Niobrara in Knox County, Nebraska — The American Midwest (Upper Plains)
Water's Edge
Flow of life in the Riparian Habitat
Our villages and old trails were always located near rivers or streams. Waterways were the highways of days gone by, and we used them for travel and trade. Sometimes they would also function as natural yet strategic barriers between one tribe and another.
This place where water meets land is called a riparian habitat. While this habitat type is rare in the prairie environment, it supports the greatest diversity and density of wildlife. Our people could depend on these places for plentiful game to hunt and water to drink. We could also collect valuable firewood along the shores for cooking and warmth. Today, these delicate ecosystems are important to protect.
For hundreds of years, we have chosen to dwell in our Niobrara homeland — the valley of swift running water. Please take a moment to look around you and discover the unique plants, animals, and birds that continue to make their home here today.
Riparian habitats are relatively rare in our open prairie landscape, yet they support the greatest number of plants and animals.
[illustrations]
bald eagle • red fox • raccoon • kingfisher • black-tailed deer
Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Animals • Environment • Native Americans • Waterways & Vessels.
Location. 42° 42.759′ N, 98° 4.512′ W. Marker is in Niobrara, Nebraska, in Knox County. Marker can be reached from the intersection of 521st Avenue and 890th Road, on the left when traveling north. Marker is located along the Ponca Educational Trail at the Ponca Tribe of Nebraska Powwow Grounds. Touch for map. Marker is in this post office area: Niobrara NE 68760, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. An Ocean of Grass (within shouting distance of this marker); Symbol of Our Spirit (within shouting distance of this marker); The Buffalo's Gift (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Water Invites Reflection (about 400 feet away); Our Village Homes (about 500 feet away); Our Ponca Tribal Community Building (about 500 feet away); Pow Wow! (approx. 0.2 miles away); I Carry My Home With Me (approx. 0.2 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Niobrara.
Related markers. Click here for a list of markers that are related to this marker. Ponca Educational Trail
Credits. This page was last revised on February 27, 2022. It was originally submitted on February 26, 2022, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida. This page has been viewed 100 times since then and 9 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on February 26, 2022, by Cosmos Mariner of Cape Canaveral, Florida.