boat docking areas.
3. The International Diver’s Flag must be displayed whenever engaged in SCUBA diving.
4. The SCUBA diver must stay within one hundred fifty (150) feet of his or her flag.
5. SCUBA diving is permitted in all waters owned or controlled by the District except in waters and at times where such activity is prohibited in the interest of public safety or health, which excepted waters shall be designated by regulation and/or posted signs.

1. Except as hereinafter provided, no person shall operate any snowmobile within areas of the District recreation area unless such snowmobile has been registered in accordance with applicable state law.
2. All snowmobiles MUST be registered. Applications for registration of snowmobiles should be made to the county treasurer in your county of residence.
3. Snowmobiles from a state other than Nebraska may be operated within the District recreation areas providing said snowmobiles are properly registered in accordance with the laws of their home state.
4. No snowmobile shall be operated within areas of the District’s recreation area system unless equipped with the following equipment:
   • 04.01 at least one head lamp and one tail lamp, each of minimum candlepower as prescribed by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles.
   • 04.02 a minimum of sixteen (16) square inches of reflective material mounted on each side, forward of the handlebars.
   • 04.03 brakes, each of which shall conform to standards prescribed by the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles.
   • 04.04 a muffler in good working order which blends the exhaust noise into the overall snowmobile noise and is in constant operation to prevent excessive or unusual noise. The exhaust system shall not emit or produce a sharp popping or crackling sound.
5. No snowmobile may be operated within the District’s recreation areas on other than designated trails, roadways and parking areas.  
6. Snowmobiles may also be operated during specified hours on the frozen surface unless otherwise posted.
7. The manager and his or her designated representatives reserve the right to temporarily close any District recreation area or portion thereof to snowmobile activities for the following reasons:
   • 07.01 insufficient snow cover (less than four (4) inches).
   • 07.02 insufficient lake ice (less than eight (8) inches).
   • 07.03 Safety.
   • 07.04 Weather.
   • 07.05 resource protection.
   • 07.06 civil emergencies or other management considerations at the sole discretion of the District.
8. The operation of snowmobiles on designated lake surfaces is at the sole risk of the operator. The District assumes no responsibility for safety of said operation.
9. Snowmobile operators are responsible for inspecting frozen lake surfaces for sufficient ice thickness (minimum eight (8) inches) and for possible hidden hazards prior to any such operation. Snowmobile operators are cautioned to be alert for soft ice caused by flowing springs, streams and rivers, and also caused by variations in temperature. 
10. Snowmobiles shall not be operated within any portion of a designated area which has been marked off or otherwise posted as closed to snowmobile operation by the District.
11. Snowmobiles shall not be operated in a manner intended to or reasonably be expected to harass, drive or pursue any wildlife.
12. Snowmobiles shall not be operated at speed exceeding that which is safe and reasonable when passing within thirty (30) yards of any property, ice fishing shelter, trail head, boat ramp, immobile snowmobile or person walking on or fishing through the ice.
13. In no case shall any person or persons operate a snowmobile so as to cause discomfort, hazard or damage to the person or property of others.
14. Snowmobiles may be operated with the District’s recreation areas only between the hours of one-half (½) hour before sunrise and nine (9) p.m. or as posted.
15. No person under the age of twelve (12) years may operate a snowmobile on District recreation area lands unless accompanied by a parent, guardian or other person over eighteen (18) years of age.
16. No persons over the age of twelve (12) and under the age of sixteen (16) years shall operate a snowmobile on District recreation area lands unless such person holds a valid snowmobile safety certificate or is accompanied by a person fourteen (14) years of age or over who holds a valid snowmobile safety certificate or is accompanied by a person over the age of eighteen (18) years.
17. It shall be unlawful for any person to drive or operate any snowmobile in the following unsafe or harassing way:
    • 17.01 at a rate of speed greater than reasonable or proper under existing condition.
    • 17.02 in a careless, reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the person or property of another or to cause injury or damage thereto.
    • 17.03 while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or narcotics or habit-forming drugs.
    • 17.04 without a lighted head and tail lamp when required for safety; and
    • 17.05 in a tree nursery or other area of new plantings in a manner which damages or destroys growing stock.
    • 17.06 civil emergencies or other management considerations at the sole discretion of the District.
18. The manager may issue special temporary permits to persons and organizations desiring to conduct organized group outings, trail rides, rallies and other similar events. In permitting such events, the manager may prescribe such restrictions or conditions as he or she may deem advisable.
19. In case of an accident, the operator of a snowmobile involved in a collision, accident or other casualty shall give his or her name, address and the number of such snowmobile in writing to any injured person and to the owner of any property damaged in such collision, accident or casualty.
20. When a collision, accident or casualty involving a snowmobile results in death or injury to a person or damage to property in excess of one hundred (100) dollars, the operator of such snowmobile shall file with the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles a report of same prescribed by Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles regulations.

1. Swimming and wading are permitted at the sole risk of the swimmer, unless specifically prohibited in Rule 6.
2. Swimming from vessels underway is prohibited.
3. Swimming or wading within twenty (20) yards of the spillway is prohibited.

1. It shall be unlawful to park, tow or otherwise operate any motor vehicle, trailer or cabin trailer, mini-bike, motorcycle, off-road recreation vehicle of any and all types, or other powered vehicles except a motorized device operated by a disabled person, within the confines of a recreation area which does not bear valid license plates and is not registered in accordance with applicable state laws.
2. All such vehicles not properly licensed and registered shall be in violation and may be impounded by the manager or law enforcement officer. 
3. It shall be unlawful for any person not possessing a valid motor vehicle operator’s license to operate a motor vehicle of any type within the confines of a recreation area.
4. The speed limit on all park and recreation area roadways is 10 miles per hour.
5. It shall be unlawful to park, tow or otherwise operate any motor vehicle, trailer or cabin trailer, mini-bike, motorcycle, off-road recreation vehicle of any and all types, or other powered vehicles except a motorized device operated by a disabled person, on other than 21 those areas or portions of areas, roadways, campgrounds, beaches and parking areas as may be designated by the District for such operation.
6. All traffic laws and District park regulations governing operation of motor vehicles on roadways of the recreation area system shall further apply to motor vehicle operation on those off-road portions of recreation areas, including but not limited to campgrounds and parking areas, as may be designated by the District for motor vehicle operation.

1. The vending, including mobile vendors, of various goods and services, products and commodities is permitted on recreation area lands with the prior written authorization of the District.
2. The vending of any such goods and services, products and commodities without written authorization of the District is prohibited.
3. No recreation area shall be used as a headquarters or residence by any person or group engaged in commercial or professional activities without prior written authorization of the District.
4. The sale or distribution of printed matter is permitted within the recreation areas provided a permit to do so is issued in advance by the District.
5. Persons engaged in the sale or distribution of printed matter shall not obstruct or impede pedestrians or vehicles, harass recreation area visitors with physical contact or persistent demands, misrepresent with purposes or affiliations of those engaged in the sale or distribution or misrepresent whether the printed matter be available without cost or donation. 

1. Areas on which water related recreational activities are permitted may be zoned to separate or define activities.
2. Zoning may prescribe the area in which the public may engage in such activities or may limit the hours during which the public may engage in any such activities.
3. Such zoning shall be clearly indicated by such signs, markers, buoys or other appropriate devices in widespread and common use for such purposes.
4. The number of participants engaging in any of the above mentioned water related recreation activities on any area owned or controlled by the District may be limited by management personnel of the District when conditions warrant such limitations in the interest of public health, safety or welfare.
5. Management personnel of the District are herewith specifically authorized and empowered to declare emergencies and to require the participants in any or all of the water related activities mentioned in the foregoing on any such areas, to cease such activity and to temporarily vacate the water area, or a portion of the water area, in the event of a water accident, severe weather or similar emergency.
6. No person shall have permission to engage in any water related activity in any such area or portion thereof during such declared emergency.
7. Watercraft shall not be left unattended in or near waters owned or controlled by the District except at designated mooring, anchoring or beaching locations.
8. Docks installed adjacent to boat ramps shall be used only for the following purposes:
   • 08.01 Launching and recovery of water craft, and embarking and disembarking passengers.
9. The mooring of water craft at such docks for any other reason or for a period of time greater than that reasonable to accomplish the permitted activities is prohibited. 

1. Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snow shoeing, skating and similar winter sports are permitted except upon roads and parking areas when such roads and parking areas are open to motor vehicle traffic and in other places where these activities are prohibited by appropriate regulations and/or posted signs.
2. The towing of persons on skis, sleds or other sliding devices by a motor vehicle or snowmobile is prohibited.
3. The operation and use of snowmobiles shall be in accordance with appropriate regulations and state laws.

1. The standards established in these regulations are in furtherance of the preservation and protections of the natural, scenic, historic, pastoral, fish and wildlife values of the recreation area.
2. Use of property will be in conformance with applicable federal, state and local laws, regulations and ordinances. 

1. Nothing in the foregoing shall be construed as prohibiting the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District or their duly appointed agents or employees from the conduct of their assigned duties in the administration, maintenance and development of area owned or controlled by the district.
2. In the event of natural disaster, state or national emergency, civil disorder, accident or other situation wherein the conduct of activities otherwise permitted under these regulations may constitute a hazard to the public health, safety or welfare or inhibit rescue, recovery, post-disaster or development operations, management personnel of the district are herewith specifically empowered and directed to take such measures at their disposal to preserve the public health, safety and welfare and to expedite rescue, recovery and operations, to include the temporary suspension of any or all activities contemplated in these regulations or any area or portions of any area owned or controlled by the district and the temporary closure and/or evacuation of any such area.

1. The Smith Creek Recreation Area located in the SW1/4 of Section 28, Township 10 North, Range 1 East of the 6th P.M. in Seward County, Nebraska, as shown on the attached map (Appendix A of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area.
2. All public use of the Smith Creek Recreation Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations Rule 6, as well as the following special regulations.
3. Permitted Activities:
   • 03.01 Camping is permitted in the Primitive Campgrounds designated on the attached map (Appendix A of Rule 6). Camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the attached map (Appendix A of Rule 6).
   • 03.02 Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
   • 03.03 The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Primitive Campground as per the attached map (Appendix A of Rule 6).
   • 03.04 Fishing is permitted.
   • 03.05 Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of a five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
     • 03.05.a Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the attached map (Appendix A of Rule 6)
   • 03.06 The use of snowmobiles is permitted in the entire recreation area.
   • 03.07 Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snow shoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
   • 03.08 Water fowl hunting is allowed at Smith Creek during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
4. Prohibited Activities:
   • 04.01 SCUBA diving is not permitted. 
   • 04.02 The use of skates and skateboards is not permitted.
   • 04.03 Water skiing is not permitted.

1. The Pioneer Trails Recreation Area located in the NW1/4 of Section 35 and the SW1/4 Section 26, Township 11 North, Range 6 West of the 6th P.M. in Hamilton County, Nebraska, as shown on the attached map (Appendix B of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area.
2. All public use of the Pioneer Trails Recreation Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations Rule 6 as well as the following special regulations.
3. Permitted Activities:
   • 03.01 Camping is permitted , after the appropriate fee is paid, in the Campgrounds designated on the attached map (Appendix B of Rule 6). Free camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the attached map (Appendix B of Rule 6).
   • 03.02 Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
   • 03.03 The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Day Use Area and Campground as per the attached map (Appendix B of Rule 6).
   • 03.04 Fishing is permitted.
   • 03.05 Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of a five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
     • 03.05.a Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the attached map (Appendix B of Rule 6).
     • 03.06 Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snow shoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
     • 03.07 Water fowl hunting is allowed at Pioneer Trails during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
     • 03.08 Upland game hunting will be allowed at Pioneer Trails on lands located in the SW¼ of Section 26, Township 11 North, Range 6 West of the 6th P.M. in Hamilton County, Nebraska as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
     • 03.09 The use of snowmobiles will be allowed at Pioneer Trails.
4. Prohibited Activities:
   • 04.01 SCUBA diving is not permitted.
   • 04.02 The use of roller skates and skateboards is not permitted
   • 04.03 Water skiing is not permitted
   • 04.04 Target shooting is prohibited.
   • 04.05 Discharging center-fire and rim-fire rifles, handguns and muzzle loading firearms are prohibited unless a special trapping permit is issued by the District.
   • 04.06 Hunting prohibited on the south 250 feet on the lands located in the SW¼ of said Section 26 designated for public use at Pioneer Trails Recreation Area.

1. The Recharge Lake and associated recreation area located in the N½ of Section 2 and Irregular Tract 2 located in the NE¼ of Section 3, Township 10 North, Range 3 West and Irregular Tracts 1 and 2 located in the SE¼ of Section 34 and Irregular Tract 12 located in the SW¼ of Section 35, Township 11 North, Range 3 West of the 6th P.M., York County, Nebraska as shown on the attached map (Appendix C of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Recharge Lake and associated recreation area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.
2. Permitted Activities:
   • 02.01 Camping is permitted, after the appropriate fee is paid, in the Campgrounds designated on the attached map (Appendix C of Rule 6). Free camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the attached map (Appendix C of Rule 6).
   • 02.02 Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
   • 02.03 The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Day Use Area and Campground as per the attached map (Appendix C of Rule 6),.
   • 02.04 Fishing is permitted.
   • 02.05 Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of the five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
     • 02.05.a Boats, canoes and other flotation devices are restricted from entering the principal spillway area, as designated on the attached map (Appendix C of Rule 6).
     • 02.06 Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
3. Prohibited Activities:
   • 03.01 SCUBA diving is not permitted.
   • 03.02 The use of roller skates and skateboards is not permitted.
   • 03.03 Water skiing is not permitted.
   • 03.04 Hunting is prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land owned by the District pertaining to Recharge Lake and the associated recreation area.
   • 03.05 The use of snowmobiles will be prohibited at Recharge Lake and the associated recreation area.

1. The Overland Trail Recreation Area located in portions of the S½ of the NW¼ of Section 15 and portions of the N½ of the SW¼ of Section 15, Township 10 North, Range 2 West of the 6th P.M., York County, Nebraska as shown on the attached map (Appendix D Rule 6) is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Overland Trail Recreation Area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.
2. Permitted Activities:
   • 02.01 Camping is permitted in the Primitive Campgrounds designated on the attached map (Appendix D of Rule 6). Camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the attached map (Appendix D of Rule 6).
   • 02.02 Picnicking and hiking are permitted in the entire recreation area.
   • 02.03 The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Primitive Campground as per the attached map (Appendix D of Rule 6).
   • 02.04 Fishing is permitted.
   • 02.05 Boating and canoeing are permitted with the limitation of the five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
   • 02.06 Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
3. Prohibited Activities:
   • 03.01 SCUBA diving is not permitted.
   • 03.02 The use of roller skates, in-line skates and skateboards is not permitted.
   • 03.03 Water skiing is not permitted.
   • 03.04 Hunting is prohibited on all areas within the boundaries of the land controlled by the District pertaining to the Overland Trails Recreation Area.

1. The Oxbow Trails Reservoir and associated recreation area located in the Parcel of #1, 2, 3 of S½ of Section 23 and Parcel 4 located in the NE¼ of Section 23, Township 13 North, Range 2 East of the 6th P.M., Butler County, Nebraska as shown on the attached map (Appendix E of Rule 6), is hereby designated as a public use area. Therefore, all public use of the Oxbow Trails Reservoir and associated recreation area is regulated by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District General Park Regulations, as well as the following special regulations.
2. Permitted Activities:
   • 02.01 Camping is permitted in the Primitive Campgrounds designated on the attached map (Appendix E of Rule 6). Camping by youth organizations is permitted in the Youth Camping Area designated on the attached map (Appendix E of Rule 6).
   • 02.02 Picnicking and hiking is permitted in the entire recreation area.
   • 02.03 The kindling of fires and use of grills is permitted in the Primitive Campground, as per the attached map (Appendix E of Rule 6).
   • 02.04 Fishing is permitted.
   • 02.05 Boating and canoeing is permitted with the limitation of the five (5) m.p.h. speed limit.
   • 02.06 Skiing, sledding, tobogganing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, ice skating and similar winter sports are permitted.
   • 02.07 Hunting is permitted in designated areas at Oxbow Trail Recreation Area during the allowable hunting season as set up by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.
3. Prohibited Activities:
   • 03.01 SCUBA diving is not permitted.
   • 03.02 The use of roller skates and skateboards is not permitted.
   • 03.03 Target shooting is not permitted.

• First Adopted: July 19, 1984
• Revisions Adopted:
  • February 19, 1987
  • December 20, 1990
  • February 17, 1994
  • November 20, 1997
  • February 18, 1999
  • September 16, 2004 
  • March 17, 2011
  • September 17, 2015