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NRD outlines five paths for Bone and Long Pine watershed project as NRCS funding is held up
Summary
Middle Niobrara NRD distributed five potential paths to move WSF #5323 forward and said NRCS funding remains on hold; Chandler Schmidt said he preferred “option A” to place structures now while MNNRD General Manager Mike Murphy urged caution about design-focused spending without construction funds.
The Middle Niobrara Natural Resources District presented five potential approaches to advance Water Sustainability Fund project WSF #5323 for the Bone and Long Pine Watershed Improvement, but presenters said Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) funding is currently on hold.
Chandler Schmidt, representing the MNNRD, distributed a handout outlining the five options and said he preferred "option A" because "it would get a couple structures on the ground." Schmidt told commissioners the MNNRD board and staff will review the alternatives and pick a path at an upcoming board meeting.
MNNRD General Manager Mike Murphy warned the commission about concentrating available funds on a broader, comprehensive design package when there is no immediate funding for construction. Murphy reminded commissioners of past PL-566 watershed designs that later required long waits to secure construction funding, suggesting the commission weigh near-term buildable outcomes against larger design goals.
The commission did not take a formal funding action at the Sept. 30 meeting; staff noted the project options and the NRD's intent to make a local decision about next steps.
