Through the years, politicians, economists, farmers and many other people familiar with Nebraska have often referred to irrigation as the “lifeblood” of the state’s economy. While the state is considered rich in water resources — both surface water and groundwater — care must be taken to conserve and protect this precious resource for future generations.

More than 8 million acres in Nebraska are irrigated, approximately 7 million from groundwater sources and about 1 million with surface water. Conflict over available water supplies is inevitable, making integrated management of water resources critical for the future of agriculture in the state. At the same time, water demands for municipal and industrial use, for recreation and for wildlife habitat are increasing.

Center pivots, one of the most efficient tools farmers can use to irrigate their crops, are used
in large numbers in Central’s service area. By 2005, more than 250 pivots were taking water
from Central’s canal system, instead of tapping into the area’s groundwater supply.
Source — Central Nebraska Public Power and Irrigation District.

Meeting these demands is difficult, particularly during times of drought. Much of the Great Plains and mountain states have been experiencing severe drought conditions since 2000, which makes wise management, conservation and stewardship of water resources even more important.

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