A University of Nebraska–Lincoln project to deliver watershed science education to decision-makers received a $78,601 grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust.
A watershed science training program will be delivered to water resources decision-makers in Nebraska. Programming will be delivered collaboratively, leveraging the strengths and educational missions of partner agencies. The program will provide environmental benefits through strengthened natural and water resources management.
The initial audience is Natural Resources District board members, building on a robust needs assessment and pilot materials. The audience will expand later, said Troy Gilmore, assistant professor of natural resources and project lead.
The project consists of:
- Assessment of existing water resources education efforts from water resources entities in Nebraska to find synergies between programs.
- Development of a watershed science training program for NRD board members and related adult stakeholders that uses online module development and facilitated education with Nebraska Extension educators and NRD staff.
- Robust evaluation of learning outcomes and impact of the training program.
The collaborative program involves the Nebraska Association of Resources Districts, individual NRDs, the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality, the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources and the university. Collectively, in-kind contributions account for more than half of the project budget. Extension educator Carla McCullough will assist with the project.
The project is one of 23 Husker projects receiving more than $2.1 million from NET this year. In total, NET awarded 113 grants totaling more than $18 million in 2021.
The Nebraska Legislature created the NET in 1992. Using revenue from the Nebraska Lottery, the trust has provided more than $349 million in grants to more than 2,400 projects across the state. Anyone — citizens, organizations, communities, farmers and businesses — can apply for funding to protect habitat, improve water quality and establish recycling programs in Nebraska. The NET works to preserve, protect and restore the state’s natural resources for future generations.
