Tri-Basin NRD operates a district-wide Groundwater Management Area to protect groundwater quality and quantity. We monitor and map groundwater and surface water quality and quantity.

The NRD has regulated fertilizer application to protect groundwater quality since 1989. These efforts have resulted in stable or declining nitrate-nitrogen levels in groundwater supplies throughout the district. District staff works cooperatively with farmers and agronomists to help improve the timeliness, efficiency and effectiveness of fertilizer application.

Tri-Basin NRD is also committed to sustaining groundwater supplies at levels equal to or greater than average groundwater levels in the period 1981-85. This commitment is also the objective of the Joint Action Plan for the Republican Basin portion of the district agreed to by the NRD and the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources in July 2004. This commitment to protect existing groundwater supplies also protects Nebraska’s credit for “imported water” in the Republican River Basin.