Scattered among the agland of western Custer county, there are many small playa wetlands which provide ephemeral habitat for migratory birds. The usefulness of these places varies upon precipitation, with ample water during wet times and no water when it is dry and hot, causing the water to dissipate.
Recent weather in central Nebraska has been notably warmer than usual, with no precipitation for weeks. The playa wetlands have been shrinking, and there are few places with remaining water.
The following images pictorially convey the condition of some of the recognized playas.
August Views
These photographs are courtesy of Ed and Maxine Wehling, local residents.
Cool Playa
Griffiths Playa
Johnson Playa
Overnight Playa
Wehling Playa East
Wehling Playa South
Wehling Playa West
October Views
During a morning outing on October 2nd, these pictures were taken of a couple of the playas visited.
Hostick Playa
Cemetery Playa
Wetland Extent
This image indicates the extent of wetlands in an area west of Merna, as designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
