More Around Ogallala, Nebraska

   Today, Kay and I were able to get out and drive around the second largest man made US lake, Lake McConaughy,  and visit a Petrified Wood and Art Gallery.  That's right, we're still in Ogallala, Nebraska. 

   Lake McConaughy is huge.  Some 20 miles long and boasts some 105 miles of shoreline.  At its deepest point its some 142 feet deep.  Clear blue waters and a ton of outdoor recreation beaches.  With all the rainfall this year the white beaches are not visible as the lake is some 10ft over its average. 

    Another unique feature of this massive lake area is its large bald eagle population and viewing area.  At its peak, in the winter months, the viewing area boasts over 166 American Bald Eagles.  As fish are abundant year round here its no wonder.

   

 

 

    In addition to the lake drive, we stopped at Ogallala's Petrified Wood Gallery.  This is a jewel in a pretty small town.  A lot of history and some of the areas artisan's wares are displayed.  I took these pictures with my Blackberry.

 

 

This piece took over seven years to complete.

 



    Here are some samples from each western state and region. 


This western town is made from small slivers taken from one piece of wood.

It took over six weeks to make one wing of a butterfly.  These were beautiful.

This piece titled "The Long Trail Home" has been on loan since 2014.  Weighing in at over 1000lbs, its over 6ft long.