LINCOLN, Nebraska — At its May 21, 2025, board meeting, the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (LPSNRD) Board of Directors approved a critical infrastructure project designed to protect rural roads, farmland, and downstream ecosystems. The action authorizes the replacement of a deteriorating spillway pipe at the Janssen Dam Road Structure near Garland—prioritizing public safety and long-term flood control.

The decision follows the District’s 2025 annual dam inspection, which identified significant structural concerns, including corrosion, separation, and erosion within the principal spillway pipe. Based on these findings, Houston Engineering—retained to assess the structure—recommended a full pipe replacement. The project was subsequently moved to the top of LPSNRD’s dam rehabilitation schedule.

“This structure rose to the top of our priority list after signs of failure were confirmed during inspection,” said Drew Ratkovec, LPSNRD Projects Coordinator. “We’re investing now to prevent future emergency costs and disruptions.”

The Board approved a $43,785 agreement with Houston Engineering to complete project design, permitting, and construction oversight. Construction could begin as early as summer 2025, with completion targeted for July 2026. The project is a shared effort, with LPSNRD covering 75% of the cost and Seward County contributing the remaining 25%.

This rehabilitation is part of the District’s ongoing commitment to maintaining and upgrading its system of 193 flood control structures, many of which are inspected and improved each year under LPSNRD’s operations budget.

Other actions approved by the Board include:

• Ground Water Monitoring Renewal: A $45,000 cooperative agreement was renewed with the University of Nebraska’s Conservation and Survey Division for test-hole drilling, geophysical surveys, and water quality monitoring. This three-year partnership supports aquifer protection and informed ground water management across the District.
• Education Investment: The District approved funding for a new animated video series to raise public awareness about flood mitigation, water quality, and recreation programs. The Board also funded a pilot outdoor education program for 7th graders in collaboration with Spring Creek Prairie, Pioneers Park Nature Center, and Lincoln Public Schools.
• Water Quality Cost Share: Two landowners will receive up to $40,000 in cost-share assistance to implement terraces and tile outlets on cropland in Cass and Saunders counties. These improvements will reduce erosion and surface water runoff, helping prevent damage to adjacent lands and waterways.

From flood control upgrades to public education and land stewardship, the Board’s actions reflect LPSNRD’s long-term vision: to lead with foresight, support resilient communities, and protect Nebraska’s vital natural resources.

For more information on LPSNRD projects, programs, and events, visit www.lpsnrd.org.

As a reminder, board meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30 p.m.