Morrill Waterfowl Retreat

Land Description

Situated on the banks of the North Platte River, Morrill Waterfowl Retreat is home to some of the best waterfowl hunting in the entire country. With a perfect mixture of live water, irrigated crop ground, and a 2,400 SqFt barndominium, this diverse 370 +/- acre property is a lucrative investment with incredible recreational opportunities.

Land

Morrill Waterfowl Retreat presents a rare opportunity, combining exceptional recreational appeal with remarkable agricultural potential. Including 181+/- acres under pivot with 160+/- acres of highly productive farm ground, there is an ideal mixture of preferred water rights and fertile soil that has led to consistent high yields, making it a top performer in agricultural operations. The unique synergy between its agricultural productivity and recreational value sets Morrill Waterfowl Retreat apart as one of the most versatile and sought-after properties in the area, excelling in both farming and recreation.

Improvements

The primary home on the property is a Cleary built barndominium consisting of 900 SqFt of living space including 2 bedrooms and 1 bath with a 1500 SqFt attached shop. The living space comprises a kitchenette with all necessary appliances, a living room, and 2 bedrooms, one equipped with bunk beds. The three-bay 1500 SqFt heated shop provides room to store vehicles, equipment, and clean game. The entryway to the building is covered and partially wraps around the living quarters. To complete this functional improvement, there is over 4000 SqFt of concrete driveway space and additional parking. Spend the evenings relaxing under the porch and looking out over the farm where you will see fields full of deer and skies full of ducks.

Recreation

Morrill Waterfowl Retreat is an exceptional property that seamlessly blends agricultural productivity with unparalleled recreational opportunities. There is incredible waterfowl hunting and plenty of year-round water for birds to use. With five in-ground pits, migrating birds such as ducks and geese can be hunted over the three 45-foot-deep ponds throughout the property. The ponds are stocked with fish, which provides even more recreational opportunities. During the winter months, when the ponds freeze over, which is rare, the 1.5 miles +/- of North Platte River becomes a magnet for all manner of waterfowl. The warm water sloughs and abundant feed on the property bring waterfowl in by the thousands.

The diverse habitat and expansive acreage also make it a haven for upland birds, which are frequently spotted throughout the landscape. Deer are abundant, drawn to the property by its perfect combination of location, food, water, and cover. The wooded river bottom spans throughout the property, presenting excellent turkey hunting opportunities. The current owner has meticulously planted 1,100 trees on the river, which only aids in the common presence of wildlife. The three ponds that are great for waterfowl hunting also are home to loads of mature rainbow trout. Whether you want to chase one species throughout the year or hunt during every season, Morrill Waterfowl Retreat has no shortage of recreation.

Water/Mineral Rights & Natural Resources

The farm ground is irrigated with preferred water rights. Any water rights appurtenant to the property will convey to the buyer. Contact the listing agent for more details.

Region & Climate

Morrill, Nebraska, is situated in the western part of the state, near the Wyoming border. It lies within the North Platte River Valley, surrounded by expansive plains and scenic landscapes. The region experiences a semi-arid climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Summers in Morrill are typically warm, with average temperatures ranging from the 80s to the low 90s, while winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Precipitation is relatively average throughout the year, with most rainfall occurring in the spring and early summer months. Scotts Bluff County receives an average of 17 inches of rain and 38 inches of snow per year. The area's climate and geography make it well-suited for agriculture, with farming and ranching being significant economic activities in the region.

History

Morrill, Nebraska, has a history rooted in the settlement of the American West during the late 19th century. The town was founded in 1886 and named after Charles H. Morrill, a former Nebraska senator. Originally established as a railroad town along the Union Pacific Railroad line, Morrill quickly became a region's agricultural and commerce center. Agriculture has been the backbone of Morill's economy throughout its history, with farming and ranching playing a significant role in shaping the community. The town's fertile land and access to irrigation from the nearby North Platte River Valley have made it an ideal location for agricultural production.

Over the years, Morrill has evolved into a tight-knit community, with residents proud of their town's heritage and traditions. While the town has experienced changes and challenges over time, it remains a vibrant and resilient community with a strong pride in its history and identity.

Horse Creek flows into the North Platte River, a big historical part of this property. Horse Creek is known for The Horse Creek Treaty, an agreement between the U.S. government and various Native American tribes, particularly the Oglala Sioux, signed in 1851. This treaty established a reservation for the Oglala Sioux along Horse Creek in Nebraska, but Congress never fully ratified it. Over time, the terms of the treaty were largely ignored, leading to further conflicts and displacement of Native American tribes in the region. The Horse Creek Treaty left a historical footprint on Sheep Creek Farm and Hunt, once a home/base camp for the Oglala Sioux tribe. Throughout the time the current owner has owned the property, many artifacts have been discovered throughout the property. With the time the tribe spent on this property and in the area, there is an opportunity for continued findings of rare artifacts dating back to the mid-1800s.