The Nebraska Water Center, in partnership with the University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s School of Natural Resources, hosted its 2022 Spring Seminar Series online and in person. The series, “Hydrotourism and Economic Development in Nebraska,” highlighted the significance that water holds in and around Nebraska and its ability to bring people from all walks of life together.
The six seminars featured a slate of specialists representing everything from city engineers to Indigenous educational consultants to river outfitters. This variety in fields and experience highlighted how water means something different to every individual but is also something that unites people.
Established in 1968, the Spring Seminar Series provides a forum to increase awareness and allow for meaningful conversation regarding water issues. The series is a cornerstone of NWC’s mission to help the University of Nebraska become an international leader in water research, teaching, extension and outreach. The series is also offered as a one-credit hour undergraduate/graduate course at UNL.
Lectures included:
- Wynn Hjermstad, community development manager, City of Lincoln; Glenn Johnson, former general manager, Lower Platte South NRD
- Kevin Kruse, PE - JEO Consulting Group, Inc; Steven Rames, PE – City Engineer, Norfolk, NE
- Chris Chizinski, associate professor, School of Natural Resources; Dean Rosenthal, administrator, Fisheries Division, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
- Ken Schilz, former state senator; Mary Wilson, co-director, Keith County Area Development; Jim Swenson, deputy director, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission
- Shane Doyle, educational consultant, Crow Tribe of Montana
- Rich Mercure, Little Outlaw Canoes, Tubes and Kayaks; Mike Murphy, general manager, Middle Niobrara NRD; Matt Sprenger, project manager, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
The NWC plans to offer its Spring Seminar Series again in 2023.