Ann BleedUniversity of Nebraska, U.S.A.

The Nebraska Case: the integration of state and local control over the conjunctive management

of surface water and ground water

Source: University of Nebraska-Lincoln Conservation & Survey Division and Nebraska Department of Natural Resources

1940

2007

Registered Irrigation Wells: 1940 vs. 2007

Nebraska’s 23 Natural Resources Districts

-Water Dedicated to the Public

-First in Time is First in Right

-Use it or Lose It

- Administered by Department of Natural Resources

Surface Water-Water Dedicated to the Public

-Reasonable Use/Correlative Rights

-Right to Use on Overlying Land

-Administered by Natural Resources Districts

Ground Water

2004:Legislation passed by legislature and

signed by Governor

Law Requires:

- State DNR to Determine River Basins in State that are Fully Appropriated

- Determination triggers an immediate, but temporary stay on new uses

- State and NRD jointly develop and implement an Integrated Management Plan

Law Requires

Clear goals and objectives with a purpose of sustaining a balance between water uses and water supplies so that the economic viability, social and environmental health, safety, and welfare of the river basin can be achieved and maintained for both the near and long term

Thank You