The application period for seeking cost-sharing state funds from the Water Sustainability Fund begins Monday, July 16, and runs through Tuesday, July 31. Applications must be submitted electronically no later than July 31. The electronic application and information about the fund can be found at https://nrc.nebraska.gov/water-sustainability-fund-0

The Water Sustainability Fund is a source of financial support for projects that meet the statutory goals of the fund, which include: (a) Provide financial assistance to programs, projects, or activities that increase aquifer recharge, reduce aquifer depletion, and increase streamflow; (b) remediate or mitigate threats to drinking water; (c) promote the goals and objectives of approved integrated management plans or ground water management plans; (d) contribute to multiple water supply management goals including flood control, reducing threats to property damage, agricultural uses, municipal and industrial uses, recreational benefits, wildlife habitat, conservation, and preservation of water resources; (e) assist municipalities with the cost of constructing, upgrading, developing, and replacing sewer infrastructure facilities as part of a combined sewer overflow project; (f) provide increased water productivity and enhance water quality; (g) use the most cost-effective solutions available; and (h) comply with interstate compacts, decrees, other state contracts and agreements and federal law.

The Water Sustainability Fund is overseen by the Natural Resources Commission, a board of 27 members, 13 elected by river basin and 14 appointed by the Governor.