Yes, Nebraska law permits the salvage of certain roadkill under strictly defined conditions. The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) regulates this practice to balance wildlife conservation with public safety, allowing collection only of deer, elk, pronghorn, and wild turkey carcasses reported within 24 hours of discovery. Unreported or non-listed species remain subject to illegal possession statutes, with enforcement handled by NGPC conservation officers and local law enforcement. Recent 2026 compliance updates emphasize mandatory digital reporting via the NGPC’s Wildlife Check portal to curb poaching and ensure traceability.
Key Regulations for Keeping Roadkill in Nebraska
- Species Eligibility: Only deer (Odocoileus spp.), elk (Cervus canadensis), pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), and wild turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) may be salvaged. Possession of other species (e.g., coyotes, raccoons) constitutes a Class II misdemeanor under Neb. Rev. Stat. § 37-428.
- Reporting Requirements: Carcasses must be reported to NGPC within 24 hours of discovery via the Wildlife Check app or hotline (402-471-0641). Failure to report results in automatic forfeiture and potential fines up to $500.
- Possession Limits: A maximum of two legally salvaged carcasses may be retained per person per year. Transport requires a Salvage Permit (free, issued electronically) and adherence to Nebraska Department of Agriculture’s carcass disposal guidelines to prevent disease transmission.