The LENRD has programs to promote conservation efforts in both rural and urban areas. In previous Fiscal Years, the Lower Elkhorn NRD cost share program cooperated with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) technical assistance to construct terrace systems including waterways and tile outlets, sediment basins, dams, and planned grazing systems. Incentives were offered to promote improvements on CRP lands, and participation in the federal Environmental Quality Improvement Program (EQIP).
Individuals and Businesses
Public Entities
Conservation Cost Share Program and Lands for Conservation FY '25
State Funded Incentive Programs
Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) Program
With funding provided by the Nebraska Corn Board and in partnership with the Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment (DWEE) is administering the Nebraska Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) Program. The purpose of this program is to encourage Nebraska corn producers to improve NUE in their corn fields. Participants are incentivized to achieve a NUE of 1.0 or under, for the 2026 crop as described below. Improving NUE can deliver meaningful economic and environmental benefits without sacrificing productivity. The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District will be prioritizing applications by date/time received by the District.