Jeff Wallin to chair WaterClaim

 Jeff Wallin has been elected as chairman of WaterClaim.  Brad Dillon, representing Lamar Fertilizer / Ag Solutions, is treasurer.  Julie Ferguson is secretary.  WaterClaim is a non-profit organization, representing farmers and businesses that are searching for solutions to water issues.  WaterClaim was formed in early 2004 by Steve and Jennifer Smith and Gregg Smith. 

WaterClaim believes that the biggest threat to the economy isn’t running out of water.  The aquifer under the Upper Republican NRD stores a huge amount of water that will provide farms and ranches and homes with water for many decades to come.  WaterClaim feels the biggest threat is a state of fear that causes some to want to voluntarily shut off irrigation and take large amounts of land out of production, eliminating many of the community’s jobs. 

Even though the aquifer will meet the needs of the community for many years to come, WaterClaim believes it is important to find solutions that will keep the aquifer viable for future generations.  WaterClaim has proposed several ideas on how to protect the economy of the area while also protecting the water resources. 

WaterClaim Goals

1. Protect and strengthen the economy of our region.

2. Encourage water policy makers to make decisions that protect irrigators’ access to sufficient water.

3. Collect and consistently provide accurate information to the public and to water policy makers.

4. Encourage habitat management and the control of invasive species.

5. Preserve the aquifer through recharge and water transfers.

6. Support and respect local NRD authority to manage groundwater in Nebraska .