Nebraska Launched Helicopter Weed Control Project
The Sandhills Weed Management Area is using aerial spraying to clear invasive weeds from state river systems.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Landscaping
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The Sandhills Weed Management Area has initiated a helicopter survey and spraying project to combat invasive plants across Nebraska. The operation aims to manage target species in hard-to-reach areas along multiple river systems.
Why it matters
Aerial spraying allows for efficient treatment of invasive weeds in riparian zones that are often inaccessible to ground-based crews. This project provides a critical method for controlling invasive populations in remote central and north central Nebraska river corridors.
The project is backed by a $516,450 Nebraska Environmental Trust grant, with $110,000 dedicated to 2026 operations and $90,000 planned for 2027. It targets phragmites, purple loosestrife, and yellow flag iris using Hexagon Helicopters Inc.
The players
Sandhills Weed Management Area
This is a regional organization dedicated to the management and control of invasive plant species in Nebraska.
Hexagon Helicopters Inc
This is the aerial service provider contracted to perform surveying and spraying operations for the project.
Nebraska Environmental Trust
This state entity provides grant funding for projects that protect and restore Nebraska's natural environment.
The details
Helicopters are conducting both surveys and spraying in a single flight to address invasive species along the Calamus, North Loup, Middle Loup, South Loup, and Cedar Rivers, as well as Beaver Creek and Brown Lake. While portions of the Middle Loup River in Thomas County are being surveyed, they are currently excluded from the spraying process.
Timeline
Control work began on September 21, 2026.
The current phase of control work is scheduled to conclude on October 9, 2026.
Additional project work is slated to occur throughout 2027.
Roadmap
This project aligns with the Nebraska Environmental Trust grant programs that prioritize the systematic restoration of regional riparian ecosystems. It demonstrates a long-term state approach to maintaining biological diversity by addressing invasive species through consistent, multi-year funding cycles.
Landowners who do not want their property included in the aerial spraying must contact their local County Weed Control Authority immediately to opt out. Residents can direct project inquiries to 308-212-2926 or contact the Custer County Weed Department at 308-872-2410.
The takeaway
Invasive species management is a long-term commitment that requires both aerial technology and sustained grant funding. Property owners should remain proactive in communicating with local authorities to ensure their land management preferences are respected during these regional projects.
What happens next
The organization has scheduled additional helicopter operations to continue throughout 2027.
Further reading
For more information on regional environmental maintenance, see our Landscaping section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Sandhills Express.
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Should local authorities use aerial spraying to manage invasive weeds on river systems in your area?
