LINCOLN, Nebraska — The Lower Platte South Natural Resources District Board of Directors convened April 16, 2025, adopting initiatives that enhance regional flood protection, water quality, and access to conservation throughout southeastern Nebraska. The moves reflect the NRD's focus on collaborative planning, resilient infrastructure, and long-term stewardship.

Davey Well Decommissioning Approved to Safeguard Drinking Water
In a key step to protect public health, the Board authorized a cost-share agreement to help fund an enhanced well decommissioning project in the Village of Davey. The estimated $13,430 project applies special grouting techniques to seal old municipal wells to prevent nitrates in ground water from contaminating the community's drinking water supply. The NRD will pay Davey $7,965 through an enhanced cost-share program due to the site's complex geology and its role in protecting public health and safety.

Seward County's Flood Control Partnership is Moving Ahead
The Board also approved an amended agreement with Seward County to undertake major structural repairs to the Janssen Road Structure. As outlined in Supplement No. 6 to the original 1990 partnership agreement, 75% of design, permitting, and construction costs will be paid by the NRD to repair a split-off pipe detected in the District's annual dam inspection. Repairs will prolong the service life of the structure and mitigate downstream flood risk in the area around Garland.

LPSNRD Extends Stormwater Partnership with City of Lincoln
The Board once again reaffirmed its long-standing partnership with the City of Lincoln by approving the Fiscal Year 2025–2026 Work Plan under the Stormwater Management Interlocal Agreement—a $2.5 million partnership that is emblematic of the strength of public partnerships in addressing complicated environmental issues.

This proactive plan supports an array of high-benefit watershed projects such as the Haines Branch and Middle Creek stream stabilization projects, essential repairs to Beal Slough along Pine Lake Road, and design for the ambitious Deadmans Run Flood Reduction Project. Not only are these investments grounded in science, but they are also fiscally sound—each chosen to maximize possible environmental impacts while making the most of local property tax dollars.

Together, LPSNRD and the City can pool technical expertise, money, and public confidence to accomplish more than they would separately. The partnership ensures regional flood protection, water quality enhancements, and natural habitat restoration are undertaken in an integrated, cost-effective manner. The combined efforts of both help stretch local money farther, minimize duplication, and yield tangible results for Lincoln citizens and the larger watershed.

“The City is very appreciative of this longstanding partnership with the District to further the City’s and the District’s mission of reducing flood risk and protecting the natural resources in our community, and we are excited to continue this work as outlined in this year’s work plan,” said Tim Zach, Superintendent of Stormwater for the City of Lincoln.

This intergovernmental partnership is central to the NRD's mission and demonstrates how strategically investing locally derived tax dollars through collaboration can deliver long-term public safety and environmental resilience.

Summer Surface Water BMP Projects Approved
In support of private lands conservation, the Board authorized five applications for the Surface Water Quality Best Management Practices Program. The projects range from Lancaster to Cass Counties and consist of terraces and grass waterways to minimize sediment runoff and improve water quality. The NRD will invest $94,357 in cost-share funds under its Summer Conservation Program.

As a reminder, board meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30pm.