April 24, 2008
Central Platte NRD Board to Allow Transfers Class E & W Soils

 The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s directors discussed changes to the Rules & Regulations at the regularly scheduled board meeting.   The following policies were set in place:

--The changes will allow transfers for irrigation for Class IVe soils if a verified FSA crop history exists and the transfer is from land that has the same or poorer soils classification and seeded back to approved grasses. 

--Transfers will be allowed for Class Vw soils if the land complies with USDA wetland provisions and the offset is one and one half times the acre-feet needed. 

--Transfers will also be allowed for Class Viw and Class Vie soils if the offset is one and one half times the acre-feet needed and restrictions would be in place for landscape and vegetative cover.

Other discussion and action:

--Cease & Desist- A Cease & Desist Order was issued for the Osantowski Brothers of Bellwood, NE, for irrigating new lands after the 2004 state moratorium on irrigated acres.

--Water Resources Committee- Ron Bishop gave an update on the Water Banking Program and the committee reviewed budget requests for 2009.  No action was taken.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee-  The board denied irrigation certification appeals from three Hall County landowners.

--Programs Committee- Approved changes to the Cost Share Program for the 2008-2009 include: 

--Irrigation Water Management: Dollar limit of $5,000 per year per landowner.  Includes irrigated, non-irrigated land exchange process for determining land eligibility.

--Planned Grazing Systems- Raise crop share cap to $7,500 (currently $5,000)

--Center Pivot Incentive- Remove one per landowner/operator per lifetime limit and change to one per landowner per year. Cost share assistance will be raised to a maximum of $7,500 at $5.77 per foot.

--Well Abandonment- All irrigation wells to be cost shared at 60% up to $750.

     The 2008 NRD scholarship recipients were selected.  The nine recipients will receive $500 towards their natural resources careers:  Kurtis Burden, Sumner; John Czaplewski, Grand Island; Jacob Dexter, Central City; Daniel Gill, Wood River; Alexandra Hempleman, Shelton; Erica Jobman, Gothenburg; Drew Tickle, Kearney; Justin Wadkins-Meyer, Gibbon; Shannon Wietjes, Riverdale.

--Rental Bids-  Sealed bids were reviewed for cash rental of 198 acres of dryland cropland owned by the NRD.  The bid winner is Matt Peterson of Bertrand with a bid of $20,000.  Crops allowed are dryland corn, soybeans, wheat, oats, barley or sorghum.  The board requested that staff hire S&K Pump of Overton to pull the pumps from the wells on the property, cap the wells and advertise the pumps for sale.

--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, distributed a copy of the final 2008 update on natural resources bills. Moravek encouraged the directors to watch three interim Platte River diversion studies.

--Hike & Bike Trail- The board denied an agreement to act as a title holder and major participant for a Hike & Bike Trail in the Central City and Marquette area.  The proposed agreement would have required the NRD to hold title to the seven-mile trail, act as the contracting organization and hold a bid letting to hire a contractor for the project.

--FSA Records- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the access to receiving FSA records looks promising and that he would continue to pursue it.

--Water Levels- Jesse Mintkin, resources technician, reported on groundwater level readings.  The following readings were discussed:  Fall 2006 through 2007-majority of district had 0-5 foot inclines.

Spring 2006 through 2007- majority of district had 0-2 foot inclines, with some 0-3 foot declines.  A more detailed report will be made next month after the 2008 readings are compiled.

 --NRCS Report- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported that there are 50 tracts of land to be reviewed this year for compliance due to FSA records, carryovers, whistleblowers and USDA owned property.

----Cost Share- 38 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $48,030.68.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, fertilizer calibration meter, tree planting, flow meter, surge valve and well decommissioning.

March 27, 2008
Central Platte NRD Board Approves Requests from Doniphan & Duncan Villages
Two villages received approval on their requests to the Central Platte Natural Resources District. The board of directors met Thursday and approved both projects at 50 percent of project costs.  The flood control request from the Village of Doniphan was approved for $37,500, while the drainage request from the Village of Duncan was approved at $2,500.  The board also selected Platte Valley Construction, Grand Island, for the construction of the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.  Platte Valley Construction had the low bid of $1,701,485.90 to excavate 627,770 cubic yards, seeding and erosion control.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee-  The committee tabled one variance requests due to Class 6 soils.  Three certification appeals were approved, while one landowner’s requests were tabled until April.  Matt Bohnenkamp, water resources specialist, reported that the irrigation certification website now has all signatures and phone number disclosed so they are not viewable on the Internet.
--Water Resources Committee- A sub-committee was formed to make a recommendation on Soil Classes 4e, 5 & 6.  The committee members include: Jerry Wiese, Jim Bendfeldt, Marvion Reichert, Jay Richeson, LeRoy Arends, Dan Ohlman, Ed Stoltenberg and Scott Woodman.  A motion to allow Class 5/6w lands to be irrigated was defeated.  Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the District was ready to sell its first water rights from the Water Bank.  The board approved the first sell and authorized Bishop to sell to individuals up to 10 acre-feet without prior board approval.  The board will receive a report each month on the Water Bank activities.  Direction was also given to staff to proceed with acquiring FSA information.     A Public Hearing will be held at 1:30 p.m. on April 24, 2008, just prior to the board of directors meeting to take action on violations on new irrigated lands.
--Western Projects Committee- The committee reviewed budget recommendations for 2008-2009.
--Programs Committee- The committee discussed changes to the following cost share programs for the 2008-2009 budget: NSWCP irrigation water management, planned grazing systems, flow meter, surge valve, center pivot and well abandonment.  The committee will make a recommendation to the Board in April.
--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that there are only two weeks left in this session.  The natural resources bills that may still be passed include: LB 295, LB 790, LB 798, LB 962, LB 1094.
--Equipment Bids-  Sealed bids will be reviewed for a 2004 Zimmatic Center Pivot- 7 Tower Unit.  The board approved the high bid of $26,177 to Don Moss of Hall County.  The board discussed the remainder of the property.  The recommendation from the directors was to have Bishop rent the land out for dryland crop this season.  The land and remaining equipment will be sold in the future.
--Statewide Information Issues- Bishop reported on misinformation that has appeared in recent newspaper and magazine articles across the state.  Bishop said that the misinformation has been addressed through letters to the editor and editorials.
--NRCS Report- Grant Linder, Grand Island, reported on the Web Soil Survey website.  The public can view soil classes throughout the state on the site.  http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov.  James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported that the CPNRD was allocated $1,629,000 in EQIP Funds for 2008.  There were 60 contracts approved in the amount of $1,516,080.94.  Huntwork noted that Central Platte received a larger allocation than other districts because of the Water Bank that has been established.
--Cost Share- 37 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $39,838.23.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, range seeding, fertilizer calibration meter, tree planting, flow meter, surge valve, center pivot, streambank stabilization and well decommissioning.

February 29, 2008
Central Platte NRD Board to Take Closer Look at Soil Classifications 
Soil classifications were discussed again this month by the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors at Thursday’s meeting,  In question are which soil types are or should be allowed to be irrigated.  The NRD’s current Rules & Regulations do not allow transferring irrigated acres to soils that are determined to be Class V or above.  Landowner Ken Woitaszewski submitted several soil issues that he’d like the board to consider.  Three variances requesting irrigation on Class VI soils were tabled until the board has more time to discuss the issue next month.  There were two variance requests approved and one denied.  Three appeals for certification of irrigated acres were approved and one denied.
--PRRIP- Jerry Kenny, Platte River Recovery Implementation Program director, gave a presentation on the adaptive management program; which includes the land and water needs for the program.  Kenny emphasized that land acquisitions would only be considered to willing sellers at fair market value.  Phase I of the water management study will be wrapping up soon.  For more information on the Program, visit the website at: www.platteriverprogram.org.
--Western Projects Committee- An engineering firm will be asked to develop a preliminary design and cost estimate for drainage solutions in the Odessa area.  Landowners would like a comprehensive design put together to fix the problem.  The NRD has been addressing drainage issues in the area for 10 years, including snagging and clearing on Turkey and Elm creeks and a project started several years ago was stopped by an uncooperative landowner.   Up to $50,000 was also approved to help the Village of Elm Creek with a low water crossing on Tyler Street that creates flooding after a two-inch rain.  The funds will be available in the 2009 fiscal budget.
--Eastern Projects Committee- A flood control request from the Village of Doniphan was tabled until next month.  JEO has evaluated the flooding situation and determined that drainage ditches need to be opened up, smooth slopes and a pump station also need to be added.  The NRD requested that the Village discuss the issue with the developer and then come back with a specific amount that they would like funded by the NRD.  The continuation of an existing contract with JEO was approved for the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.  The contract was amended to complete the entire design of the project, which was requested by the Nebraska Natural Resources Commission.  Cost of the plan is $520,996 with the funds available in the 2009 fiscal budget.  Sponsors include: the State of Nebraska, Central Platte NRD, the City of Grand Island, Hall County and Merrick County. 
--Mitigation Sub-Committee- The board approved the recommendation that Kirkham Michael of Omaha be hired to conduct the FEMA Mitigation Study.  The plan would establish goals, policies and procedures to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to human life and property.  The study will be conducted district-wide and will cost $71,250.  Federal funds will pay for 75% of the study with the NRD providing the remaining 25%.  After the study is complete, the cities and counties in the District will be eligible to receive grant assistance for disasters under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.  Funds will be available for drainage projects, tornado shelters, stormwater management, public education programs, etc. 
--Programs Committee- The committee reviewed the cost share and information/education budget requests for 2009.  The committee will meet again next month to make changes to the cost share budget.
--Water Banking- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that questions have been raised on whether water banking is an accurate and appropriate use of COHYST.  The COHYST sponsors are discussing the matter and an update will be given at the next board meeting.  The board also requested that Bishop write a letter to the editor of the Lexington Clippper-Herald regarding an inaccurate article that was printed this month on the NRD’s water banking program.
--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that LB 799 and LB 800 were added to LB 798 and advanced this week.  These bills change the definition of headwater to ephemeral stream, allow transfer of surface water for irrigation when there’s a change in point of diversion and allow underground water storage.  Bills that are indefinitely postponed: LB 881, 946 & 1040; that all would have imposed taxes on ethanol.
--Cost Share- 31 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $49,605.42.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, planned grazing, range seeding, fertilizer calibration meter, tree planting, re-nozzle, flow meter, center pivot and well decommissioning.
--NRCS Report- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, Natural Resources Conservation Service, showed a video developed by the NRCS.  The video focuses on landowner’s successes and highlights the agency’s new theme: “NRCS- Our purpose.  Our Passion.”  The video may be seen at: www.nrcs.usda.gov.

January 24, 2008
--NRCS Report- James Huntwork, NRCS District Conservationist, gave a presentation on Land Capability Classes.  The NRD’s current Rules & Regulations do not allow transferring irrigated acres to soils that are determined to be Class 5 or above.  Huntwork discussed sub-classes 4e and 5w; which are found within the District.  The Board plans to discuss the classes again next month and make a final determination on which classes will be allowed to trade acres for offsets.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee-  The board approved a variance in Hall County.  A variance in Merrick County was approved with the requirement that the landowner make up past and future offsets where these offsets are required.  Two appeals for certified acres were approved in Dawson County.  The appeals in Merrick and Polk counties were denied.
--Water Resources Committee- Ron Bishop, general manager, gave a presentation on the water banking program.  The board approved four contract negotiations and passed a motion to allow the manager to negotiate with potential buyers and sellers.  The manager is required to get board approval before making any transactions.  Bishop also discussed a proposed formula to get the NRDs back to a fully appropriated status.  Bishop will discuss the proposal with Governor Heineman in the near future.
--Attachment A- The board approved a map to be included in the NRD’s Rules and Regulations.  The map and changes can be found on the NRDs website at: www.cpnrd.org.
--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, discussed natural resources Legislative bills that were introduced this year.  Moravek said the following bills may impact the CPNRD:
LB 751- Change noxious weed funding provisions relating to stream vegetation removal.
LB 790- Change buffer strip reimbursement provisions.
LB 800- Change intentional underground water storage permit provisions.
LB 862- Change noxious weed funding provisions.
LB 924- Provide for streamflow depletion offsets.
LB 946 & LB 1040- Impose an excise tax on production of ethanol.
LB 1041- Protect certain water purchased or leased for river flow enhancement.
LB 1094 & LB 1127- Drought relief assistance & augmentation of river flows as an incentive program.
LB 1150- Increase in funds appropriated to the Nebraska Resources Development Fund.
     Voting Delegates for the NARD Legislative Conference: Jerry Wiese and Jim Bendfeldt (alternate.)
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the Governance Committee meeting for the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program.  In December the Fiscal 2008 budget was approved totaling $10.9 million.  The House of Representatives passed federal legislation for Program funding, however, Senate approval is still required. Currently, the Program is being funded by existing Bureau of Rec. funds and with funds from Colorado and Wyoming.  Mike Purcell with the State of Wyoming was re-elected Governance Committee Chair.  Mike Ryan with the Bureau of Reclamation was re-elected as vice-chair.
Committee Reports: U.S. FWS-planning a small pulse flow in late winter or early spring of 2008 to gain experience on making such releases & how to monitor impacts.  Governance Committee-planning Water Management Study workshop toward implementing the Water Action Plan.  Land Advisory Committee- continues to organize & get up to speed to implement the Land Action Plan once funding is available.
--Clean Community System- A request to participate in a matching grant was approved for $500.  The CCS is submitting a $20,000 grant application to the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality for a recycling program at Husker Harvest Days to collect plastic, cardboard and aluminum cans. 
--Hazard Mitigation Plan- The following sub-committee was appointed: Brian Keiser, Loren Schuett and Dwayne Margritz.  The committee will meet in February to review bids on a HMP Study.
--Cost Share- 32 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation & the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $55,025.03.  Practices approved include water impoundment dam, pipeline, fertilizer calibration meter, tree planting, re-nozzle, flow meter, center pivot and well decommissioning.

December 20, 2007
NRD Board Approves Additional $2 Million to Buy Water Rights
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s Water Bank has been successful, retiring 580 acre-feet since July.  The most recent COHYST model indicates that the NRD will need to retire 2,400 acre-feet to bring the over-appropriated area back to a fully appropriated designation and approximately 3,400 acre-feet in total.  The success of the program has brought the need to borrow more money before the next fiscal year begins in July.  On Thursday, directors approved a loan up to $2 million with arrangements to repay the loan within three years. 
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee-  Four certification appeals were heard from landowners in Buffalo, Merrick, Nance and Platte counties.  Each appeal was denied.  Three appeals were denied because they did not meet the Rules & Regulations set by the board and the fourth was denied because the land is deemed as a Class V soil.
--Public Hearing- A public hearing was held prior to the meeting in regards to changes to the NRD’s Rules and Regulations.  At the board meeting, directors approved an amended version with additions from the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.  Attachment A, which is referred to in the text, is a map that needs to be updated.  That attachment was not approved and will be brought back for approval at the January board meeting.  The changes better define offsets and their boundaries.  The new rules can be found on the NRDs website at: www.cpnrd.org.
--Mitigation Plan- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, recommended to the board that JEO apply for a Hazardous Mitigation Plan for FEMA.  JEO has agreed to send the application to FEMA for 75% cost share to develop the study.  Many communities in the NRD are expressing interest in pursuing the study since the potential FEMA funds available after the completion would enable communities to take action & reduce threats from natural disasters.  Moravek also recommended that Requests for Proposals (RFPs) be sent out in early January to other engineering firms on how they would carry out the project and costs.  Projects that are eligible for grant funding once the Hazard Mitigation Plan is approved include: improve storm water drainage, establish urban tree management plans, tornado shelter assessment & distribution of weather radios, removal of vulnerable structures, upgrade bridges, remapping of floodplain, snow removal strategies, public education programs & burying overhead power lines.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, presented a preliminary report on the river depletions from 1997-2005.  According to the latest COHYST model run, a total of 24,800 acre-feet will need to be offset within the five sponsoring NRDs to get back to the 1997 levels as required by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.  Those NRDs include Central Platte, Tri-Basin, North Platte, South Platte and Twin Platte.  Of the 24,800 acre-feet of offsets needed, Central Platte will need to come up with 2,400 ac/ft to honor a commitment to get back to the 1997 levels in just the over-appropriated area.  Woodward said that HDR Engineering is currently working on a tool that will help determine how far back to go by looking at long-term trends.   Woodward reported that modelers are also working on a model assessment from 1997-2005 to see how well the COHYST model predicted the drought.
--Wood River Flood Control Project-  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, distributed a report by the Corps of Engineers that estimated $23,678.4 million of damage was prevented during the 2005 flood due to the project.  The cost of the project was $15.5 million.  The flood was considered to be a 25-year frequency storm.  Additional information is provided with the attached news release.
--Election- Incumbents wanting to run for the Central Platte NRD board of directors must have their information to the State of Nebraska’s office by February 15, 2008.  The non-incumbent deadline is March 3, 2008.  There are 10 incumbents up for re-election.
--NACD Request- Directors approved a contribution of $200 to the National Association of Resources District’s Capitol Court Campaign to help with repairs of the building in Washington DC.
--NRCS Report- James Huntwork, Natural Resources Conservation Service District Conservationist, reported that the total initial allocation for the Central Platte NRD was $1,629,000.  The total allocation for the entire state was $12,900,829.
--NACD Contribution-  The board approved a contribution of $200 in honor of Herman Link, first NRD chairman, to help with renovation of the NACD building in Washington DC.
--Cost Share- 30 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation & the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $56,590.85.  Practices approved include terraces, pipeline, dugout for livestock, grass seeding, fertilizer calibration meter, surge valve, tree planting, flow meter, center pivot and well decommissioning.

November 15, 2007
Cairo Downtown Project to Receive $50,000 from CPNRD
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved $50,000 in flood control funds to aid in the construction of adding a 48” drainage outlet for the Cairo Downtown Improvement Project to divert excess water.  The current drainage system cannot handle a one-year rainfall event, causing overflow ponds and flooding in low areas.  The community of Cairo has $2 million into the project at this time.

-Western Projects Committee-There were approximately 125 in attendance at a public meeting for the proposed Elm Creek Watershed Flood Control Project on Nov.7.  Dick Mercer, chairman of the Western Projects Committee, reported that Olsson Associates did an excellent job conducting the public meeting.  Directors who were in attendance felt that the residents of Elm Creek were not represented and that the NRD would proceed with an information program.  Snagging and clearing will continue on Elm & Turkey creeks, however flooding near Hwy 30 will continue to be a problem until a flood control project is implemented.  Staff will also seek input from the Department of Natural Resources, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, Nebraska Public Power District, and the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service.

--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The first request that the NRD received to rescind a variance against another landowner was tabled.  Kevin Klingenhoffer, Buffalo County, presented his concerns about irrigation on eroded soils; which was grandfathered in the landowner’s variance because planning was implemented prior to a change in the Rules & Regulations in 2006. The committee directed Klingenhoffer to discuss the situation with the FSA before the NRD would consider such a move.

--Water Resources Committee- Lalit Jha, JEO Consulting, presented a program available through FEMA that would provide grant assistance for Hazard Mitigation projects under the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.  The NRD or other local government agencies would need to develop a Hazard Mitigation Plan in order to receive funds for drainage projects, tornado shelters, stormwater management, public education programs, etc.  The plan would establish goals, policies and procedures to reduce or eliminate long-term risk to human life and property.  The board will decide whether to participate in the 75/25 match program in December.

--Water Bank- Ron Bishop, manager, reported that three pending easements were approved in Dawson County for the Water Bank Program.   The board also approved the purchase of four other easements in the amount of $470,000 with the requirement that the acres are currently certified as irrigated.  These easements will provide nearly 200 acre-feet to the river.  James Huntwork, NRCS, said that several of the individual landowners qualify for the EQIP Conservation Easement Program; which will allow them to receive funds through the NRCS and the NRD to retire their irrigated acres.

--Programs Committee- A request from Centura Elementary to cost share on an outdoor classroom was approved by the board in the amount of $1,500.  To ensure that an outdoor classroom will be beneficial to all age levels, Centura has plans to develop a greenhouse/garden area, nature art and music/movement areas.  The NRD cost shares on outdoor classrooms to promote understanding of our natural resources and to provide opportunities for children to connect with nature.

--Water Users Coalition- The board approved a request to become a member of the Lower Platte River Water Users Coalition.  The NRD will contribute an initial membership fee of $4,000.  The Coalition was established to oppose the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission’s recently released Biological Opinion (BO); which states that any changes to the Platte, Loup and Elkhorn rivers would threaten piping plover, least tern and pallid sturgeon habitat.  Ron Bishop was named representative and Mark Czaplewski, biologist, was named alternate.      

--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the Cooperative Hydrology Study sponsors would meet on December 4th to review draft depletions in the overappropriated areas for the Natural Resources District in the study area.  The sponsors will also review the final Eastern model (CPNRD included), update COHYST assessments to be completed by June 2008, review percent depletions being run in the North Platte NRD and Twin Platte NRD.  They are also working on a model to identify the effects of land use changes (such as a change from wheatland grass to corn.)

-- Cost Share- 14 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $16,114.11.  Practices approved include grass seeding, tree planting, flow meter, center pivot and well decommissioning.

October 25, 2007
Central Platte NRD Board Stands Behind COHYST
At their board meeting on Thursday, the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s directors decided to respond to technical results of the Cooperative Hydrology Study (COHYST) after the Lincoln Journal-Star published an article titled “NRDs, power provider at odds on irrigation analysis.”  The article quoted a Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District’s representative who implied that groundwater pumpers were drying up all of the rivers, streams and reservoirs; the response will explain that the drought, surface water users and ground water users all play a part in the condition of the river.  Action was also taken on the following:
   Rules & Regulations- The deadline for all irrigated acres in the District to be certified has been proposed as March 1, 2008.   This deadline and proposed changes to the definition of a replacement well and location of offsets for variances were approved by the board on October 25.  A public hearing regarding these proposed changes will be held prior to the December 20th board meeting at 11:45 a.m.
   Water Banking Program- the purchase of an easement was approved with a stipulation that only dryland soybeans, wheat, barley or oats may be planted.  This piece of ground will provide 25.3 ac/ft of return annually.  
   New EQIP Funds-  James Huntwork, Natural Resources Conservation Service, announced that a new EQIP opportunity is available for farmers in the Central Platte NRD.  To help offset depletions to the Platte River, an incentive payment will be available through EQIP for converting irrigated land to non-irrigated land on a permanent basis.  The area eligible for the EQIP incentive payment lies in the over- appropriated area from Elm Creek west into Dawson County. The total payment rate is based on the difference between the irrigated & non-irrigated land value multiplied by a resource impact factor. The EQIP portion of the payment is $200/acre/year X 3 years, for a total of $600 per acre per EQIP contract. 
     This incentive payment will be used in conjunction with the CPNRD Water Banking Program where the NRD would hold a permanent easement on the land converted to dryland. The intent is to combine NRD funds with EQIP dollars to make this opportunity available to more producers, which will help to restore the depleted watershed.      Huntwork also reported that phragmite control was also approved as a new practice in the District.  Landowners who want to participate in any of the NRCS cost share programs must have applications in by December 14, 2007.  Huntwork urges landowners to contact their local NRCS office immediately to sign up.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- All six certification appeals from Merrick County were denied.  The board approved a motion that in the future, the chairman of the Variance Committee and the General Manager will review second requests to ensure that new information is being provided and should be considered by the committee.
-Appeals from Harvey Langrehr, Howard County, were approved on acres that had been assessed and paid as irrigated.  The appeals that did not show irrigation history were not approved.
-A motion was approved that requires that landowners who are requesting an appeal to provide all information to be considered at the public hearing to staff at least 10 calendar days prior to the hearing.
--Cairo Request- Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, requested that the NRD consider providing funds for the Cairo Downtown Improvement Project, specifically for drainage that would include new storm sewer pipes.  The project plans include new roadway surfaces, lighting, sewer, sidewalks and landscaping.  The board will make a decision on funding on November 15th.
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that authorizing legislation for federal Program funding was recently passed by the House of Representatives and now awaits action by the Senate.  A bill nearly identical to the House bill is now awaiting mark-up by the Senate Environment & Natural Resources Committee and, optimistically, will be moved out of Committee within the next month; with legislation possibly passed by the end of the year.  Currently, the Program is being funded by existing Bureau of Reclamation funds and with funds from the states of Colorado and Wyoming.   The Program’s Land Advisory Committee met for the first time on October 4th.  One of the group’s first orders of business was to elect officers.  Scott Woodman was elected Chair and Mark Czaplewski was elected Vice-Chair.  Federal funding for land rights acquisition or maintenance use is not currently available, so most land activities are on hold.   Czaplewski also reported that a panel has been formed to begin the process of selecting the individuals to serve on the Program’s Independent Science Advisory Committee (ISAC).   The panel will return a recommendation on ISAC membership to the Governance Committee for their review and approval.  The ISAC will provide an independent scientific review of Program components, a key part of the Program’s adaptive management process.
--Audit- Randy Knapp, McDermott & Miller, reported on the 2007 audit and the audit process.  The board approved the 2007 audit as presented.
--Awards- Just prior to the board meeting, anniversary service awards were presented to Duane Woodward, hydrologist-15 years; Mark Czaplewski, biologist-10 years; and Bill Beckstead, resource conservationist-12 years.  Beckstead is retiring this month.
-- Cost Share- 20 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $22,304.60.  Practices approved include pasture planting, grass seeding, underground pipeline, renozzle, flow meter, center pivot and well decommissioning.
--November Meeting- The November board of directors meeting will be held Thursday, November 15 at 2:00 p.m.; a week early due to the Thanksgiving holiday. 

September 17, 2007
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Monday, September 17, 2007.  Action included two deposits for water rights in the CPNRD Water Bank that the NRD will purchase for $440,000.  The deposits are both from Dawson County and will provide net gains to the river at 77.1 and 99.1 acre-feet in the over-appropriated area of the district. 
--Water Resources-  A Deed of Conservation Easement was approved. Landowners who sell their water rights to the NRD are required to sign the Deed; which states that the land may no longer be irrigated.
    A policy that sets the point of depletion was also approved.  A north/south line plus one mile East was decided to be the policy for the location of offsets.  The change is necessary since the Platte River Recovery Program states that transfers must meet requirements of amount, timing and location of depletions to target flows.  The new policy will be added to the Rules & Regualtions in the near future. 
--Western Projects- The board will seek input from area residents on the Elm Creek Watershed Flood Control Project; which involves the development of a 975-acre reservoir near the City of Elm Creek.  Directors plan to meet with residents in early November while staff seeks funding sources.  Benefits of the project will include much needed flood control, recreation, and water releases back to the Platte River for threatened and endangered species habitat.
--Levy- The board approved a resolution setting the levy for the 2008 budget at 0.05876.  A budget hearing was held just prior to the board meeting.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The committee made the following recommendations on requests for appeals that were approved by the board: 2 requests were tabled and 1 request was approved.
--Water Meter Request- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, presented a request from the City of Wood River for the NRD to cost share on water meters.  The board denied the request.
--NRCS Report- Grant Linder and Joe Krolikowski gave a presentation on the comparisons between 2006 and 2007 growing season.  At one particular field in 2006, irrigation was applied 14 times for a total of 11.4 inches.  That same field only required 4 applications in 2007 and used about 4 inches due to the timing of precipitation that central Nebraska received.  Yields are expected to be much higher this year.
    James Huntwork, district conservationist, reported that the NRD may receive EQIP funds to assist the Water Bank.  Payments would be made upfront at $200/acre for three years. 
--Voting Delegates- The board selected Dick Mercer as voting delegate and Bill Vasey as alternate for the Nebraska Association of Resources District’s Annual Conference in Kearney September 24-25.
--LRIP- The board adopted the Long Range Implementation Plan as drafted. The Plan will be submitted to the Department of Natural Resources.
-- Cost Share- 9 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $16,207.90.  Practices approved include planned grazing, pasture planting, subsurface drip irrigation, underground pipeline, flow meter, surge valve and well decommissioning.

August 23, 2007
--Western Projects- Chairman Dick Mercer reported that Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, presented conclusions from the preliminary study for the proposed Elm Creek Watershed Project. The committee decided to delay action until the September board meeting.  A $10,000 preliminary study was approved for a drainage improvement project in the Odessa area.
--Water Resources-  Chairman Scott Woodman reported that area canal companies have shown interest  in the Water Banking Program. General manager Ron Bishop and the Water Banking Committee are actively meeting with the companies to give them options available.  The board also received a report on the Basin and NRD Integrated Management Plans. They took action to extend the time limit on the NRD’s Integrated Management Plan until September 2008, since the Basin plan isn’t completed yet.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- Chairman Dan Ohlman recommended the following action, which the board approved:
      Dianna Fife, TNT Cattle Co.- approved variance request since process began before NRD rule change.
       Bill Kuehner, Doniphan- approved 1 appeal, denied 4 appeals
       John Mundork, Mullen- denied appeal
       Harvey Langhrer, St. Libory- tabled until September to review additional information received
--NRCS Report- Teri Edeal, resources conservationist, reported on programs in the Lexington field office.  James Huntwork, district conservationist, reported on a new Practice Payment program that will begin on October 1, 2007.  The new program breaks practice costs down into more detail so that landowners have a better understanding of the payments that they receive.
--PBTF Support-  David Carr, range management specialist, requested a letter of support for the Nebraska Environmental Trust application of the Prescribed Burn Task Force education and expansion project.  The board approved the letter with support of up to $1,500.00 and also agreed to act as the fiscal agent for the project sponsors.
--PRRIP-  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that Dr. Jerry Kenny is the executive director for the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, replacing Dale Strickland who resigned.  Dr. Kenny has set up an office in Kearney and has started to put together his Program staff.  Federal legislation to authorize funds for the Program were introduced in the Senate & House and continue to move slowly through channels there with legislation possibly passing by the end of this year.  Currently, the Program is being funded by the Bureau of Reclamation and with some funds from the states of Colorado and Wyoming.
     The Governance Water & Technical Advisory committees and the Adaptive Management Work Group have been active.  The Land Advisory Committee including Scott Woodman, Mark Czaplewski, and Dan Ohlman (alternate) will meet this fall.  Right now federal funds aren’t available for land acquisition or maintenance use, so most land activities are on hold.  The Governance Committee is contracting with the Nebraska Community Foundation (NCF) to act as their Financial Management Entity and may also act as the Land Interest Holding Entity for the Program.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave an update several on-going projects as part of the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  New modelers at the North Platte and Twin Platte NRDs are updating the 1997-2005 models and calibrating the existing models.  Dick Lucky, previously with USGS, is working on the over-appropriated areas and breaking them down per Natural Resource District.  Woodward also reported that Parsons Engineering is calibrating the surface runoff component of the model and how it changes land uses.
--Directors Per Diem- The board approved a policy to allow directors to receive a per diem for instate functions.  The policy approved is $70 per day for functions lasting more than three hours and $35 lasting less than three hours.  Previously, the Central Platte NRD was the only Natural Resource District that did not pay directors a per diem for their service.
--LRIP- The board received a draft of the Long Range Implementation Plan to review.  The plan outlines the NRD’s policies and procedures for the next five years.  Action will be taken to approve the plan in September.
--September Board Meeting-  The board moved the board of directors meeting to 2:00 p.m. on Monday, September 17, 2007, in order to set the budget levy by September 20th.
-- Cost Share-  8 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $11,690.00.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, flow meter and well decommissioning.

July Board Meeting- Held August 1, 2007

The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Wednesday, August 1st (a week later than normal schedule).  Action included:
--2008 Budget- The board approved the proposed 2008 Budget.  The total (general & sinking fund) was approved at $4,984,334.55 compared to $2,631,239.54 last year.  The estimated Fiscal 2008 Levy is 0.06080 and based on last year’s actual valuation.  The actual levy should be lower than estimated because of anticipated higher valuations.  This means that the owner of a house valued at $100,00 would pay up to $60.80 from their property taxes.  The reason for the increase in the budget is the anticipated purchase of water rights to bring the district from the over-appropriated designation by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to a fully appropriated designation.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- Action from the hearing held on July 26, 2007:
            *Girl Scouts Inc.- request was approved
            *Harvey Langrehr-  decision tabled until August board of directors meeting
            *Bill Kuehner- decision tabled until August board of directors meeting
            *Del Stueven- denied unless information from FSA is formally changed
--CNEC Draft Letter- Milt Moravek reported that the application for funding for the proposed Central Nebraska Environmental Complex would likely be requested from the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality.    The board approved the draft letter of support for the facility.
--Tree Program- Kelly Cole, programs coordinator, reported that the 2007 tree and weed barrier sales were down dramatically:  *Trees/shrubs sold:  44,950     *Miles of Weed Barrier Sold: 13.35 miles
--NRCS Report- James Huntwork, district conservationist, presented a summary of EQIP projects in the state.  He also said that the closing of four NRCS offices wouldn’t directly affect Central Platte, but the Kearney office may see a slight increase in workload from Sherman County.
-- Cost Share-  38 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $81,396.54.  Practices approved include surge valve, underground pipeline, planned grazing, re-nozzles, windbreak renovation, center pivot, streambank stabilization, constructing diversion, pasture planting, planned grazing, urban forestry, flow meter and well decommissioning.

 June 29, 2007

The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday.  Action included:
--Water Resources Committee-  The following were addressed by the committee:
  ●  Betty Curtis, Clean Community System, requested action from each director to write a letter of support for the proposed Central Nebraska Environmental Complex.  She also requested $15,000.00 funding be included in the 2008 budget to purchase office equipment for the proposed facility.
  ●    Ron Bishop, general manager, was instructed to accept the 4-9-07 draft for the Basin Integrated Management Plan with a few minor changes.  Bishop said the 4-9-07 plan was broad enough to allow flexibility needed for individual integrated management plans to get the overappropriated areas back to the fully appropriated status.
  ●    Scott Woodman, committee chairman, reported that there are water bank negotiations in the works but no action is required at this time.

--Western Projects Committee- The following action taken:
·         Karen Griffin and Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, presented some conclusions from the study for the proposed Elm Creek Watershed Project.  Initial conclusions are favorable for a project, however,   the committee instructed OA to conduct more surveys in the area for more definitive answers before scheduling a public hearing.
·          Jim Shiers, director, discussed a water problem in the Gibbon area.  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, said he would contact the county board and highway department to discuss the drainage issues.

--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- Hillside Acres’ six appeals were tabled until the July meeting (to be held onAug 2nd).

--Hike & Bike Trail- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that the Central Platte NRD and the Upper Big Blue NRDs met with several government agencies on the proposed hike and bike trail in Central City and Marquette.  Members of the group will meet with city councils and county boards to discuss a cooperative agreement.  Moravek will report on progress at the July board meeting.

--Phragmite Control- Moravek also reported that a major effort is planned to reduce phragmites along the Platte River.  The NRD will cooperate with the Platte Valley Weed Management Area, the Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Audubon Society in the western part of the NRD.  Herbicides, disking, cattle grazing and prescribed fire will be used.  The board has included $30,000 in the proposed fiscal 2008 budget for these efforts.

--2008 Budget- The board approved the proposed 2008 budget for the purpose of holding a public hearing on Aug. 2, 2007 at 1:30 p.m., just prior to the July board of directors meeting.  There is a significant increase in the budget due largely to the new Water Banking program. 

-- Cost Share 18 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $12,850.00.  Practices approved include surge valve, fertilizer calibration, flow meter and well decommissioning.

 May 24, 2007
Board Approves Water Banking Policies
On Thursday, the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the first Water Banking Policies that outline how the Central Platte NRD water bank will be operated.  Details about acquisition, target water rights and uses, areas, programs and administration are available by request or on the NRD website: www.cpnrd.org.  Adoption of the policies officially begins the NRD’s water bank.  Ron Bishop, general manager, said the NRD will begin acquiring water rights within 45 days.

--Water Resources Committee- Director Jim Bendfeldt, Kearney, recommended that Ron Bishop draft a letter to the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) expressing the board’s concern that Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District is seeking much of the remaining uncommitted Platte River water.

--Programs Committee- The NRD will research an interlocal agreement with the Upper Big Blue NRD, Merrick & Hamilton counties, and the cities of Central City, Marquette and Aurora, on the proposed hike and bike trail in the Central City and Marquette area. 

--Western Projects Committee- Karen Griffin and Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, gave a progress report on the proposed Elm Creek Watershed Project.  Griffin reported that OA is using COHYST for the conceptual model; to determine the impact of any seepage from the reservoir.  Final inputs will be added and the study will be presented at the June 28 board of directors meeting.  The study will provide information to local landowners on whether the project will cause the water table to rise or whether there is a concern for leakage onto their properties.

--Budget Committee- The proposed budget for Fiscal 2008 will be mailed to the directors. In June the board will take action to adopt the budget for purposes of a public budget hearing on August 2. 

--Legislative Report- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that LB 564 was signed with an emergency clause; providing liability protection to NRD recreation areas, hike & bike trails, etc. 

--Phragmite Control- Lane Kugler, Platte Tracks All Terrain Spraying, reported on current practices being used for phragmite control on the Platte River.  Kugler has seen some success with his spraying in Dawson County.

-PRRIP-  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that the Governance Committee met in Denver earlier this month where they selected Dr. Jerry Kenny of Lakewood, Colorado as the Program’s new Executive Director. Kenny, who leaves his position as a water resources engineer with HDR Engineering, has 30 years experience in the water resources field, much of it gained in the Platte Basin. He’ll replace Dale Strickland of WEST, Inc. who is resigning his position. 

--Groundwater Festival- Kelly Cole and Marcia Lee, festival coordinators, reported on the 2007 Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival, sponsored by the NRD.  Lee reported that there were 1,244 students from 30 cities that attended the statewide festival on May 8th at the Central Community College and College Park in Grand Island.  350 volunteers and presenters made the event possible.  Cole reported that there were three poster winners who received savings bonds and two awards presented for service to the festival: Cargill and Jami Harper.

--Insurance Program- The board approved authorization to continue the program and to enter into the NARD Intergovernmental Risk Management Pool.  Bill Vasey was selected to serve as representative to the Risk Management Pool Board with Jim Bendfeldt selected as alternate.

--NRCS Working Agreement- James Huntwork, Natural Resources Conservation Service, reviewed to working cooperative agreement between NRCS and the NRD.

--Award- Dean Edson, NARD, presented award to former director Daryl Keiser, Gothenburg, for serving on the NARD board of directors for four years.

-- Cost Share 13 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $13,000.00.  Practices approved include streambank stabilization and well decommissioning.

April 26, 2007
Central Platte NRD Board Sets Water Banking Precedent

The first industrial water banking transfer was approved on Thursday by the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors. The City of Central City requested the leasing of 260 acre-feet of water per year for two years, from the B-1 Reservoir to offset additional water being used by the expansion of the ethanol plant in Central City.  The two-year lease agreement will give the city and plant time to develop a regional well field.

--Water Resources Committee- The committee also took action to approve a request from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln regarding a leaching research proposal. The NRD will fund $16,200 in 2007 and $10,750 in 2008.  The study will help with information collected through COHYST.  The Fiscal 2008 Fiscal budget was reviewed and forwarded to the Budget Committee. 

     Changes to the Rules and Regulations on the suspension of new well permits, expansion of irrigated acres and increased or expanded uses of groundwater was approved.  The changes define how depletions are calculated when considering variances in the Management Area.  The changes specifically state that variances will be allowed for the same amount of water that would be depleted from the river over a 50-year period from consumptive use of groundwater withdrawals are retired from use.  Other changes include transfers from particular soil classes. 

--Variance Sub-Committee- The sub-committee reviewed two appeals for certification of irrigated acres.  One appeal was approved, with the other tabled for further information.  The variance was also approved.

--Programs Committees- Four applicants were selected to receive scholarships in the amount of $300.  The recipient winners are: Hiram Dexter of Central City attending CCC in Columbus; Ryan McFarland of Eddyville attending UNL; Scott Sorensen of Cairo attending UNL; and Courtney Woodman of Kenesaw attending Doane College.  The committee will also request an additional $800 for the next fiscal year, so that the NRD may provide $500 scholarships to four applicants.

     The proposed hike and bike trail in Central City and Marquette was discussed at length.  The committee decided to table a decision for the NRD to be involved until the May board meeting.  The reason for tabling the decision was due to the limited time available for comments from the audience.

--Conjunctive Management Study- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the NRD is working with Nebraska Public Power District and the Department of Natural Resources on hiring a consultant to put the data together to compliment the COHYST groundwater study.  The Conjunctive Management Study would have a surface water component and watershed model that would work with the COHYST model.  The finalists include HDR Engineering of Omaha and PWA of California.  Funding is provided through Nebraska Environmental Trust funds.

--Legislative Report- Ron Bishop, manager, reported that LB 701 has passed.  Bishop said the bill provides funding for the Republican Basin through bonds and taxing authorities.  He said it’s likely that if the bill had not passed, wells would have been shut down in the Basin.

--Platte River Recovery Implementation Program- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that the Program Governance Committee met in Kearney in April and meets next May 1-2 in Denver.  He said the Governance Committee has focused on developing an initial 2007 budget, establishment of advisory committees, the search for a new Executive Director, and promoting federal funding legislation. 

     Regarding the hiring of the new Program Executive Director, over 50 applicants were pared down to five finalists who will be interviewed on May 1.  A selection is expected soon afterwards.  The finalists are: Dr. Jerry Kenny; Paul Tebbel; Marlan Ferguson; Fred Ore; and  Gary Karst of Littleton, CO. Hearings on House and Senate bills for federal Program funding authorizations are currently being held.

--Certification Website-  Matt Bohnenkamp, water resources specialist, presented a working model of the irrigation certification website that was approved by the board earlier this year.  Bohnenkamp demonstrated how the user-friendly model would allow landowners to search and select their land to see which acres are certified and wells that are gps’d.  The website will be available for public use in July.

--July Meeting Conflict-  The National Water Resources Association is having their summer meeting the same time as the NRD July board meeting was scheduled, so the Board changed the July Board meeting to Thursday, August 2nd.

-- Cost Share 23 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $15,828.50.  Practices approved include pipeline, surge valve, fertilizer calibration meter, flow meter, trees and well decommissioning.

March 22, 2007

On Thursday, the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved changes that define how depletions are calculated when considering variances in the Management Area.  The changes specifically state that variances will be allowed for the same amount of water that would be depleted from the river over a 50-year period from consumptive use of groundwater withdrawals are retired from use.  Other changes include transfers from particular soil classes.  The directors will hold a public hearing on Thursday, April 26, 2007 at 1:00 p.m. at the NRD office.  The proposed changes are also available on the NRD website at: www.cpnrd.org.

--Water Resources Committee- Richard Ferguson, UNL, requested funding for a study to determine the impact on seepage water moving through root zones.  The committee also discussed water banking options, such as implementing a water bank incentive program to pay landowners extra incentives to retire corners in addition to cost share programs already offered.  No action was taken.

--Variance Sub-Committee- The board approved one variance and denied one appeal for certification of irrigated acres.  They also approved a change in the Rules & Regulations that allow staff to approve variances for landowners to use surface water only when groundwater is not available as long as the request is straightforward.

--Eastern Projects Committee-  The Board approved staff to offer Hall County a contract to purchase the Alda Crane Viewing Site for $1.  The committee also reviewed the proposed budget for Fiscal 2008. 

--Western Projects Committee-  The Western Projects had a status report on current projects.  The board voted to transfer $50,000 in funds to do clearing on Elm Creek. The committee reviewed the proposed budget for Fiscal 2008. 

--Legislative Report- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on LB 594, LB 458, LB 564 and asked the Board to review LB 701, saying if passed, the implications could be far reaching. 

--Nominating Committee- Ed Kyes, Central City, was elected to fill the remaining term for secretary of the board. 

--Hike/Bike Trail-  Ross Greathouse, and a number of representatives, presented a request to the Board to take ownership of a hike and bike trail between Central City and Marquette.  The Programs Committee will review the request next month.

--COHYST-  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that modelers have determined six new objectives for 2008.  He also reported that four bids were received for the Conjunctive Management Study.

 

February 22, 2007

Central Platte NRD Board Sets Limitations for IMP
At the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors meeting on Thursday, the board set a number of rules and limitations to include in the NRD’s Integrated Management Plan.  These include:

·         A prohibition on water transfers to soil classifications: V, VI, VII, VIII, which are highly erodible soil types.  The soil capability classes allowed for water transfers include: I, II, III, IVW, IVS, and IVE provided it is kept in grass or alfalfa.

·         Transfers must be at least one acre in size or more.

·         Offsets are required for depletions to the Loup River, in addition to the Platte River.

·         As of February 22, 2007, there is a stay on transfers that don’t meet the new requirements.

--Water Bank Resolution- The resolution was approved as written.  This resolution creates the first  water banking system in the state of Nebraska.

--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The committee approved an appeal with the stipulation that the landowner proves that taxes have been paid as irrigated land.

--Legislative Report- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on upcoming hearings for natural resources bills.  The following bills are being heard next week: LB272- NRD Bonding Authority, LB322- Establishment of Water Resources Cash Fund, LB362-Interlocal Agreements, LB503-Change NRD Board Vacancy Appointments and LB701 that would Create a Basin-wide Management Authority.

--Programs Committee- The committee reviewed the proposed Fiscal 2008 budgets for cost share and information/education; which will advance to the Budget Committee.  Action taken included:

·         The board approved a change in the WILD Nebraska payments.  The NRD will now pay 100% of the annual payment ($45 per acre) and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will pay for grass seeding and maintenance.  The NRD previously paid 25% and a portion of the grass seeding/maintenance costs.

·         The board approved a cost share application in the amount of $1,500 for Northeast Elementary in Kearney to implement an Outdoor Classroom.  The school plans to use the classroom for preschool-fifth grade in a variety of ways.  A committee comprised of teachers, parents, and community members have raised $7,000 to implement the classroom.

·         Milt Moravek, assistant manager, gave a progress report on the Central City/Marquette Hike Bike Trail.  The project members are asking the NRD to cosponsor the project and submit a formal grant request for ISTEA funds.  Details about liability and maintenance are still being discussed.  The board was not asked to take any action at this time.  Project members include: Hamilton County, Merrick County, Merrick Co Foundation, cities of Central City, Marquette and Aurora.

--B-1 Reservoir- The board approved action to fill the B-1 Reservoir, just northwest of Lexington, in 2008 to maintain the NRD’s water right. 

--Nominating Committee- A nominating committee was elected to select nominations to fill the remaining term for secretary of the board.  Current secretary, Bill Vasey, was elected as chairman of the board in January.  Nominating Committee: Dick Mercer, Alicia Haussler, Jerry Wiese.

--Soil Survey Website- Neil Dominy, NRCS, reported on a website designed for landowners that will allow the user to look up soil classifications of their land.  The website address is: http:// websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov.

-- Cost Share 20 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $24,868.60.  Practices approved include pipeline, center pivot incentive, surge valve, fertilizer calibration meter, flow meter, trees and well decommissioning.

January 25, 2007

CPNRD Board Approves First Irrigation Certification Website & First Water Bank Transaction 
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the launching of the first irrigation certification website in the state.  The website will be developed by GIS Workshop of Lincoln and will allow public access to scanned documents that show proof of the number of irrigated acres for all landowners in the District, infrared imagery taken by the NRD, and all registered wells.  Users may search information for specific parcels of land by using the clickable map interface or by searching the site by landowner or tenant name, legal description or field ID number.  Matt Bohnenkamp, resources specialist, said the staff receives numerous phone calls from landowners, realtors, insurance agencies, and others interested in purchasing property that need to know if land has been certified and if wells on the property are registered.  This site will also allow landowners to view and print aerial photos taken by the District to show how their land has developed since 2003 and view any improvements that have been made.   The NRD’s cost will be $14,500 to build the website and $4,600 per year to update and maintain it.

--Variance/Appeals- The board of directors approved the first water bank transaction in the district by approving a variance request and the deposit of 2.4 acre-feet per year into the District’s water bank.   Landowner Jim Bendfeldt made the donation of the offset water.  Bendfeldt serves as a director of the Central Platte NRD in Sub-District 5.  There were also two appeals that were approved and two appeals denied for certification of irrigated acres.  Ed Kyes and Jim Bendfeldt were selected to fill vacant seats on the committee with Loren Schuett and Bob Schanou selected as alternates.

--Elections- Bill Vasey, Cozad was elected chairman of the Board of Directors replacing Loren Schuett, Grand Island.  Barry Obermiller was elected vice-chairman.  Jim Bendfeldt, Kearney was elected as NARD Board of Directors alternate. 

--NRC Representative- The Nebraska Natural Resources Commission held a caucus prior to the board meeting to elect a representative to fill the unexpired term for Arlond Garratt, who recently passed away.  Ladd Reeves was elected to serve as representative of the Middle Platte River Basin.

--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program officially started on January 1, 2007.  The Program Governance Committee will meet for the first time on February 7th in Denver.  Main orders of business include the establishment of Advisory Committees (Land, Water and Technical Committees), the search for a new Executive Director, 2007 budgets and promoting federal funding legislation.  The board selected Mark Czaplewski as CPNRD representative, Dan Ohlman as alternate and Scott Woodman as representative for CPNRD & Tri-Basin NRD on the Land Advisory Committee.

--Lower Platte River Instream Flow Workgroup- The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources are proposing a plan for a variety of interested parties to come together to cooperatively study the possibility of modifying the existing NGPC lower Platte River instream flow water rights to hopefully reduce the likelihood of new “fully appropriated” determinations by the DNR pursuant to LB 962.  The NGPC are open to looking at their existing spring and summer instream flows to see if it would be biologically justified to make some adjustments.  These entities are asking interested parties to join together to see what studies could be conducted and at what costs, to make recommendations to NGPC.

The Central Platte NRD was asked to join in the planning and study process through the execution of a Memorandum of Agreement.  There are no costs involved, other than staff expenses for attending related meetings.  Joining the process allows the NRD to keep abreast of what the NGPC might be planning and to allow influence in that process.  The Board authorized Ron Bishop to sign the Memorandum of Agreement. 

--Kearney Northeast Property- The City of Kearney requested that the NRD transfer the title to the property from the NRD to the City on the Kearney Northeast Project.  The board approved the title transfer with the stipulation that the District take a perpetual easement on the 55 acres to protect the integrity of the project.

--Legislative Report- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on natural resources bills that would affect the natural resources districts if passed.  Moravek said LB 701 is a bill to keep abreast on since it would create a new basin-wide management authority, which could negatively affect the NRDs and calls for transfer of Platte Basin water to the Republican River to make up shortages in that stream.

--NARD Insurance- State law requires a minimum reserve pool be maintained as part of the compliance requirements for the NE Association of Resources Districts to operate the insurance program for the natural resources districts.  Each participating NRD may be assessed up to an estimated $3,700 per covered employee.  NARD is requesting $2,000 per covered employee be paid prior to March 1.  The board approved a payment of $44,000 payable next month.  It was stated that all of the remaining assessment may not be necessary.

--Committee Sign-Ups-  The District requests that all directors serve on at least two committees.  Sign-ups were held and the following directors were selected as chairman of these committees:

*Eastern Projects-Jerry Wiese    *Western Projects-Dick Mercer    *Water Resources-Scott Woodman    *Programs-Barry Obermiller

--Cost Share 26 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $59,182.09.  Practices approved included pipeline, renozzle, center pivot incentive, surge valve, fertilizer calibration meter, flow meter, trees and well decommissioning.

December 21, 2006

Central Platte NRD Board Waives Flow Rights To Fill Elwood Reservior

GRAND ISLAND- The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday, Dec. 21, 2006 in Grand Island.   The meeting was held a week early due to the Christmas holiday. 

--Elwood Reservoir Request- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that CNPPID received a letter from the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission urging them to fill the reservoir to protect the fisheries.  CNPPID requested that the Central Platte NRD waive instream flow rights to help fill the reservoir.  The Board approved the use of NRD flows from December 21-31, 2006, with the condition that the Overton instream flows do not measure below 100 cfs.   Click here for map.

--Variance/Appeals Committee- The committee only reviewed one appeal on certification of irrigated acres due to the weather conditions in Dawson county.  The board denied the request by Darren Franzen, Gothenburg, to record his land as irrigated since it has not been irrigated since 1983.   Franzen may request a variance and provide offsets when he is ready to irrigate the land.

--Eastern Projects Committee- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that the 404 Permit for the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project was approved.  The bid letting for construction of the first 1/3 of the cells received eight bids ranging from $5.8 million-$3.9 million.  The board approved the low bid of $3,925,930 by Van Kirk Bros. Contracting of Sutton, NE.

--Western Projects Committee- In order to gather specific scientific data about the leaching possibilities of the proposed Elm Creek Watershed Project, the board approved a study in the amount of $42,000 for drilling and modeling.  Several of the holes will be drilled down to the bedrock (80 ft) to get depths of the sands and gravels.  Board members said although they have approved this study, it does not indicate that they have signed off on the project.  Olsson Associates will oversee the drilling of about 30 holes in and around the proposed reservoir area.  Kevin Prior, OA, said results should be available in March 2007.

--Water Resources Committee- Ron Bishop reported that there have been recent discussions by several Platte Basin NRDs with the Governor and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on offsets for 2000-2005 as required by the new depletion plan for the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program.  Bishop said they discussed with the Governor how the Plan itself stated that the State would be responsible for offsetting adverse depletions caused by new and expanded uses between July 1, 1997 and December 31, 2005.  The group offered to come back in two to three months with a proposal on how the responsibilities for the Platte River Habitat Program and LB 962 offsets could be met.

--IMPs- Bishop reported that Integrated Management Plan is progressing.  The last Stakeholders meeting was held this month.  Comments and suggestions from the Stakeholders Group are being considered and a final draft will be mailed out within the next two months.  Scott Woodman, water resources chairman, said the IMP is very important and the board will need to review it thoroughly.  Bishop also reported that the Basin IMP is progressing quickly since they asked Jim Cook, DNR, to develop a minimum requirement plan.  If the Basin plan is approved, the NRD won’t have to wait to complete the IMP.

--Requirements- Bishop presented a matrix he put together defining the water requirements and time constraints for both the Platte River Recovery Implementation Plan and those under LB 962.  Click here for matrix.

--Programs Committee- The committee reviewed the following items:

 -Well abandonment appeal- board denied appeal since work was done before approval of funding

 -Agreement with Nebraska Corn Growers Association- board approved this CREP buffer strip program in connection with the Husker Farm Program.  Landowners will receive $165 per acre for 10 to 15 years.

 -Funds presented by Attorney General Jon Bruning-  Barry Obermiller reported that in September Attorney General Jon Bruning presented a check for $69,000 to the NRDs as part of an environmental court ordered fund.  Each NRD received $3,000 for education programs.

   -NRD College Scholarship- The board approved a scholarship application form.  The scholarship will be available to all post-secondary students entering a natural resources or agricultural related field.  The NRD has allocated $1,200 annually to be distributed to a maximum of four students.

  -Jami Harper Scholarship & Grant- It was reported that Jami Harper, former Northwest student, received 3rd place in the Volvo For Life Awards and received $25,000 to give to educational programs.  Harper gave $10,000 to the Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival.  With the gift, the NRD has developed a scholarship in the amount of $250 for any post-secondary student entering a natural resources field to be given annually.  The NRD has also developed a grant program for high school students who present at the Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival.  The grant will cover all materials and other costs relating to a classroom presention.

  -Visit Your NRD Program-  The board of directors are inviting high school students to attend a board meeting.  Students would receive a tour of the NRD, meet the staff and receive a packet of information on what the NRD does.

--Nominating Committee- The committee recommended Loren Schuett for chairman, and Barry Obermiller for vice-chairman of the Board of Directors.  The election will be held in January.  Both Schuett and Obermiller have served one term.  Committee: Bill Vasey, Jerry Wiese, Dan Ohlman.

--Treasurer- Jerry Wiese, Grand Island, was elected to the two-year term to replace Ladd Reeves.

--NARD Elections- Bill Vasey, Cozad, was elected NARD board representative. Jerry Wiese was elected voting delegates for the January NARD Legislative Conference, with Jim Bendfeldt elected alternate.

--Whooping Crane Critical Habitat- Bishop reported that he and Board member Carroll Sheldon had spoke with Karen Budd-Falen of Budd-Falen Law Offices, Wyoming.  Bishop said Sheldon clarified that his intent was to remove the critical habitat designation for the Whooping Crane on the Platte River.  The board went into executive session to discuss the matter--- no action was taken.

--Platte River Recovery Implementation Program- Ron Bishop was appointed as representative of the Downstream Water Users for the Governance Committee, with Mark Czaplewski named as alternate. 

--Cost Share- 48 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $81,636.13. 

--Outgoing Awards-  Outgoing board members will be presented awards for their service on the Central Platte NRD Board of Directors.  Following are the outgoing members and the year they began serving:
John Tarrell-1985    Jim Foster-1987            Ladd Reeves-1987            Daryl Keiser-1991
Carroll Sheldon-2003