2019 preliminary summary of applications · nebraska environmental trust-2019 application summary...

2019

PRELIMINARY SUMMARY

OF APPLICATIONS

TRUST BOARD MEMBERS

Quentin Bowen

Gerry Lauritzen

Rodney Christen

Jim Macy

Jim Douglas

Ryan McIntosh

Paul Dunn

John Orr

Jeff Fassett

Sherry Vinton

Jim Hellbusch

Steve Wellman

Bob Krohn

HHS (Vacant)

Mark A. Brohman, Executive Director

Marilyn Tabor, Allison La Duke, Sheila Johnson, Pamela Deines - Staff

700 South 16th Street P.O. Box 94913 Lincoln, NE 68509-4913

Phone: 402-471-5409 Fax: 402-471-8233

www.environmentaltrust.org

Pete Ricketts, Governor

Mark A. Brohman, Director

September 14, 2018 The Nebraska Environmental Trust entered the 2019 grant cycle receiving 111 applications. Applications were submitted via the web portal by September 4th to meet the deadline. Requests in this twenty-sixth year of grants totaled $33,687,862. The Trust will announce recommendations for funding these applications in February, 2019 and will award grants in April, 2019. A summary overview of each proposal, as composed by the applicant, is provided for you. Very few editorial changes were made in this information, which was submitted in the application form in response to the question, “Provide an overview of the project for which you seek funding.” Project names were assigned by the applicants. Project numbers are assigned by the Trust to facilitate record keeping. The summaries are presented in alphabetical order by project sponsor name. The nearest town is also shown to indicate the approximate location of each project in the state or the location of the applicant. The amount requested and the proposed term of each project is also noted in each summary. The Trust is authorized to fund a project for up to three years under one application review. The review group to which the application has been assigned is also noted in each summary. In 2018 the Trust issued statements of intent to 32 projects, indicating continued funding for these projects on the basis of the 2017 and 2018 applications. Those projects are included in these descriptions. The project numbers of these applications begin “17” or “18” and end with a dash 2 (18-101-2) or dash 3 (17-101-3) to indicate the second or third year request. An index of applications by project number is also included with the materials presented in this booklet.

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NEBRASKA ENVIRONMENTAL TRUST-2019 APPLICATION SUMMARY Page 1 of 75

Application Summary

Sponsor Name: AFAN Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Leopold Conservation Award Video Project Project No: 19-169 Amount Requested: $45,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education In his book, A Sand County Almanac, Aldo Leopold called for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage. Since 2006, the Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award (LCA) has been presented to families who internalize this land ethic and are dedicated to leaving their land better than they found it. The LCA Video Project captures the landowners’ ethic in their own words, giving recipients an opportunity to share their story. With online media becoming the primary source from which most Americans receive information, visual media are essential for not only archival purposes, but for educating the general public on conservation practices occurring every day in Nebraska. Aside from actually setting foot on these operations, these videos are the next best way to experience the exceptional efforts of these agricultural families. The project involves a full day of crew time interviewing the landowner and filming their conservation practices. The video will be professionally produced first as a stand-alone piece shown during speaking engagements, conventions, the Nebraska State Fair’s Grain Bin Theater (shown year-round) and trade shows, and second to be placed on the Foundation’s YouTube channel, award partner and sponsor websites, and other online video outlets.

Sponsor Name: American Lung Association Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Clean Air Choice Driver's Education Program Project No: 19-185 Amount Requested: $18,986 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education The goal of this project is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by increasing the use of alternative fuels. This program will engage with public and private driver’s education programs to provide education on all fuel types available in Nebraska with a special focus on ethanol blends. In 2016, the Nebraska Department of Motor Vehicles reported that there were 33,306 individuals aged 16-18 that obtained their Provisional Operator’s Permit (POP), also known as new drivers. By encouraging new drivers to learn more about the available fuel choices and the benefits of alternative fuels, this project will directly improve air quality and ethanol use in Douglas County. The American Lung Association (ALA) will contact driver’s education teachers to inform them of this program. ALA will provide driver’s education teachers with a brochure that explains the difference between fuel types/type of cars that can use them along with the clean air benefits of ethanol blends, a stock card with similar information for new drivers to keep in their vehicles, and an educational video that provides more details about available fuel choices.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Angels on Wheels Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Electronic Recycling Project No: 19-181 Amount Requested: $121,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Waste Managment The funds from this grant will be used towards the cost of managing 33 electronic collection events and to process the collected items in a manner that conforms to our zero landfill policy. The collection events will be open to the public and will be strategically placed in the Omaha metro area and the surrounding areas. We collect out-of-service electronics including computers, consumer electronics and large appliances. Personal computers and other items that have useful life are refurbished for continued use. Items that do not have any useful life are dismantled by hand and the materials are sorted into like commodities and sold. Our program assures that these items do not reach landfills and toxic materials such as mercury, lead, copper and other hazardous substances do not contaminate our ground. The Cross Training Center provides work experience and vocational training for disadvantaged and under educated youth and adults. Our recycling and refurbishing program provides direct hands-on work experience for our clients and any proceeds from commodities or products are used to support the mission.

Sponsor Name: Bazile Groundwater Management Area Nearest Town: Norfolk Project Name: Development of Research and Demonstration Sites

in the BGMA for Groundwater Nitrate Reduction Project No: 19-146 Amount Requested: $647,500 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Water Located in northeastern Nebraska, the Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) was formed collaboratively between the Lower Elkhorn NRD (NRD), Upper Elkhorn NRD, Lower Niobrara NRD, Lewis and Clark NRD, and Department of Environmental Quality to address high nitrate levels in the area. Since its formation in 2013, the BGMA has been dedicated to increasing education of agricultural producers and increasing the implementation of best management practices. To further this effort, the BGMA has partnered with the University of Nebraska – Lincoln Extension and the Nebraska Water Center, part of the Daugherty Water for Food Global Institute at the University of Nebraska to design the proposed project. This project will develop three advanced nitrogen and water management research and demonstration sites, conduct annual field days and educational meetings, and provide an analysis of the success of various water and nitrogen application methods utilized. Through innovative education and demonstration, this project will encourage widespread adoption of improved practices, positively impacting ground and surface water quality and soil management. This project is a vital step forward in stabilizing, and eventually reducing, nitrate levels within the BGMA as experts in natural resource management, with the help of NET, target this serious issue.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Bio-Ag Solutions, LLC Nearest Town: Hershey Project Name: Landfill Diversion - Feedlot bedding – Composting – Soil Improvement Initiative Project No: 19-148

Amount Requested: $975,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment Bio-Ag Solutions, LLC seeks assistance from the Nebraska Environmental Trust to fund a Doppstadt DZ 750 Kombi High/Low speed grinder to help with it's composting project. The project's purpose is to conserve landfill space, reduce pollution to Nebraska's land, water and air by utilizing tree waste from city municipalities and other sources. This tree waste will be ground into mulch for bedding in feedlots. This used bedding & manure from the feedlots will then be composted and marketed as a natural option to chemical fertilizers and amendments to the agricultural community, parks and recreation facilities, nurseries, and residential customers.

Sponsor Name: Bird Conservancy of the Rockies Nearest Town: Scottsbluff Project Name: Expanding Environmental Literacy and Stewardship through Outreach and Education in the Nebraska Panhandle Project No: 19-133 Amount Requested: $79,712 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education Bird Conservancy of the Rockies’ mission is to conserve birds and their habitats through science, education and land stewardship. In Nebraska, we fulfill this mission through conservation education programs in partnership with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC). With your support we will continue to increase environmental literacy and promote stewardship, reaching 1,550 Nebraska residents. Bird banding stations and Bioblitzes reach school children and families, and take place in two Biologically Unique Landscapes . Environmental Service Learning Programs reach students in elementary and middle school. Our request to the Nebraska Environmental Trust is $79,712 over two years, less than half of the project’s $218,487 total cost. Your support will fund direct project expenses, and an education assistant to help meet the need of our growing programs. Bird Conservancy and NGPC will provide funds for salaries, benefits and operating costs. Program costs are low thanks to collaboration and support from our local partners: Chadron State College , North Platte NRD and the NGPC. Our free programming fulfills an unmet need for environmental education programs and services in Western Nebraska by empowering communities to care for local natural resources, and by inspiring the next generation of Nebraska conservation stewards.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Ogallala Project Name: Student Integrated Forest & Prairie Management at Cedar Point Biological Station Project No: 19-101

Amount Requested: $49,954 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat We request up to $49,954 to supplement the habitat and natural resource management program at UNL's Cedar Point Biological Station (CPBS); to support 10 or more student intern stipends (habitat management internships) over 3 years and 4 summer seasons and purchase associated equipment / supplies. NET funding allows CPBS to push boundaries and try new approaches to habitat and resource management. Over the past several years with help from NET we have had great success removing and processing redcedar trees into a wide variety of products that are immediately useful for the facility. We currently demonstrate that redcedar is a resource and far more than an invasive plant that needs to be removed. 20% of this funding will allow the purchase of additional equipment and supplies; including a used sawmill, repairs and parts for existing equipment used to manage redcedar removal and processing, as well as assorted gloves, protective equipment and hand tools. These supplies are used by the student interns, staff and many volunteers; and facilitate hundreds of hours of volunteer time removing redcedar trees, improving trails, and using resources generated for various sustainable projects around the CPBS facility. Visit http://cedarpoint.unl.edu/redcedar to learn more.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Sustainable Small House Project No: 19-128 Amount Requested: $150,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education The SUSTAINABLE Small House is a research demonstration project proposal by the University of Nebraska’s Passive Solar Research Group to engage in the growing small house and tiny homes movement sweeping the country. Unique features of our transportable 400 square foot design are that it represents the first small home design combining sustainability, renewable energy and conservation within a single package. It will: improve indoor air quality by coupling green building materials with enhanced air handling and ventilation; enhance water conservation by utilizing filtered roof water collection coupled to a grey water system with water-efficient appliances, nozzles and toilets to reduce waste water; generate most of its own electricity via solar PV panels with whole house battery storage; and be energy conserving with passive solar energy, greater insulation and employing high efficiency European inspired window technology. The design is replicable, affordable, and adaptable to meet the needs for: low income/senior/disabled/homeless/migrant housing in rural and urban settings, families wishing to downsize, temporary FEMA disaster housing and as alternative dwelling units (ADUs) for seniors wishing to live close to family in communities with permitted building ordinances (e.g., Lincoln). Our funding partners include UNL/partners, UNO, Right At Home, OPPD, and Nebraska Instruments.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Developing a decision-support tool for the successful incorporation of cover crops into Nebraska cropping systems Project No: 19-138 Amount Requested: $117,610 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat Increasing cover crop acreage on annual croplands in Nebraska represents a significant opportunity to ensure soil and water sustainability with a more variable climate. Less than 2% of the 19-million cropland acres in the state are utilizing the practice, and producers cite barriers associated with timing of establishment as well as a need for more regionally specific information on a variety of cover crop species. The goals of this project are to cost effectively synthesize existing data on cover crops to create a decision-support platform, through the formation of an expert cover crop producer network, representing a novel educational model to share information. The producer network will ensure that the tool addresses the most pertinent producer needs and will be designed to support a range of locations, climates and soil types across the state in evaluating tradeoffs associated with crop yields and cover crop biomass. The tool will also quantify potential forage production and forage quality, as well as environmental improvements associated with reduced erosion, decreased nitrate loss, increased carbon and enhanced water storage. This project will benefit crop and livestock producers across the state and ultimately lead to greater environmental outcomes for the general public of Nebraska.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Nebraska Shelterbelt Archive Project No: 19-158 Amount Requested: $200,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education In 1935, as part of a federally sponsored New Deal program, the United States Forest Service and thousands of landowners undertook a series of cooperative planting agreements in order to combat severe soil erosion and dust storms. Known as the Prairie States Forestry Project (PSFP), this program planted more than 200 million trees over the course of seven years in approximately 33,000 shelterbelts from the panhandle of Texas to the border of North Dakota. To date, this is the largest afforestation project in the history of the United States and has a tremendous and ongoing ecological impact. Unfortunately, due to a lack of coordinated monitoring efforts, the current status of these shelterbelts is unknown and the original archival material remains unpreserved. The removal and decline of established shelterbelts across Nebraska is a significant natural resource issue and, consequently, we seek to create an online Nebraska Shelterbelt Archive that will make Nebraska’s PSFP shelterbelt documents accessible to everyone. This archive will not only capture the history of a project that brought thousands of Americans together for the sake of ecological conservation, but will also provide valuable data for future agroforestry research and conservation efforts, as well as shelterbelt renovation.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Elba Project Name: Low-cost Biological Odor Treatment Using an Adsorption/ Desorption Concentrator Unit

for Reducing Sulfur Emission in Nebraska Project No: 19-159 Amount Requested: $260,432 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management The State of Nebraska has an ambient air quality standard for total reduced sulfur (TRS), which consists primarily of hydrogen sulfide (H2S). This application proposes to design and test an economical odor treatment system that will contribute to lower ambient H2S and other gas phase pollutants. The novel concept of the concentrator has the potential for new patents and a broad implementation. Using adsorption/desorption processes, concentrated H2S will result in a smaller reactor volume for reduced direct and operational costs in a bio-trickling filter (BTF). The concentrator will consist of three-adsorption-beds for (1) adsorbing the contaminant, (2) desorbing the loaded bed, and (3) drying the adsorbing bed. Tripling the H2S concentration will result in reducing about 40% of the cost in the biological treatment. The project consists of laboratory experiments and field demonstrations at the Loup Central Landfill to test efficacy. The laboratory experiments will examine the cyclic adsorption and desorption rates of H2S by evaluating raw zeolite and activated carbon manufactured from bituminous and coconut sources in granular, powder, and fibrous forms. Regeneration of H2S will be tested by water and air; water will be introduced at different temperatures, pHs, and flowrates.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Protecting the terns and plovers of Nebraska and mentoring the next generation Project No: 19-162 Amount Requested: $64,080 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education Management of Piping Plovers and Interior Least Terns happens in areas used by people for jobs, housing, and recreation. Balancing the needs of private citizens, property owners, industry, and these birds is a challenge. Bridging the gap between birds and people is what the Tern and Plover Conservation Partnership (TPCP) does best. We work at sand and gravel mines, lakeshore housing developments, and sandbars along the lower Platte, Loup, and Elkhorn rivers. The recovery and delisting of these birds largely depends on the productivity of birds nesting at these sites. The TPCP is a team of experienced biologists and students implementing our management and monitoring efforts. The TPCP immerses students in the conservation situations they will experience in their careers and teach them how to work cooperatively for the benefit of species and people. The TPCP helps ensure the survival of these two species and the economic success of the people who share their landscape. We ask NET help us continue our work by supporting our students for three years. There is a continuing need for the TPCP in protecting people, terns, and plovers, as well as in training the next generation of conservation professionals.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Utilizing biochar to improve nutrient capture from cattle manure

Project No: 19-171 Amount Requested: $17,067 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Waste Management Biochar is produced by burning organic matter (typically plant material) at very high temperatures in the absence of oxygen. Biochar has been utilized for centuries as a soil amendment but is still not well understood. In more recent years, other beneficial uses for biochar have been suggested, including feeding to cattle to improve health, reduce methane emissions, and improve nutrient capture in the manure. Nutrient losses from feedlot manure, primarily volatilization of N, are both an environmental and economic concern. Losses of N can be as high as 70% in the summer months from feedlot pens. Biochar has been shown to improve N capture from poultry manure and municipal waste, but has not been tested with cattle manure. We propose testing 0, 5%, and 10% addition of biochar to a manure and soil mixture representative of a feedlot pen. Treatments will be analyzed for manure nutrients (N, P, K) after 30 and 60 days to determine if biochar has impacted nutrient (primarily N) retention. High Plains Biochar has partnered with UNL and Nebraska Forest Service on a previous trial and is again willing to provide high quality, consistently manufactured biochar for this trial.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Delivery of Watershed Science Education to Decision Makers - A Multi-Agency Collaboration Project No: 19-173 Amount Requested: $225,204 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education A watershed science training program will be delivered to water resources decision makers in Nebraska. Programming will be delivered collaboratively, leveraging the strengths and educational missions of partner agencies. The program will provide environmental benefits through strengthened natural and water resources management, delivering approximately $112,500 in savings to Nebraskans (conservative estimate, details below). The initial audience is NRD board members, building on a robust needs assessment and pilot materials delivered via www.NebraskaWatershedScience.org. We envision a much broader audience developing over time. The project consists of (1) assessing existing water resources education efforts from water resources entities in Nebraska to find synergies between programs (2) development of a watershed science training program for NRD board members and related adult stakeholders (e.g. elected officials, water users) which utilizes online module development and facilitated education with UNL Extension Educators and NRD staff, and (3) robust evaluation of learning outcomes and impact of the training program. The collaborative program involves the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts, individual NRDs, Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality, Nebraska Department of Natural Resources, and the University of Nebraska. Collectively, in-kind contributions account for >50% of the project budget.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Assessment of Greenhouse Gas Sequestration Resources in the Nebraska Panhandle to Improve Air Quality of Nebraska Project No: 19-177 Amount Requested: $153,733 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Air Quality This project contributes to the “Air Quality” topic by identifying carbon storage resources in the Nebraska Panhandle. Carbon capture and storage (CCS), which denotes the separation of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the emissions of industrial processes and storage of the CO2 in deep geologic formations, has gained considerable recognition as a promising option to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. And, most electricity in Nebraska comes from burning fossil fuels. Estimates show that CO2 emission from power and ethanol plants in Nebraska is about 20 million tons per year. Among them, Gerald Gentleman Station is scheduled to be equipped with a carbon capture system first, followed by ethanol plants. The project objective is to ascertain CO2 storage resources in the Nebraska Panhandle, which potential storage capacity has been ignored by most federal-led research efforts. In this project, areal extent, thickness of possible storage formations, and structural closures as an input to the volumetric calculation will be identified. Moreover, physical and mechanical parameters, such as porosity, permeability, strength, and storage coefficient, will be determined via well designed laboratory tests and simulations. The goal is to identify 50 million tons of previously unrecognized CO2 storage capacity in the Panhandle region.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Improvement of Recycled Concrete Aggregates (RCA) Properties with CO2 Treatment for Reusing Construction and Demolition (C&D) Wastes in Nebraska Project No: 19-178 Amount Requested: $221,703 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Waste Management Recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) is a popular replacement for natural stone aggregates. However, mechanical properties of RCA are known inferior to natural aggregates. More importantly, there is environmental concern due to potential contamination by the RCA-leachate. The goal of this project is to prove the feasibility & marketability of our novel method – utilization of carbon dioxide (CO2) treatment to improve mechanical and environmental properties of RCA – for strengthening its application to real constructions and thus reducing construction concrete wastes. This project has four objectives: (1) Identify the impact of key parameters on the effective carbonation (CO2 treatment) of RCA, (2) Quantify the environmental gain of using CO2-treated RCA, (3) Evaluate the improvement in mechanical properties of CO2-treated RCA, and (4) Evaluate the economic viability of CO2-treatment of RCA. The project will contribute not only to reducing the cost of demolition waste management but also to reducing the budget to acquire raw materials for new constructions. Therefore, everyone in Nebraska will benefit because the project aims to achieve better construction and demolition (C&D) waste management, preservation of surface and groundwater, and greenhouse gas reduction, which will lead to a better quality of life not only environmentally but also economically.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln

Project Name: Fuel Cell Grade Hydrogen Gas Production from Eastern Red Cedar Biomass Project No: 19-179 Amount Requested: $251,316 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management Hydrogen as a fuel has the highest specific energy content of all conventional fuels. Its only waste/byproduct is pure water. Current technology options for hydrogen production are very expensive. Use of an effective method with a suitable feedstock is necessary for cost-effective and high yield hydrogen production. Invasive eastern red cedar biomass can be promising feedstock for hydrogen production. The present project proposal was designed to produce hydrogen gas from eastern red cedar biomass by aqueous-phase reforming (APR) technique. In this technique, carbohydrates in the biomass can be converted to hydrogen rich gas mixture in the aqueous phase over a catalyst (e.g. supported platinum catalyst) at relatively mild processing conditions. The hydrogen rich gas mixture produced in this process will be purified to fuel cell grade hydrogen by using various adsorbents such as calcium oxide, molecular sieve 5A powder, aluminum chloride, etc. The high purity hydrogen gas produced in this project can be used in hydrogen fuel cell devices but it can also be beneficial for conventional industrial uses. Removal of eastern red cedar from rangeland for hydrogen production will result in increase the value of the land, improve wildlife habitat and contribute to Nebraska’s economy at the same time.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Blooms for Habitat Project No: 19-183 Amount Requested: $306,285 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Urban Habitat Blooms as Habitat is a three-year initiative with the primary goal of increasing the diversity and abundance of insect pollinators in Nebraska communities. The ecological health of community landscapes will be improved via greater use of native plants, promotion and planting of pollinator-friendly habitat, promotion of sustainable management techniques, and through extensive outreach and education. Specific outcomes • Development and distribution of 30,000 plants through an innovative Bloom Box approach (300 bloom boxes). •Implementation of up to 350 publicly-accessible pollinator-friendly landscape projects in partner communities at schools, parks, fairgrounds, and other public places. •Increased public awareness about the benefits of biodiverse and ecologically healthy community green spaces including sound resource management practices. •Implementation of projects in at least 20 communities. All partner communities will achieve designation as “Greener Nebraska Towns” requiring ongoing outreach and activities related to ecologically-sound community greening. •8,000 of people of all ages will be reached via education and outreach efforts. •Evaluation activities will gauge effectiveness of the work and to inform others about how best to conduct future endeavors. •Pollinator-oriented education and outreach partnership will be established with at least 10 key nurseries and landscape professionals across the state.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Master Naturalist Program: Expanding Conservation Capacity Project No: 19-184 Amount Requested: $97,500 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education The Nebraska Master Naturalist (MN) Program provides citizens an opportunity to contribute to natural resource conservation through meaningful, science-based volunteer experiences. The MN Program began in 2009 through a partnership that recognized Nebraska’s conservation agencies and organizations have limited resources. Today, the MN Program has 415 volunteers, or Certified Master Naturalists, which actively contribute to at-risk species conservation, restore native habitats, prevent degradation of waterways, and improve waste management. Master Naturalists have contributed 63,141 hours on over 6,000 projects in Nebraska which translates to a value of $1,558,951 in salary savings to natural resource agencies and organizations. The program has reached over 500,000 individuals in Nebraska. The Master Naturalist Program’s workforce is growing and evolving to meet the increasing requests for their service. The goals of this proposal are to continue growth while moving toward a sustainable future. This proposal will increase the number of new Certified Master Naturalists by 60; support the established MN Community through continuing education on advanced topics; conserve Nebraska’s natural resources by providing at least 3,500 hours of volunteer service that support at least 25 conservation organizations or agencies, and reach over 10,000 individuals by informing and educating citizens about natural resource conservation.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Hastings Project Name: Water Use and Soil-Water Storage Effect of Individual & Mixed Cover Species and Impacts on Soil Quality Variables Project No: 19-186 Amount Requested: $391,756 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Soil Management Cover cropping in row crops has been suggested as a favorable conservation practice in improving soil chemical and physical characteristics. However, the magnitude of the impacts of cover crops on soil-water dynamics (i.e., soil-water storage) and soil quality can exhibit significant variation between the counties, cover crop species, soil textural, chemical, and physical properties; management practices, and climatic conditions. Furthermore, these impacts can vary when the cover crops are planted with individual species vs. in mixed forms. In Nebraska, there is a significant lack of information and scientific and research-based data on the aforementioned questions that can be an impediment for cover crop adoption and also for accurately determining the impacts of individual and mixed cover crops species on soil-water and soil quality. Quantification of cover crop water use can also aid in local and regional water balance analyses, projections, planning, and allocations that can result in more robust water balance determinations on a statewide and regional basis, but these kinds of data and information do not currently exist. This project will quantify and demonstrate the water use (in all 93 counties) and impact of individual and mixed cover crops species on soil quality parameters in corn-cover crop/soybean-cover crop rotations.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Fishes out of water: Developing use-based recommendations for catch-and-consume fishers and aquatic ecosystems Project No: 19-187 Amount Requested: $223,031 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education Fisheries in Nebraska are known for the recreational opportunities they provide, but they can also serve as a food source. Fish are a healthy food, but the health benefits may be counteracted by mercury or other contaminants that accumulate in the fish. Contaminants in lakes and rivers are from pollution in these areas, often related to excess nutrients from fertilizers used in the watershed - a problem common to water in eastern Nebraska. Yet, contaminants accumulate in fish differently. Therefore, consumers exposure to chemicals is related to fish preference such that communities may face distinct concerns when fish supplement diets. In this project, we will develop recommendations for fisheries, specifically catch-and-consume, based on the extent to and diversity by which anglers are consuming their catch and how lake or river water quality has impacted fish quality.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Scottsbluff Project Name: Beneficial impact of injected air into a subsurface drip irrigation system on plant growth and uptake of emerging antibiotics using runoff from a feedlot Project No: 19-192 Amount Requested: $287,605 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Waste Management Feedlot runoff occurs from open feedlot operations during heavy rainfall or snow melts. Runoff from feedlots contains pollutants that can degrade surface and groundwater quality. In this proposal, we will collect and utilize runoff from feedlot as irrigation water source of a subsurface drip irrigation (SDI) system for crop production in western Nebraska. In addition, we will inject air into the SDI to evaluate improvements on quality of the recycled runoff, uptake of antibiotics into food crops, and crop yields. Field investigations will be conducted at the Panhandle Research and Extension Center in Scottsbluff. Corn and sugar beet will be grown with and without injected air using feedlot runoff. Crop growth, yield data, water quality, sorption, leaching and uptake of antibiotics will be monitored throughout the study. The outcome of this study may provide a best management practice to treat feedlot runoff and increase crop yield for corn and sugar beets grown in western Nebraska.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Development of Design Protocol and Implementation of In-Situ Capping Method for Sediment Rehabilitation in Nebraska Project No: 19-196 Amount Requested: $270,875 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water Nebraska contains an estimated 2,910,000 acres of wetlands which cover about 6% of the state. They are very diverse and dynamic resources for the environment. Recently, through the CLEAR program, many ponds and lakes were urgently and successfully treated by using an in-situ capping method. In-situ capping is a technique used to stabilize and remediate contaminated subaqueous sediment in wetlands by covering the contaminant with multiple layered materials, which is effective, economic, and sustainable. In Nebraska, there is significant potential for large sediment areas to be preserved and rehabilitated by using this method. The goal of this project is: 1) to explore failure mechanisms of the sediment caps composed of multi-layered materials (e.g., site-specific soils, reactive soils, and geosynthetics); and 2) to develop a best practice (or design protocol) of the method considering Nebraska’s particular conditions. Laboratory tests and numerical simulations for the caps will be conducted to investigate Nebraska’s sediment characteristics and capping design. Through this project, the performance of applying in-situ capping will be evaluated, and cost-effective and hands-on information will be promised for implementation of in-situ capping in Nebraska. Through various outreach and broader activities, the findings will be disseminated to engineering and public societies in Nebraska.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Milkweed in the Classroom Project No: 19-202 Amount Requested: $55,163 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education This proposal outlines a plan to develop a pilot program that will engage a minimum of 45 schools throughout Nebraska in growing milkweed plants in the classroom, educate a minimum of 1,125 students about the importance of pollinators and pollinator habitat, and establish a minimum of 2,000 milkweed stems throughout the state. More importantly, this proposal aims to motivate participants to play an active role in the development of pollinator habitat and the advocacy of sound conservation practices that impact soil, water, air, and wildlife. Pheasants Forever (PF), the University of Nebraska (UNL) and the Prairie Plains Resource Institute (PPRI) will accomplish these objectives by recruiting schools throughout NE to participate in the Milkweed in the Classroom program. Classrooms will be given a kit that will include everything needed to grow milkweed plants in the classroom. PF, UNL and PPRI will provide training to participating schools on how to grow milkweed plants from seed. In addition, teachers will be provided curriculum that will be created at UNL that can be used in conjunction with the interactive activity of growing milkweed plants. Lastly, students will plant milkweed plants in their local communities and monitor milkweed plots to evaluate success.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents - University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Osmond Project Name: Citizen Science: A valuable approach for monitoring groundwater quality in the Bazile Groundwater Management Area Project No: 19-205 Amount Requested: $172,977 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water The Bazile Groundwater Management Area (BGMA) represents the first groundwater-focused management plan in the nation to address nonpoint source pollution. Collection of shallow domestic well-water quality data is a promising management practice for identifying water quality problems and protecting ground water quality, especially for domestic self-supplied households’ drinking water needs, in areas at risk for nitrate contamination. We propose to involve high school students and their teacher advisors to conduct a two-year monitoring project focusing on groundwater quality. The current study will increase groundwater awareness among high school students and their families in the BGMA, and train teachers and students to effectively conduct groundwater quality data collection. Five high schools, Wausa, Orchard, Creighton, Plainview, and Osmond, located within the BGMA will participate in the study. FFA chapters and science clubs will participate in the study. Approximately 30 rural wells per school will be identified by the students in collaboration with the four NRDs. Basic water quality parameters (i.e., pH, electrical conductivity), major anions/cations (i.e., nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, calcium), metals (i.e. uranium, iron, arsenic), pesticides, and bacteria will be tested using field test kits and laboratory methods.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents, University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Bioremediation of Groundwater Nitrate with Algae Photobioreactors Project No: 19-201 Amount Requested: $681,941 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Water Nitrate-N (NO3-N) in drinking water is a major health risk for many rural Nebraskans, where leaching of fertilizer from agricultural fields can lead to well water contamination ten-fold higher than EPA regulations permit. Excessive blood nitrate is linked to methemoglobinemia, or “blue baby” syndrome, as well as heightened risks for cancer and birth defects in adults (1). Discounting the Omaha metropolitan area, 99% of drinking water in the state is groundwater, with 30,223 domestic wells currently in use (2). According to state monitoring efforts, 88% of all wells measured in Nebraska last year exceeded safe limits for NO3-N (2). While this problem is now being successfully addressed in some areas using reverse osmosis stations, the associated costs to the community and state are very high. The goal of this project is to build and operate a pilot-scale algae photo-bioreactor (PBR) to assess the remediation of NO3-N contamination from well water and the re-use of the captured nutrients as an agricultural soil amendment. This technology provides a biologically based option for groundwater remediation tailored to smaller rural communities to offset chemical fertilization, reducing NO3-N in agricultural runoff to below drinking water limits to directly address the source of contamination.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents, University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Pilot-scale production of protein fibers apparels

from waste garments & poultry feathers Project No: 18-116-2 Amount Requested: $105,942 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent We aim to develop high-quality protein fibers from waste garments and poultry feathers for industrial applications via an ecofriendly approach. Protein fibers, mainly wool and silk, have un-parallel performance properties, such as hand, moisture transmission, thermal insulation and luster, are sold at high prices, but have limited availability. Wool and poultry feathers are inedible waste protein resources with annual availability, abundance, low cost and limited usages, and thus, could be alternative resources for protein fiber production. Successful conversion of waste wool-containing apparels and feathers into high-profit industrial products could decrease generation and disposal of textile and feather wastes, add considerable values to textile recycling and poultry industries, as well as create jobs for local people by establishing small business. However, to the best of our knowledge, no efficacious method has been developed to produce regenerated keratin fibers, despite global efforts during the last two decades. In this project, in order to obtain regenerated keratin fibers with performance properties close to wool fibers and good potential for industrial applications, we plan to develop low-cost and efficient aqueous solvent to de-crosslink and dissolve keratin simultaneously, while preserving protein backbones, study the rheological properties of keratin solution to improve its spinnability first on lab scale. Subsequently, we will produce keratin fibers and yarns on pilot scale, cooperate with US apparel and fashion industry for incorporation of keratin fibers into apparels, and develop garments fusing yarns containing keratin fibers. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $105,942 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $105,942 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents, University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Improving Water quality/Fish Health in Platte River & Tributaries Project No: 18-176-2 Amount Requested: $169,524 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent This project is designed to understand the impact of biological and physical factors on water quality in the Platte River and its tributaries. We believe, pollutants including antimicrobial compounds entering the Platte River are influencing water quality and fish health. Microbes found in the Platte River and in the gut of fish acts as biological filters removing most of the toxic compounds found in the river similar to how a wastewater treatment facility cleans the water. It is possible that the antimicrobial compounds entering the Platte River increases the antibiotic resistant microbial population within the Platte River basin. This change likely leads to a decreased biological filtering capacity and increase levels of toxic compounds in the water leading to poor water quality and poor living conditions to the fish. Especially concerning is the idea that the compositional changes in the microbiota in the river and fish gut can lead to negative effects on fish health and reproduction, including the endangered fish species. With no such study being performed to evaluate the impact of antimicrobial contaminants and microbial communities and its impact on water quality on the Platte River biological filters (the microbes), we believe a knowledge gap exists that could help inform the current “Platte River Recovery Program” planning process to develop new strategies to increase water quality and fish health. Therefore, the goal of this project is to identify biological factors that influence water quality including microbial populations and the antibiotic genes in the Platte River and its tributaries. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $191,304 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $169,524 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents, University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Impact of cover crops and grazing on soil health and system economics Project No: 18-179-2 Amount Requested: $75,467 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Cover crops have the potential to improve soil health and sustainability of cropping operations. Incorporating cover crops into cropping systems incur economic costs that may discourage some producers from adopting this practice. Using cover crops as a forage source can be a way to offset the economic costs and generate additional revenue. The limited data available suggests that grazing of cover crops may not negate the soil health benefits.Therefore, the duality of economic and soil health incentives may be present for crop producers to incorporate grazing of cover crops into their system. However, there is little information regarding the effects of grazing cover crops in Midwestern cropping systems. The objectives of this project are to 1) evaluate the impacts of incorporating cover crops and grazing on soil health in corn silage-soybean, corn grain-soybean, and corn grain-soybean-wheat rotations in eastern Nebraska, 2) conduct a systems analysis and determine economic impact, and 3) inform Nebraska crop and cattle producers of these impacts and the potential for incorporating cover crops and grazing into their system. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $74,381 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $75,467 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents, University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Transforming Manure and Cedar Mulch from "Waste" to "Worth" Project No: 18-203-2 Amount Requested: $100,287 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Purpose. The underlying rationale for the project is that transforming management of manure and eastern red cedar from “waste” to “worth” will deliver natural resource benefits to Nebraska. Process. We will equip farmers and their advisors with knowledge and skills to identify “win-win” opportunities for recycling animal manures and cedar mulch as soil amendments. An on-farm research initiative will be replicated on six Nebraska farms to document agronomic, soil health, environmental and economic benefits of these soil amendments. It will also engage farmers and their advisors in an educational initiative to demonstrate these benefits and will engage high school students in educational experiences addressing soil health and implementation of an on-farm research process for evaluating proposed practice change. Impacts. Improved understanding and acceptance among farmers of positive impacts on soil, crops, and farm profitability from manure and cedar mulch application to cropland are expected to improve soil health properties for Nebraska soils, reduce nutrient losses to Nebraska water resources, and reduce eastern red cedar tree encroachment on Nebraska’s pasture and grassland resources. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $329,299 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $100,287 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Board of Regents, University of Nebraska Nearest Town: Lincoln

Project Name: Novel approaches for controlling nitrate leaching and protecting Nebraska ground water Project No: 18-204-2

Amount Requested: $79,306 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Nitrate is the most common contaminant affecting ground water quality worldwide and a frequent compliance issue in public drinking water supplies throughout the United States and Nebraska. Though much effect has been directed at nitrogen and irrigation water management, few alternatives exist to treat nitrate lost from the crops. This project will demonstrate how subsoil injection of an abundant carbon source (recycled sawdust and wood shavings) will establish a biologically active layer for interception and removing dissolved nitrate after it has left the crop root zone. Bench tests will be conducted to evaluate the best recycled wood sources, proper depth to intercept leaching nitrate, and be followed with a 2-year pilot study on three to four cooperator fields in Nebraska, and the information collected will permit a cost/benefit analysis to determine the economic feasibility of utilizing this practice to treat nitrate-N in recharge water beneath fertilized crop land. The overall goal is to offer a cost-effective method for producers and Nebraska natural resource districts for reducing nitrate-N leaching beneath fertilized cropland in areas that are most vulnerable to ground water contamination. Extension and outreach efforts will be directed toward increasing adoption of this and related management practices to control nitrate leaching across Nebraska. We have leveraged data and programs from Nebraska natural resources districts, and previous NET projects to help create a product that can fill a gap in protecting Nebraska ground water resources. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $164,306 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $79,306 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Center for Rural Affairs Nearest Town: Grand Island Project Name: Creating Citizen Scientists, Empowering Citizens

to Assess and Improve Their Environment Project No: 19-204 Amount Requested: $129,342 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education The goal of this project is to enable residents of Hall and Platte counties to perform various environmental tests on their land in order to more effectively assess and improve their local environment. This will be accomplished by establishing a “citizen scientist” training program that will teach, and provide instrumentation to, participants on how to administer and record data of environmental testing in four different areas: soil testing, water testing, wildlife habitat assessment, and pollinator habitat assessment. After participating in educational workshops and field days, participants will be able to access testing kits to take home. Participants who complete the corresponding field day and workshop will be eligible to apply for a mini grant to make improvements to their land or management. Results captured by the citizen scientists will be made available to steering committee partners. Follow up workshops and peer-to-peer learning circles will address more specific environmental concerns and strategies to correct those concerns.

Sponsor Name: Lincoln - Parks & Recreation Nearest Town: Lincoln

Project Name: Prairie Corridor on Haines Branch - Phase III Project No: 19-139 Amount Requested: $900,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Prairie Corridor on Haines Branch will be a ribbon of tallgrass prairie, with a trail that stretches from the Pioneers Park Nature Center to Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center, including connections to Conestoga Lake State Recreation Area and Denton. The corridor is an opportunity for tallgrass prairie conservation, environmental education and outreach, economic development, and a recreational trail. Phase I has been completed. Phase II is nearing completion. Project accomplishments include over 800 acres conserved, including 90 acres of virgin prairie and 120 acres of high diversity tallgrass prairie reestablished, and more than 3.0 miles of trail completed. Phase III Activities: Conservation: Purchase of land and conservation easements from willing sellers. Habitat: Preserve and enhance tallgrass prairie, an imperiled ecosystem with less than 1% remaining in the continental U.S., and wetlands. Restore wooded riparian areas. Research: Evaluate methods for establishing and managing high-diversity native grasslands with emphasis on pollinators. Study stream ecology to inform the preservation and restoration of waterways and related habitat. Education & Outreach: Increase understanding and appreciation of tallgrass prairie and related resources. Below not part of NET request - Trail/Economic Development: Continue development of 10-mile trail. Endowment: Continue fundraising for a long-term care endowment.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: McCook Nearest Town: McCook Project Name: Wastewater Treatment Facility - Sludge Press Project No: 19-103 Amount Requested: $250,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water The City of McCook, Nebraska is in need of a Sludge Press to aid in the filtration which separates liquids from solids within the wastewater treatment facility. This allows for easy disposal and is cost efficient. The City is requesting $250,000 in Environmental Trust Funds to help fund the cost of the Sludge Press. The City also plans to utilize $298,100 in local match and State Revolving Funds (SRF) for the installation and other remaining costs associated with the project. Currently the digested sludge is hauled out as a liquid at approximately 3% solids and injected with an injector truck into agricultural fields. The injector truck is in need of replacement and after evaluating replacement options, a more environmentally friendly solution would be to thicken the sludge to approximately 24% reducing the hauling cost by approximately 8-fold. All residents of McCook will be the greatest beneficiary to the proposed project as everyone is impacted by the Wastewater Treatment Facility. An investment for a Sludge Press will allow the City to land apply the thickened remains which will provide an added benefit to the surrounding farm lands.

Sponsor Name: North Platte Nearest Town: North Platte Project Name: North Platte Tree Shredder Project No: 19-163 Amount Requested: $685,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment The City of North Platte and Bio Ag Solutions have entered into a contract to create compost that is being used on farms and home gardens. The City of North Platte provides yard waste and mulch and Bio Ag Solutions provides the remainder of the process including manure and other ingredients, processing, marketing, and shipping. An upgraded tree grinder is needed to keep up with the demand. With the threat of Emerald Ash borer upon us, the North Platte community alone will lose 20% of its tree stock. A total average of 180 tons per month is being ground for compost – with additional 50 tons that could potentially be ground with a machine that could keep up with demand before taking into consideration the future demand with additional tree stock. The City of North Platte is a government located in Lincoln County with the mission to be an economic and cultural center for West Central Nebraska providing excellent opportunities for its residents and visitors.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Tekamah Nearest Town: Tekamah Project Name: Enhanced Decommissioning of Abandoned Municipal Wells Project No: 19-143 Amount Requested: $40,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water The City of Tekamah is experiencing high nitrate levels in some of its existing municipal wells. In addition to five active drinking water supply wells utilized by the City, it is known that four previously capped wells abandoned prior to the 1950s are within 50 feet of one of the City's current public water supply wells. These previously capped wells still have a gravel pack surrounding the casing all the way from the surface cap to the bottom of the old well. This gravel pack is a direct conduit for any contaminants near the surface or moving in the groundwater. The purpose of this project will be to protect the integrity of the active municipal well by properly abandoning the four capped wells using enhanced decommissioning methods to open and seal the gravel pack outside the casing. This solution will require drilling a new test hole to document subsurface geology and to use as a monitoring well for future testing. Material used to abandon the capped wells will be removed and the four wells will be reabandoned with both a lower aquitard seal and an upper seal. The active municipal well will also be retrofitted with a lower seal.

Sponsor Name: Conservation Blueprint LLC Nearest Town: St. Paul Project Name: Pollinator and Wildlife Fire Education Project No: 18-118-2 Amount Requested: $7,400 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The creation and distribution of Video Habitat Tips throughout the state is a project that began with NET support in 2014. The video series that were created and distributed produced a unique opportunity to inform the public, land managers, resource professionals and media outlets via social media, email distribution, press articles and websites. Each Video Habitat Tip is designed with a specific message that produced a significant positive impact in the management, understanding, promotion and establishment of pollinator and wildlife habitat in the state. This application seeks to continue and expand that process under a new partnership using the same Habitat Tip host, director and video production that has successfully been in place for several years. NET funding would be limited to the video production costs and equipment and the costs for Habitat Tip development, distribution, production, video equipment and travel would be covered by Conservation Blueprint, LLC. While NET funding support with a Private For-Profit business is not common, this project would support the continuation of a well-developed, highly successful and accepted series of educational tools that will be missed in the state if they are not continued. Video Habitat Tips will focus its message on the important topics of establishing and managing pollinator habitat, the safe and effective use of prescribed fire, available conservation programs, pollinator species profiles, etc. Understanding the importance of pollinator species and their habitat needs is increasingly important as more pollinator species are being considered for and designated as threatened and endangered species. Endangered species designations could produce ramifications that have significant impacts on agriculture and land management in the state. Providing more tools to help the public, land managers and resource professionals better understand and promote wildlife habitat will provide a key service to the wildlife, land, air and water of the state. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $14,800 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $7,400 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Council of Independent NE Colleges Foundation Nearest Town: Bellevue Project Name: Sustainability Learning Lab Project No: 19-164 Amount Requested: $330,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education The Council of Independent Nebraska Colleges Foundation (CINCF) on behalf of project partner Bellevue University, seeks a two-year, $330,000 NET grant for the University’s $1,001,500 Sustainability Learning Lab, a 7,000 square-foot outdoor facility on the University’s campus. NET funding would be matched 2:1 by the University and its partners $603,000 + $68,500 (in-kind) = $671,500, over three years. $200,000 is requested in Year 1 to complete Phase 1, including a 1,500 square-foot greenhouse, and initiate Phase 2, including solar and wind generation stations and a biofuel algae pond. $130,000 in Year 2 would complete Phase 2. Project partners will contribute $124,000 to complete Phase 3, including an outdoor classroom area, in Year 3. The Lab will support and facilitate science and environmental sustainability education, research, public awareness, and workforce development. The project relates to Nebraska Surface and Ground Water, Air Quality, Soil Management, Waste Management and Habitat. It will support University courses and degrees while engaging and educating at least 2,500 students, educators, researchers, and campus visitors a year in Year 3. Partners include the University and its students, project donors, civic organizations such as the Boy Scouts, Green Bellevue, and Quest Forward Academy.

Sponsor Name: Creighton University Nearest Town: Mullen Project Name: The Nebraska Sandhills: An Interdisciplinary

Study of Place Through Ecology, Culture, and Film Project No: 19-165 Amount Requested: $198,254 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education Understanding social-ecological interaction is a central focus for environmental study particularly with respect to resilience--the capacity for any system, social and/or ecological, to endure radical variability in, for example, economic markets and climate. The Nebraska Sandhills, with its fragile, grass-stabilized sand dunes vulnerable to large scale movement, and a dominant human land use through cattle grazing that depends almost entirely on grass cover, comprise an excellent system to study social-ecological relationships. We are continuing an interdisciplinary study involving remote sensing, biodiversity surveys, ethnographic analyses, artistic representation and philosophical/theological theory to understand the processes, practices, and interactions underpinning social-ecological resilience in this region. Our approach is to bring to bear multiple perspectives on the depiction of the Sandhills from the fields of biology, culture and communication, and theology (through documentary film and photography). Our commitment is to understanding the complexity of Sandhills in order to generate descriptions of the complexity interrelation of place and people. Our ecological descriptions, cultural interpretations, documentary filmmaking, and artistic depictions will provide resources for understanding and dialogue in Nebraska, and in the region, for appreciating and protecting the Sandhills.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Nearest Town: Valentine Project Name: Steer Creek Habitat Improvement Project No: 19-126 Amount Requested: $100,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The sandhills encompass roughly 19,000 square miles of rangeland in north-central Nebraska and is the largest remaining in-tact grassland in North America. Grassland habitats are one of the fastest declining habitat types in North America, as are the species guilds associated with grasslands, such as grassland birds. One of the greatest threats to the sandhills is the encroachment of Eastern Redcedar (ERC). With the help of Nebraska Environmental Trust funds, Ducks Unlimited, the USDA Forest Service, and the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture hope to address this threat within the Samuel R. McKelvie National Forest – the largest public property in the sandhills. This proposal includes the improvement of 2,600 upland and riparian acres along Steer Creek in Cherry County. Steer Creek is an important tributary of the Snake River, however, this system is at risk of being degraded as a result of encroachment by ERC. Returning this landscape to a native prairie and riparian area free of ERC, will improve migratory waterfowl and grassland bird habitat, increase plant diversity and cattle grazing opportunities, decrease water uptake, and increase the quality of public use.

Sponsor Name: Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Nearest Town: Melbeta Project Name: North Platte River Restoration Project No: 19-131 Amount Requested: $188,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The North Platte River Restoration proposal represents the next phase in an on-going effort to restore and protect wetland and wildlife habitat in this continentally important landscape. Our conservation effort follows the best science available and recommended strategies in the Strategic Plan’s for NGPC, USFWS, and DU. With momentum and stakeholder interest increasing in this landscape, great opportunities to expand this effort exist. Grant and match funds will be used to restore degraded slough, marsh, and riverine habitat, remove invasive Russian olives, install water control structures/rock checks, and restore diverse native prairie on two properties. To protect the investment from NET and partners, all restoration work will be completed on protected private properties. All NET funding is going towards completion of the restoration projects. All staff time and protection efforts are being completed using Match funds. The request from NET is being matched at a ratio of greater than 5:1. The goal of this proposal is to protect the agricultural, ranching, and wildlife habitat along the North Platte River that is lifeblood of western Nebraska.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Nearest Town: Stanton Project Name: Northeast Nebraska Wetland Restorations Project No: 19-172 Amount Requested: $255,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Northeast Nebraska Wetland Restorations proposal will restore and enhance wetland habitats which provide critical migration habitat for migrating birds and local wildlife along the Missouri River, Niobrara River, Elkhorn River, and other eastern Nebraska wetland complexes. Wetlands, no matter the location, serve as nature's filter improving water quality by filtering out excessive nutrients and other pollutants ensuring clean water for humans, livestock, and wildlife alike. Additionally, wetlands serve a vital function in flood abatement by holding excessive water in their basins as the terminal point of many watersheds. Additional wetlands in the northeastern portion of the state will only help with flood prevention or lessening the impact of floods. This proposal contains 6 wetland restoration and enhancement projects that are all open to the public. They receive substantial public use for recreational activities such as hunting, fishing, bird watching, and boating due to their proximity to Omaha and Lincoln. All the restoration and enhancement projects benefit the public by improving areas that can be accessed for various recreational opportunities while also providing resident and migrating wildlife with quality habitat year round. The ecosystem services (water purification, flood abatement) provided by additional wetland area and function benefits all Nebraskans.

Sponsor Name: Ducks Unlimited, Inc. Nearest Town: Clay Center

Project Name: Rainwater Basin R & R Project No: 19-190 Amount Requested: $330,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat Nebraskans get R & R from the wetlands in the Rainwater Basin through hunting, wildlife watching, hiking, and other forms of recreation. In our efforts to provide these resources for both people and wildlife we also incorporate another R & R, "Roundouts and Restoration". The goal of this proposal is to protect 320 acres of these vital habitats and provide recreational opportunities to Nebraskans. The Rainwater Basin is well established as one of the most important wetland complexes in the world for migratory birds. These wetlands also provide numerous ecosystem services by improving water quality and preventing floods. Wetlands at Massie Waterfowl Production Area (WPA) and Wilkins WPA will be purchased from willing sellers and will be restored. The lands will be open to the public for recreational use. People travel to the Rainwater Basin in the spring and fall from all areas of the state and country, and given that 98% of land in Nebraska is closed to asccess, providing the open land is a rare opportunity. This proposal is a continuation of the long-standing partnership with NET to cost-effectively (match ratio >3:1) provide long-lasting benefit to the people and environments of Nebraska.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Farwell Irrigation District Nearest Town: Ashton Project Name: Project Improvement 8.3 Project No: 19-108 Amount Requested: $395,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water Converting an open water ditch system, referred to as the 8.3 lateral, to a PVC buried pipeline. The Lateral is 4.1 miles in length, of which 3.78 mile will be replaced with a pipeline, that supplies irrigation water to 1,593.4 certified acres. The top 0.32 of a mile will remain open but will have regulated flow by a Rubicon gate system using automation to maintain a consistent water supply. Since the early 1970’s the District has buried over 220 miles of laterals and have seen a water savings of 30 to 35 percent. This project will eliminate all losses of water due to evaporation, seepage, and spill. The result is less demand for water which can be left un-diverted from the Middle Loup River. This additional water can then be used for other purposes downstream such as Endangered Species (River Otter, Whooping Crane, and Pallid Sturgeon), domestic uses, other irrigation, recreation, and hydropower. Additional benefits include the savings on chemicals used for treating aquatic vegetation, which also reduces environmental impacts, and allows for more habitat where the lateral once was. This allows other endangered species in the area to flourish (Small White Lady Slippers and Western Prairie Fringed Orchids).

Sponsor Name: Five Rivers RC&D Nearest Town: Tecumseh

Project Name: 2019 Southeast Nebraska Household Hazardous Waste Collections Project No: 19-197 Amount Requested: $66,177 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Waste Management Each person in the United States produces an average of 4 pounds of hazardous waste each year totaling 530,000 tons/year. The average household generates more than 20 pounds of hazardous waste per year. As much as 100 pounds can accumulate in the home, often remaining there until the residents move out or do an extensive cleanout. Proper disposal prevents pollution that could endanger human health and the environment. Due to continual requests from local residents & government officials, we believe there continues to be a strong need for waste collections on an annual basis. Hosting events in eight southeast Nebraska counties will give all citizens an opportunity to help protect the environment and their own families from possible exposure to toxic materials. We expect participation to be similar to our past events. For example, this past August we collected 24,000 lbs. of paint, 7,054 lbs. of pesticides, 1,265 florescent bulbs, as well as other oils, acids, & bases. That’s nearly 16 tons of hazardous waste!!! The events will not only provide citizens with a safe disposal site, but will educate residents on the hazards of improper disposal and the negative effects of that waste entering our soil, water, and air.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Five Rivers RC&D Nearest Town: Tecumseh Project Name: Native Grassland Protection Against Invasive Weeds Project No: 19-208 Amount Requested: $79,089 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat Native prairies are the most threatened ecosystem in North America. Losing native prairies, oak woodlands, and plant diversity is resulting in significant impacts to our valuable native wildlife habitat, soil quality, water quality, and economic sustainability. Today less than one percent of tall-grass prairie remains in the continental United States. Approximately two percent of Nebraska’s tall-grass prairie remains mostly as remnants less than eighty acres in size. With the increase of invasive species present in the area we see its negative impacts on these remaining landscapes and losses to our other grazing lands and native habitat. The lack of control reduces the production, profitability and sustainability of grasslands and causes economic hardships. This has resulted in some grasslands being converted to row crop production because of difficulties and costs of controlling invasive weeds. The WMA has assisted in combatting troublesome weed species on approximately 9,000 acres and educated landowners through workshops, conferences, and weed walks. The WMA continues to educate landowners and managers and continually receives inquiries along with new applicants seeking aid in controlling troublesome weed species. The continuation of the program will allow for additional educational workshops, conferences, and cost share help for those who need it most.

Sponsor Name: Four Corners Health Department Nearest Town: York Project Name: Household Hazardous Waste Events Project No: 19-175 Amount Requested: $87,750 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management Four Corners Health Department wishes to host two Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) events in Polk and Butler Counties in the spring of 2019, two events in York and Seward Counties in 2020, two events in Polk and Butler Counties in 2021. Our rural communities have no way to dispose of household hazardous waste without these events. This HHW waste will end up in the landfills or in our ground water. We have had these events for the last 6 years, our community response and involvement has been tremendous.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Friends of Heron Haven, Inc. Nearest Town: Omaha

Project Name: Nature Education/Capital Improvements-Heron Haven Project No: 19-145

Amount Requested: $42,645 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education

Friends of Heron Haven requests three years of support for its nature education programs and for several capital improvements that will facilitate the management, maintenance and security of the property. The cost of the capital improvements will be matched at 25% by the Papio-Missouri River NRD. Three nature education programs are offered by an all-volunteer staff of Nebraska Master Naturalists. First, the Second Saturday Program, which is open to everyone on the second Saturday of each month, creates a variety of planned hands-on indoor and outdoor experiences, as specifically afforded by the season. Second, a similarly-designed program, is offered six times a year to Title 1 Omaha Public School groups. Both take advantage of a classroom, woodland trails, wetland boardwalk, and photography blind, which offer many opportunities for discovery and learning. The third program consists of the Wetland Festival, 1-day September event that provides a range of nature learning experiences, including a butterfly tent,shows by Raptor Recovery and Wildlife Encounters, and various Nature Hunt games, to name only a few.The proposed capital Improvements, including an automated entrance gate, upgraded security system,riding tractor-mower and shed would greatly facilitate the management of the property by a volunteerstaff.

Sponsor Name: Grand Island Area Clean Community System Nearest Town: Grand Island

Project Name: Regional Household Hazardous Waste Facility Project No: 19-157

Amount Requested: $513,960 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Air Quality

CCS is seeking a multiple year grant for the continued operation of the Betty Curtis Household Hazardous Waste facility. As a regional waste facility we serve over 150,000 in population; however we never turn anyone away. This facility will continue to maintain an area of slightly used products we call the "Swap Shop". We offer these products at no charge to the public. By doing so we reduce the amount of waste. According to numerous studies, permanent facilities tend to collect more HHW than other collection methods. Since 2015 we have taken in over 429,468 pounds. Of this amount approximately 5,000 individuals have reused 128,629.5 pounds. Products we accept are: bulk liquids, paint, insecticides, fertilizer, and household cleaning products. We also taken in personal grooming, automotive, spray paint, stains, caulking, adhesives, florescent bulbs, mercury, acids (inorganize/organic), and pool chemicals. Incorporated into this grant application is funding to host multiple electronic recycling days which will include CRT TV's, projection TV's and wood cased TV's. We will also accept and recycle computers, lap tops, cables, keyboards, towers, gaming devices, stereo equipment, phones, and miscellaneous electronics. Total pounds this grant would pay for is approximately 27,500 per event.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Green Recycling Enterprises Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Recycling on the Go! Project No: 18-200-2 Amount Requested: $138,500 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Second Nature provides recycling containers at public events. During the previous seven years, SN has

been providing recycling for events, municipalities and other locations. SN has been successful in

diverting trash from landfills by providing our program. These entities haven’t had recycling or can’t

recycle for a number of different reasons. There is a strong demand for public recycling containers as we

will conduct over 120 events in 2017. SN wants to continue providing our services with the Recycling on

the Go campaign. Our challenge is that the business model of the program has not created enough

advertising/sponsorship dollars to continue without the help of Nebraska Environmental Trust. Over the

last several years, we have determined that most events and businesses won’t pay for recycling. Events

don’t have the funds. They simply can’t provide the service. Their time and resources are limited. They

love our program, but won’t pay for the service. We have had some success in obtaining

advertisers/sponsors, but many companies don’t want to be on trash/recycling containers. Moving

forward, we have to adjust our model downward in terms of sales and revenue. In evaluating our

model, we see that the company has had more success this year with smaller companies. Our new

model involves incorporating small fees for setup and delivery at events. We also want to establish a joint

sale and partnership program with our event partners. This will allow an increased motivation for them

to jointly promote and sell advertising packages with us. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $287,000 in 2018

WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $138,500 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND

SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Gretna Sanitation, Inc. Nearest Town: Gretna Project Name: Fueling The Green Fleet - A CNG Station For Refuse and Resource Recovery Trucks Project No: 19-109 Amount Requested: $75,825 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Waste Management Gretna Sanitation, Inc. seeks financial support from The Nebraska Environmental Trust to partially fund the installation of a Skid Mounted Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Time-Fill Station to fuel the Company’s expanding fleet of CNG refuse and resource recovery trucks. The Company’s commitment to promote and implement clean air strategies by reducing ozone-forming emissions of nitrogen oxides and other greenhouse gas emissions complements Gretna Sanitation, Inc.’s overall strategic plan to reduce its carbon footprint while economically serving over 4,000 residential, commercial and municipal customers in Sarpy, Douglas, Cass and Saunders counties. The Company’s CNG conversion and expansion efforts and goal to promote clean air strategies and ultimately reduce air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions strategically aligns with its past efforts and the present clean air initiatives of The Nebraska Environmental Trust. Through their efforts, Gretna Sanitation strives to set an example and create an economically feasible model for other similarly sized fleet driven Nebraska businesses to model when converting to CNG.

Sponsor Name: Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln ReStore Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Scrub Day: Spring Cleaning Donation Drive Project No: 19-200 Amount Requested: $19,225 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management Habitat for Humanity of Lincoln ReStore respectfully requests three years of funding from the Nebraska Environmental Trust for support of its city-wide project Scrub Day: a spring cleaning donation drive. Habitat ReStore Lincoln has been serving Lancaster county for four years, as a nonprofit home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, building materials and more to the public at a fraction of the retail price. Habitat ReStore Lincoln diverted more than 234 tons of waste from the landfill last year, accepting hard-to-dispose-of items including new and used furniture, appliances, latex paint and building materials. Proceeds from the sales of these items help Habitat’s work in our community and around the world. ReStore Lincoln is requesting funds to assist in executing its annual Scrub Day: Spring Cleaning Donation Drive. Scrub Day is held on/around Earth Day weekend providing individuals and businesses a convenient way to donate accepted new and gently used items, that would otherwise be thrown away. Scrub Day was created in 2017 and diverted more than 1 ton of waste from the landfill. The following year, donations doubled, showing a need for the project and ReStore, on a continuous basis.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Habitat for Humanity of Omaha Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Deconstruction Project Project No: 19-150 Amount Requested: $693,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management Habitat Omaha’s Deconstruction Program helps to reduce waste and preserve natural resources by salvaging materials from blighted homes slated for demolition and from home renovation projects. Habitat Omaha is requesting NET funding to support 3 whole-house deconstruction projects and 150 partial or “softstrip” deconstruction projects annually for three years. As match, Habitat ReStore revenues and city funding will support the operations of the project and the cost of the demolitions of homes after deconstruction work has concluded. Deconstruction includes carefully dismantling a house and reusing, recycling, or upcycling the materials. Typically, 60% of a demolition house’s materials can be salvaged, representing over 6,000 cubic feet of debris that would otherwise go to local landfills. With smaller softstrip projects, reuse is closer to 100%. Through the Deconstruction Program, these materials can be recycled or repurposed. Examples of materials salvaged through deconstruction include the following: plywood, dimensional lumber, hardwood flooring, bricks, fixtures, doors, hinges, paneling, stairs and railings, trim, lathe, cabinets and countertops. Not only does this project reduce waste, it reduces the need for new raw material consumption. Materials saved from the landfill are made available to the general public through two Habitat ReStores in Omaha and through online bids.

Sponsor Name: Habitat for Humanity of Sarpy County Nearest Town: Bellevue Project Name: Habitat Sarpy County Home Store Project No: 19-152 Amount Requested: $38,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment Habitat for Humanity of Sarpy County’s Home Store requests funding from the Nebraska Environmental Trust for support of its Home Store pick up program through the purchase of a new donation truck. Sarpy’s Habitat Home Store is a home improvement store and donation center that sells new and gently used furniture, appliances, home accessories, building materials and more to the public at a fraction of the retail price. Sarpy’s Habitat Home Store accepts small and large donations while diverting hundreds of tons from landfills each year, accepting hard-to-dispose-of items and reselling them, or recycling what we cannot use. The Habitat Home Store has been in business for seven years and has consistently seen an increase in the number of large item donations, requiring heavy use of the donation truck. The current donation truck is no longer efficient, or reliable, for the donations being received or offered, and at times donations are being turned down because of the current vehicle situation. Habitat for Humanity of Sarpy County is requesting support for the purchase of a reliable and efficient truck that will allow for growth of the number and size of donation pick-ups and in turn, more items diverted from the landfill.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Heartland Bike Share Nearest Town: Lincoln

Project Name: Increasing the Impact: Bike Share Expansion Project No: 19-137 Amount Requested: $510,450 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Air Quality Heartland Bike Share is embarking upon a large-scale two year project to fill the current needs of the two systems that we manage in Lincoln and Omaha. In Lincoln, the system is in need of expansion as current usage is on track to exceed our current capacity within the year. The first year of our project would be to install nine additional stations to the Lincoln system, six of which this grant would fund and three of which would be funded by the community. The locations of the stations will be determined by station location requests and demonstrated need. The initial Lincoln system was purchased by the city using an air quality grant and users have been replacing car trips through downtown with bike share trips. In year two of our project, we’d use the funding to combat the largest deterrents to bike share in Omaha, hills & distance, by purchasing electric pedal-assist bikes and related equipment. These bikes will be the second phase of our electric pedal-assist bike implementation therefore the community will be already aware of the bikes and know of their power to make bike share more accessible.

Sponsor Name: High Plains WMA Nearest Town: Scottsbluff Project Name: North Platte River Invasive Species Control Project (Phase 4) Project No: 18-157-2 Amount Requested: $189,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent

The High Plains Weed Management Association is requesting $500,000 for two years towards existing

projects which need to be completed and for future projects to restore the waterways of the North Platte

and South Platte Rivers and its tributaries. For the last four years over 4,000 acres of Russian Olive, Salt

Cedar and Phragmites have been removed in watersheds. Over the last 50 years, invasive species have

invaded riparian areas of the Platte Rivers. At the present time, the High Plains Weed Management

Association has more than $200,000 in existing projects covering 1,223 acres to be completed. Our

invasive species eradication and control projects targets a total of 123 miles along the North Platte River

and nine miles if the South Platte River. During the last four years, the High Plains Weed Management

Association in partnership with the USDA, NRCS, the eight weed management superintendents in the

project counties have been working to restore the habitat along the Platte Rivers and its tributaries. With

the help of the Nebraska Environmental Trust, and our partners, we hope to complete these existing

projects to the best of our ability. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $500,000 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO

FUND UP TO $189,500 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS

IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: HoChunk Community Development Corp Nearest Town: Winnebago

Project Name: Winnebago Reservation Thermal Solar Project No: 19-188 Amount Requested: $60,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Air Quality HCCDC proposes to undertake recycling of 30 used thermal solar panels and install them at locations on the Winnebago Reservation that will result in energy savings and displacement of traditional fuels with solar energy. In Spring of 2018 the Tribe received a donation of 30+ previously installed thermal solar panels from an installation in Colorado. These systems included all primary components and need to be refurbished so that they can be reinstalled on vertical south faces of buildings to provide an auxiliary heating source in the Winter. The value of this equipment was considered to be $350/panel or $10,500. The 30 panels each have a square footage of 25ft2 and at 35kWh/ft2/day, the fully deployed collectors could generate 26MWh of heat energy (19.5MMBTU) on sunny days during the heating season. HCI has invested into the rehabilitation of several collectors and will install one pair on a home in Winnebago as a test site. The lessons learned on this installation will enable us to efficiently rehabilitate and install the remaining panels. HCI has already begun the pilot effort. Total project cost is $90,000 with $60,000 requested from NET.

Sponsor Name: Keep Alliance Beautiful Nearest Town: Alliance Project Name: 2019-2020 Recycling Center Operations/Education Program Project No: 19-112 Amount Requested: $82,585 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Waste Management Keep Alliance Beautiful (KAB) Board of Directors and Staff wish to continue our recycling and education programs in Box Butte County, Nebraska. Grant funding from NET is essential in sustaining the recycling center operations and in furthering KAB’s mission to educate, empower, and inspire Box Butte County residents to take greater responsibility for enhancing their community and the environment. KAB operates a recycling center, provides curbside recycling pickup, offers an innovative seniors/shut-ins recycling program, and maintains ten recycling trailers stationed in Alliance and Hemingford, Nebraska. KAB sends the bulk of the recycling commodities to Western Resources Group in Ogallala, Nebraska and has diverted 383,626 lbs. of waste from the local landfill during the first six months of 2018. KAB will continue school programs for the 2019-2020 school year such as KAB Black OPS, KAB Black Belts, and the KAB Club at the Alliance Middle School. In addition KAB will encourage citizens to reduce, reuse, and recycle through school presentations, community programs, and projects. Keep Alliance Beautiful is a Keep America Beautiful affiliate in good standing. KAB is able to accomplish our mission with the continued financial support of the City of Alliance, Box Butte County, private donations, and grant funds


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Keep Keith County Beautiful Nearest Town: Ogallala Project Name: Western Nebraska Regional Environmental Education Project No: 19-176 Amount Requested: $44,782 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education Keep Keith County Beautiful (KKCB) is seeking funding for educational development in West Central Nebraska counties that are part of the region represented and served by KKCB. The development of these programs will provide consistent branding across Western Nebraska for educational programs and will provide the opportunity to have all schools measuring education impacts in the same manner. Programs are user-friendly for all grade levels from elementary school through high school, and address the National STEM initiative. KKCB is an active participant and promoter of a nationally affiliated recycling program for the past 5 years that has garnered winnings, prizes and excitement in local schools. As a part of the leadership in the development of an educational tool box, KKCB will utilize our expertise in working with existing STEM development, current curriculum and student leadership. Often local schools are not capable of extending environmental education with the current limitations however, we can change behavior through education to reduce, recycle and reuse. It is our position that we need to work with the rural areas that have little or no access to easy recycling to understand our first responsibility is Source Reduction. The request is to have NET fund our educators.

Sponsor Name: Lewis and Clark NRD Nearest Town: Hartington Project Name: Investigation of Groundwater for the Lewis and Clark NRD and Cedar Knox Rural Water Project No: 19-122 Amount Requested: $115,100 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water Lewis and Clark NRD (LCNRD) plans to investigate groundwater quality and quantity of discrete aquifers in northern Cedar and Knox Counties. The sites are of interest to LCNRD because of their local importance for domestic, stock, and/or irrigation use and their potential to provide a groundwater source for the Cedar Knox Rural Water Project (CKRWP). The current water source for CKRWP is Lewis and Clark Lake. The CKRWP serves 889 rural hookups and 4 communities in northern Cedar and Knox Counties. CKRWP is investigating alternative water sources in response to sediment originating upstream which is encroaching on and will cover the CKRWP Lake intake in less than 25 years. In 2017, six areas underlain by aquifers that could potentially serve as a source for the CKRWP were identified. Airborne electro-magnetic (AEM) surveys were performed over these areas to define aquifer boundaries and target optimum locations that could provide a sustainable source for the CKRWP. This project will provide direct access to each aquifer to define water chemistry and saturated thickness. Test-hole drilling, borehole logging, observation well installation, and monitoring of water level and chemistry will be conducted and the completions incorporated into the LCNRD well network providing long-term groundwater data.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Lincoln Electric System Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Electric vehicle data collection Project No: 19-144 Amount Requested: $20,200 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Air Quality Quality electric vehicle data is the key to determining and defining future electric utility programs designed to both incentivize and manage electric vehicles while also benefiting both the customer and the utility. Lincoln Electric System (LES) has contracted with FleetCarma, a technology leader in electric vehicle data collection, to study charging and driving habits of customers in the Lincoln, NE area. FleetCarma will provide cellular- and GPS-enabled data collection devices that plug in to a vehicle's Onboard Diagnostic Port (OBD-II). Data collected will include charging session duration, energy consumption and location, as well as trip duration, energy consumption, distance traveled and auxiliary load. The study will span 24 months, from 11/01/2018 to 11/01/2020, and LES is requesting that the Nebraska Environmental Trust fund only the second year of data collection (21% of total project cost). LES and FleetCarma are targeting at least 50 participants, ideally representing an array of makes and models of electric vehicles and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles. Ultimately, this data should allow LES and other utilities, especially those located in midsized, Midwestern cities that experience the challenge of all four weather seasons, to better understand the potential for any prospective electric vehicle programs they may be considering.

Sponsor Name: Little Blue NRD Nearest Town: Davenport Project Name: Vadose Zone Investigations for Nitrates and Historical Comparative Analysis Project No: 19-129 Amount Requested: $47,833 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water The Little Blue Natural Resource District (LBNRD) requests the NETF to fund a portion of Vadose Monitoring Program being led by the LBNRD. The Vadose Monitoring Program is a objective of the Little Blue River Basin Water Management Plan which addresses specific issues related to non-point source pollution by targeting Nebraska's Section 303(d) list of impaired waters, evaluating source water aquifer nitrate contamination, evaluating quantity issues for surface water and groundwater, and providing watershed residents and stakeholders education on the importance of sustainable water resources, pollutant reduction, and an opportunity to provide feedback to the planning process. The Vadose Monitoring Program specifically targets evaluation of nitrate contamination. Domestic wells that deliver groundwater with nitrate concentrations greater than 10 parts per million (ppm) exceed the drinking water standard for nitrate. Four communities in the LBNRD currently have nitrates which exceed the drinking water standard and eleven communities have nitrate concentrations between 5 to 8 ppm causing concern for the future. To determine nitrate loads moving through the soil to groundwater supplies, the LBNRD conducted initial vadose monitoring in 2014. The Basin Plan recommended that the LBNRD develop a program to evaluate multi-year trends by revisiting sites every 5 years.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Little Blue NRD Nearest Town: Davenport Project Name: Project Pollinator Project No: 19-182 Amount Requested: $40,350 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat A staggering 85% of the world’s flowering plants rely on pollination to produce fruits and seeds which means without pollinators – we do not eat. Providing habitat for the world’s declining population of pollinators has become more crucial than ever to ensure not only their survival but ours as well. For these reasons, the Little Blue NRD is requesting funds to establish three separate pollinator ecosystems in our most visited recreation areas. While the layout may be slightly different per habitat, the result should be the same – a haven for anything from bees to bats. Visitors will able to observe the pollinators in their natural ecosystems as they stroll along provided paths. Signage will accompany the habitats so that the visitors may determine how they might replicate these ecosystems in their backyards. Engaging youth involvement will ensure that future generations genuinely grasp the importance the pollinators play in our day to day lives. Funding for the project would ensure the completion of these habitats from development to maintenance as well as educational and promotional materials to be utilized throughout the grant. Completion will increase pollinator populations and raise awareness of pollinator ecosystems and their importance in our future.

Sponsor Name: Loess Canyon Rangeland Alliance, The Nearest Town: Curtis Project Name: Grassland Stewardship with Prescribed Fire Project No: 17-212-3 Amount Requested: $140,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Loess Canyons is a 338,000-acre mosaic of largely unfragmented mixed-grass prairie and wooded canyons. Due to its deep, fertile soils, this landscape is a valuable forage resource in the region. The land and cattle support family-owned ranches and an associated land stewardship ethic. In return, 29 species of concern thrive in the prairies over which these landowners steward. The Loess Canyons has been identified as a Biologically Unique Landscape by the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project and as a focus area for the USFWS Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. Eastern red cedar invasion and the consequences of such for Nebraska's grasslands are well-documented and alarming. This hardy tree, which is easily killed by fire, thrives in the deep soil and semi-arid environment of the Loess Canyons. Some properties are over 70% covered by cedars. The "Grassland Stewardship with Prescribed Fire" project plans to build on the success of landowners and burn associations to restore ecological resiliency and rangeland productivity in the Loess Canyons. This will be accomplished by empowering landowners with knowledge, funds, and technical assistance to remove cedars, create firebreaks, defer grazing, and work with local burn associations to return fire to the ecosystem. Timing will be critical to maintain the current synergy between landowners, burn associations, and resource professionals as they aspire toward the goal of burning 33,000 acres per year. The Loess Canyons Rangeland Alliance (LCRA), private landowners, NGPC, USFWS, Twin Platte NRD, NRCS, and others have an effective and successful partnership in place to restore grasslands within the Loess Canyons. The LCRA seeks to expand this partnership, use $480,000 in grant and matching funds to do over $1,000,000 worth of restoration activities. This is expected to result in over 4,000 acres of invasive trees removed 30,000 acres of prescribed fire. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $180,000 IN 2017 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $160,000 IN YEAR TWO AND $140,000 IN YEAR THREE PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE THIRD YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Loup Basin RC&D Nearest Town: Ericson Project Name: Cedar River Corridor Project III Project No: 18-119-2 Amount Requested: $46,862 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Cedar River Corridor Project III is a regional project covering more than 100 miles along Cedar River

that runs through five counties and six communities (Figure 1). This project addresses the Environmental

Trust's priorities: Habitat and Surface and Groundwater. This is a follow up to the Cedar River Corridor

Projects I and II that stabilized 32 streambanks from 2002- 2005 The streambanks were stabilized to

reduce surface water degradation and sedimentation loading of the river system, improve the aquatic

habitat through riparian buffers and increased vegetation, decrease the amount of sediment and

chemicals entering the river and reverse the loss of prime cropland and rangeland. Very little post

monitoring has been conducted to determine the success of the two previous projects. An extreme flow

event occurred following the 2010 failure of Lake Ericson Dam (Figure 2), potentially causing many of the

stabilized streambanks to fail. A study to evaluate the various treatment alternatives implemented, their

success and function, and their cost-effectiveness would be important for future similar efforts, and

could save thousands of dollars on future stabilization projects, in the Cedar and other Nebraska Rivers.

This proposed project will evaluate the effectiveness of the 32 stabilized streambanks, installed in 2002-

2005 on Cedar River, that were partially funded by the Environmental Trust. The primary goals are to: 1)

quantify the stream bank erosion rates with and without stabilization prior to and after dam failure; 2)

assess the current stability of streambanks with and without stabilization; and 3) quantify the cost

effectiveness of the various practices used for streambank stabilization. This project will be collaboration,

between the Loup Basin RC&D (Outreach), UNL (technical assistance), NDEQ (monetary assistance) and

landowners in the watershed (transportation and accessibility to study sites). Funding from the NET and

NDEQ will provide funds for field data collection and graduate student support. THIS PROJECT WAS

FUNDED $92,849 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $46,862 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE

FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Lower Loup NRD Nearest Town: Ord Project Name: Integrated Management Data Acquisition Program Project No: 19-115 Amount Requested: $75,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Water The Lower Loup NRD (LLNRD) is applying for assistance from NET to install flowmeters on municipal, commercial, industrial, and livestock wells, as well as additional irrigation systems. With passing of voluntary Integrated Management Plan (IMP) by LLNRD and the NDNR, several goals were identified and approved to help monitor and protect the water supply in the future. The first goal is to develop and maintain a comprehensive inventory of the locations and sources of the District’s current and future water supplies, water uses and outflows. Flowmeters will allow the NRD to accurately quantify various water uses to acquire data for water budget, a primary objective of the IMP. The District plans to administer a cost-share program that will combine NET funds with matching funds from LLNRD to fund the purchase of 75 flowmeters over the next 3 years. These high-capacity wells are unmetered and would provide beneficial data to the LLNRD for the water budget.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Lower Niobrara NRD Nearest Town: Butte Project Name: Lower Niobrara Observation Well Network Project No: 19-151 Amount Requested: $160,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Water The Lower Niobrara NRD (LNNRD), located in north central Nebraska, is looking to the Nebraska Environmental Trust for grant funding to drill test holes, record geological data, construct observation wells, and install water-level data loggers to acquire information about aquifer composition, ground water hydrology, ground water quality, and ground water quantity. The observation wells will support a long term ground water monitoring program that will supply data to efficiently and effectively manage the ground water resources of the LNNRD. Currently, LNNRD has a very limited number of dedicated observation wells in a small area of the District. Expansion of this observation well network will allow for increased understanding of aquifer attributes, ground water flows, year around water level monitoring, and an increased level of accuracy of ground water data. The target areas have intensive, irrigated cropping systems that overlay areas located along aquifer boundaries, areas previously declared aquifer absent, and areas that have well interference issues between irrigators, livestock producers, and domestic well owners. Also included in the target areas are the Wellhead Protection Areas of the Boyd #2 Rural Water District, the West Knox Rural Water District, and the LNNRD's portion of the Bazile Groundwater Management Area.

Sponsor Name: Lower Platte North NRD Nearest Town: Schuyler Project Name: Aquifer Vulnerability Mapping and Analysis Project No: 19-127 Amount Requested: $91,199 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water The Lower Platte North NRD (LPNNRD) has identified two areas of nitrate contamination, known as Phase II and Phase III areas. Phase II areas are defined as having 50% or more of wells with a nitrate concentration exceeding 8 ppm, while Phase III areas are those with 50% or more wells exceeding 10 ppm (10 ppm is the maximum safe drinking level limit). One area consists of all or parts of twenty-one Sections around Bellwood in Butler County and the other consists of sixty-five Sections around the towns of Richland and Schuyler in Colfax County. With such a large area, with diverse soil types, it is an incredibly difficult problem to solve. Instead of attempting to treat the area as a whole, which is impractical and costly, LPNNRD is proposing an intensive sampling and modeling effort to better understand how the nitrates are moving through these areas and attempt to identify those areas where aquifer infiltration is most likely. Once identified, LPNNRD can focus resources on these areas through education and working with producers on best management practices to ameliorate nitrate contamination in the Phase areas as a whole. This will result in the maximum benefit at the least cost.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Lower Platte North NRD Nearest Town: Schuyler Project Name: Shell Creek Enhancement Plan: Phase II Project No: 19-174 Amount Requested: $104,688 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat Shell Creek, once teeming with aquatic life was overrun with pollutants and became bereft of life. In response, local residents formed the Shell Creek Watershed Improvement Group (SCWIG) in 1999. SCWIG partnered with Lower Platte North NRD, Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality and the Natural Resources Conservation Service. Led by SCWIG, with funding through the Nebraska Environmental Trust, projects to decrease nutrient runoff were implemented. In the intervening years Newman Grove High School students sampled the creek, and little by little, noticed life returning to the creek. Through sustained efforts a feat thought impossible was realized, Shell Creek was delisted for Atrazine in 2018. This first in the nation occurrence culminated in a celebration attended by the public, politicians (Governor Pete Ricketts and the EPA Administrator both attended), and partner agencies and stood as a testament to what can be accomplished when public and private partnerships are determined to accomplish a goal. While life has returned to Shell Creek, SCWIG and their partners know there is much work left to accomplish, E. coli is still a persistent contaminant. With NET’s assistance, continuing efforts in Shell Creek can address E. coli and other contaminants while keeping the stream free of Atrazine.

Sponsor Name: Lower Republican NRD Nearest Town: Franklin Project Name: Lower Republican NRD Rural Water Project Project No: 19-102 Amount Requested: $28,516 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water The Lower Republican NRD serves rural water customers in parts of Franklin, Webster, and Nuckolls Counties. In the past five years, over six million (6,000,000) gallons of water has been lost due to undetected water leaks. Presently, customers are supposed to read their meter and compute the water usage monthly. Some customers, however, read only once or twice a year, which has caused large water losses to go undetected. The goal of the project is to conserve water by installing remote-read water meters to 186 Lower Republican NRD rural water customers. With new remote-read digital meters and associated support equipment, the entire system could be read in one day, eliminating the need to wait for the customer to send in the reading. It currently takes one person three days to manually read all the meters along the system. In completing this project, water usage monitoring is enhanced, and millions of gallons of water are conserved.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Metropolitan Area Planning Agency Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Little Steps Big Impact Project No: 19-135 Amount Requested: $50,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education Little Steps Big Impact is an ozone awareness and education campaign coordinated by the Metropolitan Area Planning Agency (MAPA) with project partners to create awareness of the Omaha metro area’s air quality situation and encourage residents to take small actions to help improve it. The Omaha metro is the only area in Nebraska near non-attainment for ground-level ozone. MAPA requests the Nebraska Environmental Trust fund the outreach, non-advertising portion of the campaign. Outreach includes: a school ozone monitoring program in which MAPA’s handheld ozone monitors supplement classroom lessons, an active commuting toolkit which assists employers in helping staff use alternative transportation, and news media advisories and social media posts on days when the ozone forecast is moderate or higher. We believe this campaign will increase awareness among residents and create behavioral changes that help reduce ground-level ozone and improve overall air quality, maintain public health and allow Omaha to continue to meet federal air quality standards. Progress is measured through several means including, an online and phone survey that ranks respondents’ ozone awareness and behavior changes, the number of miles traveled by bikes from Heartland B-cycle, Omaha’s bike share program, and sales of cleaner-burning biofuels at promotional events.

Sponsor Name: Middle Niobrara NRD Nearest Town: Valentine Project Name: Woody Biomass and Compost Utilization Tractor Project No: 19-195 Amount Requested: $192,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment The Middle Niobrara NRD (MNNRD) is one of three Natural Resource Districts (NRDs) based within the Niobrara River Basin of Nebraska. Over the last several years, the MNNRD has invested in equipment to produce wood chips that get mixed with manure for spreading on crop fields. Research plots of this conservation practice has shown increases in soil moisture retention, infiltration rates, aggregate stability and general soil biology. Most recently, the MNNRD has acquired a compost turner allowing us to produce compost by mixing wood chips and animal manure, taking woody biomass utilization to the next level of a marketable use in our area. Currently, a tractor has been rented to accomplish composting and spreading. This has allowed us opportunity to familiarize ourselves with the compost turner and manure spreader and determine the tractor size (HP) and transmission needed for operating both implements. A tractor required to operate the compost turner must have an Infinitely Variable Transmission or equivalent, capable of going under .3 mph, but also be able to road to different sites at faster speeds. Therefore, the MNNRD is seeking funding to purchase a tractor that will be used to operate our compost turner and manure spreader.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Middle Niobrara NRD Nearest Town: Valentine Project Name: Expansion of Water Quality/Quantity Monitoring Sites Project No: 19-198 Amount Requested: $146,500 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water The Middle Niobrara NRD (MNNRD) in north central Nebraska covers an area of 2,983,680 acres. The MNNRD sits on top of the Ogallala Aquifer covering parts of Cherry, Brown, Keya Paha, and Rock counties along the middle stretch of the Niobrara River. The Aquifer supplies almost all the water for drinking, irrigation, and livestock production. The MNNRD is looking for funding to drill test holes, record down-hole data, construct monitoring wells, and purchase of sampling equipment to collect data about groundwater quality, quantity, and aquifer composition. Presently, the MNNRD has 40 monitoring well sites across the District. (Figure 1) With the size of the District, this still leaves vast areas where data collection can occur. The MNNRD will work with the University of Nebraska Conservation and Survey Division to drill test holes and obtain down-hole geophysical logs. This information is important in identifying aquifer properties, depth and locations to install monitoring wells. Well driller bids will be secured, and monitoring wells will be constructed. When completed, the updated aquifer information, along with quality and quantity data will assist the MNNRD with groundwater management decisions.

Sponsor Name: Middle Niobrara NRD Nearest Town: Ainsworth Project Name: Long Pine Creek Watershed-Phase II Implementation Project No: 18-175-2 Amount Requested: $168,750 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Long Pine Creek Watershed Plan and associated Sand Draw Creek Restoration Plan evaluated 13 subwatersheds and identified the causes of water quality impairments in the area. The plans outline a long term, comprehensive, and phased approach at addressing the causes, not just the symptoms, of watershed problems using proven management actions. These plans were finalized in 2016; and through a robust public engagement process the following four subwatersheds were identified as high priority: Sand Draw, Middle Bone, Willow, and Middle Long Pine. Priority locations for stream restoration practices and grade control structures were identified along the lower reach of Sand Draw. These actions improve grade control, enhance stream bank stability, reduce down cutting, improve water quality, and enhance aquatic habitat. The Middle Niobrara NRD is requesting assistance to continue progress made in Phase I of this watershed restoration initiative. Phase II will continue BMP implementation within priority watersheds to reduce nonpoint source pollution, improve irrigation management, and will focus on the construction of a priority stream grade control structure on Sand Draw that was designed during Phase 1. Grade stabilization and restoration structures have been designed and will be installed on a stretch of Sand Draw facing serious erosion from ongoing stream bed degradation. This degradation damages aquatic habitat, causes groundwater levels to decline, degrades water quality, threatens the stability of the entire stream network, and will eventually threaten critical infrastructure systems. Design of the structures is nearly complete and a preapplication meeting has been held with USACE to obtain guidance in receiving a Section 404 permit. A wetland delineation has been performed. Installation of this structure is critical to watershed health and has been held up as a priority by landowners, residents, and public officials. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $602,040 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $168,750 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Missouri River Basin Lewis & Clark Visitor Center Nearest Town: Nebraska City Project Name: Lewis & Clark Interactive Trail Map & Tour Project No: 19-149 Amount Requested: $39,850 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education Uniquely positioned on 79 acres in the heart of where Meriwether Lewis and William Clark traveled, is the Lewis and Clark Visitor Center. Visitors can observe immersive indoor exhibits or walk the outdoor trails which include some of the same plants and animals that existed in July of 1804 when Lewis and Clark walked the precise area. Throughout this project, we will create two digital experiences encompassing indoor and outdoor educational topics and areas. The indoor digital table will utilize the highest technology touch screens positioned on a flat table and will teach users about the Lewis and Clark journey across the United States, capturing of the prairie dog, Sargent Floyd’s burial, recruitment of Charbonneau and Sacajawea, significance of Fort Mandan, among many other topics. The outdoor experience will be a mobile application encouraging users to visit specific portions of the trails, where they will receive digital stamps of completion as they see animals, plants, and key trail points. In both experiences, it is our goal to attract and educate visitors in the areas of native habitat conservation, Nebraska’s unique positioning as it relates to the ground Lewis and Clark walked, all in an innovative and interpretative manner.

Sponsor Name: Missouri Sedimentation Action Coalition Nearest Town: Niobrara Project Name: Engaging Stakeholders for Lewis & Clark Lake's Future Project No: 19-121 Amount Requested: $80,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water The Missouri Sedimentation Action Coalition, its partners and other stakeholders support developing a sediment management plan with the United States Army Corps of Engineers under Section 1179a of WRDA 2016. The plan will be focused on preventing sediment from reducing water storage at the Gavins Point Dam Reservoir - Lewis and Clark Lake, or for increasing water storage capacity at the reservoir through sediment removal, or a combination of both. Lewis and Clark Lake is a reservoir created by Gavins Point Dam, which borders Nebraska and South Dakota on the Missouri River. With this grant request, MSAC intends partner with stakeholders and contribute directly to the local match required. A sediment management plan is needed to approach reservoir sustainability in a holistic, broad manner. Many agree achieving a more natural equilibrium of sediment in the Missouri River is desirable. Maintaining storage capacity in the reservoir for water would work toward maintaining the benefits produced by regulation of the Missouri River mainstem system including, flood risk management, navigation, irrigation, hydropower, recreation, water supply and fish and wildlife. MSAC is requesting $80,000 which could be approximately 20% of the total project cost, depending on the cost share agreement.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: National Junior Horticultural Association Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: NJHA Project No: 19-211 Amount Requested: $35,140 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education The National Junior Horticultural Association is a non-profit education association that partners with 4-H, FFA and The Grange to educate youth about horticulture. Each year, we hold an annual National convention that rotates in different parts of the country to give youth the option of different educational options in horticulture to learn from. The 2019 National Convention will be in Lincoln, NE at the Cornhusker Hotel. We are seeing funds to support our mission of the acronym HYCEL which stands for Horticulture, Youth, Careers, Education and Leadership. Our annual meeting is compromised of a 4 day convention, in which the youth participate in contests, educational workshops and tours as well as a final banquet. The 2019 convention committee seeks sponsorship from the Nebraska Environmental Trust to help support the convention so that we can try to lower registration for our attendees and maximize our participation to as many as possible. We are asking for funds to support the tours, meals, bus rentals for tours and travel for our National Officer team for their June meeting to plan and their October meeting to attend the convention. 2019 will be our 85th year as an organization and look forward to your support.

Sponsor Name: National Wild Turkey Federation Nearest Town: Chadron Project Name: Forest Stand Restoration on Pine Ridge WMAs Project No: 18-120-2 Amount Requested: $38,644 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The NWTF, NGPC, and NFS are proposing a continuation of their partnership to continue forest restoration efforts in the Pine Ridge area of Nebraska through forest stand improvement (FSI) projects on four wildlife management areas (Bordeaux Creek WMA, Chadron Creek Ranch WMA, Gilbert Baker WMA, and Ponderosa WMA). This project is designed to mitigate against the potential impacts of large-scale moderate to high severity crown fires. This is especially important as over 60% of the Pine Ridge forest resources were severely impacted by such fires in 2006 and again in 2012. In addition to reducing wildfire risk, planned forest restoration projects will enhance biological diversity through restoration of pine woodlands to more natural, pre-settlement conditions. Plans are for 360 acres to be directly treated over two years and will build upon and complete projects that were previously supported with NET Funds. This project will include creation of strategically located fuel-breaks thinnings along access roads and highways within the wildlife/urban interface allowing for more effective and safe wildfire suppression and prescribed burning efforts in the future. This will impact the area at the landscape scale, allowing for increased prescribed burning efforts to reduce ponderosa pine regeneration and meadow encroachment, thus reducing overall forest management costs. The NWTF and NGPC currently have a partnership supporting a cooperative forester, an NWTF employee, working out of the U.S. Forest Service office in Chadron, NE. The NWTF will continue its support of this position and will budget 25% of the position's time and travel for implementation of this project, with the approval of NGPC. We are seeking financial assistance from the NET to assist with implementation of needed forest management practices to restore the function and resiliency of this biologically unique landscape in Nebraska. Matching funds will be provided through the NWTF, NGPC, and NFS. . THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $105,445 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $38,644 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Academy of Sciences, Inc. Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Nebraska Environmental Public Information and Education Minigrant Program Project No: 19-106 Amount Requested: $57,600 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education This application is to request that we extend our current grant #17-101 into its third year. The PIE Minigrant Program will award a total of $51,000 each year, in Minigrants of up to $3,000 each, to support the presentation and dissemination of information and perspectives that will stimulate enhanced environmental stewardship in any category eligible for Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) funding. These categories are habitat, surface and ground water, waste management, air quality, and soil management. The grants seek to expand dialogue on important current conservation topics and to provide information on emerging or highly useful conservation methods. All Nebraska individuals, private organizations, and public entities are eligible to apply for these funds. This program will be administered by the Nebraska Academy of Sciences (NAS).

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Association of Teacher's of Science Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Cultivating Nebraska's Environmental Science Teacher Leaders Project No: 19-209 Amount Requested: $61,225 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education Ensuring our Nebraska students are prepared to address environmental challenges as they pursue college, career, and civic life is of paramount importance. Nebraska’s College and Career Ready Standards for Science, adopted in September of 2017, include Earth and Human Activity and Sustainability as topics in Nebraska science classrooms. In order to best prepare our Nebraska students to be scientifically literate in these contexts, we need to ensure our Nebraska educators are equipped with high quality, pedagogically sound instructional resources. This project seeks to provide 60 Nebraska science teacher leaders with an opportunity to engage in a 5 day workshop with continued virtual support during the school year so they deeply connect with environmental content delivered through an instructional model that will allow students to reason with evidence, critically evaluate information, and design solutions to current and future environmental challenges.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Big Game Society Nearest Town: Crawford Project Name: Solar Water Well Equipment Water Catchments Project No: 19-167 Amount Requested: $40,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Equipment This wildlife water development project is a partnership between Nebraska Big Game Society (NBGS) and Nebraska Game & Parks Commission (NGPC). The goal of the project is to provide wildlife water sources on public and private lands in the arid regions of N. W. Nebraska panhandle. The project has three parts: (1) To replace existing well mechanical equipment (windmills or electric motors) with solar-based equipment for greater efficiency and constant use throughout the year. (2) install new water wells with solar equipment in areas that presently have no natural water source. (3) install water catchment structures, better known as “guzzlers” in remote areas with limited water sources or man-made water wells. The project total cost will be $80,000. NBGS and NGPC are each investing $20,000 (50%) towards the project costs, $40,000 total, which include all equipment, materials, and labor to complete the project. Any disturbances to the installation sites will be repaired prior to leaving a site.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Cattlemen Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Wildlife Habitat Improvement Through

Prescribed Grazing: A Private/Public Partnership Project No: 18-210-2 Amount Requested: $50,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The objective of this project is to improve wildlife habitat on private and public lands by installing fencing and watering facilities to allow for prescribed grazing management. The environmental outputs will be improved lake, stream, wetland, and prairie habitat on 5,895 acres and improved water quality by encouraging best management practices on surrounding lakes, streams, and wetland areas. Partners in this project include private landowners, the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, the Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Nebraska Cattlemen. These partners will provide match exceeding 1:1. This project is a continuation of a partnership that received Nebraska Environmental Trust in the past (04-169, 05-176, 08-144, and 12-142) when the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission was the applicant. All four grants have all been successfully completed, and a summary of the results is provided in the narrative. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $200,000 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $50,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Energy Alliance Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Connecting Nebraska Communities Driving America's Fuel! Phase IV Project No: 19-125 Amount Requested: $536,055 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Air Quality NCEA requests $536,055 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust (NET) at a fifty percent cost share to lease/purchase electric vehicles (EV) and ChargePoint™ (CP) electric vehicle charging stations for NCEA members. NCEA Grant Partners for 2019 NET Funding: Omaha Public Power District (OPPD) - $160,090 Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) - $103,315 City of Fremont - $58,000 City of Kearney - $45,830 City of Aurora - $37,210 City of Gretna - $18,605 Nebraska Safety Center at UNK - $20,310 Auburn Board of Public Works - $4,310 University of Nebraska Lincoln - $50,000 Electric Transportation Partners - $40,000 The request funds three utility rebate programs for OPPD, NPPD and Fremont to populate a significant study cohort for each utility pilot. EV and CP Home rebates incentivize participation in each utility's study on the effects of EVs on the electrical grid. The owners' EV purchase comprises the matching funds for the EV. All NCEA grant partners participate in the comprehensive, on-going data analysis of EV charging data initiated in 2014 to determine the driver usage, economic and environmental impacts of EVs. Full reports are published monthly at necommunity.energy.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Energy Alliance Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Nebraska Flyway Community Solar Project II Project No: 18-154-2 Amount Requested: $150,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Utility-scale solar power generation reduces CO2 and other harmful emissions on the first day, benefits communities economically long after the project is paid off, and protects municipalities from the rising cost of conventionally-powered generation (5.6% annual increases). NCEA is requesting $729,970 from the NET in cost share to defray the expense of three utility-scale solar installations in three different Nebraska communities and one small-scale solar-electric vehicle charging project at Allen Schools. The city of Gothenburg requests $150,000 on a $600,000 local match; the city of Fremont requests $300,000 on a $1.2M local match; the city of Superior requests a $170,000 match on a $2M local match, and Allen Schools requests a $7,750 match on a $7,750 local match. The NET request includes $50,000 with a $50,000 in-kind match for UNL research and $50,220 for grant administration and public education to Electric Transportation Partners, from which all expenses will be paid. The total carbon reduction associated with the four project combined is 2,446,990 lbs, 56,202 tons over 25 years. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $729,970 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $150,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Foundation Nearest Town: Multiple Project Name: Wetlands Reserve Enhancement Partnership Special Initiative Project No: 17-113-3 Amount Requested: $158,550 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Statement of Intent Funding from this grant will be leveraged to restore 300 acres of wetlands and associated upland. In addition to habitat work, grant ($475,650) and match funds ($1.5 million) will be used to modify pivot irrigation systems to eliminate impacts to the restored wetland and establish grazing infrastructure to seamlessly transition the tract into the producers operation. Annually, NRCS requests proposals to develop Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnerships (WREP). These partnerships focus on developing innovative approaches that allow tracts enrolled in the Wetlands Reserve Easement to “fit” into agriculture operations. This year the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture (RWBJV) was awarded a 300 acre WREP focusing on programmatic flexibility to allow producers to retain the right to pass pivot irrigation systems over enrolled acres. In the past, landowners were hesitant to enroll because they could not pass the pivot over enrolled acres and complete full rotations to effectively irrigate adjacent cropland in the field. To ensure the pivot can cross the restored wetlands a variety of pivot modifications will be used, including moving the pivot point, track systems, and/or replacing pneumatic tires with low pressure tires. These modifications will eliminate impact of the pivot to the restored wetlands and ensure pivot passage over enrolled acres. Grazing infrastructure (i.e. perimeter fence, pivot gates, livestock water) will be established to seamlessly transition the flood-prone cropland to forage production. Grazing will maintain the tract as working lands and maximize habitat conditions. Nebraska’s three largest pivot manufacturers (Lindsay, Reinke, and Valmont) have signed on as corporate partners. These companies have committed to technical assistance and financial assistance through a cost-share program for pivot modifications. They will also assist with outreach and marketing through their dealer networks. These dealers will be able to identify multiple producers that will qualify for this program, ensuring implementation success. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $158,550 IN 2017 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $158,550 IN YEAR TWO AND $158,550 IN YEAR THREE PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE THIRD YEAR REQUEST


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Foundation Nearest Town: Ord Project Name: Loup River Prescribed Fire Training Exchange Project No: 18-121-2 Amount Requested: $163,500 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Within the past century and a half, strong sentiments regarding wildfires led to the suppression and prevention of naturally occurring fires across Nebraska. The consequent absence of fire as a regular part of Nebraska's grassland ecosystems has significantly altered habitat for native wildlife and has undermined the productivity of the livestock economy in Nebraska. At 1.4 million acres, the Central Loess Hills Biologically Unique Landscape is the largest BUL in the Mixed-grass Prairie Ecoregion. Currently, over 11 percent of the Central Loess Hills BUL grasslands are invaded by eastern redcedar, and without intervention, this invasion is expected to grow exponentially. Even through prescribed fire has been one of the most rapidly adopted contemporary grassland management tools in Nebraska, most prescribed fires are less than one hundred acres in size. Larger prescribed fires will be needed to mitigate tree invasion and limit future tree encroachment in order to secure grassland habitat for at-risk wildlife and a strong livestock economy in the Central Loess Hills BUL. The Fire Learning Network's Prescribed Fire Training Exchange Program has been operating in the Central Loess Hills BUL and Loup River watershed since 2010 and provides training to wildland firefighters during live prescribed fire scenarios on private land. Since 2010, the Loup River Prescribed Fire Training Exchange has delivered over 29,000 acres of safe and effective prescribed fire in the Central Loess Hills BUL. With the assistance of the Nebraska Environmental Trust, the Loup River Prescribed Fire Training Exchange will be able to assist in compensating landowners to rest their grass prior to the prescribed fire in order to increase the ecological effectiveness of our fires. We will deliver 8,000 acres of large-scale prescribed fire within 2 years through the Loup River Prescribed Fire Training Exchange. In addition, financial assistance from the Nebraska Environmental Trust will also allow us to offer incentives for private landowners who are already burning to increase the size and impact of their prescribed fires. Through this incentive and the formal Loup River Prescribed Fire Training Exchange Program, we anticipate we will deliver a total of 13,000 acres of meaningful prescribed fire over the two years. Nebraska Environmental Trust assistance will also augment our equipment needs for prescribed fires by providing necessary fire line equipment. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $342,000 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $163,500 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Foundation Nearest Town: Aurora Project Name: Rainwater Basin Watershed Restoration Initiative Project No: 18-122-2 Amount Requested: $105,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Rainwater Basin Joint Venture (RWBJV) is a conservation partnership of agencies (state, federal, and local), conservation organizations, and private landowners who work together to implement wetland habitat conservation in Nebraska’s 6,100 mi² Rainwater Basin (RWB) landscape. This grant’s objective is to fill at least 21 abandoned irrigation reuse pits in the watersheds of public or private wetlands enrolled in conservation programs. In 1975, Nebraska legislation was passed to regulate groundwater irrigation. This law required producers to manage groundwater irrigation so adjacent properties were not impacted. As a result over 10,000 irrigation reuse pits were excavated. These features increased irrigation efficiency and reduced runoff. Today many of the fields that were gravity irrigated with irrigation reuse pits have been converted to pivot irrigation. As a result, many of the irrigation reuse pits are not used. Unfortunately, the abandoned irrigation reuse pits, in the watersheds of conserved wetlands, fiII with water before runoff from precipitation events can reach the wetlands. Filling abandoned irrigation reuse pits provides a "win-win" for producers and wildlife. When an irrigation reuse pit is filled the producer eliminates an obstacle in the field and acquires additional farmable acres. Removing the pit also restores wetland hydrology and watershed function, by facilitating runoff to the wetland on a regular basis. Functional RWB wetlands are critical especially during spring migration when ~8.6 million waterfowl, 500,000 shorebirds, and the federally endangered whooping crane stage in this area to rest and replenish nutrient reserves. To maximize project effectiveness, emphasis will be on irrigation reuse pits closest to the wetlands with large storage capacities. Since RWB wetlands are major recharge sites to the underlying Ogallala Aquifer, grant activities will also benefit local residents and area producers. In summary grant activities will support a sustainable aquifer, wildlife habitat, and productive agriculture operations for generations.THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $315,000 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $105,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Foundation -RWBJV Nearest Town: Holdrege Project Name: Western Basin Restorations; Improving Waterfowl Habitat, Recharging the Aquifer, and Improving Water Quality Project No: 19-114 Amount Requested: $582,750 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Ogallala Aquifer is the lifeblood of Nebraska. This underwater ocean provides drinking water for Nebraska Residents and ensures profitable irrigated agriculture. Playa wetlands, like those in the Rainwater Basin, recharge the aquifer. If funded, partners will leverage $782,000 in matching funds to restore 1,565 acres of playa wetlands at five Waterfowl Production Areas (Cottonwood, Funk, Johnson, Linder, Victor Lakes) in Phelps and Gosper County. The restoration activities will ensure these wetlands have sufficient storage volume for 3,000 acre/ft. of supplemental water deliveries without negatively impacting adjacent landowners. Restoration will allow Tri-Basin NRD to deliver 3,000 acre/ft. annually to these wetlands. The restored wetlands will provide habitat for millions of migrating waterfowl as well as recharge and improve water quality in the aquifer. Target delivery dates are scheduled after November 15th. Deliveries will be through newly installed infrastructure that will convey water from Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District canals in a seven day period. This project is a unique win-win where multiple agencies are working together to provide habitat for migratory birds, improve drinking water for area residents, provide sustainable water for irrigation, and contribute to in-stream flow targets for the Platte River System.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Community Foundation -RWBJV Nearest Town: Aurora Project Name: Happy Cows; Happy Wetlands Project No: 19-136 Amount Requested: $176,750 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat If funded, this grant will provide financial assistance to continue the Rainwater Basin Joint Venture (RWBJV) Working Lands Initiative (WLI). Grant and partner funds will be leveraged with landowner contributions, to install grazing infrastructure that will allow wetlands to be incorporated into agriculture operations throughout the Rainwater Basin (RWB). As row-crop agriculture production increased, many privately owned wetlands were abandoned. With the lack of grazing the wetlands transitioned to monocultures of invasive/exotic vegetation (reed canary grass, river bulrush, and hybrid cattail). These communities provide limited habitat for waterfowl, waterbird, and shorebirds. Successful implementation will require three stages: 1) Contacting producers with abandoned wetlands about incorporating grazing in their operation, 2) Leveraging funding to construct necessary infrastructure (perimeter fence, cross fence, and livestock watering), 3) Conducting tours with landowners and natural resource professionals to ensure an open dialogue about how grazing can be economically viable and promote desired habitat for the millions of waterfowl and shorebirds that rely on this region during their bi-annual migrations. These tours will ensure natural resource professionals and producers develop better projects and understand the win-win for producers and wildlife. Developing infrastructure will also ensure cost effective long-term management of these sites through prescribed grazing.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Conservation Education Fund Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: NCEF Common Ground Program Project No: 19-206 Amount Requested: $130,398 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education NCEF requests $130,398 from the Nebraska Environmental Trust to expand our Common Ground Educational Program, which conserves, enhances and restores the natural environments of Nebraska. Our program does this by providing the public with education about habitat, surface and ground water, waste management, soil management, and air quality. We recruit and train local volunteers to lead these efforts, and we work with them to implement locally-led conservation projects that focus on the priorities of the NET. Funding from NET will support the hiring of a Program Director, program evaluation, and the expansion of our programming to 27 communities across Nebraska. Each dollar of NET funding will be matched by more than $5 of funding from public and private sources. Support from the NET in 2019 and 2020 will result in 648 educational programs that will reach more than 7,000 Nebraskans. Survey results administered at Common Ground programs during the last year demonstrate a track record of success, with 78% of respondents caring more about the conservation issue discussed after engaging with our program and 87% having a greater desire to improve their own conservation habits. Support from the NET will ensure that this success continues and reaches thousands more Nebraskans.

Sponsor Name: NCORPE Nearest Town: Dickens Project Name: NCORPE Re-seeding Project Project No: 19-189 Amount Requested: $207,015 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat NCORPE’s re-seeding project is a result of nearly 14,000 acres of formerly irrigated cropland, in the Sandhills Ecoregion of Nebraska as defined by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, being planted to a native prairie seed mixture. Due to the magnitude of converting the largest contiguous tract of cropland to native prairie in Nebraska’s history some of these acres inevitably failed to become fully established rangeland. Currently, the task for the Nebraska Cooperative Republican Platte Enhancement Project (NCORPE), an interlocal agency that is comprised of the Upper Republican, Lower Republican, Middle Republican, and Twin Platte NRDs (NCORPE), is to re-seed those acres deemed unsuccessful at becoming fully established and to potentially inter-seed forbs into the remnant corners. The portion of the project for which NCORPE is seeking an NET grant is the incorporation of native forb seeds into an all native grass mixture and the drilling costs associated with this entire seed mixture.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Department of Natural Resources Nearest Town: Statewide Project Name: Integrated Water Management Action Initiative Project No: 18-107-2 Amount Requested: $3,300,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent This application is submitted pursuant to LB331, 2017, codified at Neb. Rev. Stat. § 61-218(7)(c), which states: “It is the intent of the Legislature that the department apply for … an additional three-year grant that would begin in fiscal year 2017- 18 if the criteria established in subsection (4) of section 81-15,175 are achieved.” All funds obtained through the allocation will be used for the purposes of the WRCF as set out in Neb. Rev. Stat. § 61-218(7). The WRCF was established to fund the State’s contingent water resources remediation needs in fully and overappropriated basins. It has funded various projects since its inception in 2007, including the Platte Basin Habitat Enhancement Project (PBHEP), also funded with NET dollars, and the “Platte Basin Water Management Action Initiative”, which evolved from PBHEP, expanding on other water projects and shifting focus from easements to other projects that achieve the same goal. The purpose of this current Initiative is to plan, implement, and monitor activities that result in more effective water management and remediation for current depletions caused by past actions. The Initiative will assist the Department and the Natural Resources Districts (NRDs), in cooperation with other partners, in providing clear, direct benefits to habitat and surface and groundwater resources by: optimizing timing and efficiency of water uses, enhancing streamflows and groundwater recharge, reducing water consumption, and enhancing wildlife habitat in fully and overappropriated areas. The Initiative described in this application is a portion of the currently intended uses for the WRCF. Other projects will be carried out under the auspices of the WRCF with available funds as well. In-progress and new projects include: surface water storage projects, groundwater retiming, leasing or purchasing water, conjunctive management of water, conservation easements, and other water use efficiency measures to optimize water use in the basin. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $3,300,000 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $3,330,000 IN YEAR TWO AND $3,300,000 IN YEAR THREE PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Lincoln

Project Name: Grassland Enhancement Initiative Project No: 19-170

Amount Requested: $500,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat

The NGPC and PF would use NET and matching funds to help landowners complete grassland habitat improvements on 45,000 acres of private lands. Improvements will be accomplished through practices including, but not limited to; Prescribed Fire, Tree Removal, Herbicide Application, Disking, Grazing, and Herbaceous Seeding. Project partners have a proven track record, recognized programs to undertake grassland management on both native grasslands and Conservation Reserve Program acres. This project would provide funding to counter threats to grasslands such as the proliferation of eastern redcedar, absence of management, and conversion. With time and an absence of management, plant diversity of grasslands has decreased and many tracts have become monocultures of grass. Loss of plant diversity has decreased the suitable habitat for grassland birds. Grassland management activities on these acres restore diversity and productivity for wildlife including pollinators (monarchs, native bees, etc.) and grassland birds (grasshopper sparrows, greater prairie-chicken, pheasant, etc.). The creation and improvement of grasslands will generate many direct and indirect benefits to landowners and wildlife, as well as hunters and local econmies for years after the enhancements are completed.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Nebraska’s Natural Legacy Project: New Approaches to Biodiversity Conservation Project No: 19-191 Amount Requested: $900,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Nebraska Natural Legacy Project (Legacy Project) has applied strategic conservation to restore at-risk species since it was federally approved in 2005. The habitat-based plan identifies at-risk species, threats to those species, conservation actions, and prioritizes Biologically Unique Landscapes (BUL) for effectively conserving Nebraska’s biodiversity. Legacy partners have worked with hundreds of private landowners to implement conservation projects in nearly two dozen BULs that enhanced over 400,000 acres of at-risk species’ habitat. The Legacy Project is a living document (updated in 2011) and will undergo a comprehensive revision in 2020-2021. The first goal of this proposal is to continue strategic habitat improvement on at least 100,000 acres. Habitat restoration, on both private and conservation lands will benefit at-risk species as well as common species. Private land projects will be delivered collaboratively with partners and use a voluntary, incentive-based approach. Another goal is to complete a comprehensive revision of the Legacy Project. This two year process will follow national guidelines, engage over 22 Nebraska stakeholder organizations, and reach hundreds of individuals. Another goal is to continue to broaden engagement and enthusiasm for at-risk species conservation, and increase the understanding of species’ needs.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: WILD Nebraska Program Project No: 19-193 Amount Requested: $200,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC) and our partners have been implementing the WILD Nebraska program on private lands since 2000. NGPC allocates approximately $100,000 towards WILD Nebraska and requests for these funds far exceed the annual allocation. Approval of this NET grant would add more opportunity for better stewardship, wildlife habitat, and public use opportunities. The primary goal of WILD Nebraska is to increase and improve wildlife habitat on private land and lands owned by Conservation Partners to optimize recreational opportunities. There are many great programs our agency and partners utilize to meet similar goals. Many of those programs are focused geographically, or tied to certain habitat types or wildlife species. WILD Nebraska is a flexible program allowing us to complete projects that don’t fit into other programs, add practices to improve the end product, and work on conservation partner lands. The NET request of $200,000 ($100,000/year) will be approximately distributed to grasslands (40%), wetlands (50%) and woodlands (10%). Estimates of acres impacted include 750-1200 grassland, 300-420 wetland, and 75-150 woodland. With partner contributions, those numbers will increase. In the last two WILD Nebraska grants (#14-223 and #17-109) our staff completed 118 projects in 51 of 93 counties.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Cool Water Stream Management in Nebraska Project No: 19-194 Amount Requested: $200,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Water This public/private lands project involves cooperation with private landowners, government agencies and other organizations to manage and assess cold water streams in Nebraska. This program will feature integration of stewardship practices within watersheds and riparian zones, and stream enhancements to provide long-term benefits to landowners and aquatic communities. We will manage stretches of streams identified in the Cool Water Stream Management Plan (available on our website), including public and private streams, with trout and/or at-risk fish species. Private land projects will be done with willing landowners. Appropriate stream reaches will serve as demonstration sites, where information will be collected to evaluate effectiveness of management. This program will further Nebraska Environmental Trust objectives by enhancing cold water stream habitats for at-risk fish species (Northern Redbelly Dace, Pearl Dace, Finescale Dace, Blacknose Shiner) and/or Rainbow, Brook, and Brown trout and provide angling opportunities. Implementation of best management practices should also improve water quality and reduce soil erosion. Demonstration sites will be included in habitat tours to show both strategies and sources of assistance to further make improvements to stream and streamside habitats. A list of streams where projects are likely to occur during this grant period is included with this application.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Trout in the Classroom Project No: 17-122-3 Amount Requested: $34,940 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Statement of Intent Trout in the Classroom (TIC) is an environmental education program that provides students the opportunity to learn about aquatic resources within a framework of hatching and raising trout. Nebraska's TIC program was initiated in 2013 with three pilot schools and has expanded to include 60 schools statewide with the assistance of NET funding. Participating students monitor growth as their trout hatch and develop, and they take ownership of caring for their trout by feeding, testing water quality and cleaning the aquarium. Throughout the program, students participate in activities that cover topics like aquatic habitat, water quality, ecosystem interactions, food webs, life cycles and Nebraska fish species. Students learn firsthand how all aspects of a trout's life cycle, food web and habitat are interconnected and impacted by the environment. Nebraska's TIC curriculum has interdisciplinary applications in science, social studies, mathematics, language arts, fine arts and physical education. The curriculum targets 4th- and 5th-grade learning objectives, but is being utilized in 2nd-grade through high school classes. With a second NET grant, we are seeking to fund a staff assistant position to help coordinate TIC. This position will continue to support the existing program by coordinating with teachers to plan for classroom visits, field trips, training workshops and trout egg deliveries. Additionally, this position will assist with the development of a middle- and high-school TIC curriculum package, will aid new applicants in grant writing to obtain the necessary funding for equipment and will build and administer an equipment grant fund for new applicants. This grant is essential to the continued growth of, and meeting demand for, this popular aquatic education curriculum program. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $34,900 IN 2017 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $34,900 IN YEAR TWO AND $34,900 IN YEAR THREE PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE THIRD YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Spencer Project Name: Sustaining Water and Wildlife in the Niobrara River Valley Project No: 18-114-2 Amount Requested: $500,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (Commission), Niobrara Basin Natural Resource Districts (NRDs), and Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) are working together to protect the future of the Niobrara River and basin. The Commission and NRD's are working together to protect the future of the Niobrara River and basin. The Commission and NRD's are working with NPPD to take steps towards transfer of assets, including NPPD's water appropriations on the Niobrara River, Spencer Hydro dam, and the lands associated with the dam. The purchase and transfer of assets and water appropriations will secure the future of the Niobrara River and basin for the Niobrara basin and all Nebraskans. This project will protect the long-term integrity of the Niobrara River and the Niobrara River Basin to meet all needs, including fish and wildlife, recreation, agriculture, and industry. The Commission is applying to secure a portion of the funds needed to bring this important project to fruition. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $500,000 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $500,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission Nearest Town: Aurora Project Name: The Nebraska Oak Woodland Alliance II Project No: 18-167-2 Amount Requested: $167,500 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Eastern Nebraska oak woodlands are one of our state’s most threatened ecosystems. They have been degraded by lack of fire, proliferation of shade-tolerant trees, invasion by exotic plants, and lack of oak regeneration. In 2014, the Nebraska Oak Woodland Alliance (NOWA), an affiliation of organizations dedicated to enhancing our state’s oak woodlands, received a NETF grant for work on private- and conservation lands. The past three years, through this grant NOWA partners have implemented prescribed fire on 11,275 acres of oaks woods (grant goal was 6,000 acres), conducted thinning of shade-tolerant and invasive trees on 3,622 acres (grant goal was 3,200 acres) and implemented invasive weed control on 3,800 acres (grant goal 4,000 acres). To continue this successful project a $350,000 two-year NETF grant is being submitted. The partners will provide $372,500 in cash match and $42,000 in in-kind match. Primary project partners include Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC), Northern Prairies Land Trust, National Wild Turkey Federation, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Natural Resource Conservation Service, Nebraska Forest Service, Girl Scouts Spirit of Nebraska, and several Natural Resource Districts. The NGPC will be the project sponsor and administer the grant. Grant goals include implementing prescribed fire on 10,000 acres of oak woods, mechanical and chemical tree thinning on 1,200 acres, and invasive plant control on over 4,000 acres on both private and conservation lands. Field tours and seminars will be held to educate others regarding methods of oak woodland management. Detailed evaluation programs are in place to determine the effectiveness of our management practices and these will be expanded. This project will fulfill several Nebraska Natural Legacy Project objectives within ten Legacy Project Biologically Unique Landscapes and qualifies for the Geographic Bonus Points since work will occur along the Niobrara River in the North Central District. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $182,500 in 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $167,500 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition Nearest Town: Chadron Project Name: Conservation of Nebraska Grazing Resource Through Control of Eastern Red Cedar and Other Invasive Species Project No: 19-107 Amount Requested: $373,650 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat The primary objective of this grant is to dramatically decrease the number of grazing acres in Nebraska infested with Eastern Red Cedar (ERC) through prescibed burning. ERC poses massive threats to Nebraska’s rangelands and the people, wildlife and plants that depend on them. Grass fires historically prevented ERC from becoming abundant in rangelands. People have removed fire from rangelands, and millions of ERC have been planted in Nebraska, resulting in the rapid expansion of ERC populations. ERC invasion is often ignored because of the initially slow process of the invasion. However, once ERC is established, it quickly converts rangelands into ERC woodlands. Major negative impacts of prescribe burning ERC on society and the environment include: Decrease livestock and wildlife forage Decrease ranchers profitability Increase the risk and damaging impact of wildfires Reduced upland game animals Reduced grassland bird species Reduced small mammal diversity Reduced plant diversity Decreased streamflow Reduced taxes on Nebraska school lands due to reduced grazing leases A significant limitation to control of ERC with prescribed fire is appropriately trained burn bosses that "take command" of the prescribed burn. This project will fund part time burn bosses to coordinate educational activities and ERC prescribed burns across Nebraska.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Pharmacists Association Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Preventing Poisoning, Pollution and Prescription Drug Overdose for a Healthier Nebraska! Project No: 19-104 Amount Requested: $1,200,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management The primary purpose of this program is to engage, activate, and empower Nebraska pharmacies to serve as safe and legal waste collection/take-back sites for unused consumer medications every day. The program seeks to address the environmental and public health concerns resulting from improper handling and disposal of unused consumer medications and is committed to informing consumers about the choices and responsibilities associated with the safe and legal disposal of unused medications. Unused medications kept in medicine cabinets, flushed down toilets, or tossed in the garbage can seriously impact Nebraska’s public health and the environment. This program provides proper disposal so medications are not infiltrating the water system and landfills, and are out of the home where there is a potential for abuse/misuse. Program data tracks the number of medications collected at participating pharmacies. Additionally, this program includes consumer education and community outreach to Nebraska consumers, pharmacists, pharmacy staff, and other stakeholders on best practices for handling and disposing of consumer medications. This part of the program is funded by an Appropriation from the Nebraska Legislature. Nebraska MEDS is seeking funding from NET for the drug disposal containers that include TakeAway boxes, envelopes, MedSafes, and liners.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Public Power District Nearest Town: Norfolk Project Name: Battery Energy Storage System Project No: 19-111 Amount Requested: $490,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Air Quality Battery energy storage is a versatile resource. It has the ability to adapt technologies, applications, and business models to utility needs. This first of its kind in Nebraska demonstration project is a 1 MW (Megawatt), 2 MWh (Megawatt-hour) utility scale, proven technology, Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). The BESS will be connected to a planned Norfolk Community Solar project. The BESS will be charged and discharged daily to accomplish many separate goals such as demand management, frequency regulation, voltage support, and smoothing and shifting variable renewable energy generation. With the knowledge gained from this project, it will be reproducible for other Nebraska electrical utilities, assuming future price reductions and increasing battery performance. With the BESS connected to a variable non-dispatchable renewable energy source such as wind or solar, the renewable generation now becomes dispatchable and will reduce and potentially replace fossil fuel generation in the future. This project is not currently economical for NPPD to fund in total, but with the Nebraska Environmental Trust grant sharing the battery costs, much can be learned. For each Mega-Watt-hour of renewable energy that can be dispatched from the BESS, a corresponding amount of energy is deferred from a non-renewable fossil fuel generating plant.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Recycling Council Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Feedlot Composting Planning Project Project No: 19-116 Amount Requested: $291,800 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Waste Management The Nebraska Recycling Council (NRC) and the Nebraska Business Development Center at UNK propose a planning project that will test the viability of creating compost at feedlot sites for cropland use. The large quantities of organic wastes generated by animal feeding operations, when combined with yard and wood waste collected by municipalities, could provide valuable field scale fertilizer that is better for soil and water health than manure alone, while also reducing costs for municipalities and providing a value-added product for feedlots and/or compost operations. If the details of this business model were better understood, it could provide a pathway to business partnerships between feedlots, municipalities, and growers, leading to improved soil health, water quality, and lower greenhouse gas emissions in Nebraska. The purpose of this project is 1) to analyze business scenarios for feedlots, compost operators, and municipalities to create compost by combining feedlot manure, and municipal yard and wood waste at feedlot sites; 2) to gain an understanding of stakeholder behaviors, perceptions, knowledge and motivation around public/private partnerships and the use of this product on cropland; and 3) to share the findings in a written report, webinar, and web pages.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Recycling Council Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: CRT Amnesty Collection Events Project No: 19-130 Amount Requested: $157,136 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Waste Management Cathode Ray Tubes (CRTs) were manufactured until about 2010, when the widespread use of flat screen TVs and computer monitors captured the market. Most recyclers must charge $20-$50 to accept CRT screens because end-markets for the reprocessed materials are limited, as are processors that will accept them. CRTs contain large amounts of lead, which is toxic to humans in very small quantities; but many are still being stored in homes or improperly discarded on roadsides and in landfills because the recycling cost can be a barrier to proper disposal. Nebraska Recycling Council proposes to organize a month of collection events in 16 Nebraska communities to collect CRT screens and other electronics, using only R2 Certified Recyclers to ensure proper disposal and documentation. Each community will have a local event organizer to select a location, manage the event, work with the recycler, recruit volunteers, and help with local marketing. NRC will contract with electronics recyclers, hire a marketing firm to create campaign materials, and aggregate collection data. The purpose of project is to responsibly recycle remaining CRTs in Nebraska to protect soils and groundwater, and demonstrate the importance of using R2 Certified Recyclers to ensure proper disposal.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Recycling Council Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Recycling Equipment Grants and Consultation Project No: 18-145-2 Amount Requested: $286,967 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Nebraska Recycling Council (NRC) requests support for a three-year renewal of the Recycling Equipment Grant program that has funded smaller grants of up to $15,000 each for 16 of the previous 19 years under the Nebraska State Recycling Association. This year, we propose to increase the limit for individual equipment grants to up to $20,000 to account for inflation. We propose to continue with our consultation and information gathering efforts that began in the last grant cycle. New this cycle, we also propose to initiate a scoring matrix for grant applications that provides extra points for hub and spoke or collaborative recycling programs, and to track down equipment from previous years’ equipment grants and record their location, usage and condition. The funding request will cover equipment grant funds, plus salaries for grants administration, travel to verify equipment purchases, locate grant-funded equipment and provide consultation, and a portion of operating costs and supplies for the NRC. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $292,667 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $286,967 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Solar Schools Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Solar Energy Education and Development Project No: 19-119 Amount Requested: $31,250 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education The primary objective of this project is to provide NEED Solar Energy Kits as an incentive for K-12 STEM educators to enroll in the Nebraska Solar Schools’ program and to complete the curriculum requirements for certification. The kits will remove two major barriers that have expressly kept more teachers from enrolling: a. the extensive time required to research, gather and order materials, which many say they purchase out of their own pockets, and b. the numerous hours it takes out of their busy schedules to write curriculum. The kits provide all the materials needed to complete each module, pre- and post- evaluations, and teacher-tested lesson plans and enrichment projects and activities, which are written by educators and solar energy professionals, and which align with Nebraska State and National Science Standards. The second main objective of this project is to provide schools that wish to install a photovoltaic system the resources they need to make informed decisions. According to The Solar Foundation, which maintains a national census and online map of schools that have solar energy education and development programs, Nebraska ranks last. A third major project objective is to build a much-needed conduit between our classrooms and solar energy worksites.

Sponsor Name: Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation Nearest Town: Bayard Project Name: Grasslands at Chimney Rock Land Acquisition Project No: 19-124 Amount Requested: $278,650 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Nebraska State Historical Society Foundation (NSHSF) in partnership with History Nebraska (formerly the Nebraska State Historical Society) requests support to purchase 360 acres of grazing land surrounding Chimney Rock National Historic Site. This parcel is an iconic piece of Nebraska geology and history. History Nebraska and the state of Nebraska currently own 40 acres encompassing Chimney Rock itself, as well an additional 8.3 acres where a visitor center interprets Chimney Rock for 40,000 visitors a year. This purchase will connect the two properties while preserving both the grassland and the viewshed in perpetuity. The purchase will improve understanding of Chimney Rock and allow the visitor center to expand its interpretation to include more information and educational programming centered on native flora and fauna for Nebraskans and visitors from around the world. The Foundation requests $278,650 which is the appraised value of the property. The Foundation will pay the premium and all taxes with private donations. The property owners have agreed to the purchase price via a Letter of Intent. Starting in 2010, the Nebraska Environmental Trust approved a total of $500,000 for this purchase, but no agreement could be reached with the owners and the money was never used.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska State Irrigation Association Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Water Leaders Academy Project No: 18-102-2 Amount Requested: $82,263 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Nebraska State Irrigation Association developed the Water Leaders Academy to give early to mid-career professionals the chance to learn about the complexities of managing Nebraska's surface and groundwater. The curriculum draws upon experts from technical and social disciplines and includes a strong leadership component. The Academy's goal is to teach future water resources decision makers to work together to solve problems. The Academy accepts applicants from across Nebraska who have an interest in water and natural resources. Since inception, 102 participants from 37 communities have completed the program. The 2018 class has eight persons on the wait list, a first for the Academy and an indication of positive experiences. The Academy offers six 1.5-day sessions over a 12-month period at locations across the state. Sessions include field trips and discussions ranging from urban water systems to irrigation development, management and integrated operations in crop production, fish, wildlife, ecotourism and recreation activities. As a group, participants complete a hands-on project designed to prepare them for future community education, involvement, and policy decisions in water protection and conservation. NET funding was essential in the 2011 Water Leaders Academy launch and its growth. So, as we seek a third round of funding, please remember that the water community is facing a major demographic shift. According to a Water Research Foundation report: "Boomer retirement began about five years ago and is estimated to continue over the next 10-15 years. The estimates place the anticipated loss of current utility employees at between 30 to 50 percent within the next 10 years." These retirees will include current water leaders and decision makers; we must prepare the next generation to take on these roles. Academy prepared water leaders will be critical to meet the NET mission to conserve, enhance and restore the natural environments of Nebraska. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $81,340 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $82,263 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Statewide Arboretum Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Trees for Nebraska Towns (TNT)-Increasing the resiliency of Nebraska's community forest Project No: 18-171-2 Amount Requested: $307,984 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Trees for Nebraska Towns (TNT) is a statewide, three-year initiative aimed at reversing the decline of Nebraska’s community forests by promoting and investing in intensive tree planting, sound resource management, community capacity building and public education. Inventories reveal that Nebraska has lost up to 50% of its community tree resource in recent decades due to weather events, diseases, insects and human neglect. Replanting has not kept up with the loss and the very real potential exists for a generational loss of canopy and associated benefits. The Nebraska Statewide Arboretum, Inc. (NSA) is requesting $767,305 to fund the Trees for Nebraska Towns (TNT) Initiative. TNT will provide funding and technical assistance for tree planting, public education and sustainable community forest management in participating communities. Specifically, the program will enable at least 100 different projects in 50 different communities; plant up to 10,300 large-maturing trees (with eventual annual benefits of up to $1,360,000); educate at least 4,000 Nebraskans about proper tree planting and management practices; improve the long-term viability of over 2,500 trees and engage and empower at least 1,000 volunteers and resource professionals in proper planting. Ultimately the program will provide innovative programs that will increase the resiliency of Nebraska’s community forests. The program will be a multi-partner collaborative including NSA, the Nebraska Forest Service, NSA citizen volunteers, Nebraska’s green industry and participating communities statewide. If funded, the program will leverage up to $780,965 in matching funds from a wide-variety of sources and partners. The program will advance each of the Trust’s funding priorities with a special emphasis on Urban Habitat, Surface and Ground Water and Air Quality. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $336,591 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $307,984 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Nebraska Trout Unlimited Chapter 710 Nearest Town: Mitchel Project Name: Dry Spotted Tail Creek and Wetland Project Project No: 18-108-2 Amount Requested: $75,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Dry Spotted Tail Creek, is a 13.3 mile perennial coldwater stream tributary to the North Platte River with a long history of supporting recreationally important trout and native fish communities. Over time, the high volume and velocity of irrigation return flows have straightened and incised the lower reaches, thereby lowering the water table and adversely impacting adjacent prairie and wetland communities. Devoid of in-stream habitat (e.g., overhanging cover, current breaks, and coarse substrates), the current channel flows prevent upstream passage for many aquatic life forms, especially small bodied fishes. Even trout who are especially strong swimmers, no longer reside in this stretch and now move quickly through this featureless area rather than use it as holding habitat. We are requesting NET funding assistance to rehabilitate approximately 0.75 miles of the lower reach of Dry Spotted Tail Creek, within the North Platte River BUL recognized in Nebraska's "Natural Legacy Project". This will restore natural hydrology to the confluence of the North Platte River, Dry Spotted Tail Creek and surrounding areas by returning groundwater levels to pre-incised conditions on 140 acres & installing stream sinuosity with the in-stream habitat features to sustain healthy aquatic, riparian & wetland communities. Planned construction will; improve water quality, balance sediment transport, stabilize stream banks, install a protected buffer strip & riparian corridor, increase groundwater recharge, raise local water table, restore historical wetlands, create in-stream habitat for trout, improve passage for native fishes & support economically important recreational fishery with easy access to the public. Additionally this project will serve as an educational tool and demonstration site illustrating the beauty coldwater streams and our responsibility to restore and protect these important resources. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $200,000 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $75,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Nextera Energy Nearest Town: South Sioux City Project Name: Renewable Energy Storage Project Project No: 19-207 Amount Requested: $750,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Air Quality The City of South Sioux City requests $750,000 from the NET at 48% cost share for Renewable Energy Storage Project. Total Project cost is estimated at $1,569,914, NextEra Energy Resources Development (“NEER Development”) will use 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit ($470,974) & cash to fund the remaining capital expenditure. This will be the first in the 14-State South West Power Pool, a region from Texas to North Dakota. The City will enter into a Long Term Energy Storage Savings Agreement with NEER Development to develop, construct, own and operate the battery system. NEER Development was chosen, because of their stature as the world’s largest generator of renewable energy from the wind and sun. This project stores solar energy produced at the SSC’s 2.3 MG, 21 Acre Solar Farm during the day and discharges the energy during peak demand. We have provided a savings analysis as proof of economic benefit to SSC, Co2 reduction benefits of adding battery storage to solar, and the value of using renewable solar energy to benefit the Citizens and business owners.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Northeast Nebraska RC&D Nearest Town: Plainview Project Name: Household Hazardous Waste Collections Project No: 19-110 Amount Requested: $40,540 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Waste Management This project will properly dispose of and/or recycle approximately 12 ton of household hazardous waste (HHW) over a 3-year period and provide citizen education on how to safely manage HHW in the home through recycling, sharing, proper storage and reuse. They'll also learn what is appropriate to bring to the collections. Citizens continue to ask for help with disposal HHW materials that they or their families have accumulated over the years because they know throwing them in the trash or pouring them down the drain isn’t proper. The benefits of proper disposal of HHW are many: •Conserves resources and energy that would be used to produce more products •Reuse of hazardous household products saves money and reduces the need for hazardous substances to be kept around individual homes and properties •Proper disposal prevents pollution Two collection events will be held annually within the Northeast Nebraska Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council’s area. Monthly educational information will be on the RC&D’s website, Facebook page, sent to radios and newspapers. Targeted groups are individual citizens, tribal members, and general households within the region. Communities will serve as local host sites.

Sponsor Name: Northeast Nebraska RC&D Nearest Town: Plainview Project Name: Early Detection and Integrated Management of Invasive Plants Project No: 18-143-2 Amount Requested: $49,280 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent Invasive species are cited frequently as significant threats to biological diversity in Nebraska’s Natural Legacy Project planning document (NNLP) and to address those issues NNLP recommended development of collaborative conservation efforts to seek effective means to reduce ecological and economic impacts of invasive and noxious weed infestations. NNWMA has a diverse group of partners. Their area covers 8 counties and 4,610,212 acres of private, public, and tribal land. NNWMA has technical support from the Northeast Nebraska RC&D, a local non-profit. Beginning in 2018 NNWMA will help protect the Elkhorn River in Antelope County and its tributaries from Yellow flag iris (YFI) plants that may inhibit flows, impact native vegetation, and/or impact native wildlife. This invasive species has the potential to negatively impact BUL’s by competing with or reducing native vegetation, invading areas not typically vegetated, and reducing water flows in small channels. They will also conduct Salt cedar "search and destroy" surveys, acquire biological control agents (insects) to control noxious weeds on ecologically sensitive sites, and conduct annual education and outreach events. Insect releases will be prioritized and targeted at places where herbicide use is not desired (i.e. high diversity grasslands, wetland/riverine habitats, rangeland with organic designations or sensitive/endangered species, etc.). Targeted plants are Yellow flag Iris, Spotted knapweed, Purple loosestrife, Leafy spurge, Salt cedar, and non-native Phragmites. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $49,280 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $49,280 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: NuStyle Development Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: The Landing Project No: 18-125-2 Amount Requested: $150,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Landing Redevelopment Project is a project that will convert the former Creighton University Medical Center Hospital to a mixed used facility serving Creighton students, staff and others. Due to its proximity and connections to the Creighton Campus, a pedestrian bridge will be constructed to cross over Nebraska State Highway 75 to the east of the project. To help enhance the building conversion the existing impervious site will be redeveloped to include a variety of on-site amenities such as: volleyball and basketball courts; outdoor gathering and seating areas; and a water quality lake. The proposed water quality lake will collect and treat on-site stormwater runoff and reduce peak flow rates in the downstream collection system. The lake will be open to the public for recreation and be an environmental amenity. During the conceptual design of the water quality lake, it was determined that off-site storm water could be redirected into the lake to provide additional localized flood control and downstream sewer relief. The lake would also provide the City of Omaha (City) the flexibility to reduce combined sewer overflow (CSO) volume as part of future separation projects. In the Long-Term this will help control the number of overflows from combined sewer outfalls, ultimately improving the water quality of both the Papillion Creek and Missouri River. After reviewing the public benefits of the projects, the City and Nustyle have agreed to a unique public/private partnership on the project. This effort will be the first significant public/private partnership using green infrastructure to assist with the City's CSO program. This project can help set precedent and procedures for potential future public/private partnerships to assist the City in achieving the goals of the CSO Long-Term Control Plan. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $150,000 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $150,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Omaha Botanical Center, Inc. Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Parking Garden Stormwater Management System Restoration Project No: 19-134 Amount Requested: $996,473 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water Lauritzen Gardens seeks to make dramatic improvements to the functionality and visual presentation of our parking garden, a 20-acre facility visited by more than 250,000 people annually. The parking garden was designed to mitigate stormwater runoff through the use of native plantings and bioretention ponds. Over a period of 17 years, the forces of weathering and erosion have significantly damaged both the above and below ground components of this garden's stormwater management system. Our project will necessitate a complete redesign and rebuilding of this system to ensure a more efficient and sustainable operation that is consistent with our organization's mission of environmental stewardship and water conservation. For the garden's hardscaping we will incorporate pervious pavement and other materials that are less susceptible to degradation. Through better stormwater management and the elimination of invasive plant species, we will enhance this area's ability to maintain a high level of biodiversity as the habitat for innumerable species of flora and fauna. We will also strengthen the garden's potential as an educational experience by incorporating design elements that allow visitors to witness the full stormwater treatment process. Support from NET will help us revitalize this multifaceted garden for the educational enrichment of our community.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Pheasants Forever, Inc. Nearest Town: Grand Island Project Name: Habitat Share Program Project No: 19-153 Amount Requested: $137,500 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat Habitat Share is a highly efficient partnership that enhances public benefit and use opportunities on state-owned lands when resources are limited. Projects are completed by matching funds at a 3:1 ratio to have contractors complete critical habitat efforts on Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). More acres are managed resulting in an increase of public hunting and bird watching opportunities benefiting local communities. Each project in this partnership is in addition to what NGPC staff are able to complete on an annual basis. NGPC manages 289 WMAs across the state totaling 182,826 acres. Thirty-two full time staff are tasked with management and many other daily activities. By contracting certain management activities, such as disking, seeding, burning, etc. more acres are restored. By utilizing contractors, more projects are completed in less time. This partnership is a high priority within NGPC’s Berggren Plan and will also help deliver two National Pollinator Goals: Enhance 3.5 million acres of pollinator habitat on public lands, and plant 1.4 billion milkweed stems to increase monarch population. Since 2010, Habitat Share has impacted 28,149.3 acres of habitat on 125 WMAs. New contractors are continuously added to a list of over 450 names to ensure competitive bids.

Sponsor Name: Pheasants Forever, Inc. Nearest Town: Nelson Project Name: Conservation Ag, Urban and Working Lands Project No: 19-155 Amount Requested: $434,600 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat This proposal seeks funding over two years to help fund an innovative pilot program, the Conservation Ag, Urban and Working Lands (CAUWL) designed to bridge gaps between agriculture, urban, working lands and wildlife. CAUWL offers incentives to enhance wildlife habitat on cropland, working lands, and within local communities. The program offers 3 options: 1) wildlife and pollinator enhancements on working lands 2) diverse cover crops on cropland and 3) backyard habitat projects within local communities for public benefit. CAUWL includes cost-share of 75% and up to 3-year contract lengths with free seed available to communities and businesses. The program allows for grassland restoration practices like brush removal, smooth brome control, and prescribed fire. This effort is in partnership with PF, QF, NGPC, and USDA with a goal of enrolling 7,000 acres and impacting several communities as a pilot. The program vision is to incorporate organizations including UNL Extension, Nebraska Master Naturalists, the Nebraska Master Gardeners, FFA, and various city organizations having expressed interest in native habitat. An online app to help track, monitor, and evaluate these projects has been developed with 27 PF staff to help deliver the program. We currently have several projects waiting for funding.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Pheasants Forever, Inc. Nearest Town: Grand Island Project Name: Corners for Wildlife Project No: 18-138-2 Amount Requested: $292,500 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent This application continues a partnership funded by the Trust from 1995 to 2017. The program successfully partners money from the Trust, Pheasants Forever, Inc., Pheasants Forever (PF) and Quail Forever (QF) chapters, Natural Resource Districts, Nebraska Game & Parks Commission and Landowners throughout the state to establish permanent wildlife habitat. In the 22 years the program has been offered, this partnership has established 12,614 acres of habitat on private lands involving 45 PF and QF chapters and 15 Natural Resource Districts across the state. With “in-kind” contributions included, the level of financial partnership being combined with Trust funds currently exceeds $9.2 million. Landowners receive a rental payment for a five-year contract to establish and maintain high diversity wildlife habitat on center pivot irrigation field corners. Materials to establish cover practices are cost-shared 75% by PF and QF chapters with landowners responsible for 25% of the material costs. In some cases, the cover practices are established with a 100% cost share by the participating Natural Resource Districts and Pheasants Forever chapters. Every year the program has been offered, there has been more interest in enrollment than the program can fund. Projects are specifically designed to meet the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project, Nebraska’s Berggren Plan, as well as several state and national pollinator goals. Establishment includes high quality nesting, brood-rearing and pollinator habitat for wildlife species of concern. Seeding includes native grass and wildflower species; local ecotype species chosen when available. Native shrubs are commonly used for enhanced wildlife cover, specifically for bobwhite quail and certain songbirds of concern. Eastern red cedar is not allowed due to its invasive nature. This program has been highly popular and successful over the last 22 years and provides an economic option to farmers who want to conserve water, improve soil health, and provide wildlife habitat. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $292,500 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $292,500 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Platte County Highway Department Nearest Town: Platte Center Project Name: Water Quality and Waste Recycling Project No: 19-140 Amount Requested: $85,822 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment Platte County is seeking funding to purchase a skid loader and mulcher for $85,822.14. The equipment will be used for a long range program to clear vegetation and debris from the road right away and adjacent waterways. The removal of small trees, wild bushes, brush and weeds from the areas around bridges will promote free water flow through the natural water way, reduce sediment , prevent changes in stream flow and subsequent erosion. Platte County is partnering with the Shell Creek Watershed Group and has designated 2 sites for bridge replacements in the next year. In addition to the benefits to the waterways and improvement of water quality, the resulting product can be recycled as mulch. Platte County has 5 locations throughout the county to stockpile the mulch and make it available to the public free of charge. The mulch that is not recoverable from the site will provide habitat for birds and small animals. The funds requested in this grant are intended for the purchase of equipment, which is a key component to the success of the program. Platte County will provide administration, labor (including employee benefits), insurance and additional equipment to implement the program.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Platte Valley WMA Nearest Town: Kearney Project Name: Platte River Management and Enhancement Project No: 19-142 Amount Requested: $522,500 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Platte River is world famous for its diverse assemblage of flora and fauna and is home to many species of conservation concern. In addition to wildlife habitat, its braided channels convey water from upstream reservoirs to irrigation diversions and ultimately provides drinking water for several cities including Kearney, Grand Island and Lincoln. Consequently, maintenance of Platte River water supply and channel conveyance is critically important both from a conservation and civic perspective. The emergence and proliferation of invasive riparian plant species over the past decade poses a serious threat to Platte River water supply and conveyance. To date, this threat has been managed through a massive collaborative invasive vegetation control effort led by Weed Management Associations. This effort has been highly effective but is quickly becoming resource-limited. The objective of this project is to protect habitat and water supply by maintaining and further improving channel conveyance along 336 miles of the Platte rivers extending downstream from Kingsley Dam to the Loup confluence at Columbus. Mechanical removal and herbicide application by aerial and ground will be used to control new infestations and maintain existing channel conveyance.

Sponsor Name: Quail Forever Nearest Town: Nelson Project Name: MPBU Outreach and Education Project No: 19-156 Amount Requested: $97,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat This application seeks to continue the process of supporting prescribed burning on private lands, forming prescribed burn associations, providing prescribed burn training, conducting public outreach events, producing education materials, and promoting habitat management. Wildlife partnership and management plans call for the increased use of prescribed burns and education regarding conservation programs to reach management and partnership goals. Quail Forever is working closely with the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project (NNLP) to implement its goals and employs 27 Biologists that work directly with the plan. The creation of Mobile Prescribed Burn Units and expanding outreach is directly benefiting the NNLP by creating a set of tools and events that can be directed to Biologically Unique Landscapes. QF identified the limitations of prescribed burning and is working to overcome them. Six scenarios are outlined in this partnership that are working to expand education and increase the use of prescribed burning. The funds will be matched by partners to purchase and maintain MPBUs and education equipment, develop prescribed burn associations and create public educational events and materials. Our focus has also shifted to growing season burn trainings to help broaden the window of when prescribed burns occur.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Inc. Nearest Town: Crawford Project Name: Charcoal Creek Acquisition Project No: 19-161 Amount Requested: $480,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission are partnering to acquire the 1,520-acre Charcoal Creek Property in Sioux County, Nebraska. Located adjacent to the Peterson Wildlife Management Area and south of Fort Robinson State Park, acquisition of this Property will increase the Soldier Creek-Fort Robinson complex of protected private and public lands to almost 37,000 contiguous acres. Once complete, the Charcoal Creek Acquisition will bring private and public partners together to achieve the following conservation objectives: 1. Conserve approximately 1,520 acres of vital habitat for non-game species such as swift fox and game species such as Rocky Mountain bighorn sheep and elk; 2. Conserve approximately 9.4 miles of intermittent streams, including 2.63 miles of Charcoal Creek, for fish and wildlife. 3. Support the State of Nebraska’s efforts to implement the Nebraska Natural Legacy Project 2011 State Wildlife Action Plan and the 2015 Conservation Plan for the Pine Ridge Biologically Unique Landscape. 4. Expand habitat connectivity within the Fort Robinson and Soldier Creek protected land complex for wildlife movement, and improve access for wildlife management and public recreation.

Sponsor Name: Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Nearest Town: Mullen Project Name: Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Pollinator Garden Project No: 19-199 Amount Requested: $143,996 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education The goal of this project is to increase pollinator populations and create public awareness of the importance of pollinator habitats in communities along the 272 mile Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway (SJSB). This grant will: 1)Educate local residents and visitors on the importance of pollinators and their role in a healthy ecosystem. 2) Provide technical assistance as butterfly/pollinator gardens are developed to attract and sustain pollinators. 3) Add opportunities for community pride and beautification. 4) Develop educational program materials including workshops and outreach; youth involvement in planning and implementation; intergenerational participation and education; and development of a strong media promotion to encourage participation and visitation by residents and visitors. The goal over the three year life of the grant will be to expand and/or develop 20 pollinator gardens and train 15 new Master Gardeners. Participants will receive education and stipends for garden establishment and when completed, will be given the opportunity to become a Certified Butterfly Garden. Partners in the project will be the Sandhills RC&D, UNL Extension, local master gardeners, community leaders, and other interested in environmental education. The project will result in increased pollinator populations, enhanced economic development, and education on the importance of pollinator populations.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Sandhills Task Force Nearest Town: Arthur Project Name: Sandhills Wetland/Grassland Conservation Partnerships II Project No: 17-215-3 Amount Requested: $20,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Sandhills Task Force (STF) is a grassroots nonprofit organization with a 24-year history of assisting private landowners complete conservation projects on their land benefiting wildlife, waterfowl, water quality, healthy native plant communities, functional wetlands, and more. Projects were completed in partnership with other organizations and agencies that have provided technical and financial contributions. The NET has been a valuable partner to the STF; funds have been used in STF projects throughout the Sandhills to apply conservation practices and conduct educational events for many years that are positively impacting the landscape. The Sandhills are one of the largest in-tact native grasslands left in the world. Even though the Sandhills is still a highly functioning rangeland-wetland ecosystem, stressors are present. Main threats are invasive species, overgrazing, and impaired wetlands, streams, and lakes. The Sandhills Wetland/Grassland Conservation Partnership will help STF implement projects on private lands to help address concerns. Events will be held to educate the public and landowners about innovative conservation tools and management plans that can help improve land resource. During grant, an estimated 30 conservation projects will be completed. Each project will be implemented on a willing landowner’s property and will be field inspected and evaluated according to resource value and feasibility. Qualifying projects will be surveyed, designed, and completed using matching funds from landowners, Federal and State agencies, and non-profit organizations. Projects will have at least a 10-year agreement with landowners and participating partners. STF and matching partners remain committed to monitoring biological effects projects. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $275,000 IN 2017 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $125,000 IN YEAR TWO AND $20,000 IN YEAR THREE PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE THIRD YEAR REQUEST

Sponsor Name: South Platte NRD Nearest Town: Sidney Project Name: Southern Panhandle No-Till Grass Drill Project No: 19-141 Amount Requested: $22,500 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment The South Platte NRD encompasses about the southern one-third of the Nebraska Panhandle (Deuel, Cheyenne, and Kimball counties). Specialized equipment, such as a no-till grass drill, is necessary for many wildlife, soil, and water conservation practices. In 2010, the Trust generously funded a 10 foot no-till grass drill for the SPNRD and to date, 4,500 acres have been seeded using this drill. We will continue to use this drill, but the demand necessitates the need for another drill. Another reliable grass drill is needed for larger tracts of Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) land enhancments. With the new push for pollinator habitat, we are expecting new acres to be planted specifically for conservation practices. The SPNRD would like to provide producers conservation program cooperators with another 10 foot no-till grass drill to efficiently accomplish larger practices. The drill will be available to producers in Banner, Cheyenne, Deuel, Kimball, and Morrill Counties. A grass drill is essential for CRP enhancements, pollinator plantings, Conservation Security Progam (CSP) improvements, Corners for Wildlife Plantings, Buffer Strip Program, grassed waterways, and for wildlife food plots. The SPNRD will assist in the maintenance, rental agreements, and promotion of the new drill.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Southeast Nebraska Development District Nearest Town: Lincoln

Project Name: Regional Food Production Feasibility Study Project No: 19-180 Amount Requested: $22,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Education The Southeast Nebraska Development District seeks to foster local wellbeing by coordinating a regionalized food production program to support small scale diversified farming practices by addressing apparent barriers to production and distribution. The intent is to minimize use of fossil fuels, promote soil health, improve air and water quality, and create diversified green belts - supporting regional prosperity. This feasibility study will assess economic viability and best implementation methods to establish the Farm Legacy Program and Southeast Nebraska Food Hub. Two major barriers small scale farmer’s face are access to land and marketing/distribution networks. The Farm Legacy Program addresses access to land. Families allocate parcels into the program, preserving it in their family name, as farmland in perpetuity. The Southeast Nebraska Food Hub addresses marketing and distribution, a perfect location to serve the major cities of Omaha, Lincoln, Council Bluffs Kansas City, Topeka, and St. Joseph. It is time to explore mechanisms in which southeast Nebraska can carry forward its agricultural economy while encouraging land management practices that insure the health of our real assets of soil, air, and water which not only impact the quality of life today, but support the regional resilience capacity for years to come.

Sponsor Name: Southwest WMA Nearest Town: Benkelman Project Name: Republican River Riparian And Red Cedar Initiative Project No: 19-203 Amount Requested: $255,185 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat This project will build upon the successful work of the Western Republican Riparian Improvement Project. With the completion of the URRNRD and NCORPE Augmentation pipelines and the continued use of Colorado's Republican River Augmentation pipeline, preservation and restoration of our vital river corridors becomes even more important. SWWM plans on continuing to restore the riparian corridor to a condition better suited for increased biologic diversity and water conservation. With increasing demands being made for dwindling water supplies, invasive species place stress on our already fragile river systems. SWWM plans to continue removing invasive species from the channel of the Republican River as well as its tributaries. Primarily along the Frenchman Creek in western Chase County. As in previous years, SWWM will use best management practices including mechanical, chemical, and biological control methods where applicable. Additionally, SWWM will institute a program for the removal of invasive Eastern Red Cedar from productive grasslands and prairie within the boundaries of the member counties contained by the SWWM area. The rapid spread of cedar is a serious ecological and economic threat. SWWM believes that we must be proactive when it comes to the control of cedar in our native mixed and short grass prairies.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: The Bee & Butterfly Habitat Fund Nearest Town: St. Paul Project Name: The Seed A Legacy Program Project No: 19-166 Amount Requested: $200,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The Seed A Legacy (SAL) program is a proven, successful partnership that delivers the goals of multiple state and national conservation plans. This partnership provides important incentives to deliver pollinator habitat accomplishments for honeybees, monarch butterflies, native bees and a wide range of at-risk and common wildlife species. This flexible program offers the ability to work with a wide range of private, public and corporate landowners, hay/graze outside of pollinator season and straight-forward eligibility options. This project uses an ‘all hands-on deck’ approach that brings science-based habitat considerations for pollinators together with a proven ability to design, enroll, administer and manage statewide habitat programs. Projects are enrolled with a combination of The Bee & Butterfly Habitat Fund staff, local Beekeepers and agriculture industry partners. Seed mixes include a foraging mixture designed for honey bees and a mixture designed for monarchs. This project has a waiting list of applicants wanting to enroll in 2019. Applications will be ranked with established criteria to accept the highest valued projects. This partnership will deliver the Nebraska pollinator conservation goals, as well as broad resource benefits for monarch butterflies, honeybees and a wide range of wildlife including native bees, grassland songbirds, pheasants and quail.

Sponsor Name: The Groundwater Foundation Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Recharging Groundwater Education: Tools for Community Action and Engagement Project No: 18-141-2 Amount Requested: $31,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent "Until this activity I did not understand why or how water moved underground in aquifers. I now comprehend what drives the movement and I feel as though I could teach someone else." This, stated by one of our participants, is exactly what the Groundwater Foundation strives to achieve in all of its programs. Why? Because understanding groundwater and its unique connection to all of us is arguably the most important factor in its management. Effective groundwater management today and in the future depends on educating the next generation of leaders. The Groundwater Foundation has developed the Recharging Groundwater Education program in response to this need. The program will train approximately 300 educators to use educational tools which involve thousands of students in problem-solving and critical thinking around threats to their water supply. Lessons learned will be reinforced with a mentoring program to introduce students to water-related careers and/or opportunities in students’ local communities. The Groundwater Foundation has aligned a strategic network of partners from the private and public sector, and secured 2/3 of the funding to implement the program. This furthers the mission of NET, and aligns with the NET’s category of water, specifically supporting actions to inform and educate about water, fostering understanding and adoption of best management practices, and encouraging effective water management by providing adequate water resource education to our next generation of leaders. Funding from NET will ensure completion of the program. Funds will be used to hire a coordinator and to implement updates to educational tools. Updates will facilitate use of the educational tools and ensure they be used well past the grant. THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $89,000 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $31,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: The Nature Conservancy Nearest Town: Johnstown Project Name: Fire Training Exchange in Nebraska Project No: 19-123 Amount Requested: $123,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Rural Habitat Demand for fire training is higher than ever, and so is the need to control the spread of woody invasion on grassland/rangeland in Nebraska. The Nature Conservancy requests three years of support for prescribed fire training exchanges to be headquartered at the Niobrara Valley Preserve. Now in its tenth year, these two-week events are collaborative, hands-on operations that build capacity for integrated fire management. We will hold three spring exchanges, training roughly 105 personnel and burning approximately 15,000 acres (weather permitting.) Fire Training Exchange participants get hands-on experience in ecological burning, develop their fireline qualifications, learn about local ecology and conservation issues, and practice communicating with the media - all in a setting that emphasizes safety, learning, and cooperation. Volunteer and municipal fire department personnel, private contractors, ranchers, and conservation land managers (such as those who work for Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Forest Service) gain skills to work more effectively and safely (employing National Wildlife Coordinating Group standards.) The Exchanges provide landscapes with the management they need, resulting in improved habitat for wildlife, including threatened and endangered species like grassland birds.

Sponsor Name: The Nature Conservancy Nearest Town: Wood River Project Name: Demonstrating Energy Efficiency at the Platte River Prairies Project No: 19-160 Amount Requested: $32,900 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Education As Nebraska confronts climate change and the growing demand for energy – expected to rise 65% by 2050 – many will be shifting to renewables. At The Nature Conservancy’s Derr House in Wood River, we have welcomed thousands of guests over the last 18 years. They come to our headquarters to learn about prairie and wetland conservation, but there’s a crucial opportunity to demonstrate another practice – sustainable operations. We are asking for a grant to install solar panels as part of a suite of energy-saving steps. Our goal is to reduce energy use from fossil fuels (and its associated greenhouse gas emissions) while educating the public about the anticipated financial savings and other benefits of using solar panels. Since the Trust has funded solar panels at the Niobrara Valley Preserve, we may talk about the unique challenges of each place. We will demonstrate in words, pictures, and graphics: 1. How the technologies were planned; 2. Cost of installation/expected cost of ongoing maintenance; 3. Economic/environmental impacts of having renewable technology; and 4. The user experience in these buildings. We will share lessons with visitors, members, on our website, on social media, and through placement in print, radio and television.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: The Nature Conservancy Nearest Town: Johnstown Project Name: North Central Fire Coordination Project No: 18-133-2 Amount Requested: $100,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Nature Conservancy, in partnership with Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Pheasants Forever, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the Nebraska Forest Service, will advance the practice of prescribed fire on public and private lands and coordinate interagency efforts in the North Central region of Nebraska. A Burn Boss, headquartered at the Niobrara Valley Preserve, will spend three years increasing prescribed fire capacity among federal and state agencies, other nonprofits, volunteer fire departments, and private landowners (groups and individuals). He/she will have the 'people' skills to lead effectively, earn trust, and build a collaborative network of shared expertise. Individual efforts are simply not adding up fast enough to address the problem. Coordination is needed to get to scale and more efficiently deploy the resources of several partners. More prescribed fires will be conducted on landscapes that need it for ecological health. Woody encroachment by Eastern red cedar is severely impacting our grassland, forest, water and wildlife resources on a very large scale. It means a loss of native habitat for grassland nesting birds and other wildlife species associated with grasslands. It causes a reduction in biological diversity in grasslands and forests, with potentially negative impacts to threatened and endangered species. In partnership with ranchers, we will also promote the economic benefits of invasive woody species removal on rangeland, given the loss of productivity it causes. Grass health, availability, vigor, and species diversity are all diminished by the spread of cedar. This project will help reduce the risk of catastrophic loss of life and property and large economic losses due to wildfires, avoiding the devastation of wildfires like the one in 2012 which resulted in $112 million in negative economic impacts. . THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $100,000 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $100,000 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: The Nebraska Land Trust, Inc. Nearest Town: Red Cloud Project Name: Catherland Prairie Project Project No: 19-120 Amount Requested: $163,508 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat “As far as we could see, the miles of copper red grass were drenched in sunlight…” Willa Cather, My Ántonia Inspired by seemingly endless tall and mixed-grass prairies near Red Cloud, Willa Cather captured the beauty of Nebraska’s prairies like no other. Ironically, most of that prairie is gone today. A prominent exception is the 612-ac Willa Cather Memorial Prairie along Highway 281, 4-miles south of Red Cloud. Across the road, an even larger 1,147-ac never-plowed prairie is owned by Brandon and Kami Meyer. Together, the two properties form a contiguous native grassland complex totaling 1,759 acres, in a region of vanishing grass! Conservation of the Meyer prairie will be especially beneficial for prairie chickens on the fringe of their year-round southern Nebraska range. Other grassland birds will also benefit, along with species that are attracted to woodlands shading a spring-fed stream, and waterfowl that are attracted to eight ponds. Ecotourism will even benefit as literary tourists already enjoy unspoiled views of the Meyer prairie from the Cather Prairie. The Nebraska Land Trust has $224,210 for the purchase of a conservation easement and associated expenses on the Meyer prairie. We are requesting $163,508 from the NET to complete the purchase!


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: The Preserve Owner's Association Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Preserve on Antelope Creek Dam Project Project No: 19-113 Amount Requested: $156,404 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Water The project is to rehab the dams located on Antelope creek to comply with the intent of the 1994 Agreement with the NRD and to protect the habitat created by the ponds. It called for the construction of four interconnected holding ponds and certain plantings located in and around the ponds to trap sediment, nutrients and chemicals; to slow down the flow of water and to act as a filter for these pollutants in order to protect the water quality of Holmes Lake. Because of the urbanization of the upstream watershed, the runoff has increased from 1% to nearly 50% which has significantly increased the volume of runoff entering the ponds. These higher peak flows overtop the berms resulting in the degrading of the vegetative cover of the berms; eroding and scouring the berms; and endangering the ability of the ponds to protect the water quality of Holmes Lake and the natural habitat. The total cost of the project is estimated to be $306,400. The Preserve is requesting $156,000 form the Nebraska Environmental Trust with the balance of $150,000 equally shared by The Preserve and the Lower Platte South NRD.

Sponsor Name: The Save Our Monarchs Foundation Nearest Town: Nebraska City Project Name: OPPD 'Prairies in Progress' Pollinator Habitat Restoration Project Project No: 19-105 Amount Requested: $166,000 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Rural Habitat The project sponsor, The Save Our Monarchs Foundation (SOM), and the Omaha Public Power District (OPPD or the District) have created a program to convert many of the District's property holdings to Monarch and pollinator habitat. Since the spring of 2018, SOM and OPPD have begun restoring several District properties in eastern Nebraska, from Washington to Otoe Counties, reducing mowing activities, removing undesired species, and seeding and planting prepared areas. With the Nebraska Environmental Trust's approval of this proposal, SOM and OPPD will restore 600 acres of District right-of-ways (ROWs) and properties to viable pollinator habitat in five counties. SOM, with Keep Omaha Beautiful, will also provide pollinator workshops at District-area schools. These workshops instruct students on Monarchs and their migration, pollination, ecosystem health and biodiversity. Workshops include a hands-on classroom activity and conclude with the creation and planting of pollinator gardens in schoolyards. SOM is seeking funding from the Nebraska Environmental Trust to purchase seeds and plants and assistance with labor, supplies and travel costs associated with implementing this restoration and educational work. In-kind and cash assistance is provided by OPPD and SOM, Keep Omaha Beautiful, the Bee and Butterfly Habitat Fund, Conservation Blueprint, project consultants, and volunteer monitors.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: The Xerces Society Nearest Town: Lincoln Project Name: Nebraska Bumble Bee Atlas Project No: 19-132 Amount Requested: $304,356 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Education Pollinators are critical to the health of our environment, yet many have undergone startling declines. More than one-quarter of North American bumble bee species face extinction risk, and several of the most endangered species live in Nebraska. To protect these pollinators and restore their native habitats, information is needed to better understand where they occur and what characteristics contribute to high-quality habitat for individual species. The Xerces Society, in partnership with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC), is initiating a three-year Bumble Bee Atlas project to improve knowledge of bumble bee distribution and abundance, and to better understand their habitat requirements in Nebraska. We will engage volunteers in collecting information on bumble bee distribution, host plants, and their surrounding habitat. Using this information, we will identify priority sites for habitat protection and management. The findings from the Bumble Bee Atlas project will culminate in a guide to Nebraska’s bumble bees to help people recognize each species and understand their habitat needs as well as a series of trainings for NGPC, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and private landowners to help them restore and manage habitat for at-risk bumble bees.

Sponsor Name: Tom Kroll Nearest Town: Arlington Project Name: In Memorium: Lewis and Clark Project No: 19-210 Amount Requested: $41,750 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat Fence in 44.19 acres of which most has been converted to CRP of 31 wildflowers and forbs so Grazing can be used as needed. Also plant trees and bushes for wildlife habitat. Install rock piles for snake habitat. This area has 5-8 acres of marsh with cattails and other heavy cover. Google earth it to get much better idea of this potential for improved habitat.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Tri-Basin NRD Nearest Town: Holdrege Project Name: Hydrologic Monitoring and Assessment of Upper Little Blue River Basin Project No: 18-135-2 Amount Requested: $95,076 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Statement of Intent The Tri-Basin and Little Blue NRDs (TBNRD and LBNRD) request funds to improve groundwater quality and quantity monitoring and promote coordinated groundwater management between the NRDs. The project consists of three major objectives, including (1) hydrogeological characterization, (2) expansion of monitoring well networks in critical areas and (3) application of groundwater quantity and quality information, isotopes, and age-dating to evaluate groundwater movement in the vicinity of the groundwater mound in the TBNRD, and in areas of groundwater decline in the TBNRD and the LBNRD. The project will rely on age-dating of groundwater that discharges to the Little Blue River to characterize water movement. Information from the project will enhance implementation of the Little Blue Basin Water Management Plan for TBNRD and LBNRDs, in addition to voluntary Integrated Management Plan in development. An educational component of the project will benefit the general public and water resources managers. Advancements from the project will provide a foundation for improved monitoring of water resources within and across NRD boundaries that will be useful for these and other NRDs in the future. The project advances the Water Category of NET and is a collaboration between Tri-Basin NRD, Little Blue NRD, and University of Nebraska Conservation and Survey Division (CSD). Collaborators will provide matching funds exceeding the amount requested from NET (58% of total project cost). THIS PROJECT WAS FUNDED $73,848 IN 2018 WITH THE INTENT TO FUND UP TO $95,076 IN YEAR TWO PENDING AVAILABLE FUNDS AND SATISFACTORY PROGRESS. THIS IS THE SECOND YEAR REQUEST.

Sponsor Name: Tri-Faith Initiative of Omaha Nearest Town: Omaha Project Name: Tri-Faith Commons Prairie and Hell Creek Watershed Restoration Project No: 19-118 Amount Requested: $542,877 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Urban Habitat The Tri-Faith Initiative (TFI) is an unprecedented interfaith endeavor by three faith groups (Temple Israel, Countryside Community Church, and the American Muslim Institute) intentionally co-locating their places of worship on one 38-acre site in west Omaha with a fourth building, the Tri-Faith Center, yet to be constructed. TFI is committed to healing humankind’s relationship to the earth, just as it deepens and improves relationships among religious traditions (Attachment 1). The Tri-Faith site was a former golf course with a cement-lined Hell Creek running through it. Careful attention has been devoted to restoring the creek and in restorative landscaping around each building. A striking circular bridge over Hell Creek will integrate and connect the people to the environment and buildings. As a continuation and amplification of this commitment, our project includes native trees, grasses, and perennials throughout the shared commons and around the Tri-Faith Center; an outdoor educational amphitheater; pathways and a bridge that connect people to the restored ecosystem; and educational signage. TFI seeks NET funding specifically for the native trees, outdoor amphitheater, and educational signage. This project has received community support to cover over 90% of project costs including native grasses and perennials, the bridge, building, and pathways.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Twin Valley WMA Nearest Town: Hastings Project Name: Eastern Republican and Little Blue Riparian Improvement Project Project No: 19-117 Amount Requested: $120,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Rural Habitat The highly successful Eastern Republican and Little Blue Riparian Improvement Project continues ongoing efforts to eradicate invasive species, control vegetation in stream channels, and improve riparian habitat along the Republican and Little Blue Rivers and their tributaries within eight of the Twin Valley Weed Management Area (TVWMA) counties. Control efforts are conducted in a holistic manner, utilizing a full range of mechanical, biological and chemical tools. TVWMA has undertaken this project over recent years to improve stream flow along the Republican and Little Blue Rivers to help enable Nebraska to meet its water delivery obligations to Kansas, to restore and maintain into the future a healthy river system and prevent wasteful degradation of water resources, to improve riparian habitat including replanting beneficial species, as well as including pollinators, and to increase public awareness of the best practices that can be used to properly manage riparian lands.

Sponsor Name: Upper Loup NRD Nearest Town: Stapleton Project Name: Assessing drought resilience of the South Loup River Project No: 19-147 Amount Requested: $187,000 Term of Request: 3 Review Group: Water Streams in the Loup River basin are sensitive to groundwater withdrawals because of the close hydrologic connection between groundwater and surface water. The Upper Loup and Lower Loup NRDs are evaluating management strategies to mitigate low flow periods. In a recently completed study, aerial thermal imagery was used to map springs along the South Loup River. These springs are important hydrologic features that sustain the flow of the South Loup River and its tributaries and could be selected for streamflow retiming to mitigate low flow periods. The ability of these springs to maintain consistent flow over periods of prolonged drought has not yet been studied. Environmental tracer sampling with supporting geochemical data could be used to estimate the age distribution of water discharging form springs. Sampling will focus on springs within Quaternary- and Pliocene-age deposits along the South Loup, and North Fork South Loup River above the streamgage near Pressey Park. Continuous water-quality monitors will be deployed at three selected spring locations to provide additional support to the environmental tracer interpretations. Future groundwater management actions must be tied to studies such as this to conserve, maintain, and protect water supplies, natural environments, and economic vitality for future generations.


Application Summary

Sponsor Name: Washington County Pheasants Forever Nearest Town: Blair Project Name: Pheasants Forever No-Till Drill Project No: 19-154 Amount Requested: $30,000 Term of Request: 1 Review Group: Equipment This application seeks funding to purchase a no-till grass drill to be used by landowners to establish wildlife habitat. Currently, there are few no-till drills available in the area and those that are available, are owned and rented out by private businesses. A no-till grass drill would increase both the quantity and quality of habitat established. Significant increases in habitat plantings in the area through programs like: Conservation Reserve Program, Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, Continuous Conservation Reserve Program, Corners For Wildlife, Environmental Quality Incentives Program, etc., have greatly increased the need for this type of specialized equipment. Matching funds will come from the Washington County PF chapter to purchase the drill. The purchase price is approximately $40,000. Terry Schumacher of Blair will oversee the operation, maintenance and rentals. An account will be set up to pay for future maintenance and repairs. The drill will be available for any landowner for a nominal fee. A no-till drill is needed to handle the fluffy seeds associated with many warm-season grasses, wildflowers and legumes. These fluffy seeds are not effectively planted with conventional drills. By increasing the amount of habitat and enhancing the quality of seed mixtures, wildlife will benefit.

Sponsor Name: Western Resources Group Nearest Town: Ogallala Project Name: Paper & CB Product Development Project No: 19-168 Amount Requested: $412,540 Term of Request: 2 Review Group: Equipment In order to generate Western Resources Group as a sustainable organization, we are researching profitable products to produce by utilizing the paper fibers and cardboard we glean from the region. WRG provides a significant recycling collection service to Ogallala and the area communities for nominal fees or for FREE. WRG is seeking funds from NET to assist with product innovation, market analysis and equipment purchases. Once the research has been compiled, we will focus our investment and developments on the product with the highest potential for revenues. Currently, WRG produces cardboard and paper bedding/mulch and is researching expansion with the following three considerations. 1) Alternative Daily Cover would utilize the dust collected from our grinder as we produce our bedding AND could provide a use for the mixed paper materials recycled. 2) Cardboard Pellets have been identified as a heat source but also as an additional form of bedding product at a higher price point. 3) Incorporating a sales person as a part of our team to focus on the revenue generating power of our products. The goal at the WRG resource recovery facility is to glean clean, recyclable materials to support production innovation and production in Nebraska.

2019 preliminary summary of applications · nebraska environmental trust-2019 application summary...

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