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Nebraska is located in the midwestern United States, with just over 1.9 million people.
Nebraska is known for its prairies, farmland, and Sandhills region, making it a state with a strong agricultural tradition.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the top 10 landowners in Nebraska and explore how they are utilizing their land.
Top Landowners In Nebraska
| Landowners | Total Acres |
|---|---|
| 1. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF) | 2,500,000 |
| 2. State Of Nebraska | 977,000 |
| 3. The Federal Government | 775,000 |
| 4. The Robert B. Daugherty Foundation | 130,000 |
| 5. The Peter Kiewit Foundation | 80,000 |
| 6. University of Nebraska | 65,000 |
| 7. The Bass Family | 60,000 |
| 8. The Campbell family | 50,000 |
| 9. The Cargill Family | 40,000 |
| 10. The Doerr family | 30,000 |
1. The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad (BNSF)
BNSF Owns approximately 2.5 million acres of land across the western United States, including a significant portion of land in Nebraska.
The land owned by BNSF is primarily used for railroad operations, including tracks, maintenance facilities, and other infrastructure.
In addition, BNSF's extensive rail network in Nebraska connects communities and businesses across the state to national and global markets, playing a crucial role in Nebraska's economy.
2. State Of Nebraska
Nebraska owns approximately 977,000 acres of land, making it one of the largest landowners in the state.
This land is primarily used for state parks and wildlife management areas, preserving Nebraska's natural beauty and biodiversity for future generations. State parks such as Mahoney, Platte River, and Eugene T. Mahoney provide camping, hiking, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
At the same time, wildlife management areas serve as critical habitats for Nebraska's diverse animal and plant species.
3. The Federal Government
The Federal Government owns over 775,000 acres of land in Nebraska, including national forests, monuments, and military bases.
National forests like the Nebraska National Forest and Grasslands provide opportunities for outdoor recreation and protect Nebraska's forests and grasslands from destructive forces like wildfire and invasive species.
Military bases like Offutt Air Force Base and Camp Ashland serve as necessary training and operational facilities for the United States military.
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4. The Robert B. Daugherty Foundation
The Robert B. Daughtery Foundation owns around 130,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used for research and development of sustainable farming practices. The foundation supports irrigation, soil health, and crop management research, intending to promote sustainable agricultural practices that benefit both the environment and the economy.
In addition, the Daugherty Foundation is making significant contributions to Nebraska's agricultural industry through partnerships with the University of Nebraska and other research institutions.
5. The Peter Kiewit Foundation
The Peter Kiewit Foundation owns approximately 80,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used to support charitable causes.
In addition, the foundation supports various initiatives, including education, health, and the environment.
The Kiewit Foundation's commitment to sustainable practices is demonstrated by its investment in renewable energy and its support for organizations working to protect Nebraska's natural resources.
6. University of Nebraska
The University of Nebraska owns around 65,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used for agricultural research and education.
The university's research focuses on improving crop yields, developing sustainable farming practices, and reducing the environmental impact of agriculture. The university also operates several research and extension centers throughout the state, providing farmers and ranchers with the latest agricultural technology and expertise.
7. The Bass Family
The Bass family owns around 60,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used for oil and gas, real estate, and agriculture.
They have been involved in the oil and gas industry for generations, and their holdings in Nebraska include significant oil and gas reserves. The family is also involved in real estate development and agriculture, significantly contributing to Nebraska's economy.
8. The Campbell family
Based in Nebraska, owns around 50,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used for real estate, agriculture, and hospitality. The family's holdings include farmland, ranches, and commercial properties, including the Campbell's Soup plant in Lincoln.
In addition, the family's investments in hospitality, including the historic Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska City, support Nebraska's growing tourism industry.
9. The Cargill Family
The Cargill Family owns around 40,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used for grain production and processing.
Cargill is one of the largest agribusiness companies in the world, and their operations in Nebraska include grain elevators, processing facilities, and transportation infrastructure. The company's investment in Nebraska's agricultural industry helps support the state's economy and provides food for people worldwide.
10. The Doerr family
The Doerr family, based in Nebraska, owns around 30,000 acres of land in Nebraska, primarily used for agriculture and ranching. The family has been involved in Nebraska's agricultural industry for generations, and their holdings include cattle ranches, crop fields, and a feedlot.
The family's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship is demonstrated by their use of rotational grazing, cover crops, and other practices that help to conserve soil and water resources.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Nebraska's top 10 landowners include diverse individuals and organizations, each utilizing their land in unique ways.
From state and federal agencies preserving natural resources to agribusiness companies producing food for people worldwide, these landowners play a crucial role in supporting Nebraska's economy and way of life.
In addition, through their investments in sustainable practices and charitable causes, these landowners are helping ensure that Nebraska remains a vibrant and prosperous state for generations.