Watershed Science Education Collaboration
Collaborator(s): Troy Gilmore, Erin Ingram, Jesse Korus, Katie Pekarek, Lisa Pennisi, Megan Taylor
In partnership with Nebraska Extension, UNL's Conservation and Survey Division has created educational materials for water decision-makers in Nebraska. The web-based content includes basic instruction in the areas of groundwater, surface water, and groundwater-surface water interactions. Short videos, interactive modules, and story maps highlight recent research and critical topics such as groundwater nitrate and human health, the age of groundwater beneath the Sandhills, and the hidden secrets of "rusty" center pivots. The overall goal of the website is to inform and educate natural resources policy makers and citizens about watershed science so that they can make informed decisions. The materials are designed to meet the demands of learners with widely varying educational backgrounds and demographics. These resources can be found at NebraskaWaves (https://nebraskawaves.org/).
The Watershed Science Training Program will be ideally suited for Natural Resources District Board Members and Staff. Additional audiences for the curriculum may include water resources managers in other states and countries, citizens in Nebraska, policy makers (e.g., NE legislators and/or staff), commissioners (e.g., Natural Resources Commissioners, Public Service Commission), community leaders, and water/irrigation district personnel.
