Nebraska Department of Water, Energy, and Environment

Surface water can seep into the ground to recharge an aquifer, and groundwater can discharge to the surface to supply rivers and streams. Source: USGS

Beach Watch update 6/5/26:

Rockford Lake is on health alert for Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs). Lakes are placed on alert when they sample above 8 parts per billion of microcystin, a toxin released by certain strains of blue-green algae.

When a health alert is issued, signs are posted to advise the public to use caution, and designated swimming beaches are closed during the alert. Recreational boating and fishing are permitted, but the public is advised to avoid exposure to the water, particularly avoiding any activity that could lead to swallowing the water. Do not let pets get in the water or drink from the lake. People can still use the public areas for camping, picnics and other outdoor activities.

For more information ➡️ https://deq-iis.ne.gov/zs/bw/

Did you know some groundwater contamination can be treated without pumping water above ground? DWEE recently did this at the Parkview Well Superfund Site in Grand Island – the agency
injected oxidants into the groundwater to change harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into harmless byproducts.

This effort began when DWEE observed higher concentrations of VOC-contaminated groundwater during routine sampling events. Rather than allow the contamination to migrate until it reached the closest extraction well for treatment, DWEE took a proactive approach to complete the injections, which will continue to treat groundwater for up to a year.

Are you taking a driller's exam? We have study guides to help. Check it out on our website: https://bit.ly/3RxmLyV

ICYMI: the EPA announced Nebraska will receive nearly $35 million to find and replace lead drinking water pipes! More info to come. https://www.epa.gov/newsreleases/epa-announces-nearly-35-million-reduce-lead-drinking-water-nebraska

Nebraska’s Draft 2026 Ambient Air Monitoring Network Plan is available for public comment! The plan describes the state’s existing ambient air monitoring network, assesses it, and plans changes through June 2027. https://dwee.nebraska.gov/forms/publications-grants-forms/26-024

Never pour FOG down your drain! Fats, Oils, and Grease can clog pipes, leading to costly plumbing or sewer repairs!

Water is essential to life and our economy. Streamgaging is crucial in making informed decisions about water management. Several Nebraska streamgages are equipped with cameras: https://bit.ly/4dqCqbR

ICYMI: EPA announced Nebraska will receive more than $9 million in funding to address PFAS in drinking water. This funding will be made available to drinking water systems and private well owners to help with testing, planning, and infrastructure projects. More info to come!

EPA Announces Over $9 Million for Nebraska to Address PFAS in Drinking Water | US EPA EPA has announced over $9 million in new Emerging Contaminants in Small or Disadvantaged Communities grant funding to address PFAS and emerging contaminants in Nebraska communities that need it most.