Nebraska Water Leaders Academy Visits Panhandle

Participants of Nebraska State Irrigation Association and Nebraska Well Drillers Association Water Leaders Academy were in western Nebraska over the weekend. The day and half long program took the future water leaders from the Whalen Diversion Dam down stream to Mitchell - Gering Diversion Dam and to 9 mile creek along with indepth classroom presentations. Executive Director Lee Orton says the program shows fellows the history and important role of irrigation in the panhandle.

The one-year leadership academy brings together both ground water and surface water leaders in exposing participants to water statewide water issues. The program in western Nebraska is the third in a series of six program held throughout the state.

The Leadership Academy for both the state's Well Drillers and Irrigation Associations brings together 20 plus individuals of various backgrounds.

2012 marks the second year of both programs. With support from the Nebraska Environmental Trust the Water Leaders Academy is being funded for the next three years and Orton is hopeful the program will become a permanent activity. Recruiting is underway for the next class of participants.

For more information on the program contact your local irrigation district or natural resource district or by going to nsia dot org.

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