Coalition plans statewide Tree-a-thon for 2020

Youth, communities come together to plant and celebrate trees  

On Arbor Day weekend (April 24-26), youth and their communities will participate in the statewide Nebraska Tree-A-Thon to plant and celebrate trees. Communities are collaborating with a coalition of nonprofits and public institutions including Beyond School Bells and afterschool providers, the Arbor Day Foundation, Natural Resources Districts, Audubon Nebraska, Nebraska Forest Service, Nebraska Department of Education and the University of Nebraska.

“Now more than ever it is important for youth and their families to collectively participate in an out-of-school-time activity that is positive, safe, shared and lasting,” said Anna Wishart of Beyond School Bells, Nebraska’s afterschool network. “The beauty of planting and celebrating trees is that it can be done safely in our backyards and neighborhoods.”

Communities and the coalition have been working diligently to purchase trees, coordinate safe tree pick-up locations, and develop resources for youth and families to learn about the benefits of trees and how to care for them. 

“Our Natural Resources Districts have partnered with more than 20 community afterschool programs that span Nebraska to find safe and creative ways to deliver tree seedlings into the hands of youth for planting,” said Jim Eschliman, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts president.

For youth and families that do not have trees to plant, the coalition has resources and activities for other ways to celebrate trees. Just last month, seven talented University of Nebraska-Lincoln students worked with tree experts to develop fun activities for youth to learn about trees. Nebraskan families can access and download this tree-a-thon educational resource here. 

The Arbor Day Foundation has launched a social media campaign to plant up to 50,000 trees on behalf of people celebrating trees. To get a tree planted on your behalf, all you have to do is post a picture of a tree (or a tree selfie is even better) and use the hashtag #ArborDayAtHome.

Whether it is planting trees, going on a nature walk, making birdhouses, or posting a tree selfie, Nebraska’s youth and their families are encouraged to join the Tree-A-Thon this year to collectively share in the importance of trees. Please join the Tree-A-Thon by posting a picture of your family planting and/or celebrating trees and make sure to tag the members of the tree-a-thon coalition and include #NETreeAThon, #TreeSelfie and #ArborDayAtHome. 

"We need trees to keep our communities cool, healthy and resilient,” said Logan Donahoo, K-12 program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation. “We're so excited to see the next generation of tree stewards make an impact on their communities and learn the lifelong skills of planting and caring for trees."

#NETreeathon #TreeSelfie #ArborDayAtHome #2020in2020

Lower Elkhorn NRD promotes Arbor Day with end-of-season tree sales

In Nebraska, Arbor Day is traditionally celebrated on the last Friday in April.  The 148th Anniversary of Arbor Day will be celebrated Friday, April 24th.

Since Nebraska is the birth state of Arbor Day, it’s only appropriate that the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) promotes tree-planting programs each year.  The LENRD will have tree seedlings available for purchase next Friday in celebration of Arbor Day, at the Maskenthine Lake Recreation Area, north of Stanton.  From Norfolk, the lake is located 10 miles east on highway 275 and then 2 miles south on Ridge Road.  Signs will direct you to the LENRD Tree Distribution Center (approximately 2 miles north of Stanton).

The Center will be open from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on Arbor Day.  Seedlings must be purchased in bundles of 25 for $22 plus tax.  Todd Stewart, LENRD Natural Resources Technician, said, “We’ll be cleaning out the cooler on Arbor Day, quantities are limited, but there’s still enough variety if you’re looking for trees or shrubs to fill in your windbreak.  Due to the Coronavirus pandemic, we’ll be using a drive thru lane for tree purchase and pickup at the distribution center at Maskenthine.”  Stewart added, “Plant a tree to protect your property and the future.  Our parents did it for us, and we should return the favor for future generations.”

Contact the LENRD office if you have questions about the trees or if you need further assistance.

Trees available for purchase on Arbor Day

More information

Norfolk awarded $1.125 million for Johnson Park and riverfront improvements

The State of Nebraska recently announced the City of Norfolk was awarded $1.125 million through the Civic Community Center Financing Fund (CCCFF) to help fund Johnson Park and Riverfront Improvements. The CCCFF grants are awarded to municipalities and administered by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development (DED) to encourage and foster enhanced quality of life. CCCFF grants are awarded on a competitive basis, and $1.125 million is the maximum amount allowed.

“For years now, we’ve been forging partnerships and leveraging available resources to help fund needed improvements to the Johnson Park/North Fork Riverfront area,” said Mayor Josh Moenning. “That work is paying off.  This grant funding provides a significant boost to our efforts to restore Johnson Park to its Works Progress Administration-era beauty, reconnect the park to the North Fork Riverfront, and make the area safe, clean and accessible once again for recreational use.”

Some components of the project include new ADA restrooms, additional parking spaces, an amphitheater in the park, updated playground equipment, infrastructure improvements, removal of the existing spillway, eight 18-inch high boulder walls constructed to introduce water recreation characteristics to the river, enhanced aquatic habitats, beautification along the bank corridors and river access points. The estimated timeline for work calls for bidding to take place summer of 2021, with construction starting later in 2021 through fall of 2022. Partial funding of the project was budgeted in the City’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP), utilization of City Keno funds, and funds from both the Sanitary Improvement District (SID) and the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD).

“By partnering with the City of Norfolk on the River Rehabilitation Project, we are working together to improve the quality of life for the citizens across our 15-county district.  This is not only a project for Norfolk, but rather the Norfolk Area.  Families are looking for more things to do in northeast Nebraska,” said Mike Sousek LENRD General Manager.

Last year the City of Norfolk received a planning grant for preliminary and design work needing to be completed prior to construction of the project. Part of that work was to start the process of obtaining a 404 Permit through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and environmental review. The City also has additional projects in motion that complement the Johnson Park and River Restoration effort, including Braasch Avenue reconstruction for which design was completed in 2019 and construction is set to start May 2020.

Senior Scholarships now available

This year, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) will be offering two $500 scholarships to graduating High School Seniors within the district.  These scholarships are available for students who are planning to further their education in a natural resources or agriculture related field.  Seniors who are interested should contact their guidance counselor or the Lower Elkhorn NRD office in Norfolk for further information, eligibility requirements, and applications.  Scholarship information has been sent to all schools within the district boundaries and is also available below. The deadline for all scholarship applications has been extended to Friday, May 22, 2020.

Scholarship Criteria

Application Form

Norfolk to plant 2,020 trees in 2020 beginning this weekend

The City of Norfolk plans to plant 2,020 trees in 2020 begin in full force this week in advance of Arbor Day on Friday, April 24.  A number of tree-planting initiatives, featuring partnerships with local and state organizations, kick off in the coming week. 

“2020 in 2020 is an ambitious yet achievable goal, and we hope that families spending time together on home improvement projects will help us reach it,” said Mayor Josh Moenning.  “Increasing our tree canopy, in both public and private spaces, benefits everyone.  Trees save money on heating and cooling costs, mitigate runoff and infrastructure degradation, improve air quality, and help beautify the city.” 

The “2020 in 2020” effort includes partnerships with the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD), the Norfolk Public Schools Aftershock Program, and area schools and businesses to provide free trees, planting tips, and educational packets to the community.

In March, Beyond School Bells, Nebraska’s statewide afterschool and summer learning network, announced it’s statewide “Tree-a-thon” which challenges youth across the state to collectively plant over 20,000 trees in 2020, starting on Arbor Day weekend. The LENRD is donating 1,500 Ponderosa Pine seedlings for the Norfolk Tree-a-thon.  The seedlings will be available, free to the public, for pickup at the following locations:

• Saturday, April 18th NorfolkNow Curbside Cruise Locations

• Monday, April 20th- Friday, April 24th Norfolk Public Library (must call to reserve 402-844-2100)

• Monday, April 20th- Friday, April 24th Norfolk Area Chamber of Commerce (in the front foyer)

• Wednesday, April 22nd at the Zone 11:30-1:00 PM

• Thursday, April 23rd at the Norfolk Middle School 3:00-6:00 PM

• Saturday, April 25th at the Salvation Army parking lot 7:00 PM

“It’s important to maintain our connection with nature during these uncertain times,” said Julie Wragge, Information & Education Specialist for the LENRD.  “We are proud to partner with community leaders to provide these trees and to provide this opportunity for families to strengthen their connection with nature through tree planting.”

In addition, as part of the “2020 in 2020” initiative, 250 free trees will be distributed to families on a “first come, first served” basis through a grant the city received from the Arbor Day Foundation.  This distribution begins Saturday, April 25, and more information on obtaining free trees can be found at https://norfolkne.gov/government/departments/communications-office/news/free-tree-distribution-dates-set-for-end-of-april.html. The City of Norfolk also has plans to plant up to 300 trees across the city on public lands, some of which were donated by the LENRD, to help reach the 2,020 goal.

“We need trees to keep our communities healthy and resilient.  We're so excited to see the next generation of tree stewards make an impact in their community while learning to plant and care for trees,” said Austin Casselberry, Project Director for Aftershock.

The Lower Elkhorn NRD is partnering with the City of Norfolk to provide 1,500 trees for giveaway during the Tree-a-thon.

2020 NCF-Envirothon Competition Cancelled

WASHINGTON – Today, the National Conservation Foundation (NCF) and the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) announced the cancellation of the 2020 NCF-Envirothon to protect the health and safety of the general public and to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The annual event was slated for July 26 to Aug. 1, in Lincoln, Nebraska.

“This was not an easy decision, but our primary concern is the health and safety of the students, as well as the general public, and we feel it’s in the best interest to cancel the 2020 NCF-Envirothon Nebraska event at this time,” said NCF Chairman Steve Robinson. “We know that many students look forward to this competition and are truly sorry for this turn of events; however, we hope students stay engaged in the Envirothon mission, and we encourage them to look ahead to preparations for next year.”

The top priority for the organizers is the health and safety of students, advisors, volunteers, sponsors and education partners.

"The NARD’s goal, first and foremost, is to protect the health and safety of the general public and do whatever we can to assist in controlling the novel coronavirus,” said NARD President Jim Eschliman. “While the cancellation is a disappointment, our dedication to environmental education and protecting lives, property and the future through natural resources management remains strong. We look forward to welcoming NCF-Envirothon competitors to Nebraska in the future.”

The NCF-Envirothon is an environmental and natural resources education competition, reaching more than 25,000 high school students across the United States, Canada and China annually. The hands-on competition is held outdoors to give students a chance to take their classroom learning and apply it in a natural setting.

To protect public health, many local state and provincial Envirothon competitions have also been canceled across North America, including Nebraska’s state competition. The NCF, NARD and other state/provincial Envirothon program leaders continue to follow recommended guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

“We thank the participants and volunteers for their ongoing dedication to the program, and we wish them and their families good health through these difficult times,” Robinson said.

Teams that have already registered to compete at the 2020 NCF-Envirothon will receive a full refund. Questions about the NCF-Envirothon can be directed to NCF-Envirothon Program Manager Jennifer Brooks at (800) 825-5547 or by email at administration@envirothon.org.

To learn more about the NCF-Envirothon or the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts, visit: www.envirothon.org or www.nrdnet.org

LENRD closes area campgrounds until further notice

During these times of uncertainty, it’s important to stay informed about the COVID-19 pandemic and remain vigilant.  The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) is closing their public campgrounds at their recreation areas near Stanton and Leigh effective from April 1st until further notice.

LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “Social distancing must be enforced to save lives.  Therefore, we are closing our campgrounds at Maskenthine Lake near Stanton, and the Maple Creek Recreation Area near Leigh.  The health and safety of the citizens across our district is our top priority.”

The recreation areas currently remain open for day use, fishing, and recreation.  Sousek said, “Our recreation areas and trails provide adequate room for proper social distancing, offering opportunities for physical activity which can alleviate stress and promote mental health.  However, the restrooms, shower houses, and campgrounds are closed, and overnight camping is prohibited.  The recreation area playgrounds and play structures are also closed until further notice.”

Sousek added, “We will provide updates as they become available.  Please take precautions recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including social distancing even in outdoor spaces.”

More Information

LENRD Board moves forward with watershed study

For the first time in 47 years, the board room at the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) office was empty as the board held their March meeting online via audio/video conferencing.

LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “The world is navigating through uncharted waters as the coronavirus pandemic continues.  As we practice social distancing, the office remains closed to the public until further notice.  Even though the office doors are closed, most of our staff are working off-site to ensure that we continue to offer a high-level of public service to the citizens of our district.”  He continued, “Our online meeting went very well and I anticipate that we’ll need to continue to use the video conferencing format until things drastically improve.”

During the March 26th meeting, the board approved the contract with JEO Consulting Group for the Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project Work Plan.  This contract will allow for an environmental assessment of the watershed as well as developing an approved Watershed Flood Prevention Operations (WFPO) plan with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Sousek said, “After nearly a year in the making, all the necessary paperwork with the USDA has been signed and approved to secure the WFPO grant with NRCS.  This grant in the amount of $390,000 will complete a watershed study in the Battle Creek area and offer further information for a flood prevention plan for the entire watershed.  This study will take approximately 18 months to complete.”

The board also instructed staff to apply for a new WFPO grant through NRCS to develop a watershed plan for the Maple Creek Watershed.

In other action, the board approved the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Scribner and Dodge County for the Elkhorn River Bank Stabilization Project to repair damages from the 2019 flood.

Sousek added, “Don’t hesitate to reach out to us during these uncertain times.  We are returning phone calls and emails and meeting virtually, it’s business as usual for us here.  We also have a drop box located at our main entrance on the west side of the building.”

The LENRD board & staff meet each month to develop and implement management plans to protect our natural resources for the future.  The next LENRD board meeting will be Thursday, April 23rd at 7:30 p.m.  Watch for further updates and stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails.

Lower Elkhorn NRD office in Norfolk closes to the public until further notice

Beginning March 18th, the LENRD office in Norfolk is closed, to ensure a healthy and safe environment for their employees and the public. While the office doors are closed to the public, the LENRD staff will continue to answer phone calls, reply to emails, and proceed with spring field work. There is a drop box at the main entrance (west door) for those wanting to drop off reports, etc. Please visit our website or follow our Facebook and Twitter feeds for further updates. As we navigate through these uncertain times, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at 402-371-7313. We continue to closely monitor the evolving Coronavirus (COVID-19) situation, along with implementing the latest recommendations from federal, state and local authorities.

Coalition plans statewide youth Tree-a-Thon for Arbor Day Weekend and 2020

Youth and their communities are collaborating to plant over 20,000 trees 

On Friday, March 13, Beyond School Bells, Nebraska’s statewide afterschool and summer learning network announced its statewide challenge for youth and their communities across the state to collectively plant over 20,000 trees on Arbor Day weekend, April 24-26. Beyond School Bells is collaborating with afterschool providers across the state, the Arbor Day Foundation, Natural Resource Districts, Audubon Nebraska, Nebraska Forest Service, community leaders and the University of Nebraska to help achieve this goal.

“At Beyond School Bells, we believe that learning does not stop before or after the school bell rings. Afterschool programs provide hands-on, real world and engaging educational opportunities for youth across our state, such as this tree-a-thon," wrote Anna Wishart, Director of Partnerships. 

Norfolk is one city that is collaborating on this effort and plans to plant 2,020 trees in collaboration with the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District and area schools and businesses. “Working with community partners and engaged citizens, ‘2020 in 2020’ is an ambitious yet achievable goal that will have long-ranging positive impacts in our community," Josh Moenning, Mayor of Norfolk said. 

“To continue to wisely manage and enhance our natural resources in the future, it is important that we maintain our shared connection to nature,” said Austen Hill, Education Supervisor for the Papio-Missouri River NRD.  “By partnering with Beyond School Bells Nebraska tree-a-thon, it gives families and communities an opportunity to strengthen that connection through education and making an impact with their own hands,” said Hill.

To achieve the statewide tree-a-thon goal, this coalition of nonprofits and community leaders will recruit youth and community volunteers, purchase trees, and train youth and their families on the environmental and public health benefits of trees and how to plant and take care of them.

"We need trees to keep our communities cool, healthy, and resilient. We're so excited to see the next generation of tree stewards make an impact on their communities and learn the lifelong skills of planting and caring for trees," said Logan Donahoo, K-12 program manager at the Arbor Day Foundation.

Last month, a cohort of talented college students from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln underwent a hack-a-thon to hack material from the Arbor Day Foundation, Nebraska Forestry and NRDs, and develop 6-week and 3-hour afterschool curriculum for programs across the state to utilize free of charge.  

Nebraskans that want to participate in the tree-a-thon can go to this website to RSVP and receive updates, get connected with youth and organizations in their community and download the tree-a-thon curriculum:

The coalition recognizes the extenuating circumstances due to the Coronavirus and will stay updated on the most current information regarding the virus and whether a postponement of the Arbor Day events will be necessary to a fall planting.

Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop is Tuesday

UPDATE - THIS EVENT HAS BEEN CANCELLED. Come learn about the most hardy and disease resistant fruit trees for northeast Nebraska and how to prune them on Tuesday, March 17th in Concord.

Fruit Tree Pruning Workshop - Flyer

Summer internships available at LENRD

Do you know someone who is working towards a career in natural resources? Are they looking for a summer internship? Below is the job description and more information on how to apply. There will be at least 2 summer internships available with the district from May until August. Contact the LENRD with any questions at 402-371-7313 and ask for Brian.

Water Resources Internship

Citizen Advisory Meetings planned in the Bazile Groundwater Management Area

Three citizen advisory meetings have been scheduled in the Bazile Groundwater Management Area.  The goal of these meetings is to have everyone who lives, works or farm within the Bazile Groundwater Management Area that includes the communities of Brunswick, Bazile Mills, Creighton, Foster, Orchard, Osmond, Plainveiw, Royal, Wausa and Winnetoon.  These meetings are an opportunity to voice your opinion and concerns regarding the groundwater contamination issue.  The goal is to develop a group of citizens who are interested and committed to lead the work need to develop a solution. 

Meeting Locations and Dates

·         Orchard – Rex Theatre (223 Windom St) on March 10th 6:30-8:30 PM

·         Creighton – Creighton Golf Course (87190 Hwy 13) on March 17th 1:00-3:00 PM

·         Osmond – St. Mary’s Elementary School Basement (302 E 5th St) on March 19th 6:30-8:30 PM

Free nitrate testing will be available on site.  Bring a water sample in a small, clean bottle and determine the nitrate level in your well.

Refreshments and light snacks will be provided. Questions contact the Lower Elkhorn NRD 402-371-731.

Event Flyer

LENRD board approves funding to repair Wakefield levee

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) held their board meeting in the Niobrara Room at Wayne State College on Thursday, February 27th at 7:30 p.m.

The City of Wakefield requested financial assistance from the district to help fund the cost of repairs to their flood control levee which sustained significant damages during the March 2019 flood.

LENRD Projects Manager, Curt Becker, reported that the city’s request is 50% of the local costs to repair the levee.  He added, “Wakefield was not able to get fully funded for this project through the Corps of Engineers or through the Federal Emergency Management Agency, so they’re requesting our assistance on the local level.”

The City of Wakefield paid the Corps about $780,000 for its share of the cost of the repairs, which is approximately 20% of the total cost of the project.  The board voted to cost-share with Wakefield on the project for up to $390,000.

In other action, the board voted unanimously to approve the next phase of development for the district’s hydrogeologic groundwater model.  The LENRD was awarded a grant from the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NDNR) Water Sustainability Fund (WSF) to assist with 60% of the expenses associated with Phase 2B of development, which is a continuation of Phase 2A and is the final phase of the hydrogeologic groundwater model.

LENRD Assistant Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “The purpose of the next phase is to create the graphic user interface that will allow us to calculate different scenarios and ultimately see and evaluate the impacts that new water uses have on existing water users.  The model will give us the science-based tools we need to understand the resource and make better management decisions for the future of our district.”

The board has accepted an agreement with JEO Consulting Group for Phase 2B of the Groundwater Model for a total not to exceed $336,000.

The LENRD board & staff meet each month to develop and implement management plans to protect our natural resources for the future.  The next LENRD board meeting will be Thursday, March 26th at 7:30 p.m. at the LENRD office at 1508 Square Turn Boulevard in Norfolk.  Stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails.

Local Working Group meeting planned for March 12th

Local meetings open to individuals interested in setting natural resources goals for Nebraska:

A Local Working Group that provides advice on the priorities for many U.S. Department of Agriculture conservation programs will meet March 12, 2020 at 5:30 PM at the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District office in Norfolk.

The public is encouraged to attend and express their natural resource concerns.  Ideas generated from the public will help the U.S. Department of Agriculture tailor their natural resource programs to meet the needs identified locally. 

There is a Local Working Group in each Natural Resources District (NRD).  Membership on the Local Working Group includes Federal, State, county, Tribal or local government representatives according to Robin Sutherland District Conservationist for the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) whose agency guides the Local Working Group. 

“The Local Working Group recommends to the NRCS State Conservationist how conservation programs like the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), or Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) would be used most effectively in their area.  This recommendation can include special target areas, cost share rates on conservation programs, which conservation practices should have cost assistance, or how many dollars could be needed,” said Robin Sutherland.  This work group allows local input into how Federal dollars are spent, she said.

Typically Nebraska NRCS obligates anywhere between $45 million to over $75 million dollars to farmers and ranchers statewide through NRCS conservation programs.  These programs helped landowners and operators make natural resource improvements to their land, water, or wildlife.  This funding was allocated according to the priorities set by the Local Working Group.

For more information about the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the programs and services they provide, visit your local USDA Service Center or www.ne.nrcs.usda.gov

Maintenance internships available at our Recreation Areas

Do you know someone who is working towards a career in natural resources? Are they looking for a summer internship? Below is the job description and more information on how to apply for the Maintenance position. There will be at least 2 summer internships available with the district from May until August. Contact the LENRD with any questions at 402-371-7313 and ask for Patty.

Job Description

NRDs sign agreement with NRCS to continue conservation efforts

Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) collectively signed a Memorandum of Agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Jan. 28. This agreement is a renewal of a long-standing commitment between the NRDs and NRCS that reaches back to the Dust Bowl days.

“For more than 80 years Nebraska’s NRDs and the NRCS have been working side-by-side to provide natural resource management assistance to Nebraskans,” said David Eigenberg, Upper Big Blue NRD general manager. “We are committed to continuing our conservation efforts with NRCS to protect lives, property and the future.”

In 1935 President Roosevelt signed the Soil Conservation Act. The law was designed, “To provide for the protection of land resources against soil erosion, and for other purposes.”

A driving force behind the creation of the Soil Conservation Act was the severe drought that was occurring in the Great Plains. Beginning in 1932, persistent drought conditions caused widespread crop failures leaving soil exposed and vulnerable to wind. This period was prone to dust storms that would block out the sun.

The Soil Conservation Act formed the Soil Conservation Service, which today is called the Natural Resources Conservation Service. It didn’t take long for the newly-formed Soil Conservation Service to learn that they needed ways to extend conservation assistance to more farmers. There needed to be a locally-led approach, and the idea for the conservation district was born.

In 1937 the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) drafted the Standard State Soil Conservation Districts Law, which President Roosevelt sent to the governors of all states. This law created Soil and Water Conservation Districts.

In 1938 the Papio Soil Conservation District became the first conservation district in Nebraska. By 1972 the Nebraska Unicameral created the NRD system, which combined the responsibilities of the 154 special-use districts into a modern network of 23 Natural Resources Districts established along river basins.

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has 77 county offices in Nebraska divided into management areas that mimic NRD boundaries. This allows the NRD and NRCS staff to work together on the same, locally-identified natural resource concerns. Today, Nebraska’s unique NRD system of locally-controlled, tax-funded, watershed-based conservation is widely admired throughout the nation.

“The signing of this agreement is a symbol of our commitment to continue the legacy of our conservation partnership established more than 80 years ago,” said NRCS State Conservationist Craig Derickson. “It was true back in the Dust Bowl that the issues facing agriculture couldn’t be solved alone. That’s still true today. By working together, we are able to accomplish more for farmers and ranchers in Nebraska.”

“Through partnerships like this, we help Nebraska farmers and ranchers remain productive and profitable while ensuring our natural resources are protected for generations,” said Annette Sudbeck, Lewis & Clark NRD general manager.

Each of the 23 NRDs will sign an agreement with NRCS, which reinforces the partnership between the agencies and will be in effect until mutually modified or terminated.

For more information about Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts, visit www.nrdnet.org. To learn more about the programs and services available from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, visit www.ne.nrcs.usda.gov

PHOTO CREDIT: Sydney Norris, Twin Platte NRD

Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) sign a Memorandum of Agreement with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Jan. 28. The agreement is a renewal of a long-standing commitment between the NRDs and NRCS to protect and conserve Nebraska’s natural resources. Front row, from left: Lower Elkhorn NRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, shakes NRCS State Conservationist Craig Derickson’s hand after signing the agreement. Lower Elkhorn NRD Directors in the back row, from left to right: Roger Gustafson of Emerson; Scott McHenry of Norfolk; Dennis Schultz of Wisner; Joel Hansen of Wayne; Jerry Allemann of Wayne; and David Kathol of Norfolk.

LENRD board learns about the Northeast Nebraska Growing Together Initiative

In 2018, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) board of directors approved a motion to fund a portion of the riverfront development project to revitalize downtown Norfolk, paving the way for a brighter future for Northeast Nebraska.

At their January meeting, former state senator Mike Flood, and Norfolk mayor Josh Moenning updated the LENRD board on their $1 million investment to the riverfront project.  The two also summarized the goals of the Northeast Nebraska Growing Together initiative, explaining the history and future of population loss in the area and how to change the downward trend.  The Aksarben Foundation has organized and funded the initiative.

“It was a big commitment made by the board to join with the city to invest in this recreation project that is leading to new development and growth,” Moenning said.  Flood added, “It’s important that the city and the NRD are on the same page.  We’re all pulling in the same direction.”

Moenning said designs will be finalized for Johnson Park improvements, river restoration, and other downtown projects in the coming years.  Some projects, such as the River Point Square, will begin this year.

LENRD general manager Mike Sousek, said, “One of the 12 responsibilities of the NRDs is the development of recreational facilities.  The LENRD’s investment in the riverfront development project will work towards bringing more people back to the area and will compliment the efforts that will be made through the Growing Together initiative.  This is all part of the LENRD’s mission to improve the quality of life for the citizens of Northeast Nebraska.”

In other business, the board made a motion to direct staff to send non-compliance notification letters to well owners who have not yet submitted groundwater use reports (flow meter readings) for all active high-capacity wells.  The deadline to submit the reports to the LENRD is December 1st of each year.

The board also elected officers for 2020.  Pictured here are this year’s officers:  (back row, left to right)  Joel Hansen, Wayne, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) Alternate; Dennis Schultz, Wisner, Treasurer;  Matt Steffen, West Point, Secretary;  Scott McHenry, Norfolk, NARD Delegate.  Front row:  Gary Loftis, Craig, Chairman (left); and Kurt Janke, Wayne, Vice-Chairman.

The next LENRD board meeting will be Thursday, February 27th at 7:30 p.m. at Wayne State College.  Stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their email list on their website.

LENRD officers for 2020: (back row, left to right) Joel Hansen, Wayne, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) Alternate; Dennis Schultz, Wisner, Treasurer; Matt Steffen, West Point, Secretary; Scott McHenry, Norfolk, NARD Delegate. Front row: Gary Loftis, Craig, Chairman (left); and Kurt Janke, Wayne, Vice-Chairman.

The No-till, Cover Crop, and Planned Grazing Workshop is Feb. 12th

Join us for the Bazile Groundwater Management Area - No-till, Cover Crops, & Planned Grazing Systems Workshop. The meeting will be held at the Lifelong Learning Center on the campus of Northeast Community College in Norfolk on Wednesday, February 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Click below to see the full agenda. RSVP for the meal to the LENRD or your local NRCS office by February 4th. See you at the workshop!

NDEE extends deadline for the 2019 Clean Diesel Rebate Program

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s 2019 Clean Diesel Rebate Program has extended the deadline for applications for replacement of eligible diesel irrigation engines with all-electric equipment.  Applications must be submitted to the Department by February 21, 2020 to be considered.  This program is funded by the U.S. EPA Clean Diesel Program.

Diesel irrigation engines may be replaced with an electric motor to power a surface pump or by connecting an existing submersible pump directly to the electric grid.  The replaced diesel engine must be scrapped.  Replacement projects must be completed by August 30, 2020.

NDEE will reimburse 60% of the cost of the electrical equipment, installation, and required electric line extension up to a maximum rebate of $20,000.  Each applicant may apply to replace one diesel engine.

The Department anticipates funding seventeen irrigation engine rebates.  The rebate may be combined with a financial incentive from the electric utility to partially defray the cost of service line extension.  A rebate under this program cannot be combined with funds from any other federal grant program for replacement of the same engine.  No reimbursement will be made for any expenses incurred before notification of the rebate award and completion of a signed agreement with the Department.

Eligibility

• To be eligible, the existing diesel irrigation engine must have engine horsepower and model year within the ranges specified below:

Current Diesel Engine Horsepower

0-50 HP

51-300 HP

301+ HP

Current Engine Model Year and Emissions Tier

2006 and Newer, Unregulated – Tier 2

1996 and Newer, Tier 0 – Tier 3

1986 and Newer, Tier 0 – Tier 3

·         The diesel engine must be in operating condition and have historical operations of at least 250 hours annually.  A pre-replacement inspection may be made to verify the engine condition.

·         The diesel engine must have a legible serial number stamped into the block or listed on an engine data tag affixed to the engine.

Application

The application and instructions for this rebate program are available from the following web page:

http://deq.ne.gov/publica.nsf/pages/17-016.

Applications must be accompanied by one set of quotes for the replacement motor and/or electrical equipment, installation, and service line extension by the electric service supplier.

Applications must be submitted to NDEE by February 21, 2020 to be considered.

More information about the 2019 Clean Diesel Rebate Program can be found at the program website: http://deq.ne.gov/NDEQProg.nsf/OnWeb/NCDGP.

Questions can be directed to randy.smith@nebraska.gov, 402-471-4272