LENRD board votes to begin new irrigated acre sign-up on October 1st

At their August meeting, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors voted to establish a sign-up period to receive applications for Standard Variances, for new irrigated acres, between October 1st, 2020 and October 31st, 2020.

LENRD Assistant Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “Geographic portions of the district that are eligible to be considered for standard variances are areas that fall within the top three categories of the classification map.  A map of the eligible locations will be available at the LENRD office in Norfolk by Friday, September 4th.”

Excluded from consideration for this sign-up period will be any parcel of land located in any Quantity Management Subarea or Phase 3 Area located within the LENRD.  Applications will be available online and at the office beginning October 1st.

After discussing the drought conditions across the district, the board authorized an additional two acre-inches per acre for any irrigation well subject to an Annual Groundwater Allocation in the LENRD Quantity Management Subareas, for the establishment of cover crops this fall.

In other action, the board instructed staff to provide a letter of support as part of a grant application to the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) for the establishment of a UNL Testing Ag Performance Solutions (TAPS) demonstration site within the Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA), and to devote up to $1,000 in financial assistance to the effort, contingent on approval of the grant request.  The demonstration sites recruit local producers who select from a menu of management decisions intended to help maximize input use efficiency.

Earlier this summer, the LENRD received Watershed Flood Prevention and Operations (WFPO) funding from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to complete the Maple Creek Watershed Plan which will evaluate potential flood prevention, watershed protection, and agricultural water management projects.  The board voted to sign a contract with FYRA Engineering, LLC to complete the Maple Creek WFPO Plan and Environmental Assessment.

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.”  He added, “We are looking forward to working with FYRA to further define the need for potential flood reduction projects to protect the watershed.”  Four communities are located within the Maple Creek Watershed:  Leigh, Clarkson, Howells, and Nickerson.

The board also voted to work with a landowner in Stanton County to obtain a well permit for an illegal well.  If all required documentation is provided, staff will issue the permit, but the cease and desist order shall remain in place for 5 years, expiring on July 25, 2025.  The 5-year limitation is consistent with the LENRD’s past enforcement of rule violations.

In other business, the board voted to approve the updates to the average cost dockets for the Agroforestry and Conservation Cost-share Programs as recommended by the staff.  They also voted to hold their fiscal year Budget Hearing at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, September 10th at the LENRD office in Norfolk.

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, September 24th at 7:30 p.m.  Watch for further updates and stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails.

Lower Elkhorn NRD receives technical assistance grant for Pierce County

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD), serving all or parts of 15 counties in northeast Nebraska, was recently awarded a technical assistance grant from the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD).

This is the third year of the NACD technical assistance grant program, which was created with funds from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to help increase staffing at the field level and provide conservation services to farmers, ranchers and local communities across the U.S.

The NACD grant will be utilized to pay 80% of the wages and benefits for a Conservation Planner, and the LENRD will contribute the remaining 20%.  The Conservation Planner will be housed in the Pierce County NRCS office in Pierce.

Much of Pierce County has issues with high groundwater nitrate levels, with most of the county in the LENRD's Phase 2 or Phase 3 area.  These areas are subject to increased regulation due to the high groundwater nitrate levels.  The LENRD and NRCS currently are targeting Pierce County as they promote Best Management Practices (BMPs) that would aid in decreasing nitrate levels.

LENRD Assistant Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “To deal with the increased workload and to successfully achieve the goals of the NRCS, an additional conservation planner is needed.  This employee will provide vital assistance in promoting and creating nutrient management plans and irrigation water management plans.  The planner will primarily focus on nutrient management and irrigation water management, but they will also assist with other BMPs that promote water quality and soil health and provide necessary assistance in getting BMPs on the ground.”

“Since 2018, NACD and NRCS have worked together to increase staffing at the field level for conservation districts,” NACD President Tim Palmer said. “This increased technical capacity helps to improve conservation services to farmers, ranchers and local communities across the nation.”

To date in 2020, NACD and NRCS have awarded $15 million in technical assistance grants. Since the program’s inception, NACD has funded technical assistance in all 50 states and three U.S. territories.

“Even in this time of a national emergency, farmers and ranchers have conservation concerns that need to be addressed,” Palmer said. “NACD is proud to provide funding to America’s conservation districts and allow for more boots on the ground, providing our growers with support for their individual landscapes and resource concerns.”

The National Association of Conservation Districts is the non-profit organization that represents the nation’s 3,000 conservation districts, their state associations and the 17,000 men and women who serve on their governing boards. For more than 70 years, local conservation districts have worked with cooperating landowners and managers of private working lands to help them plan and apply effective conservation practices. For more information about NACD, visit: www.nacdnet.org

10-County Scrap Tire Collection is August 28th

A free scrap tire collection will be held for residents and businesses in Burt, Colfax, Cuming, Dakota, Dodge, Douglas, Sarpy, Stanton, Thurston and Washington counties. The Lower Elkhorn NRD, Papio Missouri River NRD, and Nebraska Loess Hills RC&D Council have organized the collection for Friday, August 28, 2020 from 8:00 a.m. until 12-noon at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Scribner, NE. The fairgrounds are located west of Hwy 275 at 201 Fairacres Road. Tires will NOT be accepted from businesses that charge tire disposal fees.

Loads must enter from Fairacres Road. Follow the “Recycling Event” signs to the east fairground entrance on Fairacres Road. Each load is limited to 100 tires. Loads with less than 20 tires may have a shorter wait time during the last 90 minutes of the collection. All sizes of car, truck, semi and tractor tires will be accepted.  No rims will be accepted so ALL tires must be off rim.  Tires cannot be accepted from any business which charges a tire disposal fee.  Do not leave vehicles unattended in line. Limited unloading help will be available, so plan to unload your own. Be sure to arrive before the gates are locked at 12:00 p.m.

Champlin Tire Recycling will process the tires collected during the event.  This processing includes repair and retread of salvageable casings, reclamation of tires meeting used tire specifications and the production of park benches, picnic tables and feed bunks. Funding for this free collection is provided through a grant from the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy. For more information please contact Deborah Ward at the Papio Missouri River NRD (402) 374-1920 ext. 3.

"Stars, Strolls, & S'mores" held Wednesday at Maskenthine Lake

The Norfolk area is full of opportunities to explore nature.  The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD), and the Norfolk Area Visitors Bureau want to help you discover your area trails, lakes, and wild places while highlighting the unique opportunities nighttime offers with their Moon Walk event, “Stars, Strolls & S’mores.”

Traci Jeffrey, Director of the Norfolk Area Visitors Bureau, said, “The purpose of the moon walk is to provide a family-oriented activity that introduces the cultural and natural history of our area trails and lakes.”

The Moon Walks are held on Wednesday evenings close to the full moon and begin at 7:30 p.m. Most Moon Walks last for 1-2 hours.  Each Moon Walk starts with a short introduction of that evening’s program, followed by a stroll to the designated presentations, and then wraps up with s’mores around the campfire.

The August moon walk was held on Wednesday, August 5th at Maskenthine Lake, north of Stanton.  Presentations were given by Rachel Liester with Red Road Herbs, Jamie Bachmann with Northern Prairie Land Trust, and Recreation Area Superintendent Leonard Boryca. They gave educational sessions on trees, herbs, cicadas, Maskenthine and more!

LENRD Information & Education Specialist, Julie Wragge, said “This is the final event of the season, but we have lots of fun gatherings planned for next summer! Follow our Facebook page to learn more and mark your calendars for next year’s events!”

LENRD board continues partnership with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

At their July meeting, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors voted to approve an amendment to the Interlocal Agreement with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) for the operation and maintenance of the Willow Creek State Recreation Area (SRA), southwest of Pierce.  The amendment will provide for an annual payment of $10,000 to the NGPC to fund employees of the Commission to complete tasks previously performed by employees of the district.

The district’s partnership with the NGPC has been ongoing since the SRA opened to the public in 1984.  The LENRD owns the property and is in a lease agreement with the NGPC for the management of the area.  The flood control structure protects the City of Pierce and downstream landowners to just north of Norfolk.  The SRA covers 1,633 acres, including a 700-acre reservoir, offering camping, fishing, boating, and more.

The LENRD board is also gathering more information and potential ways to reduce the toxic algae and improve water quality in the lake at the SRA.  In May, the board signed a contract with FYRA Engineering to study the internal phosphorus loading within the Willow Creek reservoir.  LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “This is an introduction to a project that can 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 first step in the process involves the collection and analysis of core soil samples.

In other action, the board voted to help with the expenses of the 2020 Scrap Tire Collection at the Dodge County Fairgrounds in Scribner.  The funds will be used for any expenses that are not covered by the Waste Reduction & Recycling Incentive Grant.  The amount will be split 50-50 with the Papio-Missouri River NRD, not to exceed $10,000 of LENRD funds.  The collection will be held in late August.

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, August 27th at 7:30 p.m.  Watch for further updates and stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails.

Was your operation impacted by the Coronavirus Pandemic?

Apply for the Coronavirus Food Assistance Program Today

By Nancy Johner, State Executive Director in Nebraska, USDA Farm Service Agency

Farmers and ranchers feed our state, our nation, and in fact, our world. You work long hours to provide essential resources for us all, and in these challenging times, I want you to know that USDA is here to support you and your operation through our Coronavirus Food Assistance Program, or CFAP. Whether you farm one acre or many more, grow food for local markets or big supply chains, CFAP can help. We’re accepting applications through August 28 and encouraging producers to apply now.

In Nebraska, we have already approved 25,813 applications and disbursed $460,103,800 as of July 20. I know many of you have applied for CFAP already, but the numbers indicate that some who are eligible have not. If you’re still unsure about CFAP and your operation, I encourage you to take five minutes today to visit farmers.gov/cfap or call 877-508-8364 to learn about eligibility and options to apply. Whether you’ve worked with FSA for years or this will be a first, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

CFAP provides direct relief to producers who faced price declines and additional marketing costs due to COVID-19. A range of commodities are eligible for CFAP, and in Nebraska includes corn, soybeans, sorghum, millet, cattle, hogs, dairy, sheep and wool, among a few others. You can access the full list of eligible non-specialty, specialty, livestock, dairy, and wool commodities by visiting farmers.gov/cfap.

We know you’re busy, so we’ve outlined options to apply at the top of farmers.gov/cfap website. We offer a CFAP Application Portal where those of you with eAuthentication accounts can submit your application online. Don’t have an eAuthentication account? You can enroll at farmers.gov/sign-in. We also offer a manual application option, and a CFAP Application Generator and Payment Calculator that allows you to input information specific to your operation to determine estimated payments and populate the application form. You can then work with your local FSA office to submit the completed application. You can apply now for the commodities that are currently eligible, and if any other commodities you produce are added to the program, we will happily amend your application.

If you have questions, please let us know. You can call our CFAP Call Center for one-on-one support with the CFAP application process. Call 877-508-8364 to speak directly with a USDA employee ready to offer personalized assistance. And, as always, the FSA office at your local USDA Service Center is also there to help you prepare your application.

Farmers and ranchers continue to be the backbone of our nation. I know Nebraska’s agricultural producers are facing unprecedented challenges with the coronavirus pandemic, and I want to make sure we at USDA are doing all we can to provide critical support. We thank our farmers and ranchers, and we encourage you to apply for CFAP today.

Bazile Groundwater Management Area receives grant from Nebraska Environmental Trust

The Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) announced recently that they will receive $209,500 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) for year two of the “Development of Research and Demonstration Sites in the BGMA for Groundwater Nitrate Reduction” project.  The project is one of the 118 projects receiving $20,000,000 in grant awards from the Nebraska Environmental Trust this year.

Located in northeastern Nebraska, the BGMA was formed collaboratively between the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, the Upper Elkhorn Natural Resources District, the Lower Niobrara Natural Resources District, the Lewis and Clark Natural Resources District, and the Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) to address high nitrate levels in the area. Since its formation in 2013, the BGMA has been dedicated to increasing education of agricultural producers and increasing the implementation of best management practices. To further this effort, the BGMA has partnered with the Nebraska Extension and the Nebraska Water Center, part of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska, to design the proposed project. This project will develop three advanced nitrogen and water management research and demonstration sites, conduct annual field days and educational meetings, and provide an analysis of the success of various water and nitrogen application methods utilized. Through innovative education and demonstration, this project will encourage widespread adoption of improved practices, positively impacting ground and surface water quality and soil management. This project is a vital step forward in stabilizing, and eventually reducing, nitrate levels within the BGMA as experts in natural resources management, with the help of NET, target this serious issue.

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.

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.

"Stars, Strolls, & S'mores" events to be held in July and August

The Norfolk area is full of opportunities to explore the nature of Nebraska.  The Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, and the Norfolk Area Visitors Bureau want to help you discover your area trails, lakes, and wild places while highlighting the unique opportunities nighttime offers with their Moon Walk event, “Stars, Strolls & S’mores.”

Traci Jeffrey, Director of the Norfolk Area Visitors Bureau, said, “The purpose of the moon walk is to provide a family-oriented activity that introduces the cultural and natural history of our area trails and lakes.”

The Moon Walks are held on Wednesday evenings close to the full moon and begin at 7:30 p.m. Most Moon Walks last for 1-2 hours.  Each Moon Walk starts with a short introduction of that evening’s program, followed by a stroll to the designated presentations.

The July event will be held on Wednesday, July 8th at Verges Park in Norfolk.  Presentations will include Birds, Caves, Monarchs and Migration.

The August moon walk will be Wednesday, August 5th at Maskenthine Lake, north of Stanton.  Presentations will include Mothing and Owls.

Julie Wragge, LENRD Information & Education Specialist, said, “The evening usually wraps up with s’mores around the campfire.  However, due to COVID-19, there will not be a campfire, but a ‘take home’ snack instead.  We’re very sorry for the change and we hope to have the campfires back next year.”

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines will be followed, and the events will be limited to the first 75 people.

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.

Open House to be held July 9th for the Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project

JEO Consulting Group Inc. will facilitate a public Open House regarding the Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project Work Plan - Environmental Assessment (Plan-EA).  The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) is partnering with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to complete the work plan.  The Open House will be held virtually through Zoom on July 9, 2020, from 5:00 - 6:30 p.m.  All are welcome.  The meeting will be recorded and a link to the recording will be posted on the LENRD’s website the following day.

The Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project, located in Madison County, is a potential project with purposes relating to flood prevention, watershed protection, agricultural water management, and public recreation.  The proposed purposes and associated alternatives will be determined as the development of the Plan-EA progresses.  During the July 9th meeting, attendees will be able to learn more about the Plan-EA from project personnel, as well as ask questions and provide feedback.  Written comment will be accepted for up to 14 days after the meeting.

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.  Part of this project includes an evaluation of environmental resources and impact considerations, and all information gathered during the public meeting will help guide the planning process.

The Battle Creek Watershed Improvement Project Plan-EA is scheduled to be finalized in 2021, and the LENRD has retained JEO Consulting Group to assist in developing the plan.

Any written comments or requests regarding the project should be submitted to Adam Rupe with JEO 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.

Meeting ID: 891 3254 9860, Password: 692495

LENRD receives grant for interpretive learning signs on the Cowboy Trail

Are you looking for a fun way to get out and enjoy a warm summer day? Have you been to the Cowboy Trail? This week we installed 6 interpretive learning signs to help make your time on the trail more enjoyable and fun for groups of all ages!

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) partnered with the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission on this project and received a grant to develop the signs through the Watchable Wildlife Grant Program. The signs are located along the 2.2 miles of paved trail (managed by the LENRD) heading west from the trailhead in Norfolk’s Ta-Ha-Zouka Park.

LENRD Information & Education Specialist, Julie Wragge, said, “These signs are a great way to learn more about your natural resources as you walk along the Cowboy Trail just west of Ta-Ha-Zouka Park. The interpretive learning signs are designed to help people understand, appreciate, and emotionally connect with their surroundings.”

The signs include popular topics addressing animal signs left behind, watchable wildlife, river life, Nebraska water, riparian woods, and pollinators. Wragge added, “We hope you stop to look, listen, and learn about our natural resources the next time you’re on the trail!”

Minutes after installing this sign, these 2 girls immediately stopped to check it out!

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.

LENRD scholarships awarded to area graduates

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) recently awarded four scholarships to area graduates.  The $500 scholarships are given to graduating High School Seniors within the district who are planning to further their education in a natural resources or agriculture related field.

To be eligible for a scholarship the student must be a graduating high school senior who resides or whose family owns land within the LENRD boundaries.  The student must have an overall grade point average of a 2.0, or higher, on a 4.0 scale.  The student must also attend an accredited college, community college or vocational school the semester following graduation.

The four graduates selected to receive scholarships in 2020 are:  Casey Doernemann of Dodge, Madeline Huwaldt of Osmond, Garret Kroupa of Pierce, and Mikayla Martensen of Humphrey.

Casey Doernemann is a graduate of Guardian Angels Central Catholic in West Point.  He plans to attend the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and major in Agri-Business.  Casey is the son of Jim and Lynda Doernemann of Dodge.

Madeline Huwaldt is a graduate of Osmond High School.  She plans to attend South Dakota State University and major in Agricultural Communications.  Madeline is the daughter of Brad and Marla Huwaldt of Osmond.

Garret Kroupa is a graduate of Pierce High School.  He plans to attend Northeast Community College and major in Diversified Agriculture.  Garret is the son of Mike and Lanette Kroupa of Pierce.

Mikayla Martensen is a graduate of Humphrey High School.  She plans to attend Northwest Missouri State University and major in Agricultural Education.  Mikayla is the daughter of Jeff and Jennifer Martensen of Humphrey.

LENRD Information & Education Specialist, Julie Wragge, said, “The LENRD board and staff would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our scholarship winners and thank all students who took the time to apply.  We’re happy to support you in your future endeavors and we encourage you to remember how important the protection of our natural resources is for our future.  Good luck to all of you!”

Lower Elkhorn NRD to restore tent camping this weekend

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) will open tent camping at their recreation areas beginning Thursday, June 4.  All previous temporary restrictions on recreational vehicle and tent camping will be removed.  Designated beaches and swimming areas and all restrooms and shower houses will also open on June 4.

LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “There’s high demand for outdoor recreation, and we’re happy to restore more opportunities at our recreation areas.  All campsites at Maskenthine and Maple Creek will now be available to all camping units, including RVs, camping trailers and tents.”

He continued, “We appreciate everyone’s patience and remind everyone to practice social distancing to ensure compliance with the state’s Directed Health Measures for COVID-19 as we continue to work to protect the health of the public and our staff.”

The following measures will go into effect June 4:

• All campsites remain on a first-come, first-served basis.

• To provide for more opportunity for campers, the maximum length of stay will be seven days.

• Shower houses and restrooms will open. Guests should bring their own disinfecting wipes to sanitize before and after using the facility.  Staff will also have increased cleaning rotations.

• Outdoor playgrounds and picnic shelters will open.  Guests should bring their own hand sanitizer.

• Designated beaches and designated swimming areas will open.  Do not congregate in the beach area.

Those visiting parks should follow these guidelines to recreate responsibly:

• Maintain a 6-foot distance between yourself and other guests.

• Engage in recreational activities only with members of your household.

• Stick to low-risk activities to reduce stress on local emergency response and health care systems.

• Pack and use hand sanitizer often.

• Avoid high-touch areas. Clean public use surfaces, such as boat dock handrails, with disinfecting wipes prior to use.

• If boating, do not congregate at boat ramps, boat docks, or beach areas.

• If you are sick or have been exposed to someone who is sick with COVID-19, stay home.

Sousek added, “Please continue to recreate responsibly.  Be safe and enjoy your summer.”

Recreation Areas

LENRD board supports funding to restore and establish tree windbreaks

At their May board meeting, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors signed a letter of support to apply for grant funding to restore and establish tree windbreaks across the district.  The Nebraska Forest Service is applying for the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP) grant with the USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service and has requested the LENRD’s support.  If this RCPP proposal is selected for funding, the LENRD would provide $300,000 through the Nebraska Forest Restoration Partnership over the next five years as a match for the grant.  This match would be a reduction in the current tree cost-share budget.  In return, additional funds and technical assistance would be made available to the LENRD.  LENRD Natural Resources Technician, Todd Stewart, said, “This grant would allow further opportunities to expand our current programs and develop more windbreaks across northeast Nebraska.  I’m excited for the opportunity to work with area landowners to accomplish this.”

In other action, the board approved a contract with HDR to create a Board of Consultants to perform a peer review of the Willow Creek Dam Underseepage Study.  Through this process, experts in the field will review the study to determine which action to take to further secure the dam, located southwest of Pierce.  The two options proposed include a relief well system or a seepage berm as potential mitigation measures for the elevated piezometric pressures on the dam.  The board also voted to sign a contract with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to reimburse 50% or the LENRD’s costs paid to HDR for the review.

The board is also looking to gather more information and potential ways to reduce the toxic algae and improve water quality in the lake at the Willow Creek State Recreation Area.  The board voted to sign a contract with FYRA Engineering to study the internal phosphorus loading within the Willow Creek reservoir.  LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “This is a multi-phase approach to determine what could potentially be done to combat the issue.”  The board voted 9 to 5 to begin with the first step in the process which involves the collection and analysis of core soil samples.

The board also approved an interlocal agreement for up to $1.7 million with the City of West Point for their levee project.  The agreement was set to expire in June and needed to be updated.  Work on the project will begin in 2021.  This project will protect the City of West Point from flood waters and bring the levee into compliance with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) standards.

In other business, the board voted to apply for a technical assistance grant through the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD).  The LENRD would provide $15,580 for one year to support hiring a full-time employee stationed in the Pierce NRCS office.  This individual would be working on nutrient management plans and irrigation water management in Pierce County.

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, June 25th at 7:30 p.m.  Watch for further updates and stay connected with the LENRD by subscribing to their monthly emails.