GRAND ISLAND, Nebraska – Encouraging results of new data-driven fertigation, the spring weather forecast, and the Perkins County Canal will all be featured at Central Platte NRD’s annual Water Programs Update to be held Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024, at the Merrick County Fairgrounds in Central City. Guest speakers for the one-day event include:

• Khris Staton, Sentinel Fertigation Implementation Specialist: Staton will share the results of 2023 N-time data-driven fertigation trials in central Nebraska.
• Don Blankenau, Attorney with BWJ Law Group of Lincoln: Blankenau will discuss Nebraska’s drainage law regarding landowner versus renter responsibilities.
• Mike Moritz, Meteorologist, National Weather Service-Hastings: Moritz will offer his insights into the anticipated weather pattern for the 2024 growing season and the extended forecast.
• Jesse Bradley, Assistant Director, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources: Bradley will provide the latest happenings with the Perkins County Canal.

The Central Platte NRD staff will go over changes to the NRD’s Groundwater Management Plan, including new groundwater quality and quantity triggers and producer legal responsibilities.

The event is open to the public. Producers in Phases II/III of the Groundwater Quality Management Program may attend this event in place of taking the NRD’s Nitrogen Management Certification Test. Continuing Education Credits for a Professional Water Well Contractors License are also being offered.

The Water Programs Update is scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. There is no cost to attend. RSVP for lunch by Feb. 2, 2024, by calling 308.385.6282 or email Marcia Lee at lee [at] cpnrd.org. Additional information is available at www.cpnrd.org.