LINCOLN, Nebraska -- The Lower Platte South Natural Resources District (NRD) Board of Directors met for its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2025, at the district office in Lincoln. Directors reviewed recommendations from multiple subcommittees and approved a range of actions supporting conservation, recreation, flood mitigation, and District operations; all motions passed.

The meeting opened with a presentation from General Manager David Potter, who provided a 2025 year in review highlighting key projects, initiatives, and accomplishments completed over the past year. Potter also recognized John Albert for 35 years of service and welcomed Shelly Nielsen to the Lower Platte South NRD. Shelly is the new District Secretary in the NRCS Weeping Water Field Office.

Board Advances Planning, Finance, and District Operations
Directors approved the financial report covering July 1 through Nov. 30, 2025, along with November expenditures. The Board also approved an agreement with HBE for auditing services through fiscal year 2030 and adopted several changes to the District operating and personnel policies.

To support long-term planning, the Board approved a professional services agreement with JEO Consulting Group to complete office-campus programming and preliminary design work for a future Lower Platte South NRD office facility.

Trail Expansion and Conservation Easement Amendment Move Forward
The Board approved a third amendment to the Bagley Conservation Easement, which was the first conservation easement established in Nebraska, updating ownership information and modernizing documentation while preserving the original intent of the easement.                                                                                                                                                    

To prepare for the next phase of the MoPac East Trail expansion, the Board approved the low bid for tree removal services on the District’s existing corridor between 334th Street and 346th Street/Alvo Road. Work is expected to begin in January.

Water Quality and Flood Mitigation Actions Approved
The Board approved two surface water quality best management practice cost-share applications totaling $30,000 for fall conservation work in Cass County.

Several urban and flood mitigation projects were also advanced. Directors approved a streambank stabilization project along Salt Creek between 13th and 14th Streets, a joint funding agreement with the U.S. Geological Survey for operation of the Deadmans Run streamgage, and an interlocal cooperation agreement with the City of Lincoln related to the Deadmans Run Flood Reduction Project.

To support regional flood monitoring efforts, the Board approved a second amendment to an interlocal agreement with the Papio-Missouri River NRD for continued operation and maintenance of USGS Platte River cameras used during ice jam and flooding events.

In Other Business, the Board approved:
     • A master service agreement for database consulting services to support District data systems
     • Renewal of an agreement with the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services for work crew assistance
     • A Roth 457 retirement option for District employees beginning in 2026
     • A contract for human resources consulting services

As a reminder, board meetings are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 5:30pm.
The next regular board meeting will be Jan. 21, 2026, at the Lower Platte South NRD office in Lincoln.