To achieve that goal, a minimum of 20 animals was released at suitable sites on seven river systems in the state. Sources of wild-trapped otters included Wisconsin, Idaho, Michigan, Alaska, Louisiana, British Columbia and Ontario. Some otters were obtained from private trappers, while others were obtained through cooperative efforts of other fish and game agencies. Between August 1986, and March 1991, releases were completed at seven sites including the South Loup River in Custer County, the Calamus River above Calamus Reservoir in Loup County, the North Platte River above Lake McConaughy, the Platte River near Kearney, the Cedar River in Wheeler County, the Elkhorn River in Antelope County and the Niobrara River in Sheridan County. With adequate legal protection as an endangered species and the continued availability of suitable habitat, otters are expected to expand their range from these release sites into suitable areas throughout Nebraska.
Early indications are that the otter project is off to a good start.
Some otters have been lost to accidental trapping and collisions with vehicles, and some were found dead of unknown causes. However, losses have not jeopardized the success of the project, and efforts are being made to minimize the number of otters trapped and to reduce other human-related mortality. In part, optimism about the success of the otter reintroduction is based on frequent reports of animals, including some family groups, in the vicinity of the release sites. The excellent physical condition of recovered carcasses also indicates that otters are faring well in Nebraska. An interesting note is that two otters released on the South Loup River in Custer County were recovered along the Missouri River in eastern Missouri, some 600 river miles downstream.