Nebraska Bird Partnership

Is the Niobrara River more valuable as a water supply for irrigators, as a source for electrical generation, or for the tourism dollars generated by its scenic beauty and recreational appeal?

Economist Steven Shultz has been asked by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission to consider this question as it considers whether to seek protections for the benefit of wildlife and recreation on the Niobrara.

The river's multiple uses seem to be in a state of equilibrium for now, Shultz said. Recreational users complain more about the peak-season crowds than they do about too-low water levels.

Kirk Nelson, assistant Game and Parks director, said the Commission is continuing to gather information. It will be at least two years, he said, before a decision is made whether to seek Niobrara flow protections.

Read the full article about the Niobrara's multiple uses from the Omaha World-Herald.