Health Alert issued for Willow Creek Reservoir in Pierce County

UPDATE: AS OF AUGUST 6, 2020, THE HEALTH ALERT FOR WILLOW CREEK HAS BEEN LIFTED. ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND!

The state has issued a health alert for Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB), also known as toxic blue-green algae, at the Willow Creek Reservoir in Pierce County.

Samples taken on July 13th were above the health alert threshold of 8 parts-per-billion (ppb) of total microcystin (a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae). This is a lower threshold than previous years, based on recommendations issued in 2019 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Previously, the State of Nebraska had set a limit of 20 ppb, but adopted the new limits after concluding that the new EPA threshold is based on the best scientific evidence available, and is protective of public health.

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert. Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water. Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics and other outdoor activities.

Weekly sampling has been conducted at 52 public lakes since mid-May. The lakes will continue to be monitored weekly through the end of September. Sampling results for HAB and bacteria will be updated every Friday and posted on NDEE’s website, http://dee.ne.gov. The state’s monitoring is conducted at public lakes with swimming beaches and high public activity. HAB may also be present in other lakes in Nebraska that are not tested, so the public is reminded to use caution if they see signs of algal blooms.

For more information about what to look for, potential health effects from HAB and steps to avoid exposure, please refer to the following Fact Sheet. To view the weekly data for the lakes sampled, go to https://deq-iis.ne.gov/zs/bw/.

Grant received to expand groundwater monitoring program in Pierce County

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) recently announced they will receive $8,750 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) for the “LENRD Establishment of Baseline Vadose Zone Sampling in Pierce County” project. This is the first year of award with a potential for 2nd year funding of an additional $8,750. The project is one of the 118 projects receiving $20,000,000 in grant awards from the NET this year. Of these, 73 were new applications and 45 are carry-over projects.

Within the LENRD, citizens rely on groundwater as the primary source of water for all uses. Maintaining a safe drinking water source is one of the most important priorities of the LENRD. This has been increasingly difficult within areas of Pierce County, as groundwater nitrate levels in many areas exceed the maximum contaminant level, and in some areas, continue to increase. This condition is well documented by over 40 years of groundwater sampling data that has been collected by the LENRD.

Through this project, the LENRD will expand its groundwater monitoring program by establishing baseline vadose zone nitrate data. Through the collection of a minimum of 11 cores spread throughout the area of Pierce County designated as the Phase 3 Groundwater Management Area, the LENRD will be able to determine the nitrate load moving through the soil profile, and will monitor the nitrate load in response to best management practices being implemented by producers. After establishing this baseline data-set, the LENRD intends to return to the sample location sites every 5 years for additional monitoring.

The Nebraska Legislature created the Nebraska Environmental Trust in 1992. Using revenue from the Nebraska Lottery, the Trust has provided over $328 million in grants to over 2,300 projects across the state. Anyone – citizens, organizations, communities, farmers and businesses – can apply for funding to protect habitat, improve water quality and establish recycling programs in Nebraska. The Nebraska Environmental Trust works to preserve, protect and restore our natural resources for future generations.

Vadose Zone sampling in the Bazile groundwater management area.

Proposals requested for Maple Creek Watershed Improvement Project

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) is requesting proposals from firms to complete the Development WFPO Watershed Plan – Environmental Assessment for the Maple Creek Watershed Improvement Project in Stanton, Platte, Cuming, Colfax, and Dodge Counties in Nebraska. Proposals for this project will be accepted at the LENRD office at 1508 Square Turn Boulevard, Norfolk, NE 68701 until Friday, July 31, 2020 @ 4:30 PM. The full request for proposals and the project scope are available by clicking the button below. Questions can be directed to Curt Becker, LENRD Projects Manager, at 402-371-7313.

Health Alert issued for the Maple Creek Recreation Area near Leigh

UPDATE: AS OF AUGUST 6, 2020, THE HEALTH ALERT FOR MAPLE CREEK HAS BEEN LIFTED. ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND!

The state has issued a health alert for Harmful Algal Blooms (HAB), also known as toxic blue-green algae, at the Maple Creek Recreation Area (MCRA) in Colfax County.

Samples taken on July 6th at the MCRA were above the health alert threshold of 8 parts-per-billion (ppb) of total microcystin (a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae). This is a lower threshold than previous years, based on recommendations issued in 2019 by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).  Previously, the State of Nebraska had set a limit of 20 ppb, but adopted the new limits after concluding that the new EPA threshold is based on the best scientific evidence available, and is protective of public health.

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert. Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to use caution and avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water. Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics and other outdoor activities.

Weekly sampling has been conducted at 52 public lakes since mid-May. The lakes will continue to be monitored weekly through the end of September. Sampling results for HAB and bacteria will be updated every Friday and posted on NDEE’s website, http://dee.ne.gov. The state’s monitoring is conducted at public lakes with swimming beaches and high public activity. HAB may also be present in other lakes in Nebraska that are not tested, so the public should use caution if they see signs of algal blooms.

For more information about what to look for, potential health effects from HAB and steps to avoid exposure, please refer to the following Fact Sheet. To view the weekly data for the lakes sampled, go to https://deq-iis.ne.gov/zs/bw/

Virtual Open House held for Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project Work Plan

Madison County, NE - More than 80 people attended the Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project Work Plan – Environmental Assessment (Plan-EA) virtual open house on Thursday, July 9, 2020. The meeting was hosted by the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and facilitated by JEO Consulting Group, the organization developing the plan.

During the meeting, attendees learned more about the Plan-EA, including background information on the Battle Creek Watershed, historical flooding issues, and the review process for possible alternatives. Those who missed the open house are encouraged to visit the LENRD’s website to view the recording.

Written comments for the Plan-EA will be accepted through Thursday, July 23, 2020 to JEO’s Adam Rupe at arupe@jeo.com or 402-435-3080. Comments can also be submitted to the JEO Lincoln office at 2700 Fletcher Avenue, Lincoln, NE, 68504.

Located in Madison County, the Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project’s purpose is to address flood prevention. The project will also look at the potential for incidental benefits if public recreation becomes a component. All proposed purposes and associated alternatives will be determined as the development of the Plan-EA progresses.

The Plan-EA is being prepared to fulfill National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) responsibilities pertaining to federal financial assistance received through the NRCS’s Watershed and Flood Prevention Operations (WFPO) Program and is scheduled to be finalized in 2021.

LENRD board votes to repair damages caused from flooding at Willow Creek

At their June board meeting, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors voted to repair the damages at the Willow Creek State Recreation Area (SRA) southwest of Pierce.  The 2019 flood caused an estimated $229,400 worth of damages to the recreation area.  The LENRD owns the property and is in a lease agreement with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission (NGPC) for the management of the area.  The NGPC is requesting assistance for only a portion of the damages that were not covered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).  The LENRD board agreed to pay 50%, up to $24,000, to repair the damaged fishing decks, lake crossing, fishing piers, and hiking/biking trail at the Willow Creek SRA.

In other action, the board approved the Interlocal Agreement with the City of Clarkson for their levee project.  The term of the agreement is 3 years and enables the LENRD to assist the City in obtaining accreditation by FEMA for their flood control levee.  Accreditation will show that the levee provides protection from a 100-year storm.

The board also approved the recommended changes to the Agroforestry Program, the water well decommissioning program, and the Conservation Cost-share Program.  The Agroforestry program will increase to a maximum payment per job/landowner to $20,000 per year for renovations or establishments.  The Conservation Cost-Share program will add variable rate irrigation systems.  The water well decommissioning program will also increase to a maximum payment per well to $1,000 for hand dug wells and $700 for all other wells.

The LENRD staff are working proactively with landowners and farm operators to achieve 100% compliance with the Phase 2 & 3 reporting forms in the Groundwater Management Areas.  The board directed staff to issue notices of violation, as deemed necessary, to the producers who have yet to submit their reports.

The board also directed staff to proceed with a NRCS Watershed Flood Prevention Operations (WFPO) application for the North Fork Elkhorn Watershed.  If approved, the funding would be used to evaluate potential flood prevention, watershed protection, and agricultural water management projects in the area which includes the communities of Plainview, Foster, Osmond, Wausa, McLean, and Pierce.

In other business, the board approved the 2020 Master Plan.  This plan is required by state statute every 10 years and includes updates and responses to the district’s goals and 12 responsibilities.

The board also approved the salary allowance adjustment of 1.483% and the step and grade changes for the staff for Fiscal Year 2021.

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, July 23rd at 7:30 p.m.  Watch for further updates and stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails.

Funding received for Maple Creek Watershed Plan

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) announced that five Natural Resources Districts in Nebraska received over $4.5 million in Watershed Flood Prevention and Operations (WFPO) funding. This funding will be directed towards developing watershed plans in the following NRDs:  the Upper Niobrara-White NRD in Chadron, the Middle Niobrara NRD in Valentine, the Central Platte NRD in Grand Island, the Lower Big Blue NRD in Beatrice, and the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) in Norfolk.

The LENRD received the WFPO funding to complete the Maple Creek Watershed Plan which will evaluate potential flood prevention, watershed protection, and agricultural water management projects.

Nebraska State Conservationist Craig Derickson said, “We look forward to working with these Natural Resources Districts on these new watershed projects. We saw how established watershed projects sprang into action last spring, following the bomb cyclone, reducing flood damages and protecting natural resources. These new projects plan to provide more benefits to more areas across Nebraska.”

LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “This plan aims to reduce overall flood risk potential and support the largely agricultural economy in the Maple Creek Watershed.  With the help of the WFPO funding, this project will surpass previous planning efforts by focusing on the entire area, where previous studies have been smaller in scope.”

Four communities are located within the Maple Creek Watershed:  Leigh, Clarkson, Howells, and Nickerson.  The communities and area farmland have a long history of flood damages resulting from large scale watershed discharges and rainfall events.  This plan will help to further define the need for potential flood reduction projects to protect the watershed.

Assistance is available to help producers with animal disposal

USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is offering financial and technical assistance to livestock producers for animal mortality disposal, resulting from impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Producers facing livestock depopulation are encouraged to file an Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) application (Form CPA-1200) with their local NRCS field office. Applications are being accepted now.

Emergency Animal Mortality Management Initiative

Nitrates in Nebraska

DID YOU KNOW THIS WEEK IS DRINKING WATER WEEK? WHAT'S IN YOUR WATER?
This professional project was written and edited by Jessica Fargen Walsh in 2019 when she she was a graduate assistant pursuing a master's degree in professional journalism at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Jessica interviewed at least 60 people including farmers, townspeople, village water operators, mayors, business owners, researchers, natural resources district managers, and a mother of a child who had cancer. She drove more than 1,600 miles, and visited more than a dozen towns and cities. She wanted to tell the story of the impact of nitrate contamination from all points of view in the hopes of creating awareness. It's a problem that people are trying to fix, but is not really getting better. The site was published in December 2019 and updated in April 2020. She wants more people to ask themselves: What's in my water?

LENRD board approves Hazard Mitigation Plan

Proactive hazard mitigation planning allows a community to take actions to reduce or eliminate threats from natural disasters. To help guide future hazard mitigation projects, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) has updated their Hazard Mitigation Plan and approved it at their April board meeting.

When developing the plan, the LENRD’s 15-counties were guided by a Planning Team consisting of representatives from the LENRD, counties, cities, several schools, and the Nebraska Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).  According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), for every $1 spent on hazard mitigation, $4 in post storm cleanup and rebuilding is saved.

LENRD Projects Manager, Curt Becker, said, “Once a community, county, or district is part of an approved plan they become eligible for up to a 75% cost share for a wide variety of projects listed in the plan. Hazard Mitigation Plans are required to be updated on a five-year cycle.”

JEO Consulting Group, Inc. (JEO) was hired to update the plan.  JEO assisted in completing the LENRD’s original and previous plans in 2009 and 2014.  This hazard mitigation plan update is funded by a FEMA planning grant.  The cost is shared 75% through federal funding and 25% through a local match.  For this plan update, the LENRD provided the 25% local match.

In other business, the board approved a payment request from the City of Randolph for $834,723 for their flood risk management project.  The board signed an inter-local agreement with the city in 2017.  This payment request will assist with Phase 1 of the project and will keep the project moving forward.  The entire project includes the widening of the channel and the replacement of several bridges through the city.

The board also approved the Urban Recreation Area Development and Urban Conservation Program applications for a total of $89,551.58.  The 4 approved grants will assist the communities of Madison, Norfolk, and Randolph with their outdoor recreation projects.  Becker said, “The applications for these grants are sent to the communities within the LENRD each year with an early March deadline.”

The board also voted to authorize staff to proceed with the handicapped sidewalk project at Maskenthine Lake.  This will complete the sidewalks near the jetties and the boat dock.  The bid was accepted from Gates Construction, LLC for $12,669.

In other action, the board approved the producer contracts for the Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) demonstration site for groundwater nitrate reduction.  This project will consist of 3 demonstration sites on farms within the BGMA through a Nebraska Environmental Trust grant.

The board also approved to continue the operation, maintenance, and coordination of the Nebraska GeoCloud platform.  LENRD Assistant Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “The GeoCloud platform hosts the statewide Airborne Electromagnetic Survey (AEM) data and the supporting datasets that allows for the sharing of this data with the public through the Eastern Nebraska Water Resources Assessment (ENWRA) website.”

A presentation was given by Charles Ikenberry, an engineer with FYRA Engineering, on potential ways to reduce the toxic algae in the Willow Creek State Recreation Area, southwest of Pierce.  He proposed a multi-phase approach to the study of the phosphorus build up in the lake to determine what could potentially be done to combat the issue.  LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “This is an introduction to a project that could potentially help us to further understand the complexity of this issue and assist us in developing a plan to protect the water quality in the lake and the surrounding area.”

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, May 28th at 7:30 p.m.

LENRD plants 375 trees at the City of Norfolk's well field

On Monday, April 20th, staff from the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD), planted 375 trees and shrubs at the City of Norfolk’s well field, west of Norfolk.  The planting is a partnership between the two agencies during the 2,020 trees in 2020 campaign. Black Hills Spruce trees and American Plums were planted at the well field, adding to the trees that were planted by the LENRD and the Nebraska Forest Service in previous years.

Todd Stewart, LENRD Natural Resources Technician, said, “We’re happy to plant more trees out here at the well field.  Trees are natural oxygen producers.  Being surrounded by trees can have a beneficial effect on the mind, boosting overall mental health.  Trees also provide shelter and homes for animals, they protect our soil from erosion, and can even help to lower heating and cooling costs.  I love the way that trees can make some of our ‘not so nice’ weather bearable.”

Mayor Josh Moenning, said, “Trees provide many benefits, not only for us, but for the future.  Our partnership with the Lower Elkhorn NRD remains strong as we continue to grow northeast Nebraska.”

Todd Stewart, LENRD Natural Resources Technician, and LENRD Interns, Erika Hinz and Dillon Hupp, are checking on one of the Black Hills Spruce trees, holding up their fingers to represent the 375 trees they planted.

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

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.

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.

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