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LR 158

Interim study to examine the feasibility of the State of Nebraska assuming the administration of the seventy-six mile stretch of the Niobrara River that has been designated as a national scenic river

109th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Tanya Storer

Nebraska LR 158 directs an interim study to assess feasibility of Nebraska administering the Niobrara National Scenic River, transferring from the NPS, and reporting findings.

Notice of hearing for September 19, 2025 (cancel)
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Bill Summary · LR 158

Summary: Nebraska LR 158 — Interim study on state administration of the Niobrara National Scenic River

Overview

Nebraska Legislative Resolution 158 (LR 158) is a proposal to authorize an interim study by the Legislature’s Natural Resources Committee to assess the feasibility of the State of Nebraska assuming administration of the Niobrara National Scenic River, a 76-mile segment designated as national scenic river and currently administered by the National Park Service (NPS). Since its 1991 designation, NPS ownership along the river is limited; management is largely implemented through partnerships with landowners and stewardship efforts.

Purpose and Intent

  • To examine the process and feasibility of transferring administration of the Niobrara National Scenic River from the National Park Service to the state.
  • To explore how the state might regulate and manage the river, balancing natural features and recreation with landowner involvement.

Key Provisions and Study Elements

The interim study shall consider, at minimum, the following components:
1. How other states administer national scenic rivers.
2. The process required to transfer administration of the Niobrara River from the NPS to Nebraska.
3. Rules and regulations currently in place or needed to protect and administer the Niobrara River.
4. The water supply status of the Niobrara River basin, including whether current or future water rights, management plans, or studies support river flow for user needs.
5. The roles of state agencies and entities in future administration, including:
- The Game and Parks Commission
- Cherry, Keya Paha, Brown, and Rock counties
- The Niobrara Council
- Affected natural resources districts

Administrative Provisions

  • Designation: The Natural Resources Committee of the Legislature is designated to conduct the interim study and report its findings.
  • Reporting: Upon completing the study, the committee must present findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature.

Affected Parties

  • State of Nebraska government entities (state agencies, including the Game and Parks Commission)
  • Counties: Cherry, Keya Paha, Brown, and Rock
  • Niobrara Council and related natural resources districts
  • Landowners along the Niobrara River and other stakeholders involved in river management and use

Procedural and Timeline Aspects

  • Introduced: May 9, 2025 (LR 158, 109th Legislature, First Session)
  • Sponsorship: Primary—Storer; Co-sponsor—Brandt
  • Initial Referral: Executive Board (May 9, 2025), then Natural Resources Committee (May 19, 2025)
  • Status/Actions: Notices of hearings were issued for September 19, 2025, but the hearing was canceled (status shows a canceled notice).
  • Outcome: The study would culminate in a report with findings and recommendations to the Legislative Council or Legislature; LR 158 itself does not enact new law but directs an interim inquiry.

Sponsors

  • Primary sponsor: Storer (Legislator)
  • Co-sponsor: Brandt

Notes

  • This is a resolution authorizing an interim study, not a bill to enact statutory changes. The study would inform potential future legislative or policy decisions regarding state administration of the Niobrara River.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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