NRD Orders Cedar Cut, Participates In Mulch Research

TECUMSEH – The Nemaha Natural Resources District  is involved in an University of Nebraska-Lincoln cedar and manure mulch project. The university extension is leading the project to identify a producer who will allow the project on their ground and an FFA chapter to assist with soil sampling. A $132,663 grant from the Nebraska Environmental Trust supports the research using livestock manure and eastern red cedar mulch. In June, the Institute of Agriculture and Natural Resources interviewed assistant professor Amy Millmier Schmidt, who said combining wood chips with manure prior to land application could provide a market for red cedar. The goals of the project are to include high school students in research, improve soil health, reduce nutrient loss and reduce red cedar encroachment. The NRD  board accepted a $48,900 bid to remove invasive trees at Iron Horse Trail Lake, The NRD board is scheduled to meet Oct. 11 at 8 p.m. in Tecumseh. The agenda includes setting a 300 point minimum score to establish water wells in portions of Richardson County.