Nebraska

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Extension has been honored by the Bureau of Reclamation for its water conservation efforts.

The bureau presented its 2004 Commissioner's Water Conservation Award to UNL Extension this summer. It's one of only five given annually to individuals or entities that demonstrate significant accomplishments in improving water use efficiency.

Fred Ore, deputy director of operations at the bureau's Washington Office, praised extension's "excellent support, specifically in the areas of conservation, education, outreach and demonstration of innovative technologies."

UNL Extension has assisted the Bureau of Reclamation with a number of education and demonstration projects, including improved on-farm efficiency projects such as water measurement, surge valves, sprinkler irrigation, irrigation with limited supplies, and sub-surface drip irrigation. Extension "represents the type of proactive force that demonstrates what can be accomplished with partnerships. As portions of Nebraska feel the effects of the lingering drought, Extension continues to serve the state," Ore said.

Through its Water Conservation Field Services Program, the Bureau of Reclamation has partnered with UNL Extension on water conservation efforts since 1997. The Water Conservation Field Services Program is designed to encourage water conservation, help water agencies develop and implement effective water management and conservation plans, coordinate with state and other local conservation program efforts, and generally foster improved water management on a regional, statewide and watershed basis.

The award was presented at the Great Plains Conference on Improving Crop Water Productivity in North Platte.

Extension is a division of the university's Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources.