Public invited to natural resources meetings

LINCOLN - The public is invited to attend Local Working Group meetings that provide input on the priorities for many U.S. Department of Agriculture conservation programs. These meetings will be across the state over the next several weeks.

A list of scheduled meetings is available on the Nebraska Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) website, www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/ portal/nrcs/site/ne/home/ or by contacting your local NRCS field office.

Due to COVID-19, some meetings may be held virtually. Those interested in participating may reach out to local NRCS offices for information on how to join.

“The Local Working Group recommends to the NRCS State Conservationist how conservation programs would be used most effectively in their area. Recommendations can include special target areas, which conservation practices should have cost assistance, or how many dollars could be needed,” Jeff Vander Wilt, acting state conservationist, said.

The meeting for the Lower Loup NRD did not have a date listed as Tuesday. The contact is Bryce Bauer at bryce.bauer@ ne.usda.gov.

The meeting for the Middle Niobrara is scheduled for Feb. 24 in Valentine and 25 in Ainsworth, both from 6-8 p.m. CT. The contact is Christine Lousias at Christine.Lousias@ ne.usda.gov

For more information about the Natural Resources Conservation Service and the programs and services they provide, visit your local USDA Service Center or www.ne.nrcs. usda.gov.