Wellhead Protection Program

The goal of the state’s Wellhead Protection Program is to protect from contaminating the land and groundwater that surrounds wells providing the public drinking water supply. The Upper Loup NRD’s goal for wellhead protection is to assist the 5 villages, with public water systems, within the District boundaries with the development of Wellhead Protection Programs.

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy provides oversight for the wellhead protection statewide. The agency also has an EPA mandate to develop Wellhead Protection area maps. Wellhead Protection area boundaries have been mapped for all 5 villages in the District.

Wellhead Protection Plans include:

• A detailed inventory of potential contaminants

  • The inventory is the information base for knowing the “what, when, and how” for potential contaminants that may enter a public water system

• A listing of contaminants registered with the state

• A listing of all underground storage tanks registered with the State Fire Marshall

• A condition assessment of the drinking water supply

• A review of existing local ordinances that impact water quality

• A report on the present quality and availability of future quantity concerns

• A summary of existing and future security needs

• An assessment of future well sites

  • Contingency plans should provide for drinking water sources in the event of emergencies

• A review of emergency procedures and contingencies

  • Who operates the public water system in the absence of primary staff

  • Availability of potable drinking water during times of emergency