John W. and Louise Seier National Wildlife Refuge, found in north-central Nebraska, 25 miles south of Bassett, Nebraska, is a sanctuary among the Sandhills. The Sandhills region is the largest remaining tract of mixed and tall grass prairie in North America. The Refuge is now open to hunting, wildlife observation, and wildlife photography. Please follow all State and Federal Laws and Regulations while on the Refuge.
Cooperative Grazing

John W. and Louise Seier National Wildlife Refuge is offering two grazing units to the highest bidder for the Spring 2025 season. Grazing unit descriptions, requirements, and maps can be found in the bid packet. Cooperators are responsible for following all terms and conditions identified in the requirements and regulations.

Permittees will be selected based on receipt of sealed high bid for each of the grazing units. Sealed bids are due at the Refuge office no later than 3:00 pm CST, April 11, 2025. Bids may also be mailed to the Fort Niobrara NWR office (39983 Refuge Road Valentine NE, 69201).

Please call or email the Refuge Manager Katie Schober (402) 281-3140, Katie_Schober@fws.govor stop by our Fort Niobrara office if you would like a bid packet or have any questions about the units or bidding process.

Visit Us

John and Louise Seier NWR is located about 25 miles south of Bassett, Nebraska, off of Highway 183.

Location and Contact Information

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    About Us

    The John W. and Louise Seier National Wildlife Refuge is administered through the Sandhills National Wildlife Refuge Complex at Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge. 

    The Refuge is made up of grassland and wetland habitats. Two creeks run through the Refuge; Bloody Creek and Skull Creek. Bloody Creek, a smaller stream that runs only during high precipitation, cuts across the Refuge for 1.25 miles. Skull Creek, a larger stream that runs throughout the year, flows across one-half mile of the western portion of the Refuge, and empties into the Calamus River. A variety of wildlife, small and large game species, such as white-tailed deer, prairie grouse and wild turkeys, as well as many other species of birds call the Refuge home. 

    Greater Prairie Chicken
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    What We Do

    Refuge staff utilize a variety of management techniques to maintain, restore and enhance plant and wildlife habitats. Refuge staff carefully consider all management techniques and employ them in the most efficient and sound manner possible. Prescribed burning, mowing, grazing, and native plant seeding are some of the techniques that may be used to help restore native plant communities. 

    Wildlife and vegetation surveys are conducted on the Refuge throughout the year to inventory populations and document habitat use. Units are evaluated by how well they meet the habitat and wildlife use objectives set for the Refuge.

    Cows grazing on USFWS land
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