News

Nebraska lawmakers pass bill creating new water agency

A Nebraska state senator says a bill recently passed by lawmakers could help ag producers better manage water resources.

Tom Brandt, a farmer from Plymouth, says the bill will consolidate two state agencies in an effort to improve access and efficiency for services. For example, he says, “If I’m going to be talking to them about runoff or water issues, quite possibly then they could say, oh yeah, this is a stream here and this is an issue you need to work with your NRD or DNR. Now, they won’t have to say go across the hall and work with these guys.”

Brandt introduced the legislation on behalf of Governor Jim Pillen. It would merge the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources with the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy creating the Nebraska Department of Water, Energy and Environment.

But, Nebraska Farmers Union President John Hansen tells Brownfield, it could cause more confusion for farmers and ranchers. “You’re melting together two different water management regulatory agencies who have very clear process that they need to follow. And our view was that what we’re doing now works reasonably well and the lines are much more clear.”

In a statement released after the passage of the bill, Governor Pillen said the agency will prioritize water quality and quantity in the state and plans on signing it into law.

Tom Brandt:

John Hansen: