LINCOLN, Nebraska — The Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (LPSNRD) Board of Directors acted on a range of projects at its April meeting, advancing recreation opportunities, coordinated planning efforts with local partners, and increasing environmental programming across the district.

Prairie Corridor Trail Expansion Receives RTP Funding
The Board approved acceptance of a $250,000 Recreational Trails Program grant through the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to support construction of the Kolbrook segment of the Prairie Corridor Trail.

The project will add approximately 8,000 feet of 10-foot-wide crushed limestone trail, extending north from Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center. The total project cost is estimated at $604,400, with additional funding support from local partners.

Annual Work Plan with City of Lincoln Approved
Directors approved the 2026–2027 Annual Work Plan for the interlocal agreement with the City of Lincoln, outlining continued coordination on stormwater management and watershed improvements.

The plan establishes joint priorities and funding for projects that address both water quality and flood risk, including stream stability improvements, flood reduction efforts, and continued investment in flood warning infrastructure.

7th Grade Wildlife Explorers Program Approved
The Board approved funding for the new 7th Grade Wildlife Explorers Field Trip Program, supporting hands-on environmental education opportunities for local students.

The program, which is currently a pilot program, connects students with natural resource professionals through immersive, outdoor learning experiences focused on conservation, water, and wildlife, while also introducing them to careers in environmental fields. With planned expansion, the program is expected to serve up to 3,000 Lincoln Public Schools students over the next two years.

Additional Actions Approved by the Board:

• An amendment to the interlocal agreement for the Lower Platte River Phragmites Management Program, expanding tools and flexibility for invasive vegetation control efforts
• Surface Water Quality Best Management Practices cost-share applications for the Summer Conservation Program totaling $55,418
• An agreement with the Omaha-Council Bluffs Metropolitan Area Planning Agency to obtain updated aerial imagery for portions of Butler and Otoe Counties
• A license agreement for an agricultural crossing on the Homestead Trail
• A contract amendment with JEO Consulting Group for additional services related to the Prairie Corridor Trail project
• A bid award to Morrisey Enterprises, LLC for boundary fence replacement at four saline wetland properties to support site management and conservation efforts
• A variance and Late Class 5 Well Permit for a municipal infrastructure project with City of Lincoln Transportation and Utilities

As a reminder, board meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. The next regular board meeting will be May 20, 2026, at the Lower Platte South NRD office in Lincoln.