Thank Yous to Many, by Art Thompson, Nebraska Highway Landscape Architect, (402) 479-4839

Wildflowers strike a special chord in most everyone's heart. They are found in all parts of our country and take on a unique character in each region. Here in the Great Plains, it is hard to imagine the great expanses of grassland without the vibrant colors and the delicate strength of the wildflowers. They help restore the soul as much as they please the eye.

This year we want to offer special thank yous from the Nebraska Department of Roads. First, for recognition of our wildflower and seeding program for a second time by FHWA through this photo competition. Second, because this year was our first year to hold a department-wide activity. it has expanded the awareness of our wildflower program among all employees in an enjoyable way and has helped unite agency with employees spread over 8 districts, covering approximately 10,0000 miles of highways and caring for over 50,000 acres of roadside. A special thanks to Steve Duecker, Art Skinner and Roger Klasna for submitting the winning pictures you see here and to all employees who participated this year. Thanks also to the special help of Jay Bailey (Photographer Chief), Jan Havranek (Artist 11), Barbara Kohles (Landscape Architect II) and Ronald Poe (Landscape Architect 11) for bringing it all together.

A very special thanks must go out to Dick Gray, the Agronomist for the Nebraska Department of Roads. Dick develops all the seeding mixes used across the state, customizing them as much as possible to fit our wide variety of conditions. Dick has spent much time through the years working with university researchers on seeding methods and realistic cultural practices; and with growers to convince them there was a market and suggest some of the species that were needed.

Many others also deserve a thank you. We have a dedicated maintenance staff across the State, an administration that has been supportive, as well as a public that continues to send many complimentary letters in support of our program.

A lot of effort has been expended through the years trying to develop the most effective way to stabilize, beautify, and integrate our Great Plains roadsides with the surrounding landscape. We work with our environment, realizing this produces better and more cost-effective results in the long term.

Our sincere thanks to Greener Roadsides for the recognition of our efforts and those of all the States involved again this year. Your ongoing efforts to promote and exchange information and ideas concerning roadside issues and creating an awareness among management of the importance of the roadside, is a benefit to us all.