Lower Big Blue Considers Extending Moratorium on New Wells

By Gordon HopkinsThe Lower Big Blue Natural Resources District (LBBNRD) Board of Directors is considering extending a temporary district-wide moratorium on the construction of new wells and increases in irrigated acres. LBBNRD first enacted a 180-day moratorium during their December 8, 2022, regular monthly board meeting.The moratorium was originally enacted due to concerns about the sustainability of groundwater supplies in the area, and the well permitting process allowing for new high capacity wells (greater than 50 gallons per minutes) in areas of greatest decline amid ongoing drought conditions. According to the LBBNRD board, this was done in accordance with Neb. Rev. Stat. § 46-707(2).The results of the fall static water level readings last year show groundwater declines were seen throughout the district. A number of wells showed levels at or below the last major drought in 2012. A total of 45 wells recorded their lowest levels since the district has been measuring them.Those factors, as well as the need for more time to discuss management options, review rules and regulations and evaluate the geology and aquifer characteristics of the district, are the reasons for considering an extension.A public hearing will be held Thursday, May 18, 2023, at 7 p.m. at the DeWitt Community Building, located at 200 N. Cherry Street in DeWitt, to hear public comment on extending the temporary stay.While annual spring groundwater levels remain in descent, NRD staff and directors continue to work with Olsson, Inc., to better understand the hydrogeology of the district and evaluate effective, area-specific groundwater management options. Test log and adjacent existing well evaluations for new well permits, flow meters on all new and replacement high-capacity wells, and certification of groundwater use acres have been required since 2014.The district is attempting to work with producers to make sure they are following these requirements. Please contact the office at (402) 228-3402 to make sure your certified irrigated acres are accurate and up to date.Last year, FJN reached out to Scott Nelson, General manager of the Little Blue NRD, to ask if his district might soon be facing a similar situation. Nelson responded, “Our water levels are well above our trigger levels at this time. If drought conditions continue, we might need to follow suit in two to three years, but for now we’re fine.”The Little Blue NRD will be presenting data on water levels at a board meeting on May 9, 2023.

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