LINCOLN (NE) July 16, 2013 - The Lower Platte South Natural Resources District Board of Directors approved Jeremie Kerkman, of Lincoln, taking the Board seat previously held by Doug Samuelson, who died June 3rd. Kerkman was sworn-in immediately after the Board's approval at its July 15th meeting.

Kerkman represents the NRD's Subdistrict 6, which includes, generally, a portion of northwest Lincoln from just east of the airport to 27th Street and from West Alvo Road south to Cornhusker Highway. Kerkman's term expires at the end of 2016 and he can run for the seat in the 2016 elections.

The NRD received six letters of application from Subdistrict 6 residents interested in serving. After interviews, a subcommittee recommended Kerkman to the Board of Directors. Kerkman is Vice President of Operations at Crete Carrier Corporation. He is also a licensed civil engineer and has managed water releases, power production and water conservation projects for Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District, headquartered in Holdrege.

Kerkman studied hydrology and received a bachelor's degree from UNL. He also holds an MBA from the University of Nebraska-Kearney. Kerkman told the Board he is interested in ensuring the protection and development of our natural resources for future generations.

Samuelson served on the NRD Board from 2005 until his death and was a former Board Chair. The 21-member Lower Platte South NRD Board consists of two representatives from each of ten subdistricts and an at-large member, who serve four-year terms.