Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors Vote to Approve Nearly 6,000 Acres of New Groundwater Irrigation Development in District

One of the most anticipated topics hit the Lower Elkhorn NRD (LENRD) Board of Directors agenda last night – Applications for Standard Variances to expand groundwater irrigated acres in the District. At a special board meeting held in October 2023, Directors approved a motion to allow up to 295-acre feet of new stream water depletions for new groundwater irrigation development in the Hydrologically Connected Area (10/50 Area) and up to 2,500 acres of new groundwater irrigation development in the Non-hydrologically Connected Area (Non 10/50 Area).

In November 2023, the LENRD received nearly 300 applications for Standard Variances to consider requests to expand irrigated acres and/or construct new irrigation wells. Eligible applications were processed using a scoring system that has been in place in the District since 2009. To be considered for approval, any Standard Variance application had to meet a minimum soil score of 80 in the soil conservation category. Due to this requirement, eight locations in the 10/50 Area, and 14 locations in the Non 10/50 Area were not approved.  

Last night, the Board voted to approve 53 Standard Variance applications allowing 305.93-acre feet of new stream water depletions for new groundwater irrigation development (or 2,891.4 new irrigated acres) in the 10/50 area, and 38 applications totaling 2,836.04 acres of new groundwater irrigation development in the Non 10/50 Area. “Letters will be sent to landowners as soon as they can be generated,” said Brian Bruckner, General Manager. 

A Public Hearing will be scheduled to discuss LENRD Rules and Regulations for the Management of Groundwater

At the September Board Meeting, the LENRD Board voted to have Staff prepare amendments to the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District Groundwater Management Area Rules and Regulations. These amendments will affect the quantity management sub areas in the District, and there will also be other minor changes recommended throughout the document. Additional discussion on the matter will be  scheduled for Thursday, February 8th as part of the Committee of the Whole meeting. Once finalized, a draft of the proposed amendments will be sent to the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy to allow them the opportunity to review the proposed changes and provide feedback.

NRCS Source Water Protection Specialist

The LENRD is exploring options for partnerships to create a shared position for a NRCS Source Water Protection Specialist. This person would engage in outreach and assistance with farm operators and landowners to incentivize conservation practices on lands located in wellhead protection areas. The Lower Elkhorn NRD is working on forming a collaboration with the Lower Niobrara, Lewis & Clark, & Upper Elkhorn NRDs to fund and share this employee. NRCS will provide 50% of the salary/benefits, office, and vehicle for the employee, while the other partners will cover the remaining costs for the position.

“I like the idea that rather than regulation, we should be doing education. And this is part of that,” said Subdistrict #1 Director, Chad Korth.

Maple Creek Shoreline Protection Bids

Efforts to protect the shoreline of Maple Creek Recreation Area have been ongoing for the past four years. Tyler Warren, Recreation Area Superintendent, showed a map of the areas most in need of immediate protection. The Board voted to approve the lowest bid for 350 tons of riprap received from Cech Excavating, LLC, for a total of $15,032.50 - $25,000 was budgeted for the project. Warren indicated that Cech Excavating, LLC, has been the contractor for Maple Creek shoreline protection work in recent years. “Everything that Cech has done has been quality work and what they have done in the past seems to be working great. I’m good with them using the same material for these locations as well,” Warren noted. 

Wau-Col Regional Water System

The Village of McLean approached the Board requesting permission to add a new water user to their service. After purchasing the property approximately 1/8 mile west of McLean, the new property owner has asked to extend an existing water main from McLean to their residence. The property owners have been unsuccessful in locating adequate water on their property for a well and are facing no other options to get access to water on their property. Because the Village of McLean is a customer of the Wau-Col Rural Water System, the Village had to ask the LENRD Board for permission to allow the new connection.

Election of Treasurer

After completing his term as the Board Treasurer, Anthony Wisnieski served at his final meeting. Directors Mark Hall and Chad Korth were nominated to fill the position. Ultimately, Director Hall was appointed to serve as the next Board Treasurer.

Phase 2 & 3 Management Area - Nitrogen Certification

If nitrogen fertilizer is applied on your field in the Lower Elkhorn NRD Phase 2 or 3 areas, you are required to obtain or renew Nitrogen Certification every 4 years. This certification is required by Section 12 of the Lower Elkhorn NRD Rules and Regulations for the Management of Groundwater, and failure to obtain or maintain this certification results in a non-compliance status, with subsequent enforcement action by the District.

This certification is required for any farm operator in our Phase 2 and 3 area, even if a custom applicator applies the product to your fields. The management decisions about the amount, and timing, of nitrogen applications are yours, as is the need to comply with all management area requirements.

The LENRD will be holding a nitrogen certification class on February 5th at the LENRD office in Norfolk from 1-3 p.m. We also accept proof of certification from surrounding NRD’s. The list below shows the dates, locations, and times of our meetings as well as the surrounding NRD’s:

Phase 2 & 3 Management Areas 2023 Crop Year Annual Report Form Information

Online Reporting

Producers can complete their management area reporting forms online. If you are unable to complete your management area forms online, you can schedule a time to complete your forms over the phone or in person. Annual reports must be submitted for both irrigated and dryland fields of 40 acres or larger. If you find that you are missing a field or see one that you no longer farm, please let us know so we can get that changed. It is the landowner’s responsibility to provide the LENRD with information for all fields that are farmed.

THE ANNUAL REPORT IS DUE BY MARCH 15, 2024

The annual report is not only a requirement for the Phase 2 & 3 areas, but it also documents the good work that you are doing to protect the groundwater. A major source of groundwater nitrate contamination is fertilizer and manure applications from farming practices. By implementing intelligent nitrogen and irrigation water management practices, farmers play a major role in protecting groundwater quality. These practices can also maximize your profit per acre.

Irrigation Water and Deep Soil Sampling

The rules and regulations of the Phase 2 Areas state that irrigation water must be sampled once every four years. Phase 3 Area producers must sample their irrigation water annually. Be sure to take advantage of our free sampling program to test your water. You can pick up sample kits here at our office in Norfolk. Under this program, all you need to do is collect the water sample from your well, and the NRD will pay the cost of shipping and testing the sample.

The rules and regulations of the Phase 2 Areas state that a deep soil sample is required for every 80 acres on fields that are planted to continuous corn. Phase 3 Area producers must take a sample for every 80 acres on any field that is going to be planted to corn, regardless of what was planted the prior year. Cost-share is available up to 50% of the total eligible costs of the sampling. Invoices and sampling results for Fall 2023/Spring 2024 need to be turned in to the LENRD office by November 1, 2024 to be eligible for cost-share.

For questions, concerns, or to schedule an appointment, please call Connor at 402-371-7313.

Completing the Form

• If the land was irrigated corn, the well registration number and flow meter reading should auto populate. If they do not, you can still manually enter in the information, but please let us know so that we can get it fixed.

• If the land was in corn and beans, turn in the report for the corn only. If the land is irrigated and dryland, turn in the report according to what you did on the irrigated portion.

• The deep soil information you need to enter should have been taken either in the fall of 2022 or the spring of 2023 (samples prior to the 2023 crop). The samples you took this fall or spring will be entered in next years report.

• If the field is irrigated, you will need the results of the most recent water sample taken. If you took a sample and mailed it in, the results would have been mailed to you. You will not be able to submit the form without it.

• Make sure to enter each nitrogen application event by clicking the “Add Application” button.

• Once you have completed the form, make sure to submit and review it. If you would like a printout of the report, make sure you click print when it gives you the option. You may then return to the map page to pick your next field to report on or log out. Once you click return to map, you will not be able to go back and edit/print the report.

• If you try to submit a form and it will not allow you to do so, go back through the report and make sure you have completed the required boxes. At this point, entry boxes that need to be filled out should be highlighted in red.

Click here to go to the Management Area Reporting page.

NDEE Extends Deadline to Request Free Nitrate Sample Kits

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) is extending the deadline for Nebraskans to request a free nitrate sample kit and lab analysis.

Sample kits can now be requested through March 1, 2024, or until funds are expended. The free nitrate sample kits and lab analyses are offered to all Nebraskans with a private drinking water well.

Nebraska’s private drinking water well owners can request a free kit, which comes with sampling instructions and pre-paid return postage, online on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Lab-Price-List.aspx. At this link, there is a box for this project titled “Nitrate Project Kit Request.” Please fill out the PDF form in this box and email it to the address provided in the box. Those without access to the internet who need help requesting a free sample kit may call NDEE at 402-471-2186.

Due to high demand, it may take several weeks or more to receive your kit in the mail. After receiving the kit, NDEE encourages requestors to collect their sample and return it to the Public Health Environmental Lab as soon as possible.

Well owners who participate will receive their sample results, and NDEE will use the data from this sampling effort in a statewide nitrate study that the agency is currently conducting. The study will include nitrate sampling data from public water systems and from private drinking water well owners who agree to participate. Well owners’ identifying information will not be used in the study.

The state does not regularly conduct sampling in private drinking water wells because they are not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Public participation in this free sampling event is key to ensuring the nitrate study accurately encompasses private drinking water wells in Nebraska.

For more information, see NDEE’s previous press release announcing the availability of the test kits: http://dee.ne.gov/Press.nsf/pages/PR112923.

Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors Had a Packed Agenda to End 2023

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors had a packed agenda to end 2023. Directors were presented the Fiscal Year 2023 Audit, heard numerous monthly and meeting reports, received an update from JEO Consulting Group on the North Fork Elkhorn River WFPO Plan, discussed approving a resolution for a WaterSMART Grant Application, approved an additional Guideline for the Good Cause Variance process, and set the groundwater allocation amounts for 2024 for the Quantity Management Subareas. Finally, they voted on two items relating to LENRD personnel and approved the 2024 meeting schedule.

 Acceptance of the Fiscal Year 2023 Audit

 Donita Pokorny, with Dana F. Cole & Company LLP, presented the results of the Fiscal Year 2023 audit to the Board Members. The fiscal year audit is an annual requirement for the financial statements of the governmental activities, the business-type activities, and for each major fund of the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District.  This audit is conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States of America and for standards applicable to Government Auditing Standards.  Donita reviewed pertinent sections of the audit with the Board of Directors and concluded with a report on any compliance matters in accordance with the aforementioned standards.  At the conclusion of her report, the Board approved a motion to accept the Fiscal Year 2023 Audit as presented.

North Fork Elkhorn River WFPO Update by JEO Consulting Group

 Andrea Gebhart, Project Manager, and Ann Nissen, Water Resources Engineer, of JEO Consulting Group provided an update on the North Fork Elkhorn River WFPO Plan. Gebhart provided a project overview, a summary of work-to-date, and discussed the timeline for the rest of the project. Nissen discussed the preliminary H&H, or Hydrology and Hydraulics, results. She also talked about stream gage analysis from Pierce, data sources, and showed two models from the geographic focus areas – Pierce and Osmond.

Resolution of WaterSMART Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects Grant Partnership

The LENRD Board of Directors voted to table a decision on approving Resolution No. 2023-01. Approval of this resolution would indicate the District’s commitment to providing funding, as well as the development and execution of a cooperative agreement for the Bureau of Reclamation WaterSMART Grant for Small-Scale Water Efficiency Projects.

In order to even apply for the grant, LENRD staff need to have an approved and signed Resolution from the Board. In partnership with the McCrometer Company, the grant would provide funding to equip flow meters with remote-read telemetry. The intent is to provide convenience for the producer and help the NRD monitor water use and assist producers with maintaining compliance.

LENRD Policy for Orphaned irrigated Acres Policy Change

The LENRD Board of Directors approved an additional guideline to be used in conjunction with the LENRD’s ‘Good Cause Variance’, granting District staff the authorization to consider a Good Cause Shown Expedited Variance request to utilize an existing irrigation well as a source of irrigation water for orphaned irrigated acres.

The District was presented a situation where a landowner acquired property that currently has certified irrigated acres and has an existing irrigation well on adjacent property. The new owner has asked to use the existing well as a source of irrigation water to continue irrigation activities on the newly purchased property.

Establish 2024 Groundwater Allocations for LENRD Quantity Subareas

The LENRD Board of Directors approved the 2024 allocations amounts for the LENRD Quantity Management Subareas:

Eastern Madison County Quantity Management Subarea

• 18 inches per irrigated acre for gravity/flood systems

• 13 inches per irrigated acre for subsurface drip irrigation systems

• 14 inches per irrigated acre for all other irrigation systems

Wayne County Quantity Management Subarea

• 17 inches per irrigated acre for gravity/flood irrigation systems

• 12 inches per irrigated acre for subsurface drip irrigation systems

• 13 inches per irrigated acre for all other irrigation systems

Other Happenings in the Lower Elkhorn NRD

• The LENRD received nearly 300 applications for Standard Variances during the month of November 2023. A preliminary summary of the final point totals will be presented for consideration to the Board no sooner than January 11, 2024, or at an alternate date as determined by the Board Chairman and General Manager.

• Applications for the Conservation Tree Program are available on our website and in the office. The deadline to order trees is February 23, 2024. 

• The NDEE is offering free nitrate sample kits for private drinking water wells. These kits are only available until January 31, 2024.

• The LENRD is conducting a study to better understand the types of hazards the community is most impacted by, and the damage it has caused, as part of the region’s Hazard Mitigation Plan update process. The questionnaire is available to take on our website and social media platforms until January 22, 2024. 

• The University of Nebraska-Lincoln released a web-based nitrogen management tool for corn growers. Additional information is on our website.

Press Coverage of Court Order - Temple v. Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District

As indicated in an earlier press release, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District received a copy of a Memorandum and Order issued on December 27, 2023 by Judge John M. Gerrard, Senior United States District Judge for the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska in the aforementioned case.  In the Order the Court ruled that 1) The plaintiff’s motion for a preliminary injunction is granted in part and 2) that the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resource District is preliminarily enjoined from enforcing the August 10, 2023, sanction suspending Temple’s rights under Neb. Rev. Stat. §2-3218 which references compensation and expenses for members of the board.

This matter had been covered by various state and local media outlets, but the degree of accuracy on this coverage varies greatly.  Some media outlets accurately report that the District is preliminarily enjoined from enforcing the sanction relative to reimbursement for out of district travel expenses, and that the sanction which removed Director Temple from all committee assignments may remain intact.  However, some news articles have suggested that ALL of Director Temple’s rights as an NRD Director are preliminarily enjoined. This statement is inaccurate. With regard to Director Temple’s subcommittee assignments, the Court found, “It does not offend the Constitution to limit Temple's ability to sit on subcommittees. The LENRD may constitutionally execute this sanction.” As a result and as previously stated, the District will comply with the Order and restore only those rights and responsibilities required by the Order at this time, which does not include subcommittee assignments.

LENRD Statement on Court Order

The Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District has been informed that an order has been released by Judge John M. Gerrard, Senior United States District Judge for the District of Nebraska regarding the motion for a preliminary injunction filed by plaintiff Melissa Temple, against the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District.  The District has no other comment on the matter at this particular time other than to state that we respect the opinion of the Court and that we will comply with the terms of the order.

University releases web-based nitrogen management tool for corn growers

This article was originally written by Geitner Simmons, UNL IANR Media, on Dec. 13, 2023.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln has updated a digital tool to make it easier for ag producers to determine appropriate nitrogen rates for individual fields.

The nitrogen tool allows users to input specifics for a producer’s individual fields, including soil characteristics, soil nitrate sampling data, organic matter, irrigation practices and economic information. The university designed the software to provide easy-to-access information sources to aid in the producer’s decision-making, drawing on decades of nitrogen management analysis and recommendation. Producers can access the tool here.

The tool automates a process that previously relied on paper documents and Excel spreadsheets. Ultimately, the update is intended to help producers increase profitability and environmental stewardship.

“Our goal is to make it really user-friendly for everyone,” said Laura Thompson, a Nebraska Extension ag technologies educator and co-coordinator of the Nebraska On-Farm Research Network. “It will allow people to use a research-based guideline that can result in more sustainable nitrogen management.”

The web-based tool provides robust, user-friendly capability to help producers set a yield goal under the university’s recommendation, said Nicholas Colgrove, an IANR Media software development specialist who was involved in the tool’s design.

“Nebraska growers are becoming more tech-savvy all the time, and they’re hungry for more technology-based solutions,” Colgrove said. “They want the information available to them wherever they are, whether in their tractor or at home. So making sure that the digital ag tool fits the mobile devices, the phones, was very important to us. That’s some of the feedback we received right away, that people want to be able to access it anywhere.”

Andrew Stech, who operates a farm in Osmond, was among the early testers of the digital tool. He described the app as “an easy-to-use tool that will help farmers fine-tune their nitrogen applications and maximize yield while minimizing the amount of nitrogen needed, which increases profitability.

“There are so many factors in farming that can affect nitrogen efficiency,” Stech said. “Lack of time and labor is a major issue in farming, and this app helps address the issue of keeping track of how much nitrogen each field needs.”

Another early tester was Jon Walz, who farms near Stapleton. Nebraska agriculture is “in a whole new era” that requires efficient digital tools such as the new app, he said. He especially liked that the app enables users to save and recall their field data, which enables efficiency and ease of use.

The data-saving feature is one of several capabilities meant to maximize the app’s utility. Another example, Thompson said, are buttons that link to excerpts from Husker field management resources.

Other additional features:

• A producer can input data for each specific field.

• Once data is entered and a nitrogen rate is set, the app provides information on a producer’s anticipated nitrogen-use efficiency.

• In addition to the nitrogen rate recommendation, the software provides breakdowns of product needed per acre, total product needed for the field and product costs.

The app will be adjusted and updated over time. The software will collect limited and generalized user data to support improvements. Producers can opt in to provide more detailed information and help the university better understand user behavior and tool performance.

The university will provide training sessions for interested users.

“Nitrogen management is very challenging,” Thompson said. “There are very dynamic nutrient interactions in the environment, and that makes it very difficult for producers to manage. It’s important that producers have tools to help them do the best job possible to manage nitrogen efficiently. That way, they can meet their crop production needs and help with environmental considerations to make sure they’re not using excess.”

Digital technology provides an important tool for doing that, she said. The new app is part of a range of technologies to support nitrogen management, including variable-rate application tools, sensor-based management, aerial imagery and fertigation.

Nebraska producers “are looking for more of these technology pieces,” Colgrove said. “We’re going to try to keep it moving forward. I think there’s a real need for it.”

University releases web-based nitrogen management tool for corn growers

Lower Elkhorn NRD Offering Participation in Hazard Mitigation Plan Update

The Lower Elkhorn NRD is working on an update to the Hazard Mitigation Plan. We are offering it to public entities and non-profit organizations within the planning area (most of Northeast Nebraska) to participate and provide input.

If interested in participating, please email Curt Becker, LENRD Assistant General Manager, or call 402-371-7313, by Friday, December 22nd.

Lower Elkhorn NRD Proud to Support Projects that Enhance Forestry and Recreation

The Lower Elkhorn NRD is proud to support projects that enhance forestry and recreation within the communities in our District. We work closely with the people across our 15-county district, providing funding for a wide variety of projects. 

Earlier this fall Mark Burnheide, LENRD Director for Subdistrict #6, presented a sign and check to the Clarkson mayor for the completion of their Community Forestry Incentive Program Project. The City of Clarkson planted nine trees in the City Park - seven to replace damaged or diseased trees and two in new locations.

Last month Curt Becker, LENRD Assistant General Manager, presented a sign and check to the Village of Bancroft for their Bancroft Park Restrooms and Picnic Shelter Project. The Village of Bancroft was awarded $30,000 through the LENRD's Recreation Area Development Program for this project.

West Point Public Schools also took advantage of the LENRD Recreation Area Development Program and used the funds to improve their playground to accommodate students with special needs. The playground was expanded to provide students who have accessibility issues access to the playground equipment. 

Applications for the Community Forestry Incentive Program are accepted in the late fall, whereas applications for the Recreation and Urban Development Program are mailed in January. 

Have questions about these programs? Call us at 402-371-7313 to visit about the many opportunities available through the Lower Elkhorn NRD! 

Five Students Take State in Conservation Poster Contest

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Rivers, lakes and wildlife were artfully crafted by young Nebraskans throughout the year turning blank paper into award-winning posters.

Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) recognize students from kindergarten to 12th grade, who competed in the annual “One Water” Conservation Poster Contest. Students winning in the state competition include:

• K-1: Carsten Rolf, Dodge, Nebraska (Lower Elkhorn NRD)

• 2-3: Colton Praest, Dodge, Nebraska (Lower Elkhorn NRD)

• 4-6: Connor Pojar, Scribner, Nebraska (Lower Elkhorn NRD)

• 7-9: Halley Langenberg, Norfolk, Nebraska (Lower Elkhorn NRD)

• 10-12: Sophia Weyhrich, Norfolk, Nebraska (Lower Elkhorn NRD)

Each NRD selects a winner from their district contest to compete in the state competition. The state winners take home a $25 prize and will go on to compete in the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD) poster contest for a chance to win $200. National winners are selected at the NACD annual conference in February.

Typically, NRDs notify area teachers about the contest and allow them to introduce it in the classroom. Individual students can participate outside of the classroom by submitting their artwork to their local Natural Resources District. The 2024 poster theme is “May the Forest be with You Always.” For more information on the poster contest, visit the NARD website or contact Megan Grimes at mgrimes@nrdnet.org.

K-1: Carston Rolf

2-3: Colton Pruest

4-6: Connor Pojar

7-9: Halley Langenberg

10-12: Sophia Weyhrich

NDEE Offers Free Nitrate Sample Kits for Private Drinking Water Wells

LINCOLN, Neb. — The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) is offering free nitrate sample kits and lab analyses to private drinking water well owners across the state. These kits are only available for a limited time until Jan. 31, 2024.

Well owners who participate will receive their sample results, and NDEE will use the data from this sampling effort in a statewide nitrate study that the agency is currently conducting. The study will include nitrate sampling data from public water systems and from private drinking water well owners who agree to participate. Well owners’ identifying information will not be used in the study.

Nebraska’s private drinking water well owners can request a free nitrate sample kit, which comes with sampling instructions and pre-paid return postage, online on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Lab-Price-List.aspx. Those without access to the internet who need help requesting a free sample kit may call NDEE at 402-471-2186.

The state does not regularly conduct sampling in private drinking water wells because they are not regulated under the Safe Drinking Water Act. Public participation in this free sampling event is key to ensuring the nitrate study accurately encompasses private drinking water wells in Nebraska.

NDEE has sent postcards to more than 29,000 registered domestic well owners in Nebraska inviting them to participate in this study. The free sample kits and lab analyses are offered to all Nebraskans with a private drinking water well – not just those who received a postcard or have a registered well.

Collecting the sample is easy. Allow the cold water tap to run for three minutes, then fill the plastic container provided in the sample kit, being careful not to overfill. More detailed instructions will be provided with the sample kit.

If a private well owner’s results are above 10 parts per million (ppm) of nitrate, they may be eligible for NDEE’s Reverse Osmosis (RO) Rebate Program to treat their water. This program offers up to $4,000 in rebates to well owners whose wells are registered through the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and whose wells sample above 10 ppm of nitrate.

Applications for the RO system rebates must be submitted by June 30, 2024. NDEE accepts and reviews RO rebate applications on a month-to-month basis. Learn more about the RO Rebate Program on NDEE’s website: http://dee.ne.gov/Publica.nsf/pages/22-051.

LENRD Board of Directors Approve Funding for 11 Community Forestry Projects

At their November 21st Board Meeting, Lower Elkhorn NRD (LENRD) Board of Directors received and approved 10 applications for the Community Forestry Incentive Program, and one application for the Forestry Incentive for Public Facilities Program for Fiscal Year 2025.

The Community Forestry Assistance Program provides financial assistance for tree planting projects to improve or renovate community green spaces on public lands. Many communities may not have the resources needed to purchase trees for their projects, but this program provides an opportunity for those communities to not only purchase trees, but to purchase more larger-size trees at one time.

To be eligible for cost-share funding, each project in this program must be sponsored by a city, village, county or school and be located on publicly owned land. Tree species planted must be purchased from a Nebraska commercial nursery and be adapted to local environmental growing conditions and have no major insect or disease problems. Eligible project components include: tree removal, site preparation, purchase of trees, tree installation, and project planning and design services by professional Landscape Architects or Designers. Maximum reimbursement offered from the LENRD is up to 75% of the local project costs up to $5,000, not to exceed $200 per tree.

Applications approved for the 2025 Fiscal Year include: City of Lyons, Village of Pender, Village of Pilger, City of West Point, Pender Public Schools, City of Clarkson, City of Randolph, Logan View Public Schools, Norfolk Public Schools, and Village of Emerson.

For entities interested in applying for the program, it is often helpful to have a plan in place for addressing tree needs. “I would encourage everyone who receives the initial letter to create a Tree Board and develop a five-year plan to address their community needs,” said Todd Stewart, LENRD Natural Resources Technician.

The Forestry Incentive Program for Public Facilities provides financial assistance for tree planting projects to improve or renovate green spaces on private land for public use. Many of the applicants for this program include golf courses and cemeteries. The cost-share rate for this program is up to 50%, not to exceed $2,500.

One application for Fiscal Year 2025 was received from SMILE, Inc. asking for assistance with replacing dead Scotch Pine with Autumn Blaze Maple. The Scotch Pine that were planted in 2000 have died from Pine Wilt. Of the 44 original trees, there are only two remaining. S.M.I.L.E. Inc. provides recreational therapy on horseback to individuals (of all ages) and disabilities. 

Maskenthine Recreation Area Campground Electrical Upgrade and Hydrants Replacement

Directors also approved awarding contracts for electrical upgrades and hydrant replacement within the Maskenthine Recreation Area campground. Tyler Warren, Recreation Area Superintendent, explained the electrical upgrade will replace all 33 electrical pedestals within the campground to 50/30/20 Amp services. “Each pedestal will have a 50 amp and separate 30 amp plug, and also a 20 amp plug,” Warren stated.

Though nine of the 33 pedestals already have the 50/30/20 amp service, all pedestals are being replaced so the brand of each pedestal is the same. With everything being the same, it will be easier for staff to maintain. The updated conduit will be bored to each pedestal.  Work on the upgrade is to be completed no later than May 26, 2024.

In an effort to prevent the outdoor pipes from freezing, Warren is also working on a project to replace hydrants within the rec area. Eight water spigots will be replaced with Woodford Model Y34 hydrants with the drain hole of each hydrant being placed below the frost line.

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 www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Thursday, December 28, 2023, at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.

Corteva Agriscience Partners with NRDs on Producer Connect

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts (NRDs) are pleased to announce a new collaboration with Corteva Agriscience on the development of a groundbreaking web and mobile application suite, Producer Connect. Producer Connect is designed to empower agricultural producers with the tools they need to optimize inputs, enhance agricultural profitability, improve water quality, and increase irrigation efficiency.

“In collaboration with Corteva, Producer Connect is poised to become a comprehensive platform for growers, offering valuable insights and resources to enhance nitrogen management and sustainable farming practices,” said Dr. Orval Gigstad, NARD President. “Through this program, we aim to equip growers with the necessary tools and information to make informed decisions and contribute to the overall health of Nebraska’s agriculture and water resources.”

Additional participants on the project include the Nebraska Corn Board, Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Central Valley Ag, 17 of Nebraska's 23 NRDs, the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) and the NARD Foundation.

“We’re committed to leveraging innovation to help farmers achieve success,” said Jon Stofer, Corteva Agriscience Nutrient Maximizer Strategic Account Manager, Nebraska. “We’re proud to work with Nebraska’s Natural Resources Districts on this new tool to support Nebraska producers in growing the food and fuel the world needs, profitably and sustainably.”

Producer Connect will be free to producers and offer a wide range of features designed to simplify nitrogen and water management, including:

• Producer-specific data

• Protected data

• Customizable nitrogen recommendations

• Irrigation efficiency

• Historical data analysis

• Economic analysis of nitrogen applications

• Information exchange

Producer Connect is currently in its initial stages of development and is expected to launch in June 2024. The initial rollout will focus on Phase 2 and Phase 3 Groundwater Quality Management Areas and areas with irrigation allocations.

Phase 2 & 3 Area Deep Soil Sampling Reminder

This is a reminder to complete your deep soil sampling requirements before the 2024 crop year. In Phase 2 areas, a soil sample is required for all crop fields in continuous corn. In Phase 3 areas, a sample is required on all crop fields that will be in corn during the 2024 crop year. Once completed you can mail, email, or bring the results to the Lower Elkhorn NRD office.

It is required to have on sample per 80 acres and should be taken down to 24 inches. We need the entire 0 to 24 inches. The LENRD does offer 50% cost-share for this requirement. The maximum pay rate is $30.34 per sample, with a limit of one sample per 25 acres. The Districts payment must total at least $100 to qualify. To receive cost share you must submit a request form, an invoice, the results, and a list of the fields you would like cost-share on. Requests for cost share are due by November 1, 2024.

If you have any questions, please contact the Lower Elkhorn NRD office at 402-371-7313.

Lower Elkhorn NRD Board of Directors Approves Dump Trailer Purchase, Discuss Upcoming Open Houses

At their monthly Board meeting on October 26, 2023, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) Board of Directors approved the purchase of a 14’ Dump Trailer for use at Maskenthine Recreation Area.

Tyler Warren, Recreation Area Superintendent, presented the received bids to the Directors and explained that staff was recommending the bid from DB Trailer Sales. Because of their local manufacturing, DB Trailer Sales stood out from the competition. Dimensions inside the trailer are 14’Lx82”W. There is a 7’x20’ roll up mesh tarp, barn door/spreader gate, and ramps are included.

Open House Meetings Planned for the North Fork Elkhorn River Flood Risk Reduction Plan

Brian Bruckner, LENRD General Manager, reminded Directors of the upcoming open houses for the North Fork Elkhorn River Flood Risk Reduction Plan. The North Fork Elkhorn River watershed spans approximately 242,563 acres and includes the communities of Foster, Magnet, McLean, Osmond, Pierce, Plainview, and Wausa. The meetings are being hosted by the LENRD in partnership with the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

The first meeting will be held on Monday, November 6th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at Osmond City Hall, 413 N. State Street, Osmond, NE. The second meeting will be held on Wednesday, November 8th from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at the Pierce County Fairgrounds Pavilion, 622 N. Brown Street, Pierce, NE 68767.

No formal presentations are planned; however, both LENRD and JEO Consulting Group representatives will be present to help explain the project and answer questions. The purpose of the open houses is to provide an overview of the project and collect input regarding flood-related experiences and concerns within the watershed.  As each meeting will feature the same information, community members are invited to attend the meeting that is most convenient or works best for their schedules.

Status Update on Search for New Production Well for Logan East Rural Water System (RWS) and Possible Funding Options to Connect the Village of Craig

Shawn Blahak, Logan East RWS Manager, provided a status update on the search for a new production well for the Logan East RWS. In an effort to find a location for an additional production well, Blahak explained that he has been trying to secure locations for additional sampling on irrigation wells. Doing this will help identify potential areas to secure a spot for additional test/monitoring wells. Adding an additional production well will not only be a benefit for the Logan East RWS but will also solve a Manganese issue for the Village of Craig.

To provide additional context, General Manager Brian Bruckner explained that staff is currently exploring grants to assist with bearing the costs of the project. “Through the Emergent Contaminants and Socially Disadvantaged Communities Grant Program (EC-SDC) there is an opportunity to receive some substantial grant funds to help bear the costs of hooking up Craig; potential costs for a well; potential costs for a transmission line; and potential costs for a storage tank.”

When exploring the option of applying for the grant, the historical nitrate levels in the current Logan East RWS production wells caught the attention of the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE). Though nitrate level trends have been within the range that is acceptable for public water systems, a change in the way the wells are sampled would lead one to believe that they have recently taken a steep increase. The system currently has three wells and a blended sample from the three wells was once submitted to gather data. About two years ago, the process changed and requires individual sampling of each well, even though all three of the wells are used in a series to maintain system demands. Though the Logan East RWS does not utilize any form of treatment for the water, the raw product that they deliver to their customers is safe for consumption.

Moving forward, District and Water System Staff will be working with the Logan East Advisory Committee and Board of Directors to develop a long-term plan to avoid compliance issues due to elevated groundwater nitrates.  This effort will not only provide a possible solution for the Village of Craig but will ensure the long-term success and viability of the Logan East Rural Water System as a whole.

This was a non-voting item.

Application Cutoff for Natural Resource Conservation Funds Approaching – November 17th

In a monthly report provided by Robin Sutherland, NRCS/USDA District Conservationist, she gave a reminder of the November 17th cutoff for EQIP (Environmental Quality Incentives Program) applications.

Farmers and ranchers interested in preventing erosion, improving soil health, conserving water and wildlife, or making other natural resource conservation improvements to their property are encouraged to apply now for funding available from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS).

Individuals interested in applying for these conservation programs may do so at any time, but applications need to be submitted by November 17th to be considered for Fiscal Year 2024 funding.

For more information about conservation programs and other assistance available, contact your local NRCS field office or visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/NE

To learn more about the 12 responsibilities of the Nebraska’s NRDs and how your local district can work with you and your community to protect your natural resources, visit www.lenrd.org and sign up for our monthly emails. The next board of directors meeting will be Tuesday, November 21, 2023 at the LENRD office in Norfolk at 7:30 p.m. and on Facebook Live.

State Land Judging Competition Challenges Youth Near Broken Bow

LINCOLN, Nebraska – Students and instructors from 40 high schools met near Broken Bow to compete in State Land Judging Oct. 25. The Lower Loup Natural Resources District (NRD) partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) to host the annual competition.

With foggy skies and damp conditions, students judged on a terraced landscape currently enrolled in the USDA’s Farm Service Agency’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP).

“As Nebraska’s largest Natural Resources District, which stretches from the eastern Sandhills in the west to fertile farm ground in the east, the soil types within the Lower Loup NRD are diverse,” said Lower Loup NRD General Manager Russell Callan. “Getting Nebraska’s high school students out onto the landscape is a great way for them to learn about our state’s natural resources. We were honored to host the 2023 Nebraska State Land Judging Contest and congratulate all the students from across Nebraska who took part.”

Land Judging is a high school competition that challenges students to gain a better understanding of soil structure and land evaluation. Teams consist of four students from the same FFA chapter, and a few individuals who qualified separate from a team. Each participant learns how to recognize the physical features of the soil, determine land capability for crop production, and evaluate management practices needed for proper stewardship.

During the competition, students judge four soil pits using an evaluation card to make assessments on: soil depth, surface texture, permeability, slope, thickness of surface and erosion. The evaluation card is scored to determine overall placements for individuals and the team. To compete in the state contest, teams advance from one of the seven regional competitions hosted across the state in October.

2023 State Land Judging Individual Champions:

1. Isaiah Neal, Alma

2. Isabel Cressler, The Career Academy (Lincoln)

3. Brock Niedfeldt, Falls City

4. Walker Ott, Wisner Pilger

5. Parker Smith, The Career Academy (Lincoln)

2023 State Land Judging Team Champions:

1. Falls City: Brock Niedfeldt, Ethan Morris, Kemper Foster, Lathan Richey

2. Wisner-Pilger: Walker Ott, Taylor Scholting, Delaney Boyer, Braxton Siebrandt

3. Alma: Isaiah Neal, Nolan Pfeil, Wyatt Isaacson, Karsten Bradley

4. Bishop Neumann (Wahoo): Jake Rezac, Chisum Wilson, Adam Furasek, Kamber Lechtenberg

5. The Career Academy (Lincoln): Isabel Cressler, Parker Smith, Sapphire Guzman, Johanna Roux

These top five Nebraska teams will advance to the national competition hosted in El Reno, Oklahoma, April 30-May 2, 2024. For more information on Nebraska Land Judging, visit www.nrdnet.org.

Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District is Named in Federal Lawsuit

On October 17, 2023, the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District received notice that it had been named in a complaint filed in the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska.  The complaint, filed on behalf of Subdistrict #3 Director Melissa Temple lists the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District as the Defendant and seeks Preliminary and Permanent Injunction, Damages, and Declaratory Relief. 

In response to this filing, General Manager Brian Bruckner responded by stating, “Given the sensitive nature of this matter, along with the fact that there is active litigation being pursued on behalf of Director Temple against the District, we will simply acknowledge receipt of the court filing and that we are consulting with our legal counsel to assess our options to defend the District.  That being stated, we will have no further comment on the matter until new details become available.”

Sign-up Begins November 1, 2023 for New Irrigated Acres

Landowners within the Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District (LENRD) will once again have an opportunity to apply for new irrigated acres. At their October 12, 2023 Special Board Meeting, the LENRD Board of Directors approved a sign-up period for Standard Variances, for new irrigated acres, beginning on November 1st and ending on December 1, 2023.

One of the primary responsibilities of Nebraska’s Natural Resource Districts is to manage groundwater to protect both its quality and quantity for all Nebraskans. “It’s very hard to be here and decide when it’s not just ag that we have to worry about – it’s everybody else. In the end, we have to see the big picture because, if we don’t, then we’re not doing our job as a NRD,” said Chad Korth, LENRD Subdistrict #1 Director.

Directors discussed amendments to the geographic eligibility map and to the evaluation score sheets for both the hydrologically and non-hydrologically connected portions of the District, as well. Directors reviewed a series of ten maps – with Value One being the most restrictive (whole district shut down) and Value Ten being the least restrictive (whole district opened).

The maps were produced from a composite of two factors: saturated sand thickness and transmissivity (T) of the aquifer. The resulting composite shows where the aquifer has more or less potential risk based on the transmissivity and total saturated sand.  The highest transmissivity along with the greatest amount of saturated sand would be the most favorable. 

“What we want to look at is what kind of geographic opportunity do we want to allow?” said LENRD General Manager, Brian Bruckner.

After much discussion, a majority of the Board supported the addition of the LENRD Phase 3 Area in the geographic eligibility map.  Arguments against were based on the need to prevent additional nitrate contamination of the aquifer, while those in favor cited the enhanced nutrient management opportunity if a landowner is allowed to irrigate. The final version of the geographic eligibility map will be a blended version of previous iterations that have been used for previous sign-up periods, combined with the newer composite version.   

Directors also approved changes to the scoring documents to address the category related to the stream depletion factor for locations that are hydrologically connected, and also for land that is adjacent to existing irrigated land allowing for completion of a 360 degree revolution of the center pivot irrigation system along with a change to the weighted average soil score to 80 points.

“A minimum soil score must be met in the soil conservation category for any standard variance application to be considered for approval, regardless of the total score,” Bruckner explained.

The LENRD Board approved up to 295- acre feet of new stream water depletions for new groundwater irrigation development in the Hydrologically Connected Area in the LENRD, and up to 2,500 acres of new groundwater irrigation development in the Non-Hydrologically Connected Area. The annual allocation for any new irrigation well will be 14 acre-inches. This allocation amount will replace and be applied to all previously constructed irrigation wells that are not currently subject to a penalty for non-compliance.

A map of the eligible locations will be available at the LENRD office in Norfolk and on the District’s website by Thursday, October 19, 2023, and application materials will be available immediately prior to November 1st. Excluded from consideration for this sign-up period will be any parcel of land located in any Quantity Management Subarea.

Bids Requested for Campground Electrical Upgrade at Maskenthine Rec. Area

Bids will be received by Brian Bruckner, General Manager, Lower Elkhorn Natural Resources District, 1508 Square Turn Boulevard, Norfolk, Nebraska 68701 for furnishing all labor, equipment materials and incidentals necessary to complete the electrical upgrade for the campground at Maskenthine Recreation Area. The Project site is 1.5 miles North and 0.5 miles west of Stanton, Nebraska. The upgrade will involve replacing all 33 electrical pedestals within the campground, boring in appropriately sized wire and conduit to each pedestal, hooking up the wire to the main breaker panel and to each pedestal. There will be incidental work along with the prescribed pay items of work. The planned work is shown on drawings that are attached to the project manual. Other related items shall be furnished and installed by the Contractor.

Proposals will be opened at 1:00 PM on November 2nd, 2023.  Project work shall be completed by May 26th, 2024

Specifications and plans for the work can be examined and obtained from the office of the Lower Elkhorn NRD office, Norfolk, Nebraska.

The Bids will be submitted on proposal forms furnished by the owners.

The Lower Elkhorn NRD reserves the right to waive any irregularities, reject any or all bids and accept the proposal most advantageous to the Lower Elkhorn NRD.

LOWER ELKHORN NATURAL RESOURCES DISTRICT
Tyler Warren, Recreation Area Superintendent
Phone: 402-640-3958