Contact Info
3720 Rivers Way
Ft. Calhoun, NE 68023
- Phone:
- 402-468-4313
Description
In the centuries before European settlement in this area, the Missouri River maintained multiple, braided channels. During times of flooding, the river would change course suddenly and unpredictably across its wide floodplain. Between 1820 and 1937, natural meandering of the river moved it 3 miles eastward from the Fort Calhoun bluffs (site of historic Fort Atkinson) to its present location.
The area that is now Boyer Chute National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) was originally an island of sand and sediment deposited in the Missouri River by the Boyer River. Gradually, the Missouri River eroded channels (chutes) through the sediment. One of the major channels was Boyer Chute, named after the Boyer River, which in turn got its name from a settler who hunted and trapped in the watershed before the time of Lewis and Clark.
The Refuge is a joint Federal and local conservation partnership designed to restore habitat along the 3-mile long chute. Riparian woodland, tallgrass prairie, and wetlands are the major habitats that are being restored and protected. These habitats benefit Missouri River fishes, migratory birds, endangered species, and resident wildlife.
Map + Directions
Basic Directions
Boyer Chute NWR is located on the west side of the Missouri River, 3 miles east of the town of Fort Calhoun, Nebraska, and 15 miles north of Omaha. From Omaha or Blair, follow Highway 75 to the southernmost street (Madison Street) within the Fort Calhoun city limits. Watch for the Boyer Chute NWR sign. Turn east and proceed to the stop sign at the T intersection. Turn right onto County Road 34 and proceed approximately 3 miles to the Refuge main gate.
