BLUEPRINT -- Annual Projects Issue -- November 2020
Rec Areas Offer Fall Family Fun
Did you know that the Upper Big Blue NRD manages five public recreation areas? With fall’s mellow temperatures and beautiful foliage, there’s no better time to visit. Whether it’s an early morning meditation with a fishing rod, or a fun family picnic and boating, there’s something for everyone—no park permit required! Overnight camping has closed for the season, but there's still time to enjoy your favorite outdoor activities before the colder weather closes in. Learn more about fall fun at rec areas or take a deeper dive into the history of Recharge Lake.
"The Heart and Soul of Our Community"
When a massive tornado tore through Beaver Crossing on Mother’s Day 2014, it destroyed or damaged virtually every home and business in the small community.
Today, rebuilding continues with improvements to the city's park, assisted by the Upper Big Blue NRD. More...
Conservation & Recreation
The 56 year old dam structure on Dwaine Kubicek's property in Milligan had begun to show its age. Kubicek knew that water seeping through the pipe could wash out the soil underneath and lead to the dam’s eventual failure--and a loss of habitat for many species. Kubicek protected his property by partnering with the NRD on recent dam improvements. More...
Soil Health Workshop to Feature Speaker of International Renown
What drives soil health? What are the costs and benefits of improving your soil? These questions and more will be explored at the upcoming Project GROW Winter Workshop, December 3 in York. The third annual Winter Workshop will feature Dr. Jill Clapperton, owner and principal scientist at Rhizoterra, Inc. The event is free and open to all. More...
Buffer Strips: Good For Farmers & Their Land
Amidst a sea of corn as far as the eye can see, the only sounds on a summer day are the loud whir of cicadas and the running water of a creek that cuts through Ken Janzen’s property in York County. Janzen has found many benefits from the strips of native grasses that line the banks of the waterway, not the least of which are the payments he receives for the conservation practice. More...
Water Leaders Academy Sponsorship Offered
Abundant clean water is an essential component of Nebraska’s economy and the health and wellbeing of all Nebraskans. Stewarding this valuable resource through educating leaders is the goal of the Nebraska Water Leaders Academy. The board of directors of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District believes that the Water Leaders Academy is a great opportunity for district residents, especially those with interest in serving on the board of the NRD in the future. The board has approved a sponsorship for one district resident to attend per year. More...
Geneva Boys Pond Upgrades
Big things are in the works for Geneva's Boys Pond. A planned upgrade to the picturesque community gem would increase the footprint of the park by about 25 percent while adding equipment and improving access. The project is a partnership between the City of Geneva and the Geneva Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department, whose members fundraise and manage upkeep and improvements at the park. The NRD will partner with these organizations to provide funds and expertise for the proposed expansion.More...
Funds Available, Producers Sought
Are you a producer who is interested in adding conservation activities such as cover crops, but have been deterred by the costs involved in changing your operation? Good news! There will soon be additional funds available for soil health improvement practices in the district, thanks to a grant award from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service. More...
