Clean water, healthy soil and conservation are central to Nebraska agriculture, and the state manages them through a unique network of Natural Resources Districts. Also called NRDs, these districts are independent, locally funded and locally controlled. They help coordinate conservation efforts, water quality programs and other initiatives that benefit both rural and urban Nebraskans.
Working closely with landowners, NRDs often partner with farmers, including the state’s many corn growers, to put conservation practices into action in the fields and surrounding land. They’re an important part of the land stewardship Nebraska’s farmers practice every day.
Nebraska’s Unique Approach to Conservation
Established by the Nebraska legislature in 1969, the Nebraska Natural Resource Districts form a one-of-a-kind system where local residents control and manage 23 watersheds across the state. These geographic regions are organized along the state’s major river basins, which puts management of the watershed into the hands of local residents. This allows each district to set their focus on meeting local needs.
What Do NRDs Actually Do?
Each of Nebraska’s Natural Resource Districts operates a little differently based on needs in their region. Their work can include improving water quality, preventing soil erosion, improving flood control, implementing water management, developing fish and wildlife habitat or other programs that address the needs in their watershed.
How NRDs Support Farmers and Landowners
Natural Resource Districts often partner with farmers and other landowners to achieve shared conservation goals. While each district has its own focus, some examples of NRD programs for landowners include cost-share funding to help offset project expenses, technical assistance for conservation practices, groundwater management support and other initiatives that address local district priorities. By working together, NRDs and farmers improve soil health, water quality and water conservation around Nebraska.
Because every watershed is different, each Natural Resource District has its own priorities and programs. Partnerships and collaboration opportunities can vary by location, so landowners should check with their local NRD to learn which programs and resources are available in their area.
How NRDs Are Funded and Governed
Each of Nebraska’s NRDs is locally controlled by an elected board of directors. Funding comes from local property taxes, ensuring accountability with the local community. Local control is key because it enables residents who live in the district to address its needs and make decisions about its future.
Why NRDs Matter to Every Nebraskan
While local residents fund and carry out programs in their Natural Resource Districts, their work benefits residents across the state. Nebraska’s rivers run hundreds of miles across the state, affecting communities along their path. An NRD’s programs that promote clean water upstream, for example, can have a direct impact on drinking water quality for many communities downstream. Their conservation efforts also support wildlife habitat, natural resources management, outdoor recreation and hunting across Nebraska.
By partnering with NRDs, Nebraska corn farmers play an important role in land stewardship in Nebraska, helping strengthen conservation efforts that benefit both agriculture and the wider public.
How to Connect with Your Local NRD
Nebraska’s Natural Resource Districts are leading efforts that benefit communities, agriculture and the environment. From wildlife habitat projects to water conservation, the work of Nebraska’s NRDs, farmers and other landowners makes a real difference to everyone in the state.
Visit this color-coded online NRD map to find your local Natural Resource District and explore programs in your area.
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