From the President & CEO  

Last week we hosted a virtual 2022 Recap Session in which we detailed the incredible work that has been done this year at the Crane Trust with the support of our members and donors. If you missed this virtual session, you're welcome to watch a recording of the program by CLICKING HERE.  

Below you'll find a few of our notable accomplishments from 2022. These accomplishments are central for the Crane Trust to continue to fulfill our mission to preserve and protect this very special habitat for Sandhill Cranes, Whooping Cranes, and other migratory birds.  

I am grateful for your continued support of the Crane Trust and look forward to a prosperous New Year in 2023. 

With continued gratitude, 

Brice Krohn
President & CEO 

List of 2022 Accomplishments: 

• Welcomed Visitors - whether it was our overnight VIP program, our public blind tours, photo experiences, or visitors at the Nature & Visitor Center, the Crane Trust was fortunate to welcome visitors from around the world this year. All guests had the opportunity to learn about the Sandhill Crane and Whooping Crane migration as well as the importance of the Central Platte River Valley. 
• Expanded our Protected Prairie - through a partnership with Ducks Unlimited and generous donors we were able to purchase 160 acres of contiguous undeveloped prairie that will expand our habitat for migratory birds and grazing land for our herd of American Bison. Learn more about this exciting land expansion here.
• Published Research - Crane Trust scientists have published 10 new research studies this year. These professional publications contribute to scientific research that is recognized nationwide. You can view our research publications here.   
• Renovations at Headquarters Campus - over the past several months
  contractors have been working to replace the leaking roof, update the exterior siding, refresh the public restrooms, and restore the viewing deck.
• Repaved the Lane - our mile-long driveway that brings guests to our Headquarters campus was replaced.
• Crane Parking & Viewing Area - with the support of Grand Island Tourism and the Nebraska Army National Guard, a new crane parking and viewing area has been created off of Alda Road just south of the Crane Trust. We hope visitors utilize this space to safely watch cranes foraging in nearby fields.
• Generous Supporters - over 1,200 individual donors, members, corporations, and foundations have supported the work of the Crane Trust. This allows the Crane Trust to operate with a balanced budget while continuing to advance our mission.

Experience the Migration in 2023

Planning is already underway for guests from around the world to experience the Sandhill Crane and Whooping Crane migration in March 2023. Our overnight experiences in our on-site cottages and suites are almost 95% full.

Booking in our public blinds and footbridge tours begins January 4.   Click here to learn more about our various tours and experiences in the year ahead. 

If you're unable to visit central Nebraska in person this year, our virtual program includes guided tours 5 days a week and 24-hour access to our wildlife camera on the Platte River. Virtual programming is included in all Crane Trust membership levels.