Ann BleedUniversity of Nebraska, U.S.A.
The Nebraska Case: the integration of state and local control over the conjunctive management
of surface water and ground water
Source: University of Nebraska-Lincoln Conservation & Survey Division and Nebraska Department of Natural Resources
1940
2007
Registered Irrigation Wells: 1940 vs. 2007
Nebraska’s 23 Natural Resources Districts
-Water Dedicated to the Public
-First in Time is First in Right
-Use it or Lose It
- Administered by Department of Natural Resources
Surface Water-Water Dedicated to the Public
-Reasonable Use/Correlative Rights
-Right to Use on Overlying Land
-Administered by Natural Resources Districts
Ground Water
2004:Legislation passed by legislature and
signed by Governor
Law Requires:
- State DNR to Determine River Basins in State that are Fully Appropriated
- Determination triggers an immediate, but temporary stay on new uses
- State and NRD jointly develop and implement an Integrated Management Plan
Law Requires
Clear goals and objectives with a purpose of sustaining a balance between water uses and water supplies so that the economic viability, social and environmental health, safety, and welfare of the river basin can be achieved and maintained for both the near and long term
Thank You
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