March 21, 2008

The Nebraska Department of Agriculture is accepting grant proposals to address riparian vegetation overgrowth in fully and over-appropriated river basins. The Riparian Vegetation Management Grant Program was created in LB 701, the comprehensive water legislation signed into law last year.

"We will be accepting grant applications through April 7 and intend to make the grant awards in May so successful applicants have plenty of time to implement their projects," Ibach said.

NDA has scheduled a pre-application, informational seminar for 10 a.m. on Wednesday, March 19 at the Central Platte Natural Resources District office, 215 North Kaufman Avenue in Grand Island. Applicants are not required to attend.

According to LB 701, grant funds can only be disbursed to weed management entities, local weed control authorities, and natural resources districts whose territory includes Department of Natural Resources-designated fully or over-appropriated river basins. This is the second round of funding authorized in the legislation, and $2 million is available.

Ibach encouraged entities that meet the qualifications to collaborate on proposals.

"We are looking for projects that meet the legislative goals of using integrated vegetation management and sound science," Ibach said.

An electronic version of the grant application can be accessed at the NDA Web site, www.agr.ne.gov, under the "What's New Around the Department?" section. For additional information, interested parties can contact Rich Reiman or Mitch Coffin at NDA by calling (402) 471-2394.