The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) has an opening for a Grant Coordinator. Candidate should possess social, organizational and teamwork skills; have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office and the ability to handle multiple tasks. Excellent benefit package. Review of resumes to begin August 25, 2021. Send to: LENRD, 1508 Square Turn Boulevard, Norfolk, NE 68701.
One of the responsibilities of the NRDs is the development, management, utilization, and conservation of groundwater. The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) monitors the quality and quantity of our groundwater annually. This monitoring program has provided evidence that nitrate concentrations are continuing to increase in some areas. Most recently, the data indicates elevated concentrations of nitrate in portions of Cuming, Colfax, and Dodge Counties, reaching levels that could pose health threats to humans and the environment. It’s during these times when the LENRD board members are put in tough situations, dealing with resources that are shared among all citizens.
At their monthly committee meeting, the LENRD board of directors discussed a proposed resolution that would reaffirm their commitment to water quality management.
Mike Sousek, LENRD General Manager, said, “This resolution reaffirms the board’s commitment to the management of our natural resources and the importance of local control. We are accountable for carrying out the responsibilities given to us by the Legislature.”
State Senator Tim Gragert of Creighton, representing District 40, addressed the board about the resolution and his personal commitment to the protection of our natural resources. Senator Gragert said, “Water is the most important resource we have on this planet, it’s even more important than oil. This resolution is an acknowledgement to the citizens of this district that you’re committed to protecting our natural resources. We are fortunate to have this unique NRD system in Nebraska and I support local control 100%.”
He continued, “By increasing healthy soils, we can increase the quality of our water. Soil health is a win, win, win - a win for producers, a win for consumers, and a win for the environment.” He added, “We have a nitrate problem. We are past the point of being proactive, we are now in the reactive mode.”
Senator Gragert presented his own resolution at the meeting. He said, “I support your resolution and I hope it gets passed. I want to work with you guys, but I will take this resolution to the Legislature myself, if I have to.”
A high concentration of nitrate in drinking water is being linked to adverse health risks, such as: colorectal cancer, thyroid cancer, stomach and kidney cancer, ovarian cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Alzheimer’s, Diabetes, and Parkinson’s Disease.
Birth defects in Nebraska are on the rise, and within the LENRD evidence indicates that these health implications are increasing at a faster rate than the rest of the state. Health researchers are also gaining additional insight on the potential link between nitrate contamination in drinking water and Nebraska’s high rate of pediatric cancer. A study out of the University of Nebraska Medical Center has found that counties with groundwater nitrate concentrations between 2.1 and 5 mg/L have higher incidence of pediatric brain cancer, leukemia, and lymphoma.
The LENRD has evidence of multiple townships within its boundaries with average concentrations of nitrate over 10 ppm.
Sousek said, “As the growing body of science on the potential risks expand, the discovery of areas with elevated concentrations of nitrate becomes even more concerning. The long-term implications demand our attention.”
He continued, “This resolution simply states that we’re here to protect our natural resources and we’re up for the challenges ahead. We care about local control, we care about water quality, we care about human health.”
To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, August 26th at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.
LINCOLN, Nebraska – On July 28, students from Esopus, New York, took the top prize of $15,000 at the 2021 National Conservation Foundation (NCF)-Envirothon, an international environmental and natural resources education competition for high schoolers.
“I’d like to congratulate New York and all of the teams for their hard work and dedication,” said NCF Chair Brent Van Dyke. “Their knowledge about environmental and natural resources issues, as well as their commitment to these areas, have shown me that the future of conservation is in good hands.”
Due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions and health concerns, the annual NCF-Envirothon competition was held virtually, a first for the Envirothon program, and 41 teams across the U.S., Canada and China participated. The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) hosted the competition July 25-28, and students demonstrated their knowledge of soils and land use, aquatic ecology, forestry and wildlife management. The teams also prepared oral presentations on this year’s current issue, “Water Resources Management: Local Control, Local Solutions."
“We enjoyed showcasing our state’s one-of-kind natural resources management system that relies on locally elected boards making decisions on their unique issues,” said Jim Eschliman, NARD president. “I continue to be impressed with students and their ability to problem-solve some of our biggest environmental challenges.”
The winning NCF-Envirothon teams are awarded scholarships and prizes, with the top three scoring teams receiving $30,000 in scholarships thanks to the support of Smithfield Foods, Inc. The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts Foundation awarded a total of $13,000 for fourth through seventh places and a donation from the Conservation Districts of Iowa provided awards for eighth through tenth place.
The top 10 teams include:
New York - Esopus, New York
North Carolina - Denton, North Carolina
South Carolina - Spartanburg, South Carolina
Massachusetts - Groton, Massachusetts
Florida - Miami, Florida
New Mexico - Truth or Consequences, New Mexico
Pennsylvania - Brodheadsville, Pennsylvania
Ontario - Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Maryland - Rockville, Maryland
Manitoba - Swan River, Manitoba, Canada
A complete list of awards can be found at www.envirothon.org.
“This year marked the 32nd annual Envirothon competition and was the most innovative to date,” said NCF-Envirothon Program Manager Jennifer Brooks. “The Envirothon program continues to challenge, inspire and empower high school students to pursue environmental, conservation and natural resources-related fields.”
Next year’s NCF-Envirothon will be hosted by the Ohio Federation of Soil and Water Conservation Districts at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, July 24-30, 2022. The 2022 current environmental issue will be “Waste to Resources.”
###
The mission of the National Conservation Foundation (NCF) is to identify and advance strategic programs and partnerships to deliver conservation solutions through locally led conservation and to develop the next generation of conservation leaders. Learn more at www.nacdnet.org/national-conservation-foundation.
The NCF-Envirothon is a hands-on environmental and natural resources problem-solving competition that builds leadership skills for high school students, grades 9-12 (ages 14-19), in the United States, Canada and China. The program educates future stewards, promotes E-STEM (environment, science, technology, engineering and math) education, creates community awareness and fosters appreciation and respect for the natural world. NCF-Envirothon is a program of the National Conservation Foundation (NCF), a 501(c)3 organization, and supported by the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD). As sister organizations, the NCF and NACD share a common mission of locally led conservation with the NCF focused on developing the next generation of conservation leaders. Learn more at www.envirothon.org.
Envirothon_54: Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts hosted the virtual 2021 NCF-Envirothon. On Tuesday, July 27 – Oral Presentation Day – 65+ volunteers coordinated and judged 41 natural resources presentations on Zoom at Nebraska Innovation Campus.
Nebraska’s farmers are growing more with less water and fewer chemicals than ever before. And yet, we still struggle with the quality of our water in some areas.
Nitrate levels in Nebraska’s groundwater are on the rise, especially in portions of northeast Nebraska. The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) has analyzed the nitrate data gathered from their Groundwater Quality Sampling Program and have found some troubling trends across their 15-county district.
LENRD General Manger, Mike Sousek, said, “An evaluation of water quality data collected over the past 40 years reveals that nitrate concentrations are continuing to increase in some areas. Most recently, the data indicates elevated concentrations of nitrate in portions of Cuming, Colfax, and Dodge Counties, reaching levels that could pose health risks to humans and threaten the environment.”
During their July meeting, the board discussed the proposed water quality resolution. This resolution would serve as a statement of commitment from the board to follow when encountering tough issues, such as high nitrate levels in the groundwater.
The agriculture industry depends on clean water, healthy soil, and pure air to supply a growing world with food, feed, and fuel. Farmers meet daily challenges as they work to protect our resources for future generations.
Sousek said, “We want to work together to make a positive impact on the health of our soils and the quality of our groundwater. This resolution compliments our 12 responsibilities and shows that this board is supporting local control and supporting the protection of our natural resources as the NRDs have for the past 49 years.”
The board voted to table the resolution until next month. The discussion will continue at the August 12th committee meeting and the August 26th board meeting. Visit www.nitrateinwater.org to learn more about high nitrate levels in our groundwater and what you can do to help.
To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, August 26th at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.
July 2021 marks 49 years of protecting lives, protecting property, and protecting the future of natural resources for Nebraska’s 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRDs). NRDs are unique because they are governed by locally elected boards and Nebraska is the only state to have this system.
Senator Maurice Kremer introduced and the Nebraska Legislature enacted Legislative Bill (LB) 1357 in 1969 to combine Nebraska’s 154 special purpose entities into 24 Natural Resources Districts by July 1972. The original 24 NRDs’ boundaries were organized based on Nebraska’s major river basins which allows for better management practices to be applied to similar topography. In 1989, the Middle Missouri NRD and the Papio NRD were merged into one, becoming the Papio-Missouri River NRD which resulted in the current 23-NRD system.
“Nebraska’s 23 NRDs have been involved in a wide variety of projects and programs to conserve and protect the state’s natural resources since 1972,” said Julie Wragge, Information & Education Specialist for the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) in Norfolk.
Wragge added, “NRDs are charged under state law with 12 areas of responsibility including flood control, soil erosion, and groundwater management. While all NRDs share the 12 main responsibilities, each district sets its own priorities and develops programs to best serve local needs, protecting Nebraska’s natural resources for future generations.”
NRDs are local government entities with broad responsibilities to protect our natural resources. Major Nebraska river basins form the boundaries of the 23 NRDs, enabling districts to respond best to local conservation and resource management needs. To learn more about Nebraska’s NRDs visit www.nrdnet.org or your local NRD website.
Soil is one of the most essential natural resources. It affects every part of our day, from the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. Soil health is the capacity of the soil to function as a living ecosystem, nourishing plants and sustaining animals and people.
At their June meeting, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors learned more about soil nutrients through a presentation from the University of Nebraska’s Dr. Chittaranjan Ray, Professor and Director of the Nebraska Water Center and Michael Kaiser, Assistant Professor of Soil and Water Sciences. The pair discussed many soil chemistry concepts and answered questions.
Soil becomes healthier when organic matter levels increase (carbon sequestration), water infiltration rates improve (reducing erosion, runoff, and flooding), and the soil biological life is diverse and plentiful.
Soil nutrients exist as positively charged or negatively charged ions when dissolved. The positively charged ions are known as cations and the negatively charged ions are known as anions.
Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) is a soil chemical property. It is the ability of the soil to hold or store cations. When soil particles are negatively charged, they attract and hold on to cations (positively charged ions) like calcium, potassium, and sodium, stopping them from being leached down the soil profile. On the other hand, negatively charged soil particles repel anions (negatively charged ions). The implication of this is that negatively charged nutrients such as nitrate, sulphate, and chloride are vulnerable to leaching down the soil profile.
LENRD Assistant Manager, Brian Bruckner, said, “It is often assumed that the CEC value can generally be utilized when considering the timing and amount of nitrogen that can be applied as fertilizer, but as Professor Kaiser illustrated in his presentation, there are a host of variables outside of our control which influence the soil’s ability to retain the nitrogen within the rootzone for later utilization by plant roots.”
In other action, the board rejected all bids for the Willow Creek Dam Pore Pressure Mitigation – Phase 1 Project and authorized the general manager to sign a contract with Dietz Well for completion of 2 test holes and 2 production wells at the Willow Creek Dam, southwest of Pierce, not to exceed $92,240.00.
The board also ratified the LR23 report for the Nebraska Legislature. The progress report was requested from the LENRD board and was submitted on June 21st.
In other business, the board accepted the proposal from the University of Nebraska to conduct certain research related to the characterization of groundwater nitrate using stable isotope analysis within the district and authorized the general manager to sign the project agreement, not to exceed $17,712.00.
The board also approved the salary adjustments for the cost of living at 5.60% and approved the step and grade changes proposed by management for Fiscal Year 2022.
Anthony Wisnieski of Norfolk was sworn in to fill the vacant seat in Subdistrict 3, due to the retirement of Bob Huntley of Norfolk. Anthony is originally from Dodge and moved to Norfolk in 1996. He is part owner of Building Green Structures and is currently on the Energy Panel Structures Dealer Advisory Board. Anthony’s priorities include providing clean and safe drinking water for future generations.
To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, July 22nd at LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.
Anthony Wisnieski of Norfolk takes the Oath of Office at the June Board Meeting. Anthony fills the vacant seat in Subdistrict 3, due to the retirement of Bob Huntley of Norfolk.
Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) will receive $209,500 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) for the “Development of Research and Demonstration Sites in the BGMA for Groundwater Nitrate Reduction” project. The project is one of the 113 projects receiving $18,350,515 in grant awards from the Nebraska Environmental Trust this year. Of these, 42 were new applications and 71 are carry-over projects.
Located in northeastern Nebraska, the BGMA was formed collaboratively between the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD), Upper Elkhorn NRD, Lower Niobrara NRD, Lewis and Clark NRD, and Department of Environment & Energy 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 University of Nebraska – Lincoln 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 resource 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 $349 million in grants to over 2,400 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.
The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) will receive $8,750 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust for the “Establish Baseline Vadose Zone Sampling - Pierce County” project. The Trust Board announced funding for the project, which is one of 113 projects receiving $18,350,515 in grant awards from the Nebraska Environmental Trust this year. Of these, 42 were new applications and 71 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 have remained above safe levels, and in some areas, continue to increase. This is supported by over 40 years of groundwater sampling 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, the LENRD intends to return to the sample location sites every 5 years for additional monitoring. The LENRD requests the Nebraska Environmental Trust to fund a portion of this project, which is being led by the LENRD.
The Nebraska Legislature created the Nebraska Environmental Trust in 1992. Using revenue from the Nebraska Lottery, the Trust has provided over $349 million in grants to over 2,400 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.
Do you like s’mores? What about moonlit walks? How about heading out for an adventure as the sun goes down? The Norfolk area is full of opportunities to explore nature. 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 our FREE Moon Walk events, “Stars, Strolls & S’mores.”
“The purpose of the moon walk is to provide a family-oriented activity that introduces people to the wonders that can be found in their neck of the woods,” said Julie Wragge, Information & Education Specialist for the Lower Elkhorn NRD. She added, “Our local lakes and rivers provide countless opportunities to discover and learn more about our water, soil, and wildlife.”
The Moon Walks will be held on Wednesday evenings close to the full moon and begin at 7:30 p.m. Most Moon Walks last for 1-2 hours. Participants will walk an average of 1 mile round trip. Each Moon Walk starts with a short introduction of that evening’s program, followed by a hike to a designated area where we enjoy presentations. Presenters are experts in their field and are from our local community. The evening wraps up with FREE s’mores!
The first event will be held on Wednesday, June 23rd at the Yellowbanks Wildlife Management Area, 3 miles north and 2.5 west of Battle Creek. Presentations will include an interesting view of the Elkhorn River, as we learn about how rivers can move and change. There will also be a nature scavenger hunt.
The second “moon walk” will be Wednesday, July 21st at Skyview Lake in Norfolk. Presentations will include Kayaking 101, and Mothing: the nighttime addiction.
The final night will be Wednesday, August 25th at Red Road Herbs Retreat & Learning Center on 835 Road near Stanton. Presentations will include beginner Dutch Oven cooking, and Worthy Weeds.
Wragge added, “Since the events take place close to home, we encourage everyone to join us and bring your friends and neighbors.”
Due to a vacancy on the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District’s Board of Directors, applications are being taken to fill the first two years (2021-2022) of a four year term for Subdistrict 3. Applicants must be registered voters and reside within the boundary of the Subdistrict shown below. A more detailed map is available at the Lower Elkhorn NRD office.
Interested persons should contact the Lower Elkhorn NRD, 1508 Square Turn Blvd, Norfolk NE 68701, 402-371-7313 or email General Manager, Mike Sousek: msousek@lenrd.org
A resume’ should be submitted to the Lower Elkhorn NRD by June 18, 2021.
This position was held by Bob Huntley of Norfolk since 2005. Bob has resigned to spend more time with his family. He was a dedicated board member and will be greatly missed by the board, staff, and the people he represented. Best wishes always Bob!
Bob Huntley - Former Director - Subdistrict 3
The effects of groundwater contamination can be felt across the state, with most of the pollution sources pointing to commercial fertilizers. Applying the right form at the right time at the right rate in the right place - this method of nitrogen management is referred to as the “4Rs”. By using this method, producers can save time and money, all while protecting our groundwater.
One of the responsibilities of the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) is the development, management, utilization, and conservation of groundwater. At the LENRD’s May board meeting, the members discussed ways to work together in managing resources for the future.
LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, said, “We have a rich history of agriculture in this state. We want to work with producers to proactively manage our resources and secure the future that we desire for our children and grandchildren.” He added, “As we continue to assess the nitrogen contamination across northeast Nebraska, we’ll be working to develop management plans as we challenge each other to improve the ways we protect our groundwater.”
The LENRD launched a website, bringing to light the concerns that are plaguing northeast Nebraska. Visit www.nitrateinwater.org to find out more about the rising levels of nitrate in our groundwater and the steps that are being taken to address the environmental and health issues associated with this problem.
Also, during the meeting, the board denied the additional funding request from the City of Randolph for Phase 2 of their flood control project in the amount of $356,952.25. Phase 1 construction is underway and almost completed. The Phase 2 design is nearing completion, with the estimated total costs coming in higher than the original estimate.
The LENRD has been partnering with the city on this project for the past 18 years and have contributed over $1.97 million to date. The LENRD also assisted with the costs to study the project area for a total of $165,319.53. Through the studies, it was determined the most cost-effective option was the widening of the Middle Logan Creek channel that runs through Randolph. This project will allow for a large portion of the city to be taken out of the 100-year flood plain.
The board approved a bid from Unkel Construction to repair or replace the living room window at the superintendent’s residence at Maskenthine Lake, not to exceed $8,000.
The board also approved the Wellness Program for staff for a total of $3,220. The Program encourages employees to take advantage of the wellness benefits available through the NARD health insurance, especially blood screenings. Flu shots are also provided for the staff as well as incentives for increasing physical activity and healthy eating.
In other action, the board accepted, with regret, the resignation of fellow board member Bob Huntley of Norfolk. In a letter to the board Bob said, “I was proud to represent the people of Subdistrict 3 and hope my replacement will be as dedicated as I have been over the years.” Bob served on the board since 2005. The board will advertise to fill the position.
To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, June 24th at LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.
The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) is accepting applications for 4-H & NRD summer camp scholarships from youth throughout the 15-county district. The LENRD will reimburse the winning applicants for their camp registration fee.
Scholarships are available for various 4-H and NRD sponsored camps around the state, including the Nebraska Range Youth Camp, and the Adventure Camp about the Environment (ACE Camp).
4-H scholarship winners must register for the camp of their choice and pay for the registration fee. The LENRD will reimburse the scholarship winners after they send camp attendance verification to the LENRD office.
Any 4-H member who would like to apply for these scholarships should contact their local Extension office for more information and an application form or click below for a copy. All applications must be received by Friday, June 18th.
For a complete listing of all area camps, visit the University of Nebraska Extension 4-H web site at: www.4h.unl.edu
Whether you’re putting in a new windbreak around your homestead, to protect your livestock, or to enhance wildlife habitat, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) has a cost share program to help with the purchasing of conservation grade trees, planting those trees, and also putting down the conservation weed barrier mulch. Do you need assistance with picking out the trees or shrubs and what spacing they should be within the row? No problem, the LENRD staff are here to help you design and develop your windbreak. Contact LENRD Natural Resources Technician, Todd Stewart at: tstewart@lenrd.org
DID YOU PURCHASE SEEDLINGS FROM US THIS YEAR?
IF NOT, IT'S NEVER TOO EARLY TO PLAN FOR NEXT YEAR! WE'LL BEGIN SELLING TREES AGAIN IN NOVEMBER. GIVE US A CALL AND LET'S DESIGN YOUR PROJECT TODAY!
Farmers planning to chemigate during the 2021 growing season must renew chemigation permits by June 1st to meet state deadline requirements, according to Josh Schnitzler, Water Resources Coordinator for the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD).
Chemigation is the application of any chemical, fertilizer or pesticide through an irrigation system. To legally chemigate in Nebraska, an operator must be certified to apply chemicals and obtain a chemigation permit from their local NRD.
"Farmers holding chemigation permits, even if they are uncertain whether they will chemigate later this year, should consider renewing their permits by June 1," Schnitzler said. Schnitzler is encouraging area producers to reapply by the state-required deadline to avoid the increased cost and possible delays of an inspection.
An irrigation system that has not been renewed prior to the June 1 deadline cannot apply chemicals through the system until a new permit is obtained. Chemigation renewal permits cost $20. New chemigation permits cost $50, and the applicant cannot use the system until it passes a mandatory inspection. All permits must be submitted to the LENRD office at 1508 Square Turn Boulevard in Norfolk.
By renewing a permit by June 1, a producer may proceed with chemigation. An inspection does not have to be performed prior to chemigation for a renewal application, Schnitzler said. However, a random chemigation inspection may be necessary later in the season as part of the LENRD's routine summer inspections as required by state law.
Applicants must have the signature of a certified applicator on their application form. Schnitzler stated, “In order to be certified, a person must complete a chemigation safety course and pass an exam once every four years.”
If chemigating is necessary, on short notice, emergency permits can be obtained at a cost of $250. Irrigation systems meeting chemigation law standards will then be allowed to operate within 72 hours.
Approximately 1,963 chemigation permits were approved by the LENRD in 2020. For more information on renewing or obtaining chemigation permits, call the LENRD office in Norfolk at 402-371-7313.
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Region 7, Hazard Mitigation Planning Spotlight: Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, Nebraska
Challenge: Multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation planning can be an effective process to build partnerships between communities that face common hazard risks, leading to shared solutions. It can also help build a foundation to shift priorities as risks and vulnerabilities change. Since 2008, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) has coordinated hazard mitigation planning for its planning area, which covers more than 2.5 million acres; this includes 47 cities, towns, and villages across 15 counties, and vast areas of agricultural land.
The highest priority hazard identified by communities in LENRD’s 2012 hazard mitigation plan was flooding, but that all changed after the plan was adopted. That same year, Nebraska experienced a severe drought - what would eventually be categorized as a D4: Exceptional Drought (the most severe rating on the U. S. Drought Monitor [USDM] intensity scale).
The largely rural area was hit hard, as many wells didn’t perform, and groundwater became limited for agricultural production and community use. Due to the size of LENRD’s planning area, there are a variety of stakeholders with differing needs, including farmers, ranchers, industry, rural residents on individual wells, and urban residents and business owners on municipal water systems. The impacts of the drought were not experienced equally across the entire planning area, leading to tension between stakeholders in different parts of the watershed. Coordination and planning were needed to identify and to implement the array of solutions required to address the shared problem in a timely manner. As with any natural disaster, emotions can run high in a drought, often leading to irrational responses. Advanced planning can help public agencies and stakeholders develop a decision-making strategy for the onset of a disaster.
Solution: Fortunately, the 2012 drought began to ease after one year, although parts of the region would continue to experience some level of drought until 2014. However, the event gave LENRD the impetus it needed to launch a planning effort to address future droughts. It responded by using the networks it had used for hazard mitigation planning to address this new, high-priority natural hazard.
LENRD staff kicked off drought planning in 2016, inviting stakeholders from across the district to a Drought Tournament. Participants were divided into teams and given a multi-year drought scenario to address. Early in the scenario, drought was a relatively easy problem to manage, but as the hypothetical drought intensified, players soon realized the scope and negative impacts that drought can have across a region.
The tournament educated stakeholders about the reality of drought and was used as a brainstorming session to identify community-level solutions to a regional problem. The resulting drought plan was finalized in January 2017 and incorporated as an annex of the Hazard Mitigation Plan. It identifies a common language for talking about, and for triggering, responses to drought based on the USDM scale created by the National Drought Mitigation Center (NDMC) at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. It also recommends responses for different stakeholders, including suggestions for limiting water use based on observed drought conditions from the NDMC. Continual education is important to make sure all stakeholders are aware of the effects of drought.
Lessons Learned
LENRD General Manager, Mike Sousek, advised other organizations with large planning areas not to try to tackle projects alone. Getting input from a full range of stakeholders is critical, but it can be challenging over a large area. He advised planners to engage with experts, including university resources, and to use consultants who can help with the logistical aspects of outreach and planning.
The five-year cycle of the hazard mitigation planning process provides an opportunity to keep the impacts of natural hazards in front of stakeholders, even when the hazards have not occurred recently. However, LENRD doesn’t rely on this effort to keep hazard awareness at the forefront. LENRD also actively uses social media to remind residents about the realities of drought and other hazards, and to remind them that they must be united in reducing and facing hazard impacts.
Planning for Action
LENRD is one of 23 watershed-level Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) within the state of Nebraska. Many NRDs have taken on the responsibility of hazard mitigation planning in their watershed. The LENRD drought plan was the first of its kind in the state, but it sparked similar projects in several other districts.
The LENRD Drought Management plan is a mitigation action that was launched through the hazard mitigation planning process. LENRD’s planners used the public interest generated by a disaster event to mitigate the impacts of that event in the future. LENRD’s success reminds us that the purpose of mitigation planning is mitigation action.
This graphic from the NDMC shows the height of the 2012 drought. These observations are produced weekly and are a valuable tool for local planners.
The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) awarded four scholarships to area High School graduates. The $500 scholarships were given to graduating seniors, within the district, who are planning to further their education in a natural resources or agriculture related field.
The four graduates selected to receive the scholarships were: Abygail Streff of Pierce, Nathaniel Timmerman of West Point, Aspen Lund of West Point, and Mason Mink of Meadow Grove.
Abygail Streff is a graduate of Pierce High School. She plans to attend the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and major in Natural Resources and Environmental Economics. Abygail is the daughter of Carla and Tobin Streff of Pierce.
Nathaniel Timmerman is a graduate of Guardian Angels Central Catholic in West Point. He plans to attend the University of Nebraska in Lincoln and major in Agricultural Economics. Nathaniel is the son of Anne and Jeff Timmerman of West Point.
Aspen Lund is a graduate of Guardian Angels Central Catholic in West Point. She plans to attend Chadron State College and major in Rangeland Management. Aspen is the daughter of Nicole and Casey Lund of West Point.
Mason Mink is a graduate of Battle Creek High School. He plans to attend Northeast Community College in Norfolk and major in Mechanized Agriculture. Mason is the son of Lori and Todd Mink of Meadow Grove.
LENRD Information & Education Specialist, Julie Wragge, said, “We’re happy to support students across our district who are furthering their education in the field of natural resources. We encourage all graduates to continue to protect and effectively manage our natural resources for the future.”
High schoolers from across Nebraska – and a few pelicans – descended on Lake Wanahoo for the 29th annual Nebraska State Envirothon April 28. Ord High School took home the championship along with $1,500 and will represent Nebraska at the National Conservation Foundation (NCF) Envirothon in July.
Envirothon is an environmental education program for high school students that combines classroom learning and outdoor activities. This year’s competition was hosted at the Lower Platte North Natural Resources District’s Lake Wanahoo near Wahoo.
“Envirothon allows students to get outdoors and learn about natural resources in a hands-on environment,” said Jim Eschliman, Nebraska Association of Resources Districts president. “The activities are designed to help students become environmentally-aware, action-oriented adults, but also exposes them to many exciting career opportunities.”
During the state competition, five-member teams were tested on their knowledge of aquatics, forestry, policy, range, soils and wildlife, as well as prepared and delivered an oral presentation focusing on a current environmental issue.
The 2021 oral presentation theme “Water Resources Management: Local Control, Local Solutions” challenged teams to propose a solution on a complex problem before a panel of judges.
The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) Foundation awarded cash prizes to the top three winning teams at the state competition:
First Place ($1,500): Ord
Second Place ($1,000): Norris Team 2
Third Place ($500): Arthur County
Additional prizes were awarded to the top teams in each testing category:
Aquatics: Norris Team 2
Forestry: Pender
Policy: Arthur County, Norris Team 1 and St. Paul
Range: Ord
Soils: Ord and St. Paul
Wildlife: Norris Team 2
Oral Presentation: Concordia
More than 75 teams competed in the regional contests between Feb. 3-5, and 14 teams qualified to participate at the state competition.
Ord will represent Nebraska at the NCF-Envirothon July 25-28, to compete for a top prize of $15,000. The international NCF-Envirothon will be hosted virtually by Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts and will include more than 40 teams from the U.S., Canada and China.
Learn more about the Nebraska Envirothon atwww.nrdnet.org/nebraska-envirothon.
The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD), the trade association for Nebraska's 23 Natural Resources Districts (NRD), works with individual districts to protect lives, property and the future of Nebraska’s natural resources. NRDs are unique to Nebraska, and act as local government entities with broad responsibilities to protect Nebraska’s natural resources. Major Nebraska river basins form the boundaries of the 23 NRDs, enabling districts to respond to local conservation and resource management needs. Learn more about Nebraska’s NRDs at www.nrdnet.org
Pender High School students took top honors in the Forestry division, from left to right: Liberty Baker, Alexis Bodlak, Reese Kneifl, Claire Felber, And Alex Johnson. Pictured with the students is NARD President, Jim Eschliman.
Nebraska's Natural Resources Districts were formed to help Nebraskans respond to natural resources challenges with local control and local solutions. The Lower Elkhorn NRD is ready to help you conserve and care for your water, soil, trees, and wildlife. Protecting Lives. Protecting Property. Protecting the Future.
Protecting Lives. Protecting Property. Protecting the Future.
Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District • 1508 Square Turn Boulevard • Norfolk, NE 68701 • lenrd@lenrd.org
Phone: 402.371.7313 • Office Hours: 8am-4:30pm M-F
