Central Platte Natural Resources District 
Board of Directors Meeting News Releases

               February 2010-January 2005

FEBRUARY 25, 2010
--Water Resources Committee- The following discussion and action was taken:
     A) PBHEP: Mark Czaplewski, biologist, and Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave updates on the Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Project.  
     B) New Subcommittee: A subcommittee was established to work with staff on issues dealing with the grandfathering of certified irrigated acres.  Members include: Jim Bendfeldt, Mick Reynolds, Ladd Reeves, Steve Schuppan, Mike Dobesh, Bill Vasey and Scott Woodman.
      C) Survey: Responses to the recent Platte River Flows Opinion Survey that was in the Special Edition newsletter were distributed.  The overwhelming responses favor building a reservoir to re-regulate Platte River flows and agree with the NRD’s Water Banking Program.  The NRD will update the survey as the responses are received.  Anyone interested in receiving a survey may contact the NRD at 308-385-6282.
     D) Water Resources Meeting:  Dick Mercer reported that a basin-wide water resources meeting was held this month.  Discussion included Integrated Management Plans and litigation by CNPPID, Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Project, COHYST, Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, calculations on water offsets, Legislation and water savings conservation practices.  Mercer said the committee will meet again in August.
--Programs  Committee- The committee reviewed FY 2011 requests for Kelly Cole’s cost share budget and Marcia Lee’s information/education budgets.  The committee will meet in March to discuss possible new cost share programs and changes in policies for the programs.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave a report on updates to the Study.  Currently, the technical committee is combining layers and calibrating the pumpage/recharge data to make it more diversified.  There are also updates in the tracking and accounting that will allow for shifts in groundwater and surface water changes, as well as changes in streamflow due to retirement of irrigated acres.  Woodward also reported that COHYST received a grant for $500,000 to combine the Conjunctive Management Study and COHYST data.
--Violation Relief- Sandy Noecker, data compliance officer, reported that weather conditions have been unfavorable for producers and fertilizer dealers trying to get soil samples for the Groundwater Management Forms.  The NRD will accept forms beyond the March 1 deadline to accommodate these conditions.   (Contact Sandy Noecker for details.)
--NRCS- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, distributed a summary of the FY 2010 Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) applications received in the NRCS offices located in the CPNRD.  The NRCS received 108 applications for a total request of $3,803,276.63.  After fund allocations are distributed to each NRD, NRCS staff will be offering contracts to cooperators who have applications with a ranking score that is high enough for funding and working with them to obligate funds into contracts by March 15, 2010.
--Legislation- Milt Moravek, Assistant Manager, reported on natural resources priority bills.  Moravek testified for LB 785 and LB 1031, neither of which made it out of committee.  Moravek said LB 785 may be added to another bill and LB 1031 will likely be picked up next year.
--Election Update- Dianne Miller, administrative director, reported that Steve Schuppan, Subdistrict 10 in Hall County, will not be filing as an incumbent .   The deadline for non-incumbents to file is March 1.  If no non-incumbents file, then the NRD would appoint someone within the Subdistrict.  (Visit www.cpnrd.org for maps of each voting Subdistrict.)
--Cost Share- 12 applications were approved through the Central Platte NRD Cost Share Programs in the amount of $18,431.38.  Practices approved include: flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.

JANUARY 28, 2010   Central Platte NRD to Consider Cost Sharing on New Irrigation Technology
GRAND ISLAND- The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors held their regularly scheduled meeting at 2:00 p.m. on Thursday.  Action taken:
--New Practice- Mark Hinze, Hall County Extension Educator, discussed the possibility of Central Platte NRD cost-sharing on two new irrigation practices.  The first is an atometer, also known as an ET Gage, which reads evapotranspiration levels and crop water use.  The other is a watermark sensor that shows producers the cost savings of not over-irrigating.  The Programs Committee will consider any proposals for FY 2011.  Dean Krull, UNL Project Coordinator for CPNRD, said he has five plots set up for the next growing season that will provide producers in the District with more information on how these new technologies can benefit them.
--Election- Jerry Wiese, Grand Island, was re-elected as treasurer of the board and Jim Bendfeldt, Kearney, was re-elected as secretary.  Both positions are two-year terms.
--Water Resources Committee- 
--Variances and certified acres- The board approved a motion from the committee to limit each variance to two appeals.
--Ken Woitaszewski, local farmer, gave a report on soil types.  He made the following request to the board: If land is changed to irrigated status, NRCS compliance is required if land is potentially highly erodible land, regardless of participation in FSA programs.  Chairman Scott Woodman said the committee will take the suggestion under advisement.
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, gave an update on the Platte River Recover Implementation Program’s Land Advisory Committee.  Czaplewski reported that the conservation lands controlled or contracted thus far include 6,137.8 acres, with a total cost of $8,808,038.76.  The acres remaining for the first Increment goal are 3,862.20.
--Legislation- Milt Moravek, Assistant Manager, reported on several new legislative bills that have been introduced this session.  Two of special interest to Central Platte NRD are LB 1031, which would eliminate the 2012 sunset date for the NRD 3-cent levy in the fully and over-appropriated areas; and LB 785 that CPNRD wrote that would provide an exception to required approval for certain water transfers.  An amendment to the original bill states ‘or if a transfer involves one landowner on a single tract of land where there is no reduction in certified acres and the transfer involves an improvement to irrigation efficiency.’
--NRCS- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported that the CPNRD USDA Local Work Group Meeting was held December 16, 2009.  He said a portion of the meeting was utilized to develop the draft FY 2010 Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) application evaluation tools for funding pools available in the CPNRD.  NRCS plans to begin ranking applications in February, 2010 and have a March 15, 2010 fund obligation deadline.
--Cost Share- 9 applications were approved through the Central Platte NRD Cost Share Programs in the amount of $8,396.13.  Practices approved include: tree planting and well decommissioning.
--Committee Sign-Ups- The directors were asked to sign-up for at least two committees. 
Eastern Projects: Mick Reynolds (chair), Jerry Wiese, LeRoy Arends, Scott Woodman, Barry Obermiller, Ed Stoltenberg, Mike Dobesh, Steve Schuppan, Alicia Haussler, Ed Kyes, Ladd Reeves
Western Projects: Dick Mercer (chair), Steve Sheen, Brian Keiser, Jim Shiers, Bill Vasey, Dwayne Margritz, Jay Richeson, Marvin Reichert
Water Resources: Scott Woodman (chair), Jerry Wiese, Bob Schanou, Steve Sheen, Brian Keiser, Jim Shiers, Bill Vasey, LeRoy Arends, Jim Bendfeldt, Dick Mercer, Barry Obermiller, Mike Dobesh, Dwayne Margritz, Steve Schuppan, Alicia Haussler, Ed Kyes, Jay Richeson, Ladd Reeves
Programs: Bob Schanou (chair), Scott Woodman, Steve Sheen, Ed Stoltenberg, Mike Dobesh, LeRoy Arends, Barry Obermiller, Ed Kyes, Alicia Haussler, Jay Richeson

December 2009
GRAND ISLAND- The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors  met on Thursday.  Following are action items taken:
Public Hearing- The board approved 6 appeals dealing with certified irrigated acres for Bill Kuehner . The appeals approved were for the certification of irrigated grass under the pivots only.
Eastern Projects Committee- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that the CPNRD had funds totaling $125,000 that could be moved  into the Eastern Projects Budget.  These funds will provide the LiDAR to be completed downstream to 281 to Archer, NE for the Prairie Creek Project.  The board voted for the transfer of funds.
Water Resources Committee- Ron Bishop, general manager, presented a proposal on offsets for groundwater newly applied through center pivots to canals, laterals, drains and streams.  Option #2 which divides the depletion factor into four categories was chosen by the board.  This proposal will simplify the breakdown.  The board voted to approve option #2.
Nominating Committee – The nominating committee recommended that Jim Bendfeldt – secretary and Jerry Wiese – Treasurer be re-nominated for a second term.  The board will vote on this at the January Board Meeting. 
Cost Share- Fourteen applications were approved through the Central Platte NRD Cost Share Programs in the amount of $33,032.25.  Practices approved include: center pivot, tree planting, flow meter and well decommissioning.
January Board Meeting- The January board of directors meeting will be held Thursday, January 28, 2010.

November 19, 2009
Directors Get Update on Platte River Recovery Program
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday, a week early due to the Thanksgiving holiday. Following are action items taken:
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program.  He said the Land Advisory Committee (LAC) met in Kearney and re-elected
Scott Woodman, CPNRD director, as Chairman and Mark Czaplewski as Vice-Chair.  The Committee spent most of their time continuing to work on draft management plans and annual
work plans for habitat complexes and for specific tracts the Program has acquired so far.  To date, the Program land acquisitions total 1,917 acres toward the Program’s 10,000 acre
first increment land goal.  Central Platte NRD and Tri-Basin NRD both name a representative and an alternate to the LAC and jointly name a third representative and alternate. Scott
Woodman is the joint representative with Tri-Basin NRD Manager, John Thorburn, as his alternate.  The appointments are for three year terms.  The board voted to have Mark
Czaplewski renamed as the CPNRD representative and Bob Schanou appointed as alternate.  
--NR Commission-  Ladd Reeves and Dick Mercer, members of the NE Natural Resources Commission, reported that they had just attended a meeting Thursday morning and learned that the NRD will not receive some of the funds from the state as expected.  The funds allocated were cut as part of the State’s shortfall.  One program to be cut is cost share that landowners receive for management practices.  More information will be provided as it becomes available.
--Eastern Projects Committee- The committee announced that there is no funding available for the Prairie Creek Project through the state at this time.  Staff was asked to prioritize current projects to see if there are any funds available in the current budget.  The findings will be discussed at the December board meeting.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The board denied a variance request from Platte County due to Class 4e soils in the field and lack of offsets available.  The landowner may purchase offsets from the CPNRD Water Bank that would allow the 2.2 acres of Class 4e soils to be irrigated.
--Court Decision- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on the court case involving Dan Runge, who requested a variance at the September NRD board meeting.  Moravek said the District Court judge ruled that Runge may not allow his center pivot to cross a roadway.  Staff will issue a letter stating the NRD will not proceed with non-certified acres on that tract of land.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported on the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  Woodward said the sponsors are in the process of re-signing the Interlocal Agreement.  He also reported on the Phase III Operating Plan, an ad hoc group that Woodward and manager Ron Bishop are members of.  The group has found that it would be more efficient to combine the Conjunctive Management Study and the COHYST as part of updating the groundwater models.  There is currently no protocol, so the group is working on a very detailed work plan and outline.
--NRCS- James Huntwork, NRCS District Conservationist, invited the board to take part in the process for administration of the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) for FY 2010.  The local work group will be meeting at the NRD office on December 16, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
--Audit- Randy Knapp, McDermott & Miller, presented his annual report on the auditing process.  The board voted to accept the audit as presented.
--Nominating Committee- The board elected a nominating committee for recommendations on the positions of secretary and treasurer of the board.  The committee of Marv Reichert, Ladd Reeves and Scott Woodman, will give their recommendations at the December board meeting.
--Cost Share- Eleven applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Cost Share Programs in the amount of $23,090.55.  Practices approved include: streambank stabilization, urban forestry, flow meter and well decommissioning.  
--December Board Meeting-  The December board of directors meeting will be held early on Thursday, December 17, 2009 due to the Christmas Holiday.

October  22, 2009
Central Platte NRD Instream Flows Approved  
The Nebraska Department of Natural Resources approved the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s instream flow water rights for another 15 years, Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported at the NRD’s board of directors regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday. The review is required by law to determine whether the instream flows are still beneficial to wildlife and the public.  Following are other items discussed:  
--Eastern Projects Committee- Terry Brown and Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, gave the history and current data collected on Prairie Creek.  A feasibility study to determine flooding solutions was initiated in 1986.  A bridge inventory and survey of the area, recently completed, indicates that channels and bridges in Merrick and Hall County are not sufficient for major rain events.  OA suggests applying for federal funding for a study that would utilize Lidar data to provide more accurate mapping.  A plan with numerous alternatives could then be developed.  The committee will meet in November to discuss options on funding.
--Water Resources Committee- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported on the following: 
1)  Water Banking Program- water rights acquired in the over-appropriated area are 1,430.6 ac/ft and sales of water rights in the fully appropriated area are 1,183.7 ac/ft.  The NRD is trying to acquire more water rights in the over-appropriated area to bring the area back to a fully appropriated status and to eliminate the need for irrigation regulation in the future.
2)  New Violations- Jon Michael Bosley, geographic specialist, reported that the NRD has finished processing the 2009 infrared imaging across the District.  The data suggests there are 31 irrigators that have developed new lands without requesting a variance, as required by the NRD, and 8 other possible violations.  The violations ranged from .2 to 54 acres.  The NRD will contact the landowners after harvest to inform them that they’re in violation of the NRD’s Rules and Regulations.
3)  Petition by CNPPID-  The NRD received a petition from the Central Nebraska Public Power District to implement changes that were not included in the Basin-Wide Integrated Water Resources Management Plan adopted earlier this year.  The NRD’s attorney reviewed the petition and said the NRD does not have the authority to comply with CNPPID’s request.  The CNPPID has now filed suit in Hall County District Court to require the NRD to rewrite the Basin-Wide Plan and include requirements that irrigators above Lake McConaughy be shut off or have limitations.  Since the Basin-Wide Plan was written by four other NRDs and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, it is likely that everyone involved have also had suits filed against them by the CNPPID.  The board voted to allow Bishop and the NRD’s attorney to do what is necessary defend the NRD in court.
4)  Proposed Policy on Streams & Drains-  Irrigators that cross streams and drains have questioned the NRD on why they have to offset the water that is going directly into the streams, which is considered an accretion that goes to the river.  Bishop said one option would be to determine what the irrigators depletion is and if the depletion is 50% or less to the river, then the irrigator could receive credit for two times the area crossed.  The board directed staff to work up a new policy to review at the November Board meeting.  The new policy would possibly be added to the NRD’s Rules and Regulations in the future. 
--Hearing Update- Bishop reported on his testimony at hearings for LR 128 and LR 181.  At the LR 181 hearing, introduced by Senator Langemeier on the possibility of a statewide water management plan, Bishop said he gave ideas on a statewide plan and emphasized the need to develop a separate agency at the state level to eliminate current conflicts.  On LR 181, introduced by Senator McCoy on the possibility of consolidating the natural resources districts, Bishop testified that it was inadvisable to combine the NRDs because local control would be lost.  He also complimented Steve Chick, NRCS State Conservationist, on his positive testimony of the NRDs and the NRCS’s vital relationship in providing conservation practices in Nebraska.
--Water Policy Task Force- Dick Mercer, director and member of the WPTF, reported that the Task Force recently met and discussed accomplishments they’ve made over the last seven years.  Mercer said that since there has not been a quorum the last two meetings and since the Task Force has accomplished what it was set up to do by Legislation, that the WPTF probably won’t meet again.
--NRCS- James Huntwork, NRCS District Conservationist, reported on the new Conservation Stewardship Program  (CSP).  Applications were received from the following counties within the District: Buffalo-22 apps, Dawson-40 apps, Hall-17 apps, Merrick-29 apps; for a total of 108 applications in the CPNRD.  Huntwork said the NRCS staff in the CPNRD and across Nebraska is in the process of meeting with applicants to evaluate existing stewardship activities and select enhancements in order to score applications.  Applications will be ranked based on scores and preapproved for funding in November 2009.  Following application preapproval, NRCS staff will verify application information prior to contract development and funds will be obligated into contracts prior to December 2009.  There are 745 CSP applications in the Area 3 Ranking Pool, which includes the CPNRD, UBBNRD, LBNRD, LRNRD, TBNRD, and MRNRD.  Huntwork said the next CSP sign-up would likely be in early January 2010.
--Cost Share- Seven applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Cost Share Programs in the amount of $14,067.19.  Practices approved include: center pivot, streambank stabilization and well decommissioning.     
--Service Awards-  The following staff were recognized for their service to the NRD:Milt Moravek-40 years, Sandy Noecker-30 years, Tom Backer-25 years, Marcia Lee-10 years.
--November Board Meeting-  The November board of directors meeting will be held early on Thursday, November 19,2009 due to the Thanksgiving Holiday.

September 24, 2009
--FSA Records- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that several partners have contacted him offering to help pay the cost of hiring an attorney for a lawsuit against the Farm Service Agency to receive data needed to conduct the required programs that the NRD administers.  The Groundwater Management District Association has offered up to $10,000 to help with the lawsuit.  Other NRDs including Twin Platte NRD and  Upper  Elkhorn NRD have committed support.
--Cease & Desist-  The board decided against issuing Cease & Desist Order for Kevin and Deanna Rumbeck of Buffalo County pending approved compliance options.  The Rumbeck’s are required to get into compliance with the NRD by January 1, 2010.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- A variance request from Dan Runge of Buffalo County was tabled pending a court decision on the land in question.  
--Water Banking-  Ron Bishop gave an update on the Program.  Bishop reported that the NRD has acquired 1,304.37 acre-feet to the river with three closings scheduled for next week in the over-appropriated area.  The NRD has spent $2.7 million acquiring those acre-feet.  Bishop said 264.99 acre-feet have been acquired in the fully appropriated area, however, the majority of those acre-feet have been resold to landowners trading acres and developing land.
--Hike/Bike Trail- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that the Upper Big Blue NRD voted in support of joining the Central City-Marquette Joint Action Agency.  Ladd Reeves was appointed to sit on the committee for the Joint Action Agency to help outline the proposed trail.  Ed Kyes will serve as alternate.
--Truck Bids-  Tom Dinsdale Chevrolet of Grand Island was the lone bidder on trade-ins for the NRD’s 2004 Chevrolet 4-wheel drive and 2003 Ford 4-wheel drive extended cab pickups.  The total bid price was $36,297 for 2010 4-wheel drive ½ ton and  2010 ¾ ton extended cab pickups with trade-ins.  The board approved the bid.
--LRIP- Approval was given for the Long Range Implementation Plan, which outlines the NRD’s goals and objectives for the next five years. The Plan will be sent to the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and other organizations that the NRD works with.
--NRCS- James Huntwork, district conservationist, and Joe Krolikowski, water management specialist, reported on the practices funded through EQIP this year.  Huntwork said the contracts funded in the CPNRD included: transition to organic production, erosion control and grazing lands, forestry, invasive species, animal feeding operation and irrigation system conversions.  Krolikowski said the average cost to the landowner for converting from gravity irrigation to sprinkler irrigation was $84,000.  The average assistance through EQIP totaled about $31,000, with the average project cost being 37% for the conversion.
--Cost Share- 16 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $41,673.45.  Practices approved include: underground pipeline, surge valve, planned grazing, center pivot, flow meter and well decommissioning.    

August Board Meeting (held Sept. 3, 2009)
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors held their August meeting on Thursday (a week later than usual.)  Following is action taken:
--Water Resources Committee- The board discussed the following items:   1) Proposed Resolution- The board voted to support a Resolution to be introduced at the Legislative session regarding the creation of a Department of Natural Resources and a Natural Resources Commission as separate entities to eliminate conflicts of interest that have surfaced since the two departments were merged.   2) Basin Designations- The board approved a motion to start the process to find an independent consultant, along with the Dept. of Natural Resources and other NRDs, to identify the difference between fully and over-appropriated.  The NRDs need to know what acre-feet are needed to bring over-appropriated areas back to a fully appropriated status. 3) Water Banking-  Ron Bishop, general manager, reported to the committee that the NRD has acquired 1,450 ac/ft in the over-appropriated area above Elm Creek.  Bishop asked for direction on whether he should slow down on purchases and the committee voted to continue purchasing water rights as the requests come in.   4) FSA Records-  After several years of submitting FOIA requests to obtain FSA records without success, the board voted to hire a lawyer to file an appeal in Federal District Court, along with other supporters.  The board limited the NRD’s maximum financial commitment to $20,000.
--Programs Committee- The board approved a change to the Urban Forestry Program and State Arboretum Funds to remove the requirement that matching funds had to be non-state or non-federal in nature. 
--Western Projects Committee- The board took action to approve    1) MOU- The board approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program which designates the PRRIP as a financial participant for studies investigating the inflow delivery capacity of the Dawson County Canal, the outflow delivery capacity increasing the capacity of Elm Creek Reservoir; and groundwater elevation control through a dewatering system.   2) Elm Creek FCP-  Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, gave an update on the proposed Elm Creek Flood Control Project.  Prior requested a meeting be set up with the NRD, OA, and the PRRIP to work out operational details before moving forward with budget analysis.
--Budget- The board reviewed and approved the levy amounts requested by the 11 counties in the District and set the 2010 property tax request at $4,450,314.92.  The levy for both the general and sinking funds total is 0.04730, which is down from the 0.5850 request last year.  The board commended upper management and staff members who waived pay raises to keep the budget down.
--Instream Flows- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reviewed the requirements regarding instream flow rights and the renewal process which recently came up for a mandatory 15-year review.  The review looks at whether or not the instream flow water right continues to provide beneficial uses and be in the public interest.  The NRD originally applied for these rights in July 1990.  In September 1994, the DWR approved the applications.  It’s now 15 years later and current laws necessitated this review.  Legal notices were published to provide the opportunity for the public to comment and the only comment received was supportive of the instream flows.  An Order to continue the water rights is expected soon.
  --Platte River Recovery Program- The following updates were given: 1)  Water Advisory Committee-  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the committee is reviewing the depletion plans for Wyoming, Colorado and Nebraska to include any updates needed.  2)  Land Advisory Committee-  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that the committee is working on management plans for various land complexes.  The plan is to try to incorporate habitat management efforts with plans for research and adaptive management efforts on these same lands.  Program land acquisitions to date total approximately 1,224 acres toward the Program’s 10,000 acre first increment land goal.  Including additional Program sponsorship agreements with NPPD on their 2,650 acre Cottonwood Ranch property and a 455 acre tract owned by Wyoming, total Program lands come to around 4,330 acres.  Negotiations are currently underway on another 2,346 acres and the Land Advisory Committee regularly evaluates additional tracts.  To date, all of these acquisitions have been fee title purchases, but the Program is also considering leases and conservation easements.   3)  PBHEP-  Czaplewski reported that the Project sponsors continue to meet regularly to develop the major components of the Project.  To date, the following is completed: an Interlocal Cooperation Agreement, the development of a set of conservation easement templates, and organized three committees to deal with water tracking/accounting, habitat development and monitoring, and education and outreach matters.  The Nebraska Environmental Trust sent a contract to sign, allowing the Program to receive their first year funding of $1,275,000. Preliminary approval for second year funding is $725,000 and third year is $1,000,000. 
--Kearney Hike/Bike Trail- Approval was given to a request from Tim Montgomery, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, to allow CPNRD funds already budgeted for the trail, to be used to help replace the bridge that was burnt down earlier this year.
--Water Levels- Jesse Mintken, resources conservationist, and Duane Woodward provided maps showing groundwater level changes from Spring 2008 through Spring 2009, Spring 2001 through Spring 2009, and average accumulated change in depth to water from 1982 through 2009.  Overall, Woodward said the District is ‘in really good shape.”  The majority of the District has shown an increase of one to four feet, with small parts of Custer, Dawson and Frontier showing a decrease of two to three feet since last year. These maps are available on the NRD’s website at: www.cpnrd.org.
--Bid Letting PSM- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on the bid letting of the construction of cells for the Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project. Ten bids were received.  The lowest bid by Hooker Brothers Construction Company, Grand Island, was awarded with a bid at $1,720,914.
--Hearings Update- Moravek distributed a schedule of hearings for the Natural Resources Committee for the Legislature, including LR 181, which will examine the feasibility and benefits of restructuring the natural resources districts.  Bishop said senators will be invited to take a tour of projects in the District as part of the Oct. 7^th hearing in Kearney.
--LRIP- Marcia Lee, information/education specialist, distributed suggestions and comments received on the Long Range Implementation Plan.  The LRIP outlines the NRD’s goals and objectives for the next five years.  The board will take action to approve the Plan at the September 24^th board meeting.
--Platte Basin Order- The board approved the Order for the Platte Basin Integrated Management Plan.
--COHYST Report-  Bishop reported that the sponsors plan to apply for a Nebraska Environmental Trust Grant to hire a contractor to pay for a study on historic irrigated use, crop use and pumping.  He also reported that the sponsors agreement is up for review and the Central Platte NRD will continue involvement.
--Voting Delegates- Dick Mercer was selected voting delegate and LeRoy Arends was named alternate for the upcoming NARD Annual Conference to be held Sept. 28-29 in Kearney.
--Cost Share-  35 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $94,950.69.  Practices approved include: underground pipeline, planned grazing, constructing water & sediment, surge valve, streambank stabilization, center pivot and well decommissioning.    
--NRCS-  James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported on the new Conservation Stewardship Program that pays agricultural and forestry producers to maintain existing conservation activities and to adopt additional practices.  There are two types of payments; the first is an annual payment for installing new conservation activities and maintaining existing activities.  The other is a supplemental payment earned by those receiving an annual payment, who also adopt a resource-conserving crop rotation.  For more information, contact your local NRCS office or visit the NRD website at: www.cpnrd.org.

July 23, 2009
Central Platte NRD to Participate in Proposed Central City/Marquette Hike & Bike Trail
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors agreed to investigate the possibility of entering into a Joint Action Agency to help develop a plan for a Central City/Marquette Hike and Bike Trail.  Over 60 landowners were present at the board meeting, a majority there to show their support of the proposed trail.  Staff and directors will work with the cities of Central City and Marquette, and potentially others, to put a plan together regarding an agreement for a Joint Action Agency outlining how ISTEA funding, maintenance, etc. would be handled. The vote was taken at the regularly scheduled board meeting on Thursday, July 23, 2009.  Other action taken:
--Budget Down- The committee reviewed and adopted the Fiscal Budget 2010.  The total property tax requirement for the NRD is down approximately $500,000 from last year.
--Water Resources Committee-  Kent Aden, CNPPID, reported that the Platte Valley Weed Management Area will receive a $1 million grant from the NET to combat phragmites on the Platte River.  The funds will be distributed over three years, with the WMA receiving $400,000 the first year.  Also, a new program for controlling phragmites is available to landowners through USDA.  Landowners may sign up at their local NRCS office for funding, the deadline for signup has been extended to July 31, 2009.  At the August board of directors meeting (to be held September 3,)  the committee will take action on the following: A Memorandum of Understanding for the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, and a possible resolution regarding the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and the Natural Resources Commission.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- A hearing will be held to determine if two Cease & Desist Orders should be issued for violations in Buffalo County.  Both operators are irrigating lands not certified as irrigated.
--Adoption of Plans- Ron Bishop reported on testimony taken at the public hearings for the Platte River Basin Integrated Management Plan, the Central Platte Integrated Management Plan and the NRD’s Rules & Regulations. After discussion, the board approved the CPNRD Integrated Management Plan and changes to the NRD’s Rules and Regulations.  Beginning January 1, 2010, in order for landowners to maintain irrigation status, the land must be:  irrigated at least 2 out of 10 years, enrolled in a federal conservation program, growing alfalfa in the sub-irrigation areas in the District, or pasture or hayland that can be shown to have been irrigated at least 2 of 10 years and will remain as irrigated pasture or hayland.  For a complete copy of the new Rules & Regulations or the IMP, visit the NRD website at: www.cpnrd.org or contact the NRD office at 308-385-6282.  Orders were approved and will be published as required by law.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported on COHYST Phase III.  The operating plan’s new objectives include: 
--calibration for determining the groundwater component of stream flow accretions & depletions
--developing a tracking & accounting system for management issues
--incorporating a water budget
--analyzing management and regulation alternatives such as acres-related controls and/or allocation of water use, crop mix water use, residue management, reduced till and/or no till, and riparian vegetation management technologies.
--development/implementation of regional and sub-regional investigations and analyses.
---Prairie Silver Moores Project- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that there are currently two contractors working on the project.  Moravek said that construction of box culverts have been moved up to the current Phase of construction to help with flood control in the areas east of the Ordinance Plant, including the northern area of Grand Island.  A total of 2.6 million cubic yards of dirt will be moved as part of construction.  The board of directors will tour the project, as well as other NRD projects, this fall.
--NRCS- Teri Edeal, Lexington Resources Conservationist, reported that she was recently involved in a recruitment workshop in Washington D.C. that will help recruit high school and college students towards a career in conservation.  New Funding Available--James Huntwork, District Conservationist, provided information on a new Cooperative Conservation Partnership Initiative through the Farm Bill.  The purpose of the funding is to continue and expand the removal of invasive vegetation in the fully and over-appropriated river basins.  The entire CPNRD is eligible for this funding.  Practices approved include: channel bank vegetation management for invasive plant removal; planting for wildlife or fish habitat; cover crops; channel stabilization buffer strip practices; windbreak establishment or renovation; prescribed grazing; fence; range planting; wetland restoration; and many, many more.  Sign up for this initiative is July 24, 2009, through local NRCS offices.
--Cost Share- 31 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $87,672.14.  Practices approved include: diversion, re-nozzle, underground pipeline, terraces, planned grazing, pasture planting, livestock dugout, surge valve, windbreak renovation, streambank stabilization, center pivot, flow meter, and well decommissioning.    

June 23, 2009
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors adopted the proposed budget of expenditures for the purpose of holding a public hearing prior to the July 23^rd board of directors meeting.   At the board of directors meeting on Thursday, Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the board is proposing a “conservative budget,” nearly $500,000 less in overall tax requirement since last year.   Other action taken:
--Water Resources Committee- The committee discussed:
-The Memorandum of Understanding for the Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Program.  Bishop reviewed the first draft of the MOU with the committee.  The board approved authorization for Ron Bishop to pursue the MOU with Jerry Kenny.  The board will take action on a final draft at the July 23^rd board of directors meeting.
- Interim study LR 181- staff has not heard anything new regarding the resolution that is considering whether NRDs need to be consolidated.  It’s not sure whether hearings will take place or not.  Bishop said he’s hopeful that a hearing would take place in Grand Island.  
--Programs Committee- The board approved a new policy change on payments for cost share.  The new policy states that applicants will be required to provide proof of payment before the NRD will issue a reimbursement check.  
--Hike/Bike Trail- Chris Anderson, Central City and Clint Peterson, Marquette, presented new developments in the Central City-Marquette Hike/Bike Trail.  Anderson requested that the NRD consider being a member of a Joint Action Agency that would allow the trail to be built and maintained without an agency such as the NRD taking ownership of the trail.  The board received comments from those opposed and supportive of the trail.  It is NRD policy that no action is taken for 30 days after such a request, so action was tabled until the July meeting.  
--NRCS- Tom Schleif, Central City Resources Conservationist, reported that tree sales were up in Merrick County and that he’s recently been working with invasive species and sodbuster contracts.  James Huntwork, District Conservationist, gave an update on EQIP funding.  Huntwork reported that CPNRD received less funding this year, however, he said there is a possibility of receiving funds from other NRDs that don’t use their allocated funds.  Sign-up is still taking place for the Elm Creek Special Initiative, with $300,000 allocated for those funds.  NRCS is still awaiting funding amounts to be allocated for invasive species.  
--Tree/Weed Barrier:  Kelly Cole, programs coordinator, reported that the NRD sold a total of 68,703 trees and shrubs this year, which is an increase of 11,478 from 2008.  The NRD sold 19.71 miles of weed barrier, which is a decrease of 6.53 miles.  
--Cost Share-  8 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $5,850.  Practices approved include: fertilizer calibration and well decommissioning.    

May 29, 2009
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the final draft of the Integrated Management Plan on Thursday, at their regularly scheduled board meeting.
--Western Projects Committee-   The board approved the following action on the proposed Elm Creek Flood Control Project:   1) Ron Bishop to work with Jerry Kenny, executive director of the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program, on a Memorandum of Understanding that would detail financing on studies to be conducted for the proposed Elm Creek FCP.   2) Expansion of study with Olsson Associates to determine delivery canal capacity, discharge capacity, groundwater impacts and sizing options for water storage.    3) Starting in spring of 2010, fill B-1 Reservoir in Lexington every other year.  The NRD is required to fill the reservoir once every five year to keep the NRD’s water right.
--Budget Committee- The committee reviewed funding requests for Fiscal 2010.  Ron Bishop reported that requests for tax asking are down $225,000 from last year.  The board will be mailed a summary report to adopt at the June meeting for the purpose of a public hearing in July.
--Variance/Appeals Committee- A certification appeal from Howard County was approved.
--Variance-  Ron Bishop reported on a water bank sale of 18-20 acre/feet to Jack Theis of Merrick County.  The depletion rate to the river is 68%.  The board approved the sale.
--Integrated Management Plan-  The board approved:   1) Re-adoption of the Integrated Management Plan developed by stakeholders, the NRD and the NDNR with amendments.
 2) Set the hearing dates for July 7 at the Holiday Inn in Lexington and July 8 at the Central Platte NRD office in Grand Island.  The NRD and NDNR will select the times of the meetings and advertise them.  3) Changes to the NRD’s amended Rules & Regulations to correlate with the IMP.
--PRRP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the Platte River Recovery Program.  Czaplewski said the Governance Committee (GC) last met on April 7-8 in Kearney, and will meet next in Cheyenne on June 2-3.  The Independent Science Advisory Committee will meet for the second time next week to address specific questions posed to them and discuss their perspective on the science the Program is relying on to guide and adaptively manage Program activities.   The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service completed a planned flow routing test that started with releases from Lake McConaughy on April 9th through April 16th.   During that time, the Service released 23KAF of water from the Environmental Account (EA) they manage in the Lake and tested their ability to manage and track these flows through the central Platte.  Water was shepherded down the river producing a three-four day short duration high flow of approximately 3700-3800 cfs at Overton.  Approximately 1,100 cfs of this water intentionally bypassed Central NPP&ID’s facilities.  Intense monitoring occurred during the release, including participation by the Service, Nebraska DNR, Program staff and other partners.   The estimated amount of EA water remaining in Lake McConaughy after the release is 85KAF.   The Service considers the test effort successful and will use information gathered in this effort to help with future planned releases for endangered species and channel maintenance.
     The GC approved five-year management plans for the Wyoming Property (located southeast of Kearney) and Cottonwood Ranch (located between Overton and Elm Creek).   The GC also approved moving forward with appraisals and negotiations on several tracts and are in the process of finalizing acquisition of those tracts.  The following are final purchases and closings: Tract 815 (370 acres on the river west of Overton), Tract 839 (594 ac near Cottonwood Ranch), Tract 803 (140 ac SE of Elm Creek, Tract 842 (182 ac W of Hwy 10 bridge), Tract 804 (360 ac W of Overton bridge), and Tract 847 (300 acres W of Hwy 10 bridge).   These acquisitions would add a total of approximately 1,946 acres to the Program’s 10,000 acre first increment land goal.  Including the 2,650 acre Cottonwood Ranch property owned by NPPD and the 470 acre tract owned by Wyoming, that would bring the Program land total to 5,066 acres.
--PBHEP- Czaplewski also reported on the Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Program.  The Project sponsors continue to meet regularly to work out the fine details between each other and with the Nebraska Environmental Trust.  The board approved Ron Bishop to sign the Interlocal Cooperation Agreement for the PBHEP when finalized.  The District has been working with the upstream NRD’s in the basin, as well as the Department of Natural Resources and Game & Parks to complete the Agreement. 
--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek reported that three more LBs were approved.  LB 54-a water accounting bill, LB 98-an extension to manage riparian vegetation on the Platte and Republican river basins, and LB 160- that will allow the Papio-Missouri NRD in Omaha to sell bonds to fund water quality and flood control projects. Moravek reported that there are three interim studies dealing with natural resources: LR 181- will consider whether NRDs need to be consolidated, LR 128- study the relationship between surface water and groundwater, and LR 235- will examine all surface water issues. 
--NRCS- Grant Linder, Resources Conservationist, reported that NRCS has not received a commitment of funding for the 2009 Conservation Initiative for states to use for special projects, but said they should hear soon.  The funding would correlate with the current EQIP and WHIP programs. 
--Cost Share- 13 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $11,550.00.  Practices approved include: surge valve, flow meter, and well decommissioning.    
--August Board Meeting-  The August board meeting will be held on Thursday, September 3 instead of the fourth Thursday in August, to allow time to publicize county levy amounts after the NRD receives them on August 20.

April 23, 2009
Water Resources Committee- John Engle, HDR Engineer from Omaha, gave a presentation to the committee on the difference between a fully appropriated and an overappropriated designation.  The board had requested the information to determine whether the District’s designations could be reversed or changed in the future.   CPNRD’s Integrated Management Plan (IMP) was approved as recommended by the Water Resources Committee that met on April 2, 2009.  Since the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources had new information, the board requested that manager Ron Bishop send a letter to the Department stating that the IMP had been approved by the board and that staff requests a joint meeting to go over the new information before public hearings are held. The committee also approved the requested 2010 budget and will send it on to the Budget committee for review.
-Programs Committee- The committee approved 10 scholarship applications for the following:  Briana Brooks (Gothenburg); Beau Sheen (Kearney); Phillip Johnson, Jacob Dexter, Aaron Huston (Central City); Drew Kime, Bridget Czaplewski, Karen Buettner (Grand Island); Courtney Anthony (Lexington) and Eric Puckett (Columbus),.  Awardees are required to be either entering or already in a natural resources major and be from the Central Platte NRD.  The NRD awards 10 scholarships each year for $1,000.  Awardees will receive $500 their first semester and $500 the second semester. The committee also approved the requested 2010 budget and will send it on to the Budget committee for review.
--Western Projects Committee- Miller and Associates presented information on the Odessa Drainage proposal- no action was taken.  The committee approved the requested 2010 budget and will send it on to Budget committee for review.
--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that LB 477 had been approved.  This bill will require any landowners involved in water right transfers to provide written approval from their lienholder. Once approved, the NRD will then file all transactions with registered deeds in that county.
--Washington D.C.- Ron Bishop, general manager, and directors who attended, reported on the NARD Legislative Conference including contacts made and FSA records.  Bishop said Senators Ben Nelson and Mike Johanns, along with Congressman Adrian Smith, are working with the NRDs to allow acquisition of FSA records.
--Water Banking-  Ron Bishop reported that the NRD has acquired 1,269.95 acre-feet of water that will go back to the river.  There are an additional 300 ac/ft transactions pending at this time.
--PBHEP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, gave a status report on the formation of the Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Program committee.  The board approved Ron Bishop as CPNRD’s Administrative Representative and Mark Czaplewski as alternate.  Czaplewski said the committee expects to have an interlocal agreement prepared for approval by the board at the May meeting.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that their technical committee is continuing to work on the Phase III operating plan and the budget structure.  Woodward said Upper Big Blue NRD will no longer participate as a sponsor due to the fact that the Study is going in a new direction and will not provide as much technical information for their District.
--NRCS- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, gave a presentation on invasive species and incentive opportunities that NRCS will be providing through cost share funds.  Mike Pavel, Resources Conservationist, reported on cost share applications in the Kearney field office.
--Cost Share- 29 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $27,113.84.  Practices approved include: steambank stabilization, surge valve, fertilizer calibration, flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.    
--May Meeting- The next board of directors meeting will be held on Thursday, May 28, 2009.

MARCH 19, 2009
Central Platte NRD To Initiate Return Trip Fee
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday, March 19, 2009.  Action was approved that will allow the NRD to charge landowners when staff are required to return to inspect chemigation systems.  Landowners with new chemigation permits are verbally told what needs to be done prior to inspection and that the system needs to be operational for their inspection.  Landowners with current permits are only required to be inspected every three years- those landowners receive a letter explaining the same information.  Increasingly, after the landowner has made an appointment and has spoken to staff about the process, landowners have forgotten about the appointment, said they didn’t have time that day, etc.  Since the District reaches from Gothenburg to Columbus, cancellations are not only a waste of staff time, but also a cost to taxpayers.  The approved motion allows the NRD to charge $30 per system if staff is required to return a second time for inspection and $50 per system for the third and any additional trips.
--Water Resources Committee- Discussed the latest draft of the Central Platte NRD’s Integrated Management Plan.  A special Water Resources Committee has been set up for 10:30 a.m. on April 2, 2009 at the NRD office for a final look at Stakeholder and Board comments.  The committee would like to have a final draft available for the Board to approve at the April 23^rd board of directors meeting.
--Variance/Appeals Committee- A variance request from Dawson County was approved.  Although the soil was Class VII, the total was 0.3 acres and will remain in grass.
--Eastern Projects Committee- The committee advanced the proposed 2010 fiscal budget to the Budget Committee for review. |
--Legislative Update- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on LB 54; which has advanced to select file.  The bill was introduced by Senator Deb Fischer for the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts.  The bill would require integrated management plans for fully or overappropriated areas to include procedures for tracking depletions and gains resulting from new, expired or modified uses by using the accepted methodologies to estimate streamflow depletions and gains.  Districts would also be required to identify water available to mitigate new uses and offer a plan for water offsets for economic development.
--Basin Water Resources- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported on the Basin Water Resources meeting that was held in North Platte this month.  Bishop said the group exchanged ideas about transferring water across District boundaries and other issues regarding LB 962.  Each NRD presented how they plan to get their District back to a fully appropriated designation.  The directors that attended said it was helpful to see what other NRDs are planning and that Central Platte is in a much better situation than other NRDs.
--PRHEP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the first meeting of the Platte River Habitat Enhancement Program.  As reported last month, the program is slated to receive funding from the Nebraska Environmental Trust Foundation.  Czaplewski said the Department of Natural Resources, CPNRD and other partner agencies are finalizing an interlocal agreement including funding requirements.  The next meeting will be held April 21 in North Platte.
--NRCS- Grant Linder, Resources Conservationist, reported that sign-up deadlines for the new AWEP and EQIP programs have been extended to April 17.  Grant said contracts are expected to be signed in June.
--Cost Share- 20 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $40,354.76.  Practices approved include: pipeline, center pivot incentive, surge valve, fertilizer calibration, flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.    

FEBRUARY 26, 2009
Central Platte NRD Project May Receive Stimulus Funds
As $1 billion of stimulus funds are being dispersed in Nebraska, Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported to the board of directors that the Prairie/Silver/Moores (PSM) Flood Control Project could potentially receive $4.5 to $5 million of those funds.  Moravek said the determining factor would be whether Governor Heineman disperses funds to the Nebraska Natural Resources Commission.  If that happens, the NRD’s project in Grand Island would be near  the top of the list to receive funds because the permits are already acquired and contractors would be ready to start construction within 90 days.  A bid letting was held on February 19 for Phase III of the PSM excavation, rock riprap, seeding and construction.  Shanahan Brothers Construction, of Lincoln, was awarded the contract with a low bid of $1,423,019.22.
--IMP- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that Stakeholders have until March 10^th to get final comments on the CPNRD’s Integrated Management Plan to the NRD.  The board of directors will review those comments, along with the Department of Natural Resources comments at the Water Resources Committee Meeting on March 19^th.  A special Water Resources meeting is also tentatively scheduled for April 2 to make any final changes on the plan before the Public Hearings are held.
--Water Banking-  Bishop reported that the Water Banking Program is going well and will close on another 300-400 acre-feet of water to the river within the next month.  Currently the Department of Natural Resources is helping put together a program through the Natural Resources Conservation Service called AWEP.  This new program would help the NRD acquire water rights along with the current CREP and EQIP programs.  James Huntwork, NRCS, said payment information and the areas that will be eligible for AWEP will be available next month.
--Water Resources Meeting-  The Board of Directors took the position to support the Platte River Recovery Program in light of the current and future demands on the river.  The board supported the idea that several of Nebraska’s water demands should be considered as only one demand.  Bishop said that the water demands now looked at as two different aspects really are the same demand and should account for both target flows and instream flows.  
--GW Coalition-  A motion to file both as an individual party and as part of the Groundwater Coalition in the appeal by the Central Nebraska Public Power & Irrigation District against the North Platte Natural Resources District was approved by the board of directors.  NRD Water Attorney, Don Blankenau, advised that since Central Platte NRD was listed in the filing, an individual filing may protect the NRD authorities under the Groundwater Management Act.
--Programs Committee- The board took action on the Programs Committee’s recommendation to discontinue fertilizer calibration meters, reuse pits and surge valves.  The committee will discuss other changes and new possible cost programs for the Fiscal 2010 budget in March.
--PRRP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the Governance Committee (GC) last meeting in February.  Czaplewski said discussion included an annual review of the Program’s Adaptive Management Plan, which addresses endangered species needs on the Platte.  Numerous monitoring and research efforts are underway, looking at everything from least tern and piping plover populations to wet meadow vegetation and sediment transport.  One of the Program’s objectives related to whooping cranes will be revisited to determine how the Program approaches its efforts to aid in the recovery of whooping cranes, which currently looks at survivability of the species. 
     Czaplewski said another significant action related to the land component of the Program.  The Land Advisory Committee has evaluated over 50 tracts of land and has recommended that several be acquired.  They are in the process of finalizing acquisition of those tracts.  If acquired, they would provide a total of approximately 996 acres of the Program’s 10,000 acre first increment goal.  Including the 2,650 acre Cottonwood Ranch property owned by NPPD and the 470 acre tract owned by Wyoming, the Program land total would be 4,116 acres.
     On the water side of Program activities, the Water Advisory Committee continues to evaluate Water Action Plan alternatives and work with the US Fish & Wildlife Service in making plans for a pulse flow routing test release in April.
--Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Project-  Czaplewski reported that the project has been listed on the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) preliminary grant award s– to the tune of $3 million over the next three years.  The District along with the upstream NRD’s in the Platte Basin as well as the DNR and Game and Parks are co-sponsoring the Project, jointly contributing approximately $13 million in an effort to transfer roughly 30,000 acres of irrigated cropland to dryland cropland and native grassland habitats.  Czaplewski said a key goal of the Project is to retire the consumptive use of water to enhance stream flows in the Platte by an estimated 15,500 ac/ft/year and open 20,000 acres of land to public hunting.   If the NET maintains the Project in priority when they meet on April 2, it will be off and running.  Central Platte will help coordinate the effort, with each NRD taking care of Project responsibilities in their own area.  Project funds working to complement USDA programs like CREP and EQIP will work hand in hand to move toward goals for the permanent retirement of irrigated acres.   
 -Opening Prayer- The directors voted not to have an opening prayer before board meetings due to the fact that not everyone has the same religious beliefs.
-Cost Share- 32 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $60,146.29.  Practices approved include: center pivot incentive, surge valve, flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.     

January 22, 2009
Central Platte NRD Approves Basin-Wide Plan
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the Platte River Basin-Wide Integrated Management Plan (subject to review) at their regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday.  The basin-wide plan is required by LB 962 for those portions of the Platte River Basin upstream of the Kearney Canal Diversion designated as over-appropriated by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NDNR) in September 2004.  Along with CPNRD’s approval, the joint plan will also need to be approved by the NDNR, North Platte NRD, South Platte NRD, Twin Platte NRD and Tri-Basin NRD by March to allow time for public hearings.
     Each NRD is also required to develop individual Integrated Management Plans.  The Water Resources Committee reviewed Central Platte NRD’s plan, which has been on hold since January 2007 for the Basin-Wide Plan.  The committee will hold a special meeting on February 19 to continue work on the Plan to meet the March deadline to allow for public hearings.  The law requires that both the basin-wide and individual plans be approved by all parties by September 2009.
--Election- Barry Obermiller, Grand Island, was elected chairman of the Board and Ed Kyes, Central City, as vice-chairman of the board.   The term of both seats is two years.  Since Kyes had held the Secretary seat, an election was held to fill the remaining year on that term.  Jim Bendfeldt, Kearney, was elected to fill that seat.
--Programs Committee- The committee discussed eliminating irrigation surge valves and systems, and irrigation reuse pits cost share programs for the Fiscal 2009 budget. The committee also discussed ideas for new cost share programs.  No action was taken.
--RC&D Rep- Mick Reynolds was selected to represent CPNRD on the South Central RC&D board. 
--Elm/Turkey Creek Project- Assistant manager, Milt Moravek, reported on the public meeting held on January 6 in Elm Creek to discuss the proposed project by Olsson Associates.  Moravek said 45 people attended the afternoon meeting and the majority spoke against the reservoir part of the project.  Directors Jim Bendfelt and Steve Sheen attended the meeting and relayed that there are many misconceptions about the project.  They said it was difficult to provide a good informational presentation because of the complaints by the attendees.  Marvion Reichert, Elm Creek, said an evening meeting would provide a better opportunity for business people to attend.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported on the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  He said the sponsors are currently putting together a plan for next year’s goals and budget.  A couple of the new goals include developing an accounting model that would allow for annual changes to be made and interpreted to find out how much water is getting back to the river after all components are entered such as precipitation, climate, evaporation, reservoir and dam holdings, etc.  Another goal is to hire a project management coordinator to determine what projects should take priority and to coordinate those projects.
--Legislation- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on the natural resources bills introduced this session that may impact the NRDs. Staff and directors will have a chance to vote on the bills at the Legislative Session hosted by the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts next week in Lincoln.  Recommendations from all of the NRDs will be sent to our state’s senators.
--NRCS- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported on a new cost share program being funded by the Farm Bill.  The new program will be known as AWEP and will replace the GSWC.  Huntwork will meet with staff to put a specific plan together for the District by the March 7 deadline.  Huntwork reported that EQIP is still available without the ground and surface water programs.
-Cost Share- 44 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $91,552.34.  Practices approved include pipeline, center pivot incentive, fertilizer calibration, flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.    
--March Board Meeting-  The March board of directors meeting will be held a week early on Thursday, March 19, 2009.
--Committee Assignments- Directors signed up for the following committees:
Eastern Projects: Ladd Reeves, Ed Kyes, Alicia Haussler, Mike Dobesh, Steve Schuppan,  LeRoy Arends, Jerry Wiese, Scott Woodman                            Chairman: Mick Reynolds
Western Projects: Jay Richeson, Dwayne Margritz, Marvion Reichert, Steve Sheen, Brian Keiser, Bill Vasey, Jim Bendfeldt, 
                             Bob Schanou   Chairman: Dick Mercer
Programs: Jay Richeson, Ed Kyes, Alicia Haussler, Ed Stoltenberg, Mick Reynolds,Steve Sheen, Scott Woodman, Barry Obermiller    
                 Chairman: Bob Schanou
Water Resources: Ladd Reeves, Jay Richeson, Ed Kyes, Brian Keiser, Mike Dobesh, Steve Schuppan, Dwayne Margritz, 
                            Marvion Reichert, Ed Stoltenberg, Mick Reynolds,LeRoy Arends, Jerry Wiese, Bill Vasey, Jim Bendfeldt, Dick Mercer, 
                            Bob Schanou, Barry Obermiller    Chairman: Scott Woodman
Well Variance/Appeals: Jay Richeson (Alt: Bill Vasey), Marvion Reichert (Alt: Steve Sheen), Ed Kyes (Alt: Ladd Reeves), 
                            Barry Obermiller (Alt: Jerry Wiese). Jim Bendfeldt (Alt: Bob Schanou)  Chairman: Jim Bendfeldt

December 18, 2008
Central Platte NRD to Help City of Gibbon With Drainage
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the request to help the City of Gibbon with improvements to the storm water system in the amount of $50,000.  Heavy flooding this spring caused backup in city streets and surrounding areas, as well as in the sanitary sewer lift stations- creating a situation where the citizens were unable to use the City’s sanitary sewer system.  Jess Hulbert, Olsson Associates, said the entire project is estimated at $150,000.
-Western Projects Committee-  Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that funding assistance for  feasibility is a possibility for the proposed Elm Creek Reservoir Project through the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources.  In light of the funding possibilities, the board approved two contracts with Olsson Associates to continue studies of the area.  The first contract for $23,150 will develop a groundwater model to simulate the groundwater pumping requirements to maintain groundwater levels in the Elm Creek area.  The model will be used to simulate the groundwater conditions and determine the number of wells that would be required to maintain the groundwater at a pre-determined level.
     The second contract approved for $16,820 will provide detailed field surveys of the Elm Creek Channel and structures to define channel capacity and restrictions within the defined channel reach.  The HEC_RAS model created in the preliminary study will also be refined to determine the locations of channel restrictions and capacity of structures within the Elm Creek channel.  A maximum capacity of the channel under current conditions will also be determined.
-Eastern Projects Committee-  The board also approved a study to be conducted by Olsson Associates (OA) for the Prairie Creek Watershed Project.  In November, about 30 residents in the watershed requested that the NRD provide some type of flooding relief.  An initial study of the watershed was conducted in 1986.  The new study will utilize the 1986 study by reviewing existing conditions of the bridges and channel of Prairie Creek and comparing those studies from the mouth of Prairie Creek and the Platte River to Hwy 281.  The 1986 hydraulic model will also be redeveloped and compared.  OA will do an analysis of flood flows and evaluate additional alternatives to reduce the flooding along the Prairie Creek Channel.  Since funding is nearly exhausted for this fiscal year, the board approved that half of the $56,350 study be conducted now and half be conducted after July 1, 2009.  OA will report to the board on the completion of the first half to see if the project is a possibility.  Funding will be requested from counties and cities in the watershed. 
-Water Resources Committee- It was requested that the directors review the latest drafts of the Basin-wide Integrated Management Plan (IMP) as well as the Central Platte NRD’s IMP and provide comments back to staff.
-Water Banking- Ron Bishop distributed a spreadsheet on transactions made.  The NRD still needs to acquire 2,100 ac/ft of water  to get back to 1997 levels, and potentially more to get the area below Elm Creek (over-appropriated) back to fully appropriated.  Bishop also gave an update on options available in transferring payments through the Water Banking Program including CREP.  Through this federal program, landowners will receive $120/ac for 15 years to seed land to grass and $1,100/acre foot of water to the river for a permanent retirement of acres.  The Game & Parks Commission is also offering $7/ac to allow hunting on land seeded to grass. 
-Governance Committee- Mark Czaplewski reported briefly on actions taken by the Governance Committee of the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program who last met in Denver on December 2 and 3, 2008.   The Governance Committee spent considerable time working on and subsequently approving the Program’s 2009 budget.  Other items of note included the Governance Committee’s approval of the recommended membership of the ISAC (Independent Science Advisory Committee) who are charged with ensuring the use of sound science in Program matters, and also approved the membership of peer review panels to review specific Program monitoring and research efforts and protocols.  The Governance Committee approved proceeding with the acquisition of it’s first land purchase, Tract 0815, a 370 acre parcel of land west of the Overton, Nebraska bridge.  The next meeting of the Land Advisory Committee is scheduled for January 15, 2009 in Kearney.
-NRCS- Mike Pavel, Resource Conservationist- Kearney, reported that the NRCS is conducting a national audit.    The Central Platte NRD has 246 cost share contracts that will be reviewed for the national audit by Dec. 26, 2008.  Pavel also reported that EQIP will begin in January.
-Nominating Committee- The nominating committee recommended Barry Obermiller for  board chairman and Ed Kyes for vice-chairman for the upcoming two years.  The election will be held in January.
-Middle Platte Caucus- It was reported that the Middle Platte River Basin Caucus will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Jan. 14, 2009 at the CPNRD office.  Directors were encouraged to attend to appoint a representative.  Ladd Reeves, director-elect, is currently serving as representative.  A Water Resources Committee will be held prior to the caucus to review current water issues facing the CPNRD.
-Cost Share- 32 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $78,053.32.  Practices approved include pipeline, windbreak renovation, center pivot incentive, surge valve, flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.    
-NARD Rep Elections- Jerry Wiese was named voting delegate for the upcoming Nebraska Association of Resources District’s (NARD) Legislative Conference in January; with Jim Bendfeldt named as alternate.  Bill Vasey was named NARD Board Member with Jim Bendfeldt named alternate.
-Audit Report- The 2008 audit report conducted by Miller & Associates was accepted.
-Dawson County Land Sale- The sale of property in Dawson County was approved.
-Awards- Outgoing board members received plaques for their years of service to the board:  Keith Stafford- 20 years, Loren Schuett- 13 years, Dan Ohlman- 8 years.  Dick Mercer received an award for his 35 years of service on the board.  Mercer has two years left on his current term.

November 20, 2008
--Eastern Projects Committee-  Flooding issues along Prairie Creek prompted landowners to attend the committee meeting requesting drainage help along Prairie Creek.  20 landowners in Central City and Archer lost up to 80 percent of their crops this spring when the area was inundated with six inches of rain in 2 two days.  Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, discussed a study done 20 years ago on Prairie Creek and explained the complications of receiving funding for the project.  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, discussed the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Project and how that project would eventually help the landowners along Prairie Creek.  A recommendation to seek costs for another study and other options available was approved by the board of directors.  Olsson Associates will report those findings at the December 18^th board of directors meeting.
--Western Projects Committee-  The board also received a formal request for help with a drainage project from  the  City of Gibbon.  Jess Hurlbert, Olsson Associates, discussed proposed solutions to the city’s current drainage system including: relocating the existing sluice gate, improvements on hydraulic conditions at the outfall and installing an automated sluice gate system.  The total cost of the project is estimated at $150,000.  The project will be added to the Hazardous Mitigation Plan so it will be considered for Federal funding in the future.  The directors will make a decision on the request at the December 18^th board of directors meeting.
-Prairie/Silver/Moores- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, gave an update on the construction of the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.  Moravek said construction has been delayed due to flooding on the property.  So far, 2.5 million cubic yards of dirt have been piled from constructing the detention cells.  Three cells are expected to be completed with gates installed by the summer of 2009 so that landowners will see benefits of the project by next fall.  Moravek said construction of the project is being spread out because funding is coming in slower than expected.
--Land Sale- The NRD had an auction sale on Nov. 11 for property in Dawson County.  198.28 acres were sold the Clyde Lueking for $1,300/acre.  The grain bin on the property + four acres were sold to Reynolds Inc. for $30,000 for a total of $287,764.
--GW Foundation- The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts requested that the NRDs contribute to The Groundwater Foundation in honor of Susan Seacrest, founder of the GWF.  Seacrest received the Heinz Award in 2007 along with $125,000.  Seacrest donated the award money to the Foundation to sustain the organization after she retired. The board approved a contribution in the amount of $500.
--NRCS- Teri Edeal, Resource Conservationist of Lexington, presented success stories of landowners who are using grazing cost share incentives.
--Election Results- The final NRD election results were distributed to the board.  The NRD will have three new board members starting in January: Mike Dobesh of Wood River will replace Keith Stafford of Kearney, Mick Reynolds will replace Dan Ohlman of Shelton, and Ladd Reeves of Archer will replace Loren Schuett who didn’t seek another term.
--Nominating Committee- A nominating committee was elected to recommend board chairman and vice-chairman for the upcoming two years.  Chairman and vice-chairman positions may be held for (2) two-year terms.  Current chairman is Bill Vasey, vice-chairman is Barry Obermiller.  The nominating committee will include: Loren Schuett, Alicia Haussler and Dick Mercer.  Their recommendations will be considered at the December 18^th board of directors meeting.
--NR Commission Report- Ladd Reeves, Nebraska Natural Resources Commission member, reported that the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Project and five other projects will continue to be funded through the Resources Development Fund, however, there are nine projects waiting for funding.  Reeves said the committee has met with Governor Heineman to discuss the need for increased funding and encouraged board members to speak with their senators about the need.  Projections at the state level currently show a shortfall of $377 million within the next two-year budget period.
--Cost Share- 23 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $47,600.11.  Practices approved include planned grazing, underground pipeline, moisture sensors, center pivot incentive, surge valve, streambank stabilization, flow meter and well decommissioning.

October 23, 2008
The Central Platte NRD issued their third Cease & Desist Order at the October board of directors meeting on Thursday.  The Order has been issued for James Riley of Wood River for irrigating land that was not certified by the NRD.  In April of 2008, the directors denied a request by Riley to certify the land because he failed to prove that those acres had prior irrigation history.  Field inspections by staff revealed that Riley irrigated the land during the 2008 crop season.   The conditions of the Order are that Riley stop irrigation and submit plans to the NRD on how he plans to offset the violation at 1.5 times the amount of water used this irrigation season.  If Riley does not adhere to the Order, the matter would be taken to District Court.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The committee approved a variance request from Barry and Richard Galusha of Central City, with the condition that the well is registered with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and that a proper seal is to be installed.
--COHYST-  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the sponsors group have outlined what tasks the group plans to accomplish within the next two years with the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  The tasks include: looking at ways to bring the over-appropriated areas back to fully appropriated, evaluate the Platte River Program projects, look at transfers and offsets basin-wide, look at the balance between supply and demand for both long-term and short term (including the NRDs Groundwater Management Plans), and look at base flow changes with surface water projects within the COHYST area.
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the Platte River Recovery Program.  The Governance Committee (GC) met on October 7-8 in Kearney and spent a considerable amount of time developing a FY 2009 budget.  The 09 budget is currently $15.5M, with major expenses being land acquisition and ongoing development of the Program’s Water Action Plan.  The federal funding component for next year could be around $12 million.  Additional funds would come from the States of Colorado and Wyoming. Czaplewski said that to date, the Land Advisory Committee has evaluated over 40 tracts of land and recommended that 11 be pursued for acquisition.  The GC has approved moving forward with the appraisals and negotiations on those 11 tracts of land along the Platte, totaling over 2,500 acres.  They’re also working to figure out the Program’s approach to acquisition of irrigation water rights, including property currently owned by conservation groups.  If acquired, those lands would count toward the Program’s 10,000 acre first increment habitat goal.  NPPD’s Cottonwood Ranch property and land owned by the State of Wyoming (located southeast of Kearney) already contributed approximately 3,100 acres toward that goal.
--Super Computer- The board approved a request by staff to purchase a computer with eight processors.  The computer will be used for the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, said there is so much data that goes into developing depletion maps, that it takes seven laptops running for three months, to download and process the information.  The new computer will provide a more efficient turn-around time and not require borrowing seven laptops.
--NRCS- Mike Pavel, Resource Conservationist of Kearney reported on recent happenings in the Kearney office including 140 sod-breaker requests, a Wetlands Reserve Program contract and the Area 4 Range Judging contest which had 253 students compete.
--Recognition- Betty Curtis, Grand Island Area Clean Community System, presented the board of directors with a certificate of appreciation for help with recycling at Husker Harvest Days.  Curtis also presented Ron Bishop a plaque for his leadership to the environment and support in recycling efforts.
--Cost Share- 14 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $32,282.50.  Practices approved include pasture planting, underground pipeline, center pivot incentive, flow meter and well decommissioning.    
--NRD Service Awards- Four staff were recognized: Ron Bishop-40 years as general manager, Dan Clement-20 years as Water Resources Specialist, Deb Jarzynka-20 years as secretary,Matt Bohnenkamp-10 years as Water Resources & GIS Specialist.

September 25, 2008
Odessa Flood Control Project- Miller and Associates of Kearney were selected by the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors to complete the final design of the Odessa Area Flood Control Project at their regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday.  As part of the final design, the engineering firm will develop reliable system concepts, innovative, practical, and cost-sensitive design ideas with realistic implementation alternatives for up to $15,000.  The Project is located to the east and south of Odessa, Nebraska, which is approximately nine miles west of Kearney on Hwy 30.  The project boundaries include the Odessa Road to the west, 24^th Road to the North, Sartoria Road to the east.  The projects consists of improvements to approximately two miles of existing roadside & field drainage ditches, replacement of culverts and supplementing existing culverts.
Other action taken:
--Programs Committee- Due to an increase in the funds budgeted for 2009, the committee discussed policies of the College Scholarship Program.  Natural resources majors may apply for $1,000 scholarships with juniors and seniors receiving a higher ranking than those entering college.  There will be 10 scholarships given each school year with $500 given each semester.  The program will also allow for return applicants provided the student continues in the natural resources field. 
--Vehicle Bids- The board selected Grosshans, Inc. (Central City) low bid to trade-in two of the NRD’s vehicles.  The bid of $32,875.88 will provide the NRD with one 2009, 4-wheel drive sport utility and one 2009, 4-door sedan with the trade-in of a 2001 Ford Taurus and 2003 Ford Expedition.
--Prescribed Fire- David Carr, range management specialist, reported that the NRD fire crew has conducted 75 burns for a total of 5,804 acres since 2005.  The prescribed fire program has also developed a cost share program to help landowners treat their rangelands with the implementation of burns.  The NRD helped establish and participates in the Nebraska Prescribed Fire Council to promote the safe legal use of prescribed fire as an effective natural-resource management tool.
--Senator Tour- The Central Platte NRD hosted the Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee on September 16^th when they conducted hearings on transferring water from the Platte River.  Eight senators attended the hearings.  After conclusion of the hearings, NRD staff reported on various programs that the District has in place to collect data on water-related issues and then gave a tour of three of the NRD’s flood control projects. 
--Dawson County Land Sale Sub-Committee-  The board approved the recommendation by the sub-committee to hire Marshall Land Brokers & Auctioneers (based out of Kearney) to sell property that the NRD owns in Dawson County.  The auction will take place on Tuesday, November 11, 2008.  Marshall’s will receive 2% sales commission and limit advertising to a maximum of $3,000.  The auctioneers will take bids on the sale of the grain bin area (which will include at least 10 acres) and the remainder of the property.  The sale will go to the highest bid, whether it be the two separate tracts or the entire property.
--LRIP- The board approved the NRD’s Long Range Implementation Plan that outlines projects for the upcoming five years.  The Plan will be sent to the Department of Natural Resources for review.
--NRCS Reports- Joe Krolikowski, Grand Island, reported on different irrigation tools available to the landowners in the Central Platte NRD.  Those include the CPNRD Irrigator newsletter and the CP Irrigator website (www.cpirrigator.com) that has an archive of newsletters since 2004.  Each irrigator also receives a Water Management Record Sheet to record soil moisture deficit, water applied, flow meter measurements, rainfall, and revolution time.
James Huntwork, Grand Island, reported on the recently updated CREP (Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program.)  Huntwork said that the State of Nebraska has launched a $158 million agreement for the Platte-Republican resources area.  The goals are to reduce irrigation water use, improve water quality and enhance wildlife habitat through establishment of vegetative cover.  The expected combined federal and state obligation is approximately $158 million for optional 10- to 15-year contracts with $122 million coming from FSA and $36 million from Nebraska.
--Cost Share- 14 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $41,349.72.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, sub-surface drip irrigation, critical planting area, surge valve, center pivot incentive, flow meter and well decommissioning.    

August 28, 2008
Central Platte NRD’s Property Tax Request Down
The Central Platte Natural Resources District set the levy for the 2009 fiscal budget at 0.05592 for the property tax request of $4,961,765.12, down 0.0284 from the 2008 budget.  The
hearing was held just prior to the board of directors August meeting on Thursday.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The committee approved a request to purchase 10.4 acre-feet of water from the CPNRD Water Bank.  In a separate case, the board has decided to hold a formal hearing next month for an alleged violation on irrigation from a landowner in Wood River to decide whether or not to issue a Cease & Desist Order.
--Fully/Over Appropriated- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, said the purpose of the analysis is to identify the overall difference between the designations and where the levels are currently.  Woodward said the group is studying gains in reaches compared to unmet demands for instream flows.  In a dry year, Woodward said the preliminary demand for the fully appropriated area is 3,750 ac/ft of water and 8,750 ac/ft in the over-appropriated area. 
--Conjunctive Management Study- This Platte River study is creating tools to better manage ground and surface water in the Central Platte Valley by collecting and evaluating data to develop a hydrologic budget. Some of the components included in the budget are rainfall, pumping, surface water applied, total evapotranspiration, recharge, runoff and acreage.  The hydrologic budget will result in better utilization of both resources. 
--Sale of Property in Dawson CO- The board voted to sell the currently rented ground and grain bin at an auction in mid-November.  The sale will include three options, which may include breaking the property into sections.  The committee formed to hire an auctioneer includes Jim Bendfeldt, Jay Richeson, Steve Sheen and Dick Mercer.
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the Governance Committee that met on August 12-13 in Scottsbluff.  Regarding Program land and habitat activities, the Governance Committee approved moving forward with the appraisals and negotiations on four tracts of land along the Platte.  These are the first parcels of land the Program is considering acquisition of (“acquisition”, here, meaning purchase in fee simple, conservation easements, or lease).  To date, the Land Advisory Committee has reviewed some 30 tracts and started detailed evaluations on maybe half that many.  The Governance Committee also is considering another tract, not for development or management as wildlife habitat, but rather for possible acquisition of water rights.  They have asked the Water Advisory Committee to assist them in establishing a process for evaluating and acquiring surface and ground water for the Program through a conservation easement (possibly similar to the approach used by CPNRD in it’s water banking).  Regarding monitoring and research, the Program is conducting a variety of new and continuing studies on the Platte including:  vegetation, geomorphology, ongoing least tern and piping plover monitoring, whooping crane monitoring, forage fish, pallid sturgeon, and water quality. Czaplewski also reported that the Governance Committee has hired a firm to establish the Independent Science Advisory Committee and various peer review panels to help review Program science to ensure technically sound science coming out of the Program.  Recommendations on the make-up of these groups should be brought before the GC this fall. 
--Trans Canada Pipeline-  Mark Czaplewski gave a report on a Conoco/Phillips petroleum pipeline that will run through part of the NRD in Merrick County.  The pipeline will run 500,000 barrels of crude oil per day, with the project costing $7 billion to construct.  Stations will be built along the pipeline, which will run from Canada to Steele City, Nebraska, down to the Gulf Coast.  Anyone interested may attend a meeting scheduled for September 30 in York, Nebraska.  Check the Trans Canada Pipeline website for the location of the meeting.
--Voting Delegates- Jim Bendfeldt was selected voting delegate for the NARD Annual Conference to be held in Kearney in September.  Dick Mercer was selected as alternate.
--NRCS- Grant Linder, resources conservationist, reported on NRCS investments in the Central Platte NRD with EQIP funds.  The total invested in 2008 was over $1.8 million with the Ground & Surface Water Conservation Fund (GSWC), General Fund (range improvements), Animal Feeding Operation (AFO), and the Water Banking Special Initiative.  To be considered for the 2009 EQIP funds, landowners must sign up by October 1, 2008.    James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported that ranking systems for two Special Initiatives would remain the same as last year.  The Elm Creek Special Initiative that encourages retiring land and water rights, therefore receiving funds through EQIP and the Central Platte NRD Water Bank will also expand the boundaries in the western part of the District.  Those boundaries have not been finalized.  The Special Resource Concerns area, which targets water quality in the Phase II/III areas, will remain the same.  The last program Huntwork discussed was the infestation of cedar trees in Dawson County.  That program will continue to treat grazing lands after the trees have been cleared.
--Cost Share- 24 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $44,269.80.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, planned grazing, constructing diversions, terraces, surge valve, streambank stabilization, center pivot incentive, flow meter and well decommissioning.  

July 24, 2008
--Eastern Projects Committee- The committee discussed flood control issues in the town of Wood River near the by-pass.  The board voted in favor of adding $10,000 to the 2009 Fiscal Budget to allow for a study on flooding in the future.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee- The board approved a variance request from Hi Gain Feedlot, Dawson County, on Class 6E & 6W soils with the stipulation that the pivot does not go over those soils. An appeal from Richard Wyman was tabled until the August board of directors meeting.
--Budget Committee- The board approved the Fiscal 2009 Budget at $4,960,678.10, down $20,000 from 2008.
--Trails- Dan Schultz, Lower Platte NRD, discussed the hike and bike trail system in Lincoln.  Schultz said that ownership concerns are handled easily by adding a writer on the insurance policy and maintenance costs are approximately $2,000-$3000 per mile.  The LPSNRD has had no issues with litter.  Schultz said that before the trails were built there was some opposition but now there isn’t much opposition and the trails get a lot of use.
--Fully Appropriated Status- HDR and Flatwater Engineering Firms presented an evaluation; which studied whether or not the area below Elm Creek is fully appropriated.  The evaluation researched the methods used by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NDNR) to determine the fully appropriated status.  Substantial conclusions can’t be made without pursuing additional efforts such as: using COHYST to determine lag impacts and considering normalization of stream gage data.  Ron Bishop, general manager, requested that the engineering firms continue their research in this study.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave an update on the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  Woodward said new goals have been discussed in recent meetings such as model improvements.  A new streamflow report showed that the depletion rate in the CPNRD since 1997 is 2,400 acre-feet.  Woodward also reported that the North Platte NRD and South Platte NRD are currently working on developing models on the amount of depletion if drilling a new well.
--Water Bank- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the NRD’s Water Bank has purchased 1,000 acre-feet of water and has up to three other contracts pending in the western part of the District.  Bishop said the NRD plans to administer work with any new corners with the NRCS to put them into the water bank through the new Farm Bill’s EQIP Program.
--FSA- Ron Bishop reported that the NRD has received good reception from the senators in working with the Farm Service Agency. Bishop said senators will ask for modifications in the new Farm Bill to help negotiate with FSA.
--PR Program-  Scott Woodman, Shelton, was reappointed as a member to the Land Advisory Committee for the Platte River Program.  Woodman had served a one-year term and was chairman of the committee.  He’ll now serve a 3-year term.  Dan Ohlman, Shelton, was appointed alternate.
--NRCS-- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported that the 2008 Farm Bill was signed into law in May.  Natural resources program changes: the EQIP Program was reauthorized until 2012 and a program replacing groundwater and surface water conservation program was introduced as AWEP, Agricultural Water Enhancement Program, is available nationwide for areas in drought.
--Cost Share- 21 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $34,719.42.  Practices approved include underground pipeline, planned grazing, constructing diversions, livestock dugout, surge valve, streambank stabilization and well decommissioning.    

June 26, 2008
Nitrate Levels Down in Central Platte NRD
On Thursday, the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors received a preliminary report on the average nitrate levels across the District.  The 2008 levels are 15.71 ppm (parts per million).  The levels decreased from the 16.44 ppm levels in 2007 and have dropped dramatically from the 18.94 ppm levels when the Groundwater Nitrogen Management program was started in 1988.
--Water Resources Committee- The committee discussed and took the following action:
a.       The need for FSA information to check compliance with the Groundwater Quality Management Program was reported.  Staff will research whether the NRDs fall under the qualification to receive information through the new farm bill.
b.       Dean Krull, UNL, gave an update on demonstration projects including the use of relay cropping and polymer fillers.  The demo plots are educational tools that educate landowners on the proper amount of Nitrogen to apply to get better yields and save money.
c.       Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the NRD has purchased 827 acre/feet of water for the Water Banking Program.  Another 148.5 ac/ft are in planning to be purchased within the next week and other landowners have expressed interest.  The NRD has spent $2.25 million in purchasing the water rights to get the over-appropriated area back to a fully appropriated status. 
d.       Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that Bill Keuhner of Doniphan has filed a lawsuit against the NRD on the certification of irrigated acres.
--Moratorium- After closing the public hearing, the board approved changes to the Rules and Regulations with grammatical changes as DNR had suggested. Class IVe and Class Vw can now be converted to irrigated lands and Class Vw & VIe soils can have irrigation water applied (center pivot) if they are left undisturbed and in grass.  Several restrictions on irrigating Class IVe, Vw, Viw and VIe soils are detailed in the Rules and Regulations available at the NRD office or on the NRD website at: www.cpnrd.org.
--NRCS Report- James Huntwork, NRCS district conservationist, reported that an emergency plan has been approved as part of the national disaster designation for public facilities.  Repairs such as erosion to roads, streambanks, drainage ditches and other damages will be covered up to 75%.  No improvements or prior damage are eligible.  Huntwork also reported the there is still CREP funding available through the old farm bill.
--Budget- The board approved the preliminary budget for Fiscal 2009 and set the public hearing date for July 24, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.  The budget committee will meet again prior to the public hearing and the board will vote on the budget at the July meeting after the hearing.
--Equipment Bids-  The board approved the high bid by Russ Spradlin, Cozad, in the amount of $4,350 for irrigation equipment in Dawson County.
--Tree Program- Kelly Cole, programs coordinator, reported that tree sales were up this year.  The NRD sold 57,225 trees through the conservation program.  In 2007, there were 44,950 trees sold.  The NRD planted 13,956 trees at 40 sites with the other 43,269 planted by landowners.  Cole also reported that there were 26.24 miles of weed barrier sold. The NRD installed over 21 miles at 40 sites.
--Programs Committee- The committee discussed the proposed hike and bike trail from Central City to Marquette.  No action was taken.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee-  The committee approved a variance request from Frontier County and denied a request from Buffalo County.
--Cost Share- 23 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $32,541.44.  Practices approved include fertilizer calibration meter, flow meter, surge valve, center pivot, streambank stabilization, WILD Nebraska and well decommissioning.        

May 22, 2008
NRD Board To Hold Hearing on Rules & Regs
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors held their regularly scheduled meeting in Grand Island on Thursday.  The following action was taken:   
--Water Resources Committee- The committee’s agenda included:
1)      Reviewed the proposed changes for the Rules and Regulations, which the Board approved.  The public hearing date has been set for June 26, 2008.  The majority of changes clarify transfers of irrigated acres.  The proposed changes may be viewed at: www.cpnrd.org.
2)      Dave Ogden, landowner, gave input on how soil classifications affect his land.  Ogden was encouraged to attend the public hearing scheduled for the Rules & Regulations in June.
3)      Discuss short-term leases on B-1 water.  The board approved leases during years when the NRD is not required to take water.  Such leases would be suitable for those looking for offsets such as ethanol plants and private landowners with new irrigated acres.  The motion allows the general manager to lease up to 50% of the total acre-feet without approval and must report all action to the Board.
4)      Jesse Mintkin, resources conservationist, reported on final groundwater levels across the district:  From Spring 2007-Spring 2008, the average water levels are up 2-3 feet.  Ron Bishop said, “There’s been a lot of recovery in just one year.”   From Spring 1982-Spring 2008, the average levels in CPNRD are the same or a little higher. 
--Hike & Bike Trails- Ken Gnadt, Grand Island, discussed the importance of hike and bike trails with the directors.  He asked the Board to work with the organizers of the Central City/Marquette trail, saying it would be “a big plus for central Nebraska.”
--Budget Committee- The committee reviewed the requested funds for Fiscal 2009 and trimmed $150,000 off of the amount budgeted in 2008.  The amended budget will be mailed out to the board of directors to be considered at the June 26 meeting.  At that time, the board will approve or make amendments and approve the proposed budget for a public hearing in July.  The board approved a contract extension for Ron Bishop, general manager, until June 2012 with a 4.5% increase in salary.
--ET Measurements-  Mick Reynolds, Wood River, addressed the directors about a new study by UNL and the Upper Big Blue NRD that shows a 5% lower ET rate than previously thought.  Reynolds suggested the NRD look into the possibility of getting credit, especially in the over-appropriated area of the District.
--PRRIP- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that federal authorizing legislation to fund the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program was signed into law by the President on May 8th.  The law authorizes the Secretary of the Interior to proceed with the Program and includes $157 million to carry it out.  Under the Program’s 50/50 cost split between the federal government and the three basin states, the states will also contribute that amount in cash (Colorado $24 million, Wyoming $6 million) or equivalents for the First Program increment of 13 years.   The Program’s signatories have finalized an agreement with the Nebraska Community Foundation creating the Program’s Land Interest Holding Entity (LIHE – called the Platte River Recovery Implementation Foundation).  The LIHE will hold title to land rights, but will not be directly involved in land rights acquisition or management.  With the LIHE established and funds available, the Land Advisory Committee will work with the Program’s Executive Director’s office and the Governance Committee to begin pursuing Program land rights acquisition (lease, fee title and conservation easements) in greater earnest. 
--IMP Extension- A request by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to concur with them to extend the Integrated Management Plan to September 2009 was approved.  The NDNR and the CPNRD are waiting on the Basin IMP before finalizing their Plan.
--Variance/Appeals Sub-Committee-  The board approved one appeal for certification of irrigated acres and denied three others. 
 --NRCS Report- James Huntwork, Natural Resources Conservation Service, distributed the working agreement with the state of Nebraska and the NRD, board selection guidelines, and a summary from the conference committee on the newly passed Farm Bill.
--Cost Share- 20 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil & Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $22,218.70.  Practices approved include planned grazing system, tree planting, drip system, streambank stabilization, WILD Nebraska and well decommissioning.

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.
Scholarships- 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.

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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 4^th 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.

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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 20^th 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 15^th.
--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 4^th.  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 1^st (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 2^nd).
--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 8^th 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 2^nd.
-- 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 7^th 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
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 3^rd 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  Don Kelly-2003  Tom Brennan-2003  Mick Reynolds-2005

November 16, 2006 
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met Thursday in Grand Island.   The meeting was held a week early due to the Thanksgiving holiday.  Agenda included:
--Water Resources Committee- Ron Bishop, general manager, distributed a letter from the Department of Natural Resources (DNR).  Bishop said he and Kent Miller, Twin Platte NRD manager, had inquired about the State’s commitment to provide offsets required by the “New Depletion Plan” for the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program.  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.  A letter written on October 24, 2006 by the DNR states: “From this point forward we believe that the NRDs will play a larger role than the Department as decisions are made about (1) how (or whether) to fund the new depletions plan if a PRRIP is initiated; (2) what should happen to the PRRIP if the plan is not funded by the State; and (3) how to fund implementation of LB 962 with or without the PRRIP….we’ll all have to sit down together with the Governor and develop a plan to carry out our respective responsibilities to meet the requirements of the Platte River Program and LB 962.”  On a another note Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that the Governance Committee has approved a budget of $2.7 million for 2007.
     A motion to have Ron Bishop and Carroll Sheldon contact attorney Karen Budd-Falen of Wyoming to discuss the possibility of getting the whooping crane de-listed as an Endangered Species was approved.
     Bishop also discussed progress of the Integrated Management Plan requesting the board’s direction on how to make up new depletions in the Plan.  The board voted to establish the Integrated Management Plan boundaries for both the overappropriated area and the fully appropriated area as the boundaries of the NRD; which treats all water users in the NRD proportionate to their impact on river flows.   Bishop reported that the next Stakeholders meeting would be held December 13^th at the Ramada Inn in Kearney at 1:00 p.m.
     The board approved an extension for one year on the Rules and Regulations For Closing the Management Area to the Issuance of New Well Permits, Preventing the Expansion of Irrigated Acres and Increased or Expanded Uses of Groundwater for Other Beneficial Purposes.
--Election- Official election results are listed below by sub-district:
# 1: Brian Keiser-2099  Dean Peterson-1063   #2: Bill Vasey-1436  Mark McKee-1117
#3: Tom Brennan-1683  Steve Sheen-1803     #4: Robert Schanou-1839   Craig Wietjes-1817
#5: John Tarrell-1468  James Shiers-1590      #6: Scott Woodman-2252   Ted Davis-1266
#8: Doug Schuett-1066  Alicia Haussler-1193  #9: Ed Kyes-2041   Ned Meier-1382
#10: Ladd Reeves-1417  Stephen Schuppan-1579      AL: Dick Mercer-21,158     Carroll Sheldon-12,740
--Audit- The Fiscal 2006 Audit Report conducted by McDermott & Miller of Hastings, was approved.
--Nominating Committee- The board elected Bill Vasey, Jerry Wiese and Dan Ohlman as the nominating committee to select nominations for chairman, vice-chairman and treasurer of the board.  An election will be held for treasurer in December, with the other positions elected in January.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that new crop water use information had been received from the Flatwater Group and would be integrated into the groundwater models.  Woodward said that the USGS’s initial report on water use by trees was completed.  The study has been extended due to the drought, hoping to get some wet year cycles in the study.  The extended study will also include sub-irrigated grassland.
--Cost Share 12 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $17,761.50.  Practices approved included renozzle, pipeline, planned grazing, center pivot, flow meter and well decommissioning.  
There was no financial report due to the early board meeting.

October 27, 2006
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors received the results of a study on the economic impacts to the State of Nebraska for the Platte River Recovery Program on Thursday.   HDR, Honey Creek Resources and the Flatwater Group conducted the Study and concluded that the cost of the first increment of the proposed program would be similar to having no program at all.  However, the economic impacts for second and third increments would significantly outweigh the benefits.  The Board made the decision to send a letter to the Governor Heineman reaffirming their decision in opposition to the proposed Program.  See enclosed release for more information on the Study.  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, gave a brief update on the Cooperative Agreement, saying that the Agreement had been extended through the end of the year and that the Department of the Interior had signed on to the proposed Program.  (A press conference had been scheduled by Governor Heineman’s office to discuss the Governor’s decision on the proposed Program just prior to this release.)  Other agenda actions included:
--Variance Recommendations- The board approved two requested variances by the City of Gothenburg and Custer Land & Cattle LLC.  Both variances are required to provide offset acres. Two appeals were considered for certification of irrigated acres.  One appeal was approved because the landowner had sufficient proof of irrigated history, the other was denied because the land had not been irrigated since 1986. Matt Bohnenkamp, water resources specialist, gave an update on the certification progress.  Bohnenkamp said that staff has certified 3,165 fields in Dawson, Custer and Frontier counties for a total of 310,000 acres.  The NRD started certifying irrigated acres in the western part of the district and will begin certification in Buffalo County on November 13 at the Country Inn & Suites.  There are 1,600 fields to certify in Buffalo County.  Buffalo county landowners should receive notification and a packet in November and should contact the NRD if they do not receive anything by November 30.
--Programs Committee- The board approved the transfer of cost share funds to purchase liability insurance to cover NRD personnel to conduct burns for the Prescribed Fire Program. 
--Truck Bids- Gene Stoklasa, resources administrator, presented bids to replace a 1999 Dakota, 2002 Chevy and a 2004 F150.  There were six bids from area dealers.  The board approved the purchase of three 2007 one-half ton pickups from Plum Creek Motors of Lexington with their low bid of $35,646.30 with the trade-ins.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the NRD is involved in a New Depletions Study for the over appropriated area of the District.  Woodward said the technical committee has met and are putting the information together for the study, which should be completed in November.  Woodward also reported that the Department of Natural Resources has hired two new modelers.
--NARD Flexible Benefits Plan- Dianne Miller, administrative director, reported on a new option for the NRD employee medical insurance plan.  The board voted to approve amending and restating the current plan to provide more options to employees.
--Cost Share Applications- 20 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $26,470.50.  Practices approved included pipeline, planned grazing, center pivot incentive, surge valve, flow meter, and well decommissioning.
--A special awards luncheon was held to recognize Master Conservationist winner, Todd and Kim Tyler of Clarks, and to recognize Dianne Miller, administrative director, for 35 years of service.

September 15, 2006
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors voted unanimously to strongly oppose the Platte River Recovery Implementation Program. The Board also voted to direct Ron Bishop, general manager, to develop testimony for the public meeting in Grand Island and Lincoln recommending Governor Heineman not to sign the proposed Program.  On September 1, 2006, the Board sent a letter to the Governor recommending that a cost/benefit analysis be completed before signing an agreement.  Other action items included:
--Water Resources Committee- The committee received the letter drafted by Don Blankenou, attorney, to the Governor on the NRD's recommendations regarding the proposed Platte River Recovery Implementation Program.  Ron Bishop reported that there would be a Stakeholders meeting on October 30, 2006.   Suggestions from Stakeholders and board members are being compiled and will be reviewed for the NRD's Integrated Management Plan.  Ron Bishop also reported that the Department of Natural Resources made a ruling in favor of changing instream flows and the determination of fully and over appropriated basins.
--Variance Recommendations- The committee reported on the special variance meeting held on September 8, 2006.  At that meeting the committee chose not to change any of the Rules and Regulations and came to the agreement that FSA records would be the primary proof of irrigation.  If FSA records aren’t available, then tax records would be considered for certification.  The board approved one variance, tabled one variance until more proof is available and denied two variances. 
--Western Projects Committee- The board approved the recommendation to proceed with the funding request from the Natural Resources Development Fund and to proceed with core drilling to evaluate concerns about seepage on the proposed Elm Creek Watershed.  In July a petition was received from area landowners about their concerns with the project.  The committee strongly recommends that all seepage concerns be dealt with prior to any plans for a project.  Jim Cook, Department of Natural Resources, addressed the committee saying that the proposed alternative would have the potential to fit into the Water Action Plan for the proposed Platte River Recovery Implementation Plan.
--Levy Hearing- The board approved that the property tax request at 0.03210 for the 2007 Fiscal Budget.  The request is up slightly from the 2006 request of 0.03118.
--NARD Delegates-  Daryl Keiser was selected as voting delegate with John Tarrell selected as alternate for the Nebraska Association of Resources District’s Annual Conference to be held September 25-26 at the Kearney Holiday Inn.
--Cost Share- 17 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $22,936.74.  Practices approved included pipeline, planned grazing, grass and range seeding, center pivot, flow meter and well decommissioning.

August 24, 2006
--Variance Recommendations- The board approved a variance for Roger Schuett, Chapman, but denied his request to be exempt from the NRD's Rules and Regulations.  The board tabled four appeals on the certification of irrigated acres since the board planned on discussing possible rule changes.  The Variance Committee plans to meet prior to the September board meeting to discuss suggestions by the public and directors.
--Water Resources Committee- Don Blankenau, attorney, provided his recommendations concerning the signing of the proposed Platte River Recovery Program to the committee.  Blankenau also provided an analysis of Endangered Species Act exposure without the Cooperative Agreement.  The board approved a motion to have Blankenau draft a letter detailing the concerns that the Central Platte NRD has with the proposed Recovery Program and to send it to the Governor and members of the Unicameral.  Dr. Charles Lamphear, professor emeritus at UNL and former director of UNL's Bureau of Business Research, presented his summary of the Department of Interior's Ag Economic Evaluation that was developed as part of the Environmental Impact Statement.  Lamphear concluded that the adequacy and the methods used for the third party impact analysis appeared appropriate but questioned some of the assumptions made, such as the number of irrigated acres required.  The State of Nebraska has scheduled meetings to gather public input on the proposed Platte River Program in Gering (September 6), Grand Island (September 22), and Lincoln (October 10). The Cooperative Agreement is set to expire on October 1, 2006.  The three basin state governors and the Secretary of the Interior are considering another extension of the CA, to December 31, 2006.  The issue was discussed and tabled at the August Governance Committee meeting and will be re-addressed at their mid-September meeting.  The Governance Committee has begun the search for a new Executive Director.  Dale Strickland of WEST, Inc. has filled that role during the term of the CA, but is not interested in holding that position during a Program, if it is approved.
     A bill has been introduced in the Senate to authorize the proposed Program.  Hearings on that bill may be held this fall, but we expect the Senate will make no decision until 2007.  Program supporters will likely have to re-introduce that legislation in 2007 in both the Senate and the House of Representatives. Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the hearing conducted by the Department of Natural Resources on instream flows and the determination of fully and over appropriated basins received only positive testimony and he expects the DNR to have a ruling out by the end of the month.  The board received a copy of the NRD draft Integrated Management Plan. Directors are being asked to submit suggestions to the draft prior to the next Stakeholders meeting on September 11, 2006.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave an update on the Cooperative Hydrology Study and how it has been used for the Platte River Cooperative Agreement studies.  A table distributed provided the gains and losses of groundwater-irrigated lands for July 1, 1997 through June 30, 2005; these estimate the affect of new acres on the Platte River.  Woodward said this is just one example of how the Study has been used.  Currently, the NRD is setting up runs to examine fully and over appropriated determinations.  Woodward said the first run is expected to take place in November 2006.
--Cost Share- 18 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $34,381.99.  Practices approved included surge valve, center pivot, flow meter and well decommissioning.

July Board Meeting-Held Aug. 3, 2006
--Instream Flow Hearing- The board gave approval for Ron Bishop, general manager, to testify at the public hearing scheduled at 1:00 P.M. on August 11, 2006, at the CPNRD office. The hearing is being held by the Department of Natural Resources on instream flows and the determination of fully and over appropriated basins.  The board requested that Bishop testify in favor of changing the way water rights are evaluated.  Bishop said although the proposed change wouldn't change instream flow law, this would be the next best step.
--Water Resources Committee- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, gave a summary of the principles and positions relating to the continuation of the Platte River Cooperative Agreement and the adoption of a proposed Program.  The Board adopted the principles in July of 2000 and Czaplewski gave an update on each principle.  The committee received a schedule of the public hearings for the Platte River CA to be held Sept. 6 in Gering, Sept. 22 in Grand Island and Oct. 10 in Lincoln.  Board members were concerned that the Central Platte NRD was not listed as an interested party to give remarks on the draft agenda and Ron Bishop said he would see if the NRD could be added.  The board requested that Don Blankenou, attorney, attend the August WR Committee to discuss the CA; and also that staff hire an economist to develop a summary of third party impacts if the Program is approved.  A letter sent by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) was also discussed. The State now has the position that in the development of the NRD's Integrated Management Plan, the NRD has two choices--1) establish a 50/10 line and impose regulations only inside of that line or 2) have uniform regulations that would be based on an individual's depletion to the river or tributary.  Ron Bishop said this letter is a "major concession" by DNR and that it would impact fewer people.  The board will need to decide which way to go on the IMP.
--Variance Recommendations- The committee heard variance requests and appeals for irrigated acres that had been denied for certification.  The board approved two variance requests contingent on proof of irrigated acres and that required offsets be made.  They denied one request to irrigate land where trees had been removed.  On the certification appeals, the board denied two pieces of land because there was not enough proof of irrigation history and they approved one appeal.
--Budget - The Board approved the Fiscal 2007 Budget with general and sinking funds totaling $12,965,427.23.  The property tax requirement is $2,631,239.54, up $175,144.63 from last year.  The estimated Fiscal 2007 Levy of 0.03340 is based on last year's actual valuation of $7,877,779,698.00.  Actual levy should be lower than estimated because of anticipated higher valuations.
--Elm Creek Project- Mark Meier and other interested landowners presented a petition that objects to the building of the alternative E, large Elm Creek Structure an Dry Creek Structure.  There were 158 signatures on the petition.  The petition also stated: "Make bigger bridges under Highway 30 and the railroad tracks for better drainage."  Landowners are concerned with seepage and the potential for water to flood their basements.  The Western Projects Committee will consult with Olsson Associates.
--LRIP- The Board approved the amended Long Range Implementation Plan that outlines the District's programs for the years 2006-2011.  The Plan will be submitted to the Department of Natural Resources for review.
--Cost Share- 68 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $149,967.93.  Practices approved included surge valve, center pivot, flow meter, urban forestry, Wild Nebraska, well decommissioning,  pipeline, renozzle and range seeding.

June 22, 2006
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the proposed changes to the District's Suspension Program at their regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday.  The more substantive changes were inclusions for pasture and hayland, transfers off of overlying land, transfers of location of use and issuance of permits.  The entire set of Rules and Regulations are available at the NRD office or on the NRD website at: http//:www.cpnrd.org. Other action included:
--Variance Requests- The committee had two requests for variances from John Janky and Roger Schuett.  The Board approved the Janky request to continue irrigating this year if the required offsets are made either this crop season or in 2007.  Schuett's request was denied because he refused to sign the Variance Application which requires offsets be made.  If a person irrigates without an approved Variance, the NRD will issue a Cease and Desist Order.
--Ordnance Plant- The Board approved the purchase of two more pieces of land totaling 532.6 acres for the Prairie/Silver/Moores Creek Flood Control Project.  The cost of the two tracts is $372,824.
--Water Resources Committee- Scott Woodman, chairman, reported that Mark Czaplewski, biologist, and Don Blankenau, attorney, gave presentations on the Platte River Cooperative Agreement.  The Board plans to develop a recommendation to present to Governor Heineman.
--Stakeholders Meetings- Ron Bishop reported that the Stakeholders Group, charged with developing an Integrated Management Plan for the NRD, finished setting the goal and draft objectives.  Bishop said directors and staff would now begin writing the plan for the Group to review in September or October. 
--Budget - The Board took action to approve the Fiscal 2007 amended Budget for the purpose of a public hearing to be held prior to the July Board meeting, which is being held August 3, 2006, at the CPNRD office.  The total budget requirement totals $11,735,379.47.  The $11.7 M budget includes the General Fund at $9,430,611.18 and the Sinking Fund at $2,304,768.29.  The budget was amended to include $27,000 for the employee health benefit program to help build up a reserve, as required by law.  Employee costs are expected to increase an average of 36 percent starting July 1, 2006, along with benefit changes. 
--Meeting With Governor- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported on the June 14th meeting with Governor Heineman regarding the designation of fully appropriated basins, the Platte River Cooperative Agreement and other issues concerning the NRD. Directors who attended the meeting included: Loren Schuett, Ladd Reeves, Scott Woodman and Jim Bendfeldt.  All of the directors said they were impressed with the Governor's knowledge concerning the issues and was open to listening to NRD recommendations.
--School Group Visits- Mick Reynolds, director, proposed a motion to invite high school groups to visit board meetings to promote an awareness of what an NRD is and the importance and benefit that the NRD provides to the people of the District.  The Board approved the motion.  Staff will develop literature to send to area high schools to invite FFA groups, government classes, etc to monthly board meetings.
--Tree/Weed Barrier- Kelly Cole, programs coordinator, reported that the NRD sold 61,125 trees and 27 miles of weed barrier; which are both down from previous years.  Cole said sales are down throughout the state, likely because of the ongoing drought.  Gene Stoklasa, resources administrator, reported that the weed barrier crew that was contracted this year did an excellent job and that the NRD is looking forward to working with them for the 2007 tree season.
--Elm Creek Watershed- Stoklasa reported that there 135 people in attendance at the Information Meeting held June 19, 2006, in Elm Creek.  Kevin Prior, Olsson Associates, said the biggest concern among the landowners was seepage and relocation.  Directors who attended said the meeting was very positive and that the majority of the people in attendance were in favor of the project.  Comment requests were distributed at the meeting for the participants to take home and fill out.
--Prescribed Fire- David Carr, range management specialist, reported that the NRD has burned 3,315 acres since the program began in 2005.  Carr said the NRD has coordinated three prescribed burn schools for landowners this year and are working on another for July 25-28, 2006.  Landowners interested should contact the NRD.  Carr also reported that the NRD is helping form the Nebraska Prescribed Fire Council, which will bring fire interests across the state together.  A website is currently being developed for the Council.
--Cost Share 12 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $4,400.  Practices approved included fertilizer calibration meter and well decommissioning.

May 25, 2006
--Western Projects Committee- After Olsson Associates provided additional information to the committee on the Elm Creek Watershed Flood Control Project, the Board voted to proceed with the feasibility study and approved a resolution to request financial assistance for 75% of the project costs from the Nebraska Resources Development Fund.  The Project consists of a 975-acre flood control and re-regulating reservoir located north of the Village of Elm Creek, and two dry flood control structures located on the Turkey Creek. The reservoir would provide both traditional flood reduction benefits to the Village of Elm Creek, as well as non-traditional environmental benefits.  The Turkey Creek structures would serve to reduce current peak flows to downstream areas.  Together, the flood control structures would provide flood protection to the Village of Elm Creek.  The preliminary cost of the project is $22.8 million.
--Variance Recommendations- The Board approved changes to the Rules and Regulations including definitions for dryland agricultural use, hayland, irrigation and pasture.  The new rules to be added read as follows:  Rule 5. Irrigation History-  Pasture or hayland that can be shown to have been irrigated at least 2 out of 10 years and will remain as irrigated pasture or irrigated hayland, unless the average annual consumptive use is transferred to another use and/or location pursuant to the Rules and Regulations of the District.    
Rule 7.  Transfers- Issuance of the permit shall be conditioned upon the applicant's compliance with the following requirements: 1) the land from which the right is transferred remaining in agricultural production; 2) the applicant's compliance with the Rules and Regulations of the District from which the water is withdrawn; and 3) with such other conditions deemed appropriated by the District as provided by Rule 7. 3.4 hereinbelow.  The transfer shall automatically terminate at such time as the land from which the right is transferred, or a proportionate part thereof, ceases to be used for agricultural purposes and/or at such time as any of the other conditions of the permit are not being satisfied.  The public hearing to receive comments on the proposed additions will be held June 22, 2006, just prior to the Board of Directors meeting.
--Variance Requests- The Board also approved three variance requests.  The two private landowners who received approval were Marvion Reichert and Roy Bentley.  The City of Kearney submitted a revised permit, which was also approved. 
--Eastern Projects Committee- The Board took action on two items.  The first was a request from the Village of Silver Creek to remove vegetation from three islands in the Platte River that is blocking flow near the Hwy 39 Bridge.  The Board approved the project with an additional $15,000 to be added to the proposed Fiscal 2007 Budget.  The project is expected to cost $25,000-$30,000.  The Board also approved a bid letting for the spoil from the Ordinance Plant cells, which will be an excess of two million cubic yards.  The bid letting will likely be held this Fall.
--Budget Committee- The committee began reviewing the Fiscal 2007 Budget.  Ron Bishop, general manager, said the proposed budget would be mailed to the directors prior to the June Board meeting for them to review.  The budget would then need to be approved by the Board in June for a public hearing to be held in July.
--NRCS Cuts- James Huntwork, District Conservationist, reported that the NRCS may reduce up to 29 positions in Nebraska in 2007 due to budget cuts.  Huntwork said there are no set plans as of now but it is a possibility. 
--CA- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, gave an update on the Platte River Cooperative Agreement. Czaplewski said that the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) is out but the NRD has not yet received it.  The FEIS’s bottom line is that the Department of the Interior supports the “Governance Committee Alternative” (the negotiated Program) as the preferred alternative.  The Program’s price tag is listed as $317 million, for a 13-year increment.  While the FEIS documents benefits to the target species, those benefits are offset to some degree by adverse impacts, leaving a net benefit, but a limited one.  The Program as laid out is far more performance-based and more expensive than was envisioned during Cooperative Agreement negotiations.  Czaplewski said the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Biological Opinion (BO) is scheduled for release in early June.  The Secretary of the Interior is expected to issue a federal Record of Decision (ROD) in a month or so. Then the three basin state governors will begin to make their decisions. He said apparently Colorado and Wyoming have retained a lobbyist to help with federal funding authorization.  Authorization for federal funding is being drafted and might be introduced soon, possibly by the end of June on the Senate side of Congress.  Public meetings on the proposed Program might take place in Nebraska as early as this July.  There may be two meetings (North Platte and Grand Island).  Czaplewski said the State of Nebraska continues to work on estimates of the cost of offsetting depletions caused by new water uses that have occurred since the Cooperative Agreement was signed.  These offsets could run into tens of millions of dollars.
--ESA Letter- The Board approved a letter of support for ESA reform to be sent to Senator Ben Nelson.  The letter specifically requested his support of the TESRA that was passed by the House of Representatives.
--WR Railroad Overpass- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that staff has had discussions with the City of Wood River on the possibility of incorporating flood control with the Hwy 11 railroad overpass. 
--Stakeholders Meeting- Ron Bishop reported that the next meeting will be held on June 13, 2006, at the Kearney Holiday Inn at 1:00 p.m. The Group will likely finish setting objectives for the NRD Integrated Management Plan at the June meeting. He also requested that interested board members serve on a Stakeholders Committee to develop a draft plan after the Group sets the goal and objectives. 
--Election- Official results of the Primary were distributed and the Board.  Ron Bishop and board members Loren Schuett, Ladd Reeves, Scott Woodman and Jim Bendfeldt were selected to meet with Gov. Dave Heineman on June 8, 2006, to discuss the fully appropriated designation of the Platte Basin.
--Hearing on LR- Ron Bishop reported on a recent public hearing held in Holdrege for Legislative Resolution 389, which deals with a proposal to pump Platte Basin water into the Republican Basin.  He reported that he had testified against the proposal on behalf of the Board.  Director Jim Bendfeldt thanked Bishop for sharing the Board's concerns.
---Cost Share 13 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $5,875.  Practices approved included surge valve, well decommissioning and a WILD Nebraska contract.
--Reminder: Board Meeting Date Changes- The Board meeting dates for July and September were altered.  The July meeting will be held on Thursday, Aug. 3 and the September meeting will be held Friday, Sept. 15. 

April 27, 2006
Matt Bohnenkamp, water resources specialist, reported to the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors on the first round of certifying irrigated acres.  Bohnenkamp said that 15,400 irrigated acres or 158 fields have been certified in Custer and Frontier counties.  The District uses 2004 infrared aerial photography to determine which acres are irrigated; however, landowners may appeal if they have proof from the FSA that they have more irrigated acres than the photography indicated.  The District is certifying acres by townships.  Landowners in western Dawson County may expect a packet in May that shows what acres the NRD has determined are irrigated.  Those landowners may accept the amount of acres determined or make an appointment with the NRD to bring proof from the FSA that shows they have a different number of irrigated acres.  All changes in irrigated acre numbers will be shared with local County Assessors' offices.  The next mailing will include 1,100 fields and 425 landowners.  There are close to 14,000 fields within the District that need to be certified.  Other action:
--Variance Recommendations- The Board took no action on a variance request by Marvion Reichert Sr., Kearney.  The committee requested County Assessors tax records before making their decision in May.  The first appeal on certified irrigated acres by Brent Dittmar, Oconto, was approved.  The Board determined that the Dittmars did show proof that their pastureland was irrigated, although FSA doesn't certify pastureland.  In May, the committee will discuss what is considered pastureland and how to handle appeals in the future.  Dan Ohlman, variance chair, said the committee would discuss a change to the Rules and Regulations that would require that pastureland never be irrigated as cropland.
--Programs Committee- The Board approved a change to the Well Decommissioning Program that raises the cost share for hand-dug wells to $1,000 maximum from $750 previously starting July 1, 2006.
--Western Projects Committee- Kevin Prior and Jeff Paulson, Olsson Associates, presented a proposed feasibility study on the Elm Creek/Turkey Creek project.  The Board requested that Olsson Associates talk to county officials to determine whether Apache Road improvements would be required if the project would be built before making a decision in May.  Prior's recommendation consists of a 975-acre flood control and re-regulating reservoir located north of the Village of Elm Creek, and two dry flood control structures located on the Turkey Creek. The reservoir would provide both traditional flood reduction benefits to the Village of Elm Creek, as well as non-traditional environmental benefits.  The Turkey Creek structures would serve to reduce current peak flows to downstream areas.  Together, the flood control structures would provide flood protection to the Village of Elm Creek.  The preliminary cost of the project is $22.8 million.  The NRD would submit the proposal to the Natural Resources Development Fund to request a grant for up to 60% of the cost. 
--Water Resources Committee- The District's attorney discussed the Department of Natural Resources District's Rules and Regulations with the committee.  No action was brought to the Board.  The committee also advanced the proposed Fiscal 2007 budget to the Budget Committee for review.
--Instream Flow- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that Legislation to require that water for instream flows to be in the public interest if the flow rate is available 85% of the time did not pass as hoped.  Bishop explained that the instream flow rights granted to the Game & Parks Commission by Department of Natural Resources, are only there 20% of the time, making it difficult to manage for as all other water uses could be shut down and still not make the flows available 85% of the time.  DNR uses the 85% rule to determine whether a basin is fully appropriated.  Bishop said that NRDs have asked DNR to change the way they regulate the law by asking them not to declare a basin fully appropriated unless the water right had the water available.  Bishop said a decision is possible within 60 days.
--Legislation- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that the following natural resources bills passed this session: LB 32-NRD Director Per Diem, LB 508-several water law changes, LB 898-Open Meetings Law, LB 924-Eminent Domain, LB 1060-Deficit Appropriations Bill, LB 1113-Public Access on NRD Projects Bill, LB 1226/1226A-Water Management, LB 805-Interrelated Water Management Plan, LB 933-Changes from Water Policy Task Force, LB 971-NRD Water Management Levy.
--Cost Share 36 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $29,444.66.  Practices approved included prescribed burn, surge valve, flow meter, fertilizer calibration, tree planting, well decommissioning and urban forestry.
--Board Meeting Date Changes- The Board approved changes in meeting dates for July and September.  The July meeting will be held on Aug. 3 and the September meeting will be held Sept. 15.  

March 23, 2006
--Programs Committee- The committee reviewed current cost share programs and the Board approved changes to two of the programs.  The Center Pivot Incentive Program applicants will need to show irrigated history for the 2 of last 5 years instead of the current 4 of last 5 years and may not add any new irrigated acres.  The Well Decommissioning Program cost share was increased to 60 percent up to $750 instead of $300.  Replacement wells and wells pumping less than 50 gpm will remain at $300 maximum.
--Variance Recommendations- The Board took action on three requested variances.  The application that was approved was submitted from the Southern Public Power District for land at the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant.  SPPD requested the transfer of one industrial permit within the area that they own.  Two requests from private landowners in Dawson and Merrick counties were denied because they wanted to increase irrigated acres.  One landowner did not provide sufficient proof that the land had been irrigated at least 2 of the last 10 years; which is required by the NRD's Rules and Regulations.
--Eastern Projects Committee- The Board approved the committee's recommendation to allow a center pivot to cross Moore's Creek with a contract from the landowner to take all responsibility for maintenance.  The committee also reviewed the preliminary Fiscal 2007 budget.
--Western Projects Committee- Gene Stoklasa, Resources Administrator, reported to the committee that the Kearney Northeast Flood Control Project is completed after 13 years of construction.  The project is a cooperative effort involving the NRD, the City of Kearney and Buffalo County to improve channels, drop structures, road crossings and to add a detention cell.  The committee also reviewed the preliminary Fiscal 2007 budget.
--Prairie/Silver/Moores Project- Milt Moravek, Assistant Manager, gave an update on land acquisition at the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant for the project.  Moravek said the funds are available to purchase Tract 21 to use as another cell which is necessary.  He said the first bid letting would be held in September 2006 for 1.5 million cubic yards.
--Stakeholders Meeting- Ron Bishop, general manager, invited the Board to attend the April 11th Stakeholders meeting for the development of an Integrated Management Plan.  The meeting will be held at the Kearney Holiday Inn at 1:00 p.m.
--Legislation- Moravek reported that with only 12 days left in the session, LB 32 and LB 508 have both passed.  Other legislation that interests the NRD, such as LB 1226, is still being debated.
--Platte River Program- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the proposed Platte River Program. Czaplewski said the U.S. Department of the Interior would release the Final Environmental Impact Statement for the proposed Platte River Recovery Program in March.  The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will issue their Biological Opinion in late April or early May.  The two documents will lay out the federal position on the proposed Program negotiated with Nebraska, Colorado and Wyoming.  Czaplewski said the State of Nebraska is working to better estimate the cost of offsetting depletions caused by new and expanded water uses that have occurred since July 1997 when the Cooperative Agreement was signed, however, the process won't be completed until Summer.  The state is planning a series of public information meetings in the fall to gather input for consideration by the Governor about whether the state should sign onto the proposed Program. Congressional delegations from each of the basin states are being briefed on the proposed Program and sponsors for authorization legislation and funding are being sought.  Senator Allard, Colorado, may introduce legislation on the Senate side in April.  On the House side, Congresswoman Cubin, ,Wyoming may sponsor legislation.  
--Avian Flu- Carroll Sheldon, director, read excerpts from newspaper articles about the increasing chance that the Flu may reach the United States this year.  Sheldon made a motion that would pull the Central Platte NRD out of any dealings with the Platte River Cooperative Agreement and request that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service reduce migratory bird numbers drastically.  After lengthy debate, the motion failed.  Sheldon proposed a second motion that eliminated the sentence to pull the NRD out of the Cooperative Agreement; the second motion also failed.  Directors expressed that they understand that the Avian Flu is a serious threat, however, the organizations that are responsible for prevention (such as the World Health Organization and the University Medical Center) are working on it.  Directors also expressed that the Platte River Cooperative Agreement and the Avian Flu are two separate issues.
--COHYST- Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that peer review comments are being added to the Western Model reports and that he is currently running the Eastern Model for the 50 year/10 percent line.
--GW Festival- Marcia Lee, information/education specialist, reported that 1,252 students attended the 2006 Nebraska Children's Groundwater Festival held on March 14 at Central Community College and College Park in Grand Island.  Lee said there were 13 new activities and that this is the first year students were offered lunch.  The Festival Committee raised $21,000 for the event while the NRD contributed $10,000.  Lee also reported that 313 presenters and volunteers worked the day of the Festival.
--Certified Acres- Ron Bishop reported that the NRD has started certifying acres for the Integrated Management Plan.  The District did a trial run with NRD board members last week will begin certifying acres in the Western part of the District.  Operators and landowners in Custer and Frontier counties can expect to receive packets from the NRD by the end of March.
--Cost Share 39 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $26,752.22.  Practices approved included prescribed burn, surge valve, prescribed burn, flow meter, fertilizer calibration, tree planting, well decommissioning and Pheasants Forever.

February 23, 2006
Following a public hearing, the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors approved the Rules and Regulations For Closing the Management Area to the Issuance of New Well Permits, Preventing the Expansion of Irrigated Acres and Increased or Expanded Uses of Groundwater for Other Beneficial Purposes at their regularly scheduled meeting on Thursday. Other Action Items:
--Programs Committee- After a recommendation from the committee, the Board approved changes to two cost share programs.  The Flow Meter Cost Share was increased to up to $500 beginning July 1, 2006; and the Prescribed Fire Program was changed to allow landowners to apply for up to $2,500 per lifetime. The committee also advanced the Cost Share and Information/Education budget proposals for Fiscal 2007 to the Budget Committee.
--Variance Recommendations- The Board approved one request with the requirement that the agreement for the offset water must state that the land will never be irrigated again and unused wells are to be decommissioned.  Another request was denied because new irrigated acres were requested, however, options are still available if proper offsets would be allocated.
--Ponderosa Lots- The Board approved sale of a lot for $21,000.  The NRD has one remaining lot to be sold.
--Stakeholders Meeting- Ron Bishop, general manager, reported on the third Stakeholders meeting for the development of an Integrated Management Plan and said the next meeting is planned for March 8, 2006, at the Holiday Inn in Kearney at 1:00 p.m.
--Water Policy Task Force- Bishop gave an update on the Instream Flow Subcommittee.  He said discussion included how instream flows are causing basins to be considered fully appropriated and that they are looking for another solution.
--Legislation- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on the status of Legislation that would affect Natural Resources Districts, including but not limited to LB 1226 and LB 1225.
--NHCC- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported on the recent happenings with the Nebraska Habitat Conservation Coalition lawsuit.  The NHCC, which Central Platte NRD is a member of, won its case in Federal District Court against the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regarding piping plover critical habitat in Nebraska last October.  The judge ordered the Service to redo their economic analysis and re-assess their critical habitat designation.  After the judge ruled in the case the NHCC filed to recover its attorney’s fees and in January the judge awarded the NHCC approximately $175,000 in fees.  However, any payment of fees was put on hold when the federal government filed a notice of intent to appeal the case to the 8^th Circuit Court of Appeals.  The NHCC responded with the filing of its notice of intent to cross-appeal.  The federal government was given until March 29, 2006, to decide whether or not to proceed with their appeal or withdraw.   Czaplewski said that the NHCC plans to stay closely involved in re-designation of critical habitat as ordered by the District Court.
--ESA- Czaplewski also briefed the Board on the recent release of a report by the Keystone Center (a Colorado-based think tank) that responded to a request by the U.S. Senate’s Environment and Public Works Committee regarding Endangered Species Act  (ESA) reform.  The Keystone report is generally supportive of ESA reform similar to many components in the recently passed House bill (TESRA) and may foster ESA reform efforts in the Senate.
--Revised Comp Plan- The Board approved a recommendation on the revised employee compensation plan.  The plan will now be coordinated and administered by the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts.
--Interlocal Agreement on Modeler- The Board approved a proposal to jointly hire a groundwater modeler with the Tri-Basin NRD and the Twin Platte NRD.
--Cost Share 48 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $48,825.55.  Practices approved included pipeline, pasture planting, surge valve, center pivot, streambank stabilization, irrigation reuse, prescribed burn, flow meter, tree planting and well decommissioning.

January 26, 2006
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday, January 26, 2006, in Grand Island. Action included:
--Water Resources Committee- The Board approved the proposed rules and regulations titled “Rules and Regulations For Closing the Management Area to the Issuance of New Well Permits, Preventing Expansion of Irrigated Acres an Increased or Expanded Uses of Groundwater for Other Beneficial Purposes.”  A public hearing is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on February 23, 2006, just prior to the Board of Directors meeting.  Steve Smith, Imperial, gave a presentation on the Republican River Basin Compact and their compliance plan via importing water from the Platte Basin.  The committee also discussed including funding for the development of a water banking plan in the 2007 Fiscal Budget.
--Variance Recommendations- The Board approved one variance request and denied a request.
--Stakeholders Meeting- Ron Bishop, general manager, gave an update on the Stakeholders meetings for the development of an Integrated Management Plan.  Bishop said monthly meetings are scheduled through June and will begin with an educational presentation and conclude with discussions on goals and objectives of an Integrated Management Plan.  Presenters for the educational presentations in February and March include Jim Goeke, UNL and Jim Cook, DNR.
--Election- An election was held for Treasurer and Secretary seats currently held by Ladd Reeves and Bill Vasey.  Reeves and Vasey were reelected and will serve another two-year term.  Ron Bishop reminded incumbents that the deadline to file for the upcoming Primary is February 15^th and the deadline for non-incumbents is March 1st.
--NRCS Request for Funds- The Board approved the recommendation to have the NRD continue funding the Technical Service Provider (TSP) employees with the Natural Resources Conservation Service.  Federal funding has been eliminated for two employees that the NRD was being reimbursed salaries for.  The Board approved the transfer of funds to continue with the employment for the remainder of Fiscal 2006 in the amount of $24,000 and $58,000 for Fiscal 2007. 
--Land Purchase of CAAP Land  The Board approved the purchase of the first two pieces of land at the Ordinance Plant needed for the Prairie/Silver/Moores Creek Project.  The purchase price is $750 per acre for 104.28 acres in Tract 1 and $700 per acre for 91.70 acres in Tract 2 for a total of $142,400.  There are four more tracts of land that will be purchased for the $17 million project, two of which should be ready to acquire within 90 days.  The Board approved a motion to allow staff to complete transactions on the upcoming tracts at $700 per acre.
--Elwood Reservoir/Instream Flows  Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District requested that the NRD allow the use of Instream Flows to add water to Elwood Reservoir.  CNPP&ID said the reservoir was 5 feet lower than it has been since it was originally filled.  The additional water is necessary to protect the fisheries and to get a start on next year’s irrigation season.  The Board approved the use of 190 cfs for 21 days starting at the end of January through the first two weeks of February.
--Legislation- Milt Moravek, assistant manager, gave a report on bills introduced in the Legislative session regarding natural resources districts.  A listing of bills is available upon request.
--Cost Share 40 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $60,683.97.
--Committee Sign Up- Directors (that were present) signed up for committees they plan to serve on including: Water Resources Committee, Programs Committee, Eastern Projects, Western Projects and Well Variance Sub-Committee. 
--Water Resources: Chairman-Scott Woodman, LeRoy Arends, Jim Bendfeldt, Tom Brennan, Jim Foster, Daryl Keiser, Ed Kyes, Dwayne Margritz, Barry Obermiller, Dan Ohlman, Ladd Reeves, Marvion Reichert, Mick Reynolds, Jay Richeson, Loren Schuett, Carroll Sheldon, Keith Stafford, John Tarrell, Bill Vasey, Jerry Wiese
--Programs: Chairman-Barry Obermiller, Ed Kyes, Dan Ohlman, Mick Reynolds, Scott Woodman
--Eastern Projects: Chairman-Ed Kyes, LeRoy Arends, Jim Foster, Don Kelly, Barry Obermiller, Ladd Reeves, Mick Reynolds, Loren Schuett, Jerry Wiese
--Western Projects: Chairman-Bill Vasey, Jim Bendfeldt, Tom Brennan, Daryl Keiser, Dwayne Margritz, Marvion Reichert, Jay Richeson, Carroll Sheldon, Keith Stafford, John Tarrell, Scott Woodman
--Well Variance Sub-Committee: Bill Vasey, Dan Ohlman, Loren Schuett, Barry Obermiller, Ladd Reeves

December 2005
NRCS Report-  James Huntwork, District Conservationist, distributed a summary of the FY 2006 NRCS Budget Deficit Reduction Plan.  The Plan calls for a reduction of $1.8 million in Nebraska including elimination of part-time employees, no funding for vehicles and equipment, no overtime pay for employees, 60 % cut in travel and training and a reduction in the technical service provider program.
Municipal/Industrial Supplies- The Board reviewed the Task Force Municipal Subcommittee/ League of Municipalities Proposal.  The proposal will be taken to the Water Policy Task Force this month.  The directors had no opposition to the proposal because it appears to be the best way to assure adequate water supplies for new municipal and industrial needs.
Stakeholders Meeting- Ron Bishop reported that the group is currently gathering background information for the Integrated Management Plan.  The next three meetings have been scheduled for January through March.  The Board decided that Ron Bishop should facilitate the future Stakeholders meetings and that it isn’t necessary to hire a facilitator.  A Stakeholders Committee has been formed to attend the meetings regularly: Jay Richeson, Ed Kyes, Carroll Sheldon, Scott Woodman and Bill Vasey.
Nominating Committee- Ed Kyes reported that Ladd Reeves and Bill Vasey are both willing to serve another term for the 2006 Treasurer and Secretary seats.  The committee recommended Ladd Reeves for Treasurer and Bill Vasey for Secretary.  The election will be held next month.
Attorney Research- The Board requested that the attorney research the following items:
*The attorney reported that a public hearing will not be necessary to extend the recently adopted Rules and Regulations on the issuance of new well permits and expansion of irrigated acres after one year, since the extension amendment is listed in the Rules and Regulations.
*The attorney reported that the only way the Board may discipline a board member if the board spokesman policy is violated is to request an Injunctive Relief from the courts, which would likely result in a fine or small jail term.  Numerous violations may result in removal of office.
*The attorney reported that the State Statute would allow removal of office if a board member would miss more than two consecutive unexcused absences.  The board is allowed to define excused and unexcused absences, but the Board took no action on the item.
Water Management Rules & Regs- Ron Bishop reported that since there were numerous changes to the Rules and Regulations on the drilling of new wells and expanded acres over the last two years, the Board would receive a revised copy of the entire Rules and Regulations before the January Board meeting.  The Board will be asked to approve or amend and approve the revised Management Plan in January.  A public hearing will be held to hear public comments in February.
Platte River Program- Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that negotiation of the proposed Program has been completed except for the adaptive management plan and that work on that plan will continue right up to Program initiation.  
      He also reported that recent delays include the Final EIS and Biological Opinion until March or April and the federal Record of Decision until April or May.  Czaplewski said it isn’t certain what impact these latest delays will have on Congressional action to authorize federal funding for the Program, but it appears that the states will make their final decisions on participation this coming summer.
      The Department of the Interior made a significant statement earlier this month agreeing to credit the states collectively for $120 million in Program value for the three state water projects (Lake McConaughy EA, Pathfinder EA, and Tamarack).  Czaplewski said when added to the value of the land to be contributed by Nebraska and Wyoming ($10 million) and of the cash contributions by Colorado ($24 million) and Wyoming ($6 million), the three states’ contributions to the Program would equal $160 million; which is more than enough to provide the 50-50 match for the estimated $157 million cash contribution from the federal government.  The environmental representatives on the Governance Committee (GC) are still not sure they are willing to accept this valuation, but we should find out before long.   Assuming the values remain as currently planned, the total Program budget for cash and cash equivalents totals $317 million.  According to the current budget, Nebraska would not be required to make any cash contribution to the Program.  Nebraska would bear a significant cost of implementing our new depletion plan. 
      The Downstream Water Users have selected four representatives to the Governance Committee who will share one vote.  The representatives include one from NPPD, one from CNPPID, and two from the Platte Basin NRD’s (South Platte NRD, North Platte NRD, Twin Platte NRD, Tri-Basin NRD and Central Platte NRD).  An Advisory Committee will also be formed to provide input to the representatives, consisting of a representative from agricultural groups, water user groups, municipalities and surface water irrigation districts.
Ponderosa Walls- The Board hired Olsson Associates to develop a privacy wall design for the three lots for sale by the NRD.  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, said Olsson Associates have spoken to the Corps of Engineers and have been assured that the design they are working on would meet the Corps specifications.  Olsson Associates will receive $5,750 for the design.
COHYST  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the peer review process is completed and recommendations are being added to the three models (Eastern, Western, Central) for the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  Woodward said the modelers are developing new model documentations and are getting the three models ready to use.
Cost Share Applications- 47 applicants were approved for cost share totaling $70,067.16.  The practices approved for cost share this month include: valve and pipe, flow meters, tree planting, center pivot incentive, streambank stabilization, irrigation reuse, fertilizer calibration, and well decommissioning.

November 2005 Report
Governor Heineman spoke with the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors on Thursday in Grand Island.  The Governor addressed the Board about current water regulations regarding fully appropriated designations, including the controversial decision by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to use a 50-year/10 percent line to regulate water in Nebraska.  Ron Bishop, general manager, and board member Ladd Reeves both expressed concern to Governor Heineman that the Board was surprised when the DNR announced that the state was going to use the 50-year/10 percent line since the 40-year/28 percent line had been used in other water regulation decisions.  Heineman said there is uncertainty on what impact the new regulations would have on irrigators and the state’s agricultural community.  The Governor encouraged the Board to relay concerns about water issues to him, including issues concerning the Platte River Cooperative Agreement.   Heineman said, “I have emphasized the need to go slow and careful and let’s use a little bit of Nebraska common sense.” Other action included: 
--Suspension The board appointed hearing officers for the Public Hearings that are being held for the proposed district-wide suspension of drilling new wells and expansion of irrigated acres.  Hearings are being held in Lexington and Kearney on November 22 and in Central City and Grand Island on November 23.  Hearing officers will be Mick Reynolds, Bill Vasey, Jerry Wiese and Ed Kyes.  A special board meeting has been scheduled on December 6, 2005, to take action on the public hearings.  (Locations/times of hearing listed at end of release.)
--NRCS Report  James Huntwork, district conservationist, reminded all landowners interested in EQIP cost share funds to contact their local Natural Resources Conservation Service office immediately as the first cut-off date is November 30. 
--Variance Committee  The board approved a variance request for Sid Anderson of Lexington to drill a well to supplement surface water with groundwater if surface water is not available, with the stipulation that no new acres would be irrigated. 
--Programs Committee  The board approved a request by the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts to lease a promotional display for a one-time fee of $800.  They also agreed to help with the cost of lunch for a tree workshop to be held for landowners in Buffalo County.  The board was encouraged to nominate conservation-minded landowners within the District for the Master Conservationist Awards by April.
--Letter of Support  The board approved a letter drafted to the senators in support of the Threatened and Endangered Species Reform Act. 
--Ponderosa Lots  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, discussed an issue regarding privacy walls.  Moravek said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are requiring a new design, which Olsson Associates are currently working on.  Moravek suggested that the two remaining lots not be sold until the design is accepted.
--Nominating Committee  Ed Kyes, Dan Ohlman and Daryl Keiser were elected to the Nominating Committee for the 2006 treasurer and secretary seats.  They will make a recommendation to the Board in December.  Currently, Ladd Reeves (treasurer) and Bill Vasey (secretary) are serving the end of their first two-year term.  Board bylaws allow officers to serve two consecutive two-year terms.
--Board Policy on Board Spokesman  Mick Reynolds, director, made a motion that no member of the Central Platte NRD Board of Directors shall speak on behalf of the Board unless designated as a spokesperson, by the Board of Directors.  In addition, any member(s) of the Board of Directors shall be prohibited from holding a news conference at the Central Platte NRD office unless approval by the Board of Directors has been given.  Legal council was also requested to research options available if the policy would be violated.
--Meeting Attendance  The Board will look at board member attendance next month to see if a policy needs to be adopted.
--Fiscal Audit  The Board accepted the 2005 Fiscal Audit conducted by McDermott & Miller, CPA, firm of Hastings.
--Cost Share Programs  Kelly Cole, programs coordinator, requested that 19 applications be approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $14,949.  All applications were approved.
--Avian Flu  Information was made available to the Board on current efforts in the prevention of an outbreak of Avian Flu in the United States.
--December Meeting  The December board of directors meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 20, 2005 instead of the usual Thursday due to the Christmas holiday.
--Award  Prior to the Board meeting, an award was given to Carmen Glines for 10 years of service.  Carmen was hired as the District Secretary at the Grand Island NRCS Field Office in July 1995. 

October 2005 Board Meeting
--Water Resources Committee The board voted to move forward with a proposal to implement a district-wide moratorium until we are more certain what would be required by the State of Nebraska.  The board is currently in discussions with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources about their fully appropriated designation of the District.  By implementing the district-wide moratorium, the NRD is extending the ban to drill new wells and the expansion of irrigated acres across the entire District.  This action would prevent any new development of irrigated acres and minimize the potential offsets required by the State when an Integrated Management Plan is established.  The Board’s concern was that if the State required the locals to offset, the only way to offset would be to reduce the irrigated acres of all the existing irrigators.  The NRD Board’s position has been to protect, as much as possible, all existing irrigation investments.  Public hearings will be held throughout the District on Nov. 22-23, 2005, for public comment on the district-wide moratorium.  A special board meeting will be held on Dec. 6, 2005, to take action on the proposed ban. 
     Starting in December 2005 through March 2006, the NRD will hold Stakeholders meetings to develop the required Integrated Management Plan.
--COHYST  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported on the Peer Review Report.  The Report is a detailed evaluation of the Study, techniques used and the development of the models. The board decided to take time to review the report before making a decision to invite a technician from Eagle Resources.
--NHCC  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that on October 13, U.S. District Judge Lyle Strom ruled that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service wrongly declared several Nebraska rivers as critical habitat for the threatened piping plover.  In 2002, the Service designated critical habitat for the bird, on parts of four rivers in Nebraska, as well as areas in Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.  In Nebraska, the Service designated a total of 440 river miles, including the Platte River from Lexington to the Missouri River and stretches of the Loup, Niobrara and 120 river miles of the Missouri River adjacent to Nebraska.  The NHCC (CPNRD is a member) filed suit in federal District Court in 2003, arguing the critical habitat designation was not based on sound science, was not done in accordance with the law and did not include an adequate economic assessment.
     Czaplewski said Judge Strom vacated the entire designation in Nebraska and ordered the Service to re-designate critical habitat to include only areas occupied by the piping plover. Strom agreed with the Coalition that the impact analysis conducted was inadequate.  The Service failed to weigh the economic and other impacts against the benefits of the designation.  The Service was ordered to complete a proper assessment.  The judge also denied the Central Platte NRD filing to join the case as a “friend of the court.”  The Service has 60 days from the date of the ruling to appeal the decision to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals, but Czaplewski said they do not have to appeal.
--Platte River CA  Czaplewski also reported on the proposed Platte River Program.  He said last month the Governance Committee voted to extend the term of the CA until September 30, 2006.  The governors and Secretary of the Interior are expected to agree and formally approve the extension in November. Without the extension the CA was set to end on December 31st.  The overall schedule now calls for the release of the Department of the Interior’s Final Environmental Impact Statement in January of 2006, followed by the issuance of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Biological Opinion and Interior’s Record of Decision in February of 2006.  The schedule also calls for the introduction of legislation for federal funding for the proposed Program this fall.  Congress would likely make a decision on that funding by next spring or summer.   Czaplewski said that the approval of that funding is not a foregone conclusion.  
     The current estimated cost for the first increment is $217 million (including both cash and in-kind contributions).  Czaplewski said that the $187 million in cash contributions is 2 ½ times the original estimate of $75 million.  The states’ proposal on funding would have the federal government provide the lion’s share of the cash contribution.  Much of Nebraska’s contribution would be credits for water projects such as the environmental account in Lake McConaughy and land contributions such as NPPD’s Cottonwood Ranch.  He said if federal officials don’t agree to the states’ plan, Program plans could be in jeopardy. 
     Czaplewski said the state’s review of the proposed Program would start in earnest in early 2006.  The Nebraska legislature convenes for a 60-day session starting in early January.   Nebraska’s evaluation will include input gathered at a series of public meetings planned for this winter and next spring and the recommendations of the Governor’s Platte River Advisory Council.  If funded and approved, a Program could start next October.
--Endangered Species Act  Ron Bishop reported that the House of Representatives has passed a reauthorization bill, which many believe to be a positive change.  The Senate is currently reviewing the bill.  Bishop reported that the National Water Resources Association (NWRA) and the National Endangered Species Act Reform Coalition (NESARC) are currently requesting letters in support of improving and updating the ESA.  The Board requested staff to draft a letter in support of changes.
--Impact Study  Carroll Sheldon, director, reported that the study conducted by UNL on the financial impact that irrigation has in the state of Nebraska has been revised and that he would report on it at the November Board meeting.
--Press Conference  Sheldon reported that he had held a press conference prior to the board meeting to discuss the outcome of the Platte River Cooperative Agreement in regards to the successful lawsuit against the U.S. FWS for the designation of the piping plover in Nebraska.  Sheldon requested that the board consider a number of actions to remove Nebraska from the Agreement and suggested Health and Human Services look into the bird flu among geese and ducks.  No action was taken by the board.
--Truck Bids  The board approved the purchase of a 2006, 1-Ton Pickup for the amount of $20,498.00 from Anderson Ford, Grand Island, who submitted the low bid.             
--Attorney  The board voted to give the general manager authority to request an attorney be present at Board meetings if necessary.
--Cost Share Programs  Kelly Cole, programs coordinator, requested that 34 applications be approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $56,265.80.  All applications were approved.
--December Meeting  The December board of directors meeting will be held on Tuesday, December 20, 2005 instead of the usual Thursday due to the Christmas holiday.

September 2005 Board Meeting
Mick Reynolds Elected to CPNRD Board
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s Board elected Mick Reynolds, Wood River, to serve as director to the Board after several attempts to fill the seat. Reynolds defeated Steve Anderson, Lexington, to replace the At-Large seat held by Charles Bicak who resigned in June because he was moving out of the district. 
     Prior to the election, Chairman Loren Schuett suggested candidates to be appointed to the position.  At the Chairman’s suggestion, first Dick Mercer, Kearney, and later Ned Meier, Grand Island, were nominated but both failed to be elected when the votes ended in tie (9-9.)  Eventually, a motion was made to hold an election between the remaining two candidates who had been interviewed and Reynolds won that election.  Reynolds will finish Bicak’s term, which ends in 2006. In July the Board had held an election that also ended in a deadlock between Mr. Mercer and Mr. Meier.  Other action included:
--DNR Ruling The board approved the following motion:  The Central Platte NRD will support the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) in an effort to negotiate the differences between the NRDs and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (DNR), regarding Integrated Water Management and the Department’s rules and if not successful, support the NARD to file suit and to take that same position with the Groundwater Coalition and to further have Central Platte NRD take that same position.
--Programs Committee  The committee had two action items that were approved by the Board this month.  The Board approved a change in the Center Pivot Incentive Program.  Applications will now be approved on a monthly basis instead of twice a year, and will not be ranked unless funding is limited.  Approval was also given to help complete a 13-mile trail system in Kearney.  Two motions were made concerning the Kearney Area Trail System.  The first motion allowed the Board to expedite the request due to a grant deadline.  The second motion approved the NRD’s involvement of the trail, including $60,000 in 2006 for Phase 4 of the project, and $50,000 in 2007 for Phase 5 of the project.  The entire trail system is scheduled for completion in 2008.  Neal Lewis, Kearney Park & Recreation Department, Neal Bedlan and Gene Hunt of the Nebraska Game & Parks Commission, presented the proposal to the committee. 
--Eastern Projects Committee  The board approved a recommendation on the contract for the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.  JEO Engineering will develop the preliminary design of the project for $877,364.  The design phase will begin in October and construction will begin in September 2006 with completion of the first phase of the project in Summer 2009.
--Western Projects Committee  The board denied a request from landowners on Box Elder to open the draw-down tube to relieve flooding.  The flood control structure was created to hold water and was purchased by the landowners at a reduced price with the knowledge that it would flood.  The committee will do research on the benefits of opening the tube compared to keeping it closed.   The committee’s recommendation to hire Midland’s Construction, Kearney, for the final phase of construction of the Kearney Northeast Project was approved with a bid of $424,131.30.  The entire project is scheduled for completion in Spring 2006.  The NRD’s cost is $187,565.65.
--Variance Committee  The board denied a variance request by Tom Sorrell, Kearney.  
--Long Range Implementation Plan  The board approved the Plan, which outlines the programs and procedures for the next five years.  The Plan will now be submitted to the State.
--NARD Alternate  The board selected Bill Vasey as a voting alternate for the upcoming Nebraska Association of Resources District’s annual conference on Sept. 26-27.  Daryl Keiser is the voting delegate.
--NARD Conference  The board adopted a resolution regarding instream flows that states: since they are going to be used to designate basins and regulate future groundwater uses, be required to show the same level of availability of unappropriated water as other water rights that are used to designate basins and regulate future groundwater uses.
     The resolution further states that the NARD seek legislative changes so that the requirement of the finding by the State of availability of unappropriated water to provide the approved instream flow rate be changed to 85% and that the water availability rate of at least 85% of the time applies to any new applications and to the reviews of any granted permit as required by 46-2, 112.
--Cost Share 20 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $44,800.
--Variance Public Hearing The board approved the following proposed changes to the Rules and Regulations:
Rule 6.  Irrigation History
6.1       Land that will be considered “irrigated land” must show by Farm Service Agency (FSA) records, or, if not available, by the County tax records, or such means approved by the Natural Resources District to have been:
6.1.1    Irrigated prior to the end of the 2005 irrigation season from a water well that was constructed within the nine months prior to the State’s stay on new irrigated lands, but was not used for irrigation prior to that effective date (July 16, 2004), or 6.1.2    Irrigated prior to the end of the 2005 irrigation season from a water well that was constructed after the effective date of the State’s stay on new irrigated lands, but in accordance with a permit granted by the District prior to the effective date of the stay of July 16, 2004 and further provided that those acres are no greater than the number of acres shown on the permit, or
6.1.3    Irrigated in 2003 or 2004 prior to the State’s stay on new irrigated lands of July 16, 2004, or
6.1.4    Irrigated at least 2 out of the 10 years prior to the State’s stay on new irrigated lands (July 16 2004)
6.1.5    Land that can be shown to have been previously irrigated but during the 10 years prior to the state’s stay on new irrigated lands (July 16, 2004), was enrolled in a federal conservation program (CRP, CREP, etc.), or
6.1.6    Land that can be shown to have been previously irrigated but during the 10 years prior to the State’s stay on new irrigated lands (July 16, 2004), was growing alfalfa.
Rule 7.  Violations  The Rules and Regulations of the Temporary Suspension of Groundwater Wells and the above conditional uses will be enforced by the District through the use of cease and desist orders issued in accordance with the Rules and Regulations for the enforcement of the Groundwater Management Plan adopted July 23, 1987 and subsequently amended.  In accordance with Neb. Rev. Stat § 46-656.10 (cum.supp. 2003), any person who violates a cease and desist order issued by the district shall be subject to a civil penalty of not less than one thousand dollars and not more than five thousand dollars for each day an intentional violation occurs.

August 2005 Board Meeting 
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on August 30, 2005, in Grand Island.  The board meeting was held a week later than usual to allow time for tax levy valuations to be received.  Actions included:
--Water Resources Committee  The board approved four motions to take action in opposition to the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources’s (DNR) ruling on the Rules and Regulations for fully appropriated basins.  The first motion allows representatives from the CPNRD to meet with Govenor Heineman along with other NRD representatives to voice concerns about the DNR’s recent ruling regarding the 50 year/10% line.  The second motion approved CPNRD staff to contact attorney Don Blankenau to discuss what legal options may be considered.  The third motion requests the state to hold hearings within the Central Platte NRD on the Rules and Regulations for fully appropriated basins, now that boundaries and the moratorium boundaries have been changed by the DNR.  The last motion allows staff to continue negotiating to change requirements for instream flows to be present 85 percent of the time before they can be approved, since these flows are now used to shut off newer groundwater and surface water uses.  The NRD would like instream flows to be regulated the same as irrigation and industrial uses.
--Budget Public Hearing was held just prior to the Board meeting to hear public comment on the 2006 Fiscal Budget levy valuations.  The NRD’s total operating budget was $9.7 million, 25 percent of which is local property tax, with the levy approved at 0.03118 per $100 valuation.  This means that the owner of a house valued at $100K will pay $31.18.
--Board Vacancy/Resignations Loren Schuett, chairman, reported that he had spoken to the Attorney General’s Office, the State Election Office and the District’s attorney on options to replace the at-large seat previously held by Charlie Bicak due to the deadlock election last month.  In July, Dick Mercer and Ned Meier were nominated to fill the seat, with each receiving 10 votes after two elections.  Schuett said he would bring a list of candidates to the board and hold an election until a candidate receives a majority vote.
Schuett also reported on the ballot election held in January to replace Dick Mercer, saying that the election was considered illegal since it was not a roll call vote.  Since it has been over 120 days since the election, Tarrell will remain in office.  Schuett said the only way that Tarrell could be removed would be if the Attorney General, the Hall County attorney or a person who was not present at the meeting, would bring a suit in District Court to remove Tarrell.  A judge would then make the decision on whether or not to remove Tarrell from the Sub-District 5 seat.
--Western Projects Committee  The board discussed property sold to Jim and Wilma Skala on Box Elder near Gibbon.  The landowners bought the property for a reduced price in 1979 with the understanding that flooding would occur.  In 1991, the Skala’s were granted permission to place a center pivot in the bottom of the flood control reservoir.  Since flooding has occurred, the Skala’s are requesting that the board allow them to open the draw-down tube and leave it open to help drain the cell.  The board tabled the decision until next month to allow staff to review the implications of opening the tube.
The Western Projects Committee reported on the Kearney Northeast Project.  All of the property needed to finish the project has been obtained without condemnation.  The board will consider bids in September to begin construction on a new drop structure, a bridge and a four-lane hike and bike trail.  The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.
--Polymer Demo Site  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, requested support for a 319 Grant application for irrigated field demonstrations for the reduction of nitrate pollution with the incorporation of super absorbent polymer technology.  This study would demonstrate how the technology significantly reduces the leaching rate of applied nitrogen and water while allowing more time for the applied water and chemicals to remain in the root zone for a greater utilization by the production crop.  The board voted to support the study, which would require no funds from the NRD.
--COHYST  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave an update on the Study.  Woodward said the Interlocal Agreement and the final public presentation are now both completed.  He also reported that the Modflow 2000 is currently being updated and is almost ready for peer review.
--Platte River Program  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported  on the proposed habitat program.  Czaplewski said the negotiating team of the Governance Committee recently addressed scheduling issues including the expiration term of the Cooperative Agreement on December 31, 2005.  The Governance Committee will consider an extension of that deadline to possibly October 2006.  Such a time extension would allow for certain CA activities to proceed, including the issuance of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) on the proposed Program, the Fish and Wildlife Service’s Biological Opinion, the federal Record of Decision and consideration by the states.  The overall CA schedule will likely be adjusted back a couple of months, with issuance of a Final EIS moving to December, and a Biological Opinion and Record of Decision issued early in 2006.  The state’s review will also start in early 2006 as the Nebraska’s legislature convenes for a 60-day session starting in early January. If the governors and Department of the Interior approve the Program (and with funding in place) a Program could start in October of 2006. The Governance Committee is coming down to the wire with negotiation and production of the Program document, which lays out the details of a Program.  The Program document would be printed this fall, although adjustments could still be made to the Program after it’s printed. Czaplewski also reported that the budget for the first Increment of the Program has been updated and now is estimated at $215 million.  When the Cooperative Agreement was originally signed in 1997, the Program’s first increment was estimated to cost $75 million.
--Alternate Selected  Keith Stafford, Kearney, was named as an alternate on the well variance committee to replace Charlie Bicak.
--Voting Delegates  Daryl Keiser, Gothenburg, was named as voting delegate and Jerry Wiese, Grand Island, as alternate for the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts Annual Conference in Kearney Sept. 26-27.
--Long Range Implementation Plan  Marcia Lee, information/education specialist, distributed the plan for review by the board.  Approval of the plan will be requested in September.
--Cost Share 14 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $13,343.05.

July 2005 Board Meeting
--Western Projects Committee  The board approved the project proposal by Olsson Associates for the Elm Creek/Turkey Creek Flood Control Project.  A feasibility study will be conducted for $125,000 and submitted to the Nebraska Resources Development Fund to request cost share on the project.  The proposed project entails the development of a Turkey Creek Flood Reservoir and Elm Creek Re-Regulating Reservoir and would cost approximately $9.6 million.
--Project Final Design The board gave approval for final design contract negotiation for the Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.   The cosponsors committee will negotiate a contract with JEO Consulting Group, Inc., of Wahoo, Nebraska.  When completed, the project will provide flood protection for the 100-year storm to urban residential and commercial properties in western and northern Grand Island.  Flood protection would also benefit crop land and rural residents, reduction of road and bridge damages, removal of much of northern and western Grand Island from the FEMA floodplain, and to provide wetland enhancements. The proposed flood control projects include constructing four upland floodwater retarding sites, modifying one roadway crossing, excavating three lowland detention cells, constructing two overflow diversion channels, and improving a section of a basin divide. 
--Fiscal 2006 Budget  A public hearing was held prior to the board meeting and the Budget Committee made a recommendation to approve the proposed 2006 Fiscal Budget.  The board approved the $9.7 million budget, which includes general and sinking funds.  The proposed property tax requirement is $2.4 million, compared to last year’s requirement at $2.1 million.  The actual levy requirement will be set at the August Board of Directors meeting to be held on Tuesday, August 30, 2005.
--Search Committee  The committee nominated Dick Mercer of Kearney and Ned Meier of Grand Island to replace the at-large seat previously held by Charlie Bicak.  After two split votes (10-10), chairman Loren Schuett said he would contact the attorney general’s office to see what to do in the case of a tie vote.  Votes were cast as follows: Dick Mercer- Jim Bendfeldt, James Foster, Daryl Keiser, Ed Kyes, Barry Obermiller, Ladd Reeves, Keith Stafford, John Tarrell, Bill Vasey, Scott Woodman, Ned Meier- LeRoy Arends, Tom Brennan, Don Kelly, Dwayne Margritz, Dan Ohlman, Marvion Reichert, Jay Richeson, Loren Schuett, Carroll Sheldon, Jerry Wiese
--Variance Committee  Variance requests were approved for the cities of Central City and Kearney.  Central City requested variances for three new municipal wells to address an HHS administrative order of water quality standards and well stress relief.  The City of Kearney requested a variance for nine wells to develop a new wellfield to address low flows, contamination issues and growth development in the northwest part of the city. The committee also recommended new provisions to the Rules and Regulations to determine which lands are to be considered “irrigated.”  The board approved the following additions, which will be considered for adoption after a public hearing is held in August:  Land that will be considered “irrigated land” must have been irrigated at least 2 out of the 10 years prior to the State’s stay on new irrigated lands (July 2004) as recorded by the Farm Service Agency records or by County tax records.  Land previously irrigated prior to the stay but enrolled in a federal conservation program such as CRP, CREP, or growing alfalfa must have been irrigated 10 years prior to either situation.
--Programs Committee  The board approved a recommendation to grant Center Pivot Incentive payments to C Raye Woodman, Larry Woitaszewski and Junkin Lifetime Trust.  Lawrence Klein was approved for the payment after sending in required Groundwater Management Forms to the NRD.  The committee reported that there is still $100,000 available for the 2006 Fiscal year and said another approval process would be held in November.  The board approved staff to accept proposals to contract the weed barrier program out.  In the past, the NRD hired part-time employees for up to two months to lay weed barrier.  Approval was also granted to change requirements for the Prescribed Fire Cost Share Program.  The board eliminated the maximum amount of $15 per acre.  The requirement now states that landowners may receive fifty percent cost share up to a maximum of $2,500.
--Ponderosa Lots  The Board approved the sale of one of the three Ponderosa Lots owned by the NRD in the amount of $22,000.00.   The NRD has two lots still available for sale, which were acquired as part of the Wood River Flood Control Project.  
--COHYST  The board approved an amendment to the Cooperative Hydrology Study Agreement.  The amendment removes the Little Blue NRD as a sponsor from the original agreement and updates the financial obligations for each sponsor.  The Central Platte NRD will contribute $39,957 in cash and staff time in 2006.  The commitment for 2007 is estimated at $38,585 and estimated at $29,000 in 2008.
Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave an update on the Study.  Woodward said the Central Model is complete and has now been sent for peer review by Eagle Resources.  Peer review of the Eastern, Western and Central models is scheduled for completion in September 2005.
--DNR Hearing  Ron Bishop, general manager, announced two upcoming meetings.  A stakeholders meeting is scheduled for Aug. 1 in North Platte and the Department of Natural Resources’s upcoming hearing on the Rules and Regulations for fully appropriated basins is scheduled for Aug. 11^th at the Kearney Holiday Inn.
--Cost Share 61 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $126,102.47.

 June 2005 Board Meeting
--Action on Public Hearing  The Board approved a change concerning stays on developing new land and new well drilling.  The new rule reads:  5.2 Expedited variances may be granted by the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s manager, or his designated representative, without the necessity of a public hearing notice, a public hearing, and prior approval of this Board of Directors, provided that the same or a greater number of acres are taken out of irrigation production and within the same general area.
--Variance Committee  The board approved variances for Marvin Fischler of Central City and Vergil Flodman of Eagle.  Both parties had land that hadn’t been irrigated for over 10 years.  Dan Ohlman, director, said next month the committee would meet to redefine Rules and Regulations regarding previously irrigated acres.  
--Water Resources Committee  The committee took no action, only discussing the development of an Interlocal Agreement for a water banking system to keep track of water savings and offsets.  A water banking system would inventory water use that reduces water consumption or alters water use patterns in order to have that inventoried water to be “banked” and available for offset for new or expanded uses.  A water banking system would be especially helpful if the Platte River Cooperative Agreement is approved as a habitat plan.  Bishop said there are three types of systems, including:
-Accounting System  This type of system seeks to assess and account for water uses within the NRD.  Such an accounting system would allow the NRD to track consumptive, conservation, and retired uses.  The program would begin with determining the total amount of current water use in the district and as uses begin or cease, these are added or subtracted from the total.
-Physical Water Banking  This is the physical storage of water in a storage facility where individuals can “deposit” their water for use at a later date or a different location.
-Non-Physical Water Banking  This program involves the paper transfer of water or water rights.  The NRD could actively participate in bringing the basin into compliance with DNR’s interpretation of LB 962 by obtaining water rights for conservation purposes and/or offset new beneficial uses.  Another type of a non-physical banking would be for the NRD to act as a broker among water users. 
--Stakeholders  The NRD approved four representatives to serve on the Basin Integrated Management Program Committee.  Representatives selected include: Joe Peplisch, Lexington City Manager to represent municipalities; Marlan Ferguson, Hall County Economic Development Director to represent economic development; Cody Peden and Ron Steer (alternate) to represent surface water users; Jim Lundgren and Kurt Kline (alternate) to represent groundwater users.  The basin meetings are expected to begin in early August 2005.
--DNR Rules & Regulations   The Nebraska Association of Resources Districts passed a resolution (21-0) in support of using a 40 year/28 percent line to determine designations of the fully appropriated areas.  The Association has also discussed seeking a Legislative or legal remedy to influence the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources to use the 40 year/28 percent line instead of a 50 year/10 percent line.  The NDNR is currently deciding how to establish the line out from a river or stream inside which new uses would have to offset their depletions to the stream.  The impact is significant to basins developing Integrated Management Plans, who would likely have to extend boundaries out to where the Department establishes an outer limit for offsets and decide how those offsets are to be made.  The board took no action. 
--Water Policy Task Force  Ron Bishop reported that the Task Force is currently working with municipalities on a compromise regarding groundwater and surface water uses.  He also reported on a funding proposal that recommends a 50%-50% sharing of the funding responsibility between State and local agencies.  As a result of LB 962, the Three State and Department of Interior Cooperative Agreement on the Platte River, and the Three State settlement agreement on the Republican River Compact lawsuit by Kansas, several basins in Nebraska will be required to retire/reduce existing irrigated acres. Local funding options that are being discussed as possible combinations include: an increase in NRD taxing authority of 1 cent on property tax, authority to levy a fee on irrigated acres of up to $10.00 per acre, and authority to charge a per acre-inch pumped fee.  These funding options would be restricted to those areas that are required to reduce existing uses because of settlement agreements (Republican Basin) or “over appropriated” status (Platte Basin above Elm Creek, NE.)  Other possibilities that were discussed: reinstatement of fertilizer tax, personal property tax on irrigation equipment, local sales tax, commodity check-off type fee and IPA option on supplemental supply projects.
--Ponderosa Lots  The Board approved the sale of one of the four Ponderosa Lots owned by the NRD in the amount of $37,500.00.     
--Board Policy  The Board defeated a proposed policy change (9-6-2) to allow directors a monthly per diem of $50.00 per month and a limit of two out-of-state meetings per director per year. 
--2006 Budget   The Board approved the proposed 2006 Fiscal budget for purposes of a public hearing to be held at 1:30 p.m. on July 28, 2005, at the NRD office.
--Tree Program  Gene Stoklasa, resources administrator, provided information on trees and weed barrier sold for the 2005 season.  The NRD sold 80,775 trees and 37.97 miles of weed barrier.  Since the tree program began in 1973, the NRD has sold over 3 million trees and 357 miles of weed barrier.
--Cost Share 17 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $10,620.00.
--Search Committee  The committee will interview four parties that submitted letters of interest to fill the seat that was held by Charles Bicak of Kearney.  The parties include: Dick Mercer of Kearney, Stephen Anderson of Lexington, Ned Meier of Grand Island and Mick Reynolds of Wood River.  The search committee includes Don Kelly, Jim Bendfeldt, Marvion Reichert, and Dwayne Margritz.  Charles Bicak is moving to Austin, Texas, to take the position as Dean of Natural Sciences at St. Edwards University.  Bicak has been professor and chair of the Department of Biology at the University of Nebraska at Kearney since 1992 and has served on the NRD Board for 12 years.  He served as chairman of the board from 1994-1998, vice-chairman from 1991-1994, and also served as chairman of the executive, water resources, and legislative committees. 

 May 2005 Board Meeting 
CPNRD Board Makes Change to Suspension Rules
--Variance Committee  After the Public Hearing was held, the Board approved a change concerning stays on developing new land and new well drilling.  The new rule reads:  5.1 The Board may grant a variance to the “stay” on new irrigated acres and allow new acres to be irrigated if the same or a greater number of acres are taken out of irrigation production and both tracts are within close proximity to one another.  The landowner must provide the following: 1) Verification by either County tax records or Farm Service Agency (FSA) records that the area to be taken out of irrigation production is irrigated and is equal or greater in size to the area to be newly irrigated, and 2) any other requirements or conditions the Board may request. 
--Search Committee  A committee was selected prior to the Board meeting to recommend a replacement for Charlie Bicak of Kearney.  Bicak serves as an at-large director.  Committee members include: Don Kelly, Jim Bendfeldt and Marvin Reichert.  Dick Mercer, former director, submitted a letter of consideration to fill Bicak’s position.  A new director may be named in July.
--Western Projects Committee  Olsson Associates gave a presentation on the Elm Creek/Turkey Creek Proposal, including five alternatives to help with flood control. Olsson recommended an alternative to develop two reservoirs, one dry and one to serve as flood control/re-regulating structure.  The proposed cost of the project would be approximately $9.6 million.  The project would bring excess flows from the Platte River, but would allow re-regulation to store the excess flows from Dawson County canals. The Board will make a decision at the June Board of Directors meeting.  
--Budget Committee  The committee reviewed the proposed 2006 Fiscal budget.  Approval of the proposed budget will be considered in June by the full Board.  A Public Hearing will be held in July before final approval.
--Water Banking  Ron Bishop, general manager, discussed developing a water banking system to keep track of savings or offsets in water use that reduce water consumption or alter water use patterns in order to have that inventoried water that was “banked” available for offset or new or expanded uses.  Marlan Ferguson, Hall County Economic Development Director, voiced support by Hall County and the city of Grand Island to create such an inventory.  A water banking system would be especially helpful if the Platte River Cooperative Agreement gets approved as a habitat plan.  The Board gave approval for Bishop to begin the process to develop a water banking system.
--2005 Flood  The Board viewed pictures of the Wood River Flood Control Project in action and assessed the need for the Prairie/Silver/Moores Project. 
--Prairie/Silver/Moores  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that seven engineering firms submitted proposals for the final design of the project.  Moravek said he would be asking the Board to approve a selected firm in June.  
--Ordinance Plant Jim Eriksen, Hall County Board, gave an update on the Cornhusker Army Ammunition Plant and provided a map of the area being purchased by the Central Platte NRD.  Tracts 1, 2, 19, and 20- a total of 873 acres- are being purchased to develop detention cells for Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.
--Search Committee  A committee was selected prior to the Board meeting to recommend a replacement for Charlie Bicak of Kearney.  Bicak serves as an at-large director.  Committee members include: Don Kelly, Jim Bendfeldt and Marvin Reichert.  Dick Mercer, former director, submitted a letter of consideration to fill Bicak’s position.  A new director may be named in July.
--Groundwater Levels A comparison of groundwater levels from wells measured before and after the May 11, 2005 flood were distributed.  Results are listed below:  Merrick County:  Differences range from 2.24-3.71 feet higher.  Hall County:  Differences range from 1.07-4.67 feet higher.  Buffalo County: Differences range from 0.11-1.66 feet higher.
--Board Policy  Current policies from other NRDs on travel expense and monthly per diem were distributed.  In June, the Board plans to discuss a policy change to allow a monthly per diem of possibly $50.00 per month and a limit of two out-of-state meetings per director per year.
--IMP Representatives  As part of the Basin Integrated Management Plan, the Board approved representatives from the following groups to be involved in the development process: natural resources districts, municipalities, economic development, surface water districts and groundwater districts.  The Board further approved that the groups each name one representative to serve in the planning process.  The natural resources districts would have two representatives.  Directors Bill Vasey, Carroll Sheldon and Jay Richeson will represent the CPNRD at the next stakeholder meeting.
--Cost Share 11 applications were approved through the Nebraska Soil and Water Conservation and the Central Platte NRD Programs in the amount of $4,904.00.

April 2005 Board Meeting
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday, April 28th in Grand Island.  Agenda included:
--Variance Committee  The board approved two applications for new wells in Dawson County.
--Water Resources Committee: 
1) The Committee began working on the 2006 budget recommendations, which will advance to the Budget Committee for review.
2) The Committee reviewed the rules and regulations concerning stays on developing new land and new well drilling.  The board approved a proposed addition to Rule 5.1 in the Rules and Regulations.  The new rule reads:  5.1 The Board may grant a variance to the “stay” on new irrigated acres and allow new acres to be irrigated if the same or a greater number of acres are taken out of irrigation production and both tracts are within close proximity to one another.  The landowner must provide the following: 1) Verification by either County tax records or Farm Service Agency (FSA) records that the area to be taken out of irrigation production is irrigated and is equal or greater in size to the area to be newly irrigated, and 2) any other requirements or conditions the Board may request.  A public hearing will be held on May 26, 2005 at 1:30 p.m. to consider adding the new rule.
3) The Committee also discussed the negotiated rulemaking meetings and proposed action by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources regarding criteria for designating fully appropriated areas.  The NDNR is currently deciding how to establish the line out from a river or stream inside which new uses would have to offset their depletions to the stream.  The impact is significant to basins developing Integrated Management Plans, who would likely have to extend boundaries out to where the Department establishes an outer limit for offsets and decide how those offsets are to be made.  The board voted to allow Ron Bishop, general manager, and other representatives of the Central Platte NRD to give testimony at public hearings in support of the Department using the Cooperative Hydrology Study (COHYST) and in support of using a 40 year/28 percent line to determine designations of the fully appropriated areas.  
--Western Projects Committee:  1) The Board approved a contract revision for the final design of the Kearney Northeast Flood Control Project.  The new revision adds $10,000 to the $73,000 contract with Miller & Associates.  The NRD will be responsible for half of the $10,000 increase. 
2) The Board approved an order to be sent to Glen Carman, Riverdale, in violation of a sediment erosion complaint.  The order requires Carman to follow a Conservation Plan designed by the NRCS to control the sediment erosion situation on his property and an adjacent property.  Carman would receive 90 percent cost share through a State program to establish grassed waterways.
3) The Western Projects Committee also discussed an irrigation runoff complaint again Carman.  The committee took no action, except to keep the complaint open.
--Platte River Cooperative Agreement Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that the Governance Committee has formed an Adaptive Management Workgroup that is charged with fleshing out the proposed Program’s Adaptive Management Plan.  The Plan will lay out how the Program would evaluate monitoring and research results and different approaches to habitat management; including outside consulting adaptive management experts.  The Workgroup will meet roughly monthly over the course of this summer. He reported that the current Cooperative Agreement extension expires on June 30, 2005 and the Governance Committee can, at their discretion, further extend the CA to Dec. 31, 2005. They will discuss the extension at their meeting planned for May 17^th at the Holiday Inn in Kearney. The current budget for the first Increment of the Program has been updated and now is estimated at $208 million.  Czaplewski said when the CA was originally signed in 1997, the Program’s first increment was estimated to cost $75 million.  The overall schedule of the proposed Program: the issuance of a federal Final Environmental Impact Statement in Aug.-Oct. 2005, a Biological Opinion in Oct.-Dec. and a Record of Decision by the Department of the Interior by Dec. 2005.   With the blessing of the three States, and with funding in place, a Program could start in October of 2006.  
--Ad Hoch Committee  A committee was formed to develop a recommendation or a policy regarding board directors per diem.  Directors currently do not receive a monthly per diem.   --Letter of Resignation Charlie Bicak, Kearney, has accepted a position as Dean of Natural Sciences at St. Edwards University in Austin, Texas effective July 1, 2005.  Bicak has served as a director for 11 years, including chairman of the board.   
--Cost Share Applications were approved for 22 applicants in the amount of $12,419.63.  The practices approved for cost share this month include: valve and pipe, flow meters, tree planting, WILD Nebraska, and well decommissioning.

March 2005 Board Meeting  
Acres in CPNRD to Benefit From CREP
The Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board of directors met on Thursday, March 24, 2005 in Grand Island.  Agenda items included:
--CREP Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported on the $158 million Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, recently signed by Lt. Governor Rick Sheehy and introduced by Congressman Tom Osborne.  The Platte-Republican Resources Area CREP is being implemented to significantly reduce the amount of consumptive water use for irrigation and the amount of agricultural chemicals and sediment entering the state’s waters.  Some of the goals are to:
* Take 100,000 acres out of cropland with 10-15 year contracts to be paid at irrigation acre rental rates at $100-115 per acre.
* Increase surface and groundwater retention by a target amount of 85,000 acre-feet of water annually within priority area reservoirs, groundwater tables and streams.
* Protect community public water supplies (surface and groundwater) by reducing nitrogen and phosphorus levels from agricultural activities.
* Provide educational assistance to project priority area irrigators to develop a more efficient use of applied water, nutrients, and herbicides.
Sign-up for the program begins April 4, 2005.  Landowners interested in CREP should contact their local FSA office.
--Negotiated Rulemaking  Ron Bishop reported that at the April meeting, the Water Resources Committee would be discussing the negotiated rulemaking meetings and proposed action by the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources regarding criteria for designating fully appropriated areas.  The NDNR is currently deciding how to establish the line out from a river or stream inside which new uses would have to offset their depletions to the stream.  The impact is significant to basins developing Integrated Management Plans, who would likely have to extend boundaries out to where the Department establishes an outer limit for offsets and decide how those offsets are to be made.  Some of the proposed ways to make up offsets include: offsets would be required to be made by the new user, offsets would be provided by the NRD, or offsets would be provided by reducing all existing users.   
--Eastern and Western Projects Committee  Committees began working on 2005-2006 budget recommendations.
--Variance Committee  The board approved three applications that included no new or additional irrigated acres. 
--Nebraska Children’s Groundwater Festival  Marcia Lee and Kelly Cole reported on the 2005 Festival.  Lee said the theme of the festival was “Flowing into the Future” and had over 1,400 students attend, with 40 cities represented.  The school with the most students was Lincoln Elementary (Grand Island) with 99 students and the smallest school was Bee Public School with three students.  Lee said Lt. Governor Rick Sheehy, two Bureau of Reclamation representatives, Mayor Jay Vavricek and Miss Nebraska Teen USA Kelsey Brown all attended.  Cole reported that the Festival Committee raised well over the $26,000 budgeted for the Festival.
--COHYST  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, gave an update on the Cooperative Hydrology Study.  He reported that the Central Model is being completed and will be sent for outside Peer Review.  Since the Eastern and Western models have already been sent for Peer Review by Eagle Resources, the sponsors will consider extending the outside peer review contract from June to July to accommodate time to have the Central Model reviewed.
--Legislative Report  Milt Moravek, assistant manager, reported that a number of the bills regarding natural resources have been indefinitely postponed and that there likely wouldn’t be any action in this Legislative session on bills that would affect the Natural Resources Districts.
--CSP  James Huntwork, NRCS, reported that the Conservation Security Program that rewards existing stewardship is available in Hall County.  Sign-up dates are March 28-May 27, 2005.
--Cost Share Applications were approved for 66 applicants in the amount of $56,716.48.  The practices approved for cost share this month include: pipeline, surge valves, flow meters, fertilization calibration, center pivot, prescribed burn, urban forestry, tree planting and well decommissioning.

February 2005 Board Meeting
Settlement Reached With Lincoln on Flows for Recharge
Ron Bishop, general manager, reported that the Central Platte Natural Resources District among others, have reached an agreement with the City of Lincoln for induced groundwater recharge and streamflow amounts.  The Board approved the settlement agreement that supports a water right for 704 cfs (cubic feet per second) flowing by the City of Lincoln during summer months and 200 cfs the rest of the year.  Lincoln had filed an application for a water right in the amount of 3,000 cfs, but studies conducted by the NRD showed that the city needed less.  Others involved in the settlement include Twin Loups Reclamation District, Loup Basin Reclamation District, Central Public Power and Irrigation District, and Nebraska Public Power District.
--Water Resources Committee  The Board approved the committee’s recommendations on: 
1) Add wording to variances for wells on land with surface water rights that are granted by the board requiring that any additional depletions to the river will have to be offset and will be the responsibility of the landowner.
2) Interlocal Cooperation Act Agreement with the Nebraska Public Power District and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources for a project on the development and implementation of a conjunctive water resources management plan for portions of the Central Platte River Basin in Nebraska.  The project will look at the availability of water to ground water and surface water users who are within both the boundaries of the CPNRD and the area within which NPPD delivers natural flow and storage water for surface water irrigation systems.    All three parties will provide $15,000 for Phase I of the project.
 --Low Water Table  Margaret Landis, Hall County property owner, provided the Board with a section of the Draft Environmental Impact Statement by the US Army Corps of Engineers regarding the amount of water resources required to sustain an ethanol plant, along with other industrial developments in the area.  Landis requested that the Board work with the Chamber of Commerce to find an area where the ethanol plant wouldn’t be “so detriment to society.”  Landis previously served on the Hall County Reuse Committee.
--Platte River Cooperative Agreement  Mark Czaplewski, biologist, reported that over the last few months the Governance Committee Negotiating Team has been meeting to try to hammer out the remaining proposed Program issues.  The goal is to have these issues resolved by March 1, 2005.  The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) needs to have these pieces of the puzzle resolved if they are to keep on schedule with their production of the Biological Opinion.  Some of the more contentious issues remaining are Program adaptive management, the choke point issue on the North Platte River, pallid sturgeon concerns on the lower Platte, state depletion plans and fair share.
     Czaplewski said that the Governance Committee has retained several outside adaptive management experts to help them sort out how to handle using what’s learned in Program monitoring and research efforts to try to refine how water and land management activities to be more effective.  Adaptive management workshops were held in January and February in Denver. The Governance Committee is exploring the possibility of establishing Program incentives.  Nothing is set in stone, but they are considering finding ways to get Program land and water objectives accomplished quicker by adding such incentives as extending the time period of the first Program Increment from 13 years to 14 or 15 years.  Czaplewski said that Pallid sturgeon seems to be taking on an increasing role in Program goals. The Governance Committee is considering adding activities related to pallid sturgeon into the Cooperative Agreement timeframe.  The USFWS preliminary opinion is that the Program, as currently conceived, may result in jeopardy to pallid sturgeon in the lower Platte River.  The overall schedule calls for the issuance of a federal Final Environmental Impact Statement in August of 2005, a Biological Opinion in October and a Record of Decision by the Department of the Interior by this December.  If a plan gets the blessing of the three States, and with funding in place, a Program could start in October of 2006.  
--Programs Committee  The board approved the committee’s recommendation to advance the proposed budgets for cost share and information/education programs to the Budget Committee for review. 
--Cooperative Hydrology Study  Duane Woodward, hydrologist, reported that the eastern and western models are currently in Peer Review which are being conducted by Eagle Resources, North Carolina.  He said the results are expected in June 2005.    The central region model is not expected to be peer reviewed until April 2005.  Woodward also reported that UNL is currently looking into in-depth research on recharge.  Funds for the research would provided through a grant by the Environmental Protection Agency.
--High Resolution Agreement  The board approved a contract authorizing the Central Platte NRD to purchase aerial photography services and digital orthophoto products for cities under the NRD’s existing agreement.  The NRD has no financial obligation under the contract, only in-kind staff time.
--Integrated Management Plan  Ron Bishop reported that 250 letters were mailed requesting names of those interested in participating in developing the Basin Plan.  The NRD has received 30 responses so far- the deadline for responses is March 1.
--Legislative Report  Ron Bishop recently testified on behalf of the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts questioning the fairness of imposing a fee on groundwater irrigation wells on LB 472.  Bishop testified that some landowners have several small capacity wells, which are tied together to water the same number of acres as one high capacity well.  These irrigators would pay 4-5 times as much for the same number of irrigated acres.  The fees are also only on groundwater irrigation wells and exempts other water users including surface water users. 
     Bishop also testified that NRDs are working with the Dept. of Natural Resources and federal agencies to leverage federal dollars and programs with limited state and local dollars.  Congressman Osborne has been very helpful to assist in the development of a Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program for the Platte and Republican River Basins.
--Alternate Selected  Jay Richeson, Gothenburg was selected to serve as an alternate on the Variance Committee to replace Kurt Kline.
--Cost Share Applications were approved for 43 applicants in the amount of $59,430.44. 

January 2005 Board Meeting
Mercer Resigns From NRD Board
After 33 years of service, Dick Mercer of Kearney reluctantly resigned from the Central Platte Natural Resources District’s board on Thursday.  Mercer said it was a pleasure and a privilege to serve on the Board. Mercer remarried in November and plans to move out of Sub-district 5.  The Board elected John Tarrell to fill Mercer’s seat. Dick is known to be a man who “practices what he preaches.”  As a landowner, he has received numerous awards for the innovative conservation practices that he implemented on the Double M Farms in Kearney. He is also known for his leadership as a director of the NRD and his role in shaping water law in Nebraska. 
Other agenda items included:
Spear T Ranch  Dan Placzek, Attorney, gave an update on the Supreme Court ruling for the Spear T Ranch case.  Placzek said the decision by Judge Connelly gave surface water users to right to sue groundwater users, however, surface water users must prove that the groundwater use affecting them was unreasonable or unjustified, among a number of other factors. Placzek said the jury would have to look at such things as: what was the purpose of the groundwater or surface water use, was it suitable, the economic and sociable factors, the extent and practicability of harm and the justified use.  The court would also have to look at the availability of groundwater to remedy any surface water shortage.
Committee Sign-Up  Directors were asked to serve on of the District’s committees. Chairman of the committees include: Water Resources-Carroll Sheldon, Eastern Projects-Ed Kyes, Western Projects-Bill Vasey, and Programs-Barry Obermiller.
Nominating Committee Elections were held for chairman and vice-chairman of the board.  The board voted Loren Schuett for chairman and Barry Obermiller for vice-chairman.
Variance Committee  The Board approved a variance for Gene Nansel, Lexington.  The Committee also revised the letter to drillers that are drilling wells without permits, although, no board action was necessary.
Programs Committee  The Board approved a Cooperative Agreement with the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission for prescribed burning.  The Agreement allows the NRD to receive funding, in-kind services and other support from the Commission to promote and develop the use of prescribed fire on private lands throughout the District.  The Board also approved three center pivot applications pending compliance with NRD guidelines.
Eastern Projects Committee  The Board approved the Interlocal Cooperative Agreement for Upper Prairie/Silver/Moores Flood Control Project.  Local sponsors include: Central Platte NRD, City of Grand Island, Hall County and Merrick County.  The NRD and City of Grand Island’s share of the $16 million project is 46.25%; Hall County’s share is 5%, with Merrick County’s share at 2.5%.  The costs include planning, acquisition and construction of the project, which will alleviate flooding in northwest Grand Island, and protect 5,000 acres of farmland and areas along the Prairie, Silver and Moores creeks.
Lancaster County Weed Control  Russ Schultz, Lower Weed Management Area, gave a presentation on areas in Nebraska that are infested with purple loosestrife, phragmites and salt cedar; and applications that are currently in place to destroy the invasive species.  The WMA is requesting co-sponsorship and potential financial assistance of $5,000 from the NRD to help with helicopter applications along the Platte River in the Columbus, Nebraska area.  The Board asked Schultz to return in March after more funding information is available.
Commission Caucus  Ron Bishop reported that Arlond Garrett of Gothenburg was recently selected as representative for the Middle Platte Basin for the Nebraska Natural Resources Commission.
Legislative Report  Milt Moravek  reported on bills regarding natural resources as listed: Well Licensing: LB 31, LB 137, LB 508, LB 154, LB 140
Directors & Elections: LB 32, LB 519, LB 553, LB 591
Funding & Taxes--Appropriations Bills: LB 425, LB 426, LB 427   Bonds: LB 217, LB 552    Nebraska Environmental Trust: LB694  Property Tax Issues: LB 109, LB 356, LB 386, LB 523    Sales/Income Tax Issues: LB472  Other: LB 18CA, LB 77
General Administration—NDEQ: LB 351, LB 731    NDNR: LB 359   NFS:LB 39
Land Use & Acquisition: LB34, LB 3, LB 617, LB 620, LB 546, LB 619, LB 630
Solid Waste: LB 120, LB 390, LB 293, LB 658, LB 33
Water Quality:  LB 335, LB 708
Wildlife, Game and Parks: LB8CA, LB 23, LB 673, LB 29
Other Issues: LB 8, LB 167, LB 342, LB 544, LB 281, LB 740, LB 565
Cost Share Applications were approved for 43 applicants in the amount of $59,046.46. 

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