Pawnee Watershed Plan
Project Information Page
About the Plan
And why your input is important
Operating under a General Plan (originally approved in 1971, with the most recent amendment approved in 2014) for installation of flood control measures using local and state funding sources, the Pawnee Watershed Joint District No. 81 has constructed 51 flood-retention structures, controlling more than 487,656 acres and impounding a maximum storage of 153,211 acre-feet of runoff water. The monetary benefits not being captured by completion of the watershed plan potentially include flood benefits (damage reduction to crops, pastures, fences, farm buildings, equipment, livestock loss, residential/ commercial properties, utilities, roads, railroads, and bridges) and non-flood benefits (water management [irrigation], livestock water, municipal water supply, recreation, and improved fish and wildlife habitat.) In order to complete the original plan's 71 structures total, which would reduce flood-related damages by 61%, the District is conducting a watershed plan and environmental assessment to describe reasonable alternatives. It will also identify the preferred alternative based on technical, economic, social, and environmental findings in accordance with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and related environmental and economic documentation requirements. Alternatives may be structural or non-structural measures.Questions or comments about this project?
Call Randy Still (620) 357-6420
Public Meetings
Another opportunity to express your views
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service recognizes that participation by the public in planning and decision-making about programs encourages people to support soil, water, and natural resource conservation. It is NRCS's policy to support and encourage public participation. One way NRCS provides that support is through a series of public meetings during projects like the Pawnee Watershed Project, to provide opportunities for the public to contribute information and express opinions. Here are some opportunities to make your voice heard:
Public Meeting No. 1
Live Nov 9
What's happening in this stage?
Why your input is important
How to make your comments heard
Next steps in the project
Public Meeting No. 2
Live Oct 17 2022
Presented potential alternatives
Explained the alternatives
Gave the public a chance to comment
Next steps in the project
Public Meeting No. 2 - SubWS 5
Live May 15 2023
Presented potential alternatives
Explained the alternatives
Gave the public a chance to comment
Next steps in the project