Groundwater cuts alone won't work

Dear Editor,

The water issue in the Republican River Basin has become an emotionally-charged issue, but we cannot afford to let emotions and misinformation dictate what needs to be a scientifically and economically sound water policy. The article about the hearing held by the Middle Republican Natural Resources District (MRNRD) on Aug. 30, contained some misinformation and all citizens of Nebraska deserve to know the facts.

Statutes require NRDs to consider the economic and social impact of our regulations. An economic study indicated that the huge reductions in pumping as some in the article suggested, would cut $80 million from the basin. That was considered unacceptable and that conclusion is neither self serving nor irresponsible as some quoted in the article stated.

Nebraskans need to know that additional cuts in groundwater use alone will not increase stream flows in the short-term.

Department of Natural Resources modeling shows the reduced allocation already in place for the last three years will have long-term benefits for compact compliance. The tools provided in LB701 help compliance in the short-term and long-term by making up reductions in stream flow due to the effects of drought and ground water usage.

If we must use local dollars to purchase surface water to keep from making severe pumping reductions, then we should have an allocation that will allow the producer to make a living while helping us achieve Compact compliance.

Josh Friesen

Wallace

MRNRD Board Chairman