Working Ecosystems was established in 2012 by Kent & Sue Aden. They currently live in Cozad, Nebraska and have been lifelong residents in Dawson County. Their love for the outdoors has grown into an opportunity to help conserve crucial parts of the midwest's ecosystem. 

Water Conservation

Most people don't realize the damage that noxious and invasive plants can do to a habitat. An article printed by the University of Nebraska Panhandle Research & Extension Center stated that one acre of saltcedar infested river bank has been estimated to utilize between 4 to 9 acre feet of water per year. That translates into no less than 1.3 million gallons of water per year. It’s high water consumption further stresses native vegetation by lowering ground water levels and dries up springs and marsh areas. 

Threatened Species Protection

Threatened species such as Least Terns, Piping Plovers, and Whooping Cranes have been losing valuable habitat to noxious vegetation. These birds are accustomed to open sandbars where they are able to nest and watch for predators from a safe distance. The dense foliage increases the chance for such attacks. The depletion of their habitat has a direct effect on the bird's population.