Data centers can guzzle serious water. As some Nebraskans worry, tech giants seek solutions.

The only way to know how much water or power data centers use is if the companies that own them are transparent.

July 8, 2026Updated: July 8, 2026

By Flatwater Free Press

Data centers can guzzle serious water. As some Nebraskans worry, tech giants seek solutions.

Construction at a Google data center near Blair High Road and State Street in northwest Omaha on March 10. Photo by Naomi Delkamiller/Flatwater Free Press

Norfolk will advertise for bids for Ta-Ha-Zouka softball improvements project

New sculpture installed at Victory Road roundabout

Columbus Sertomaland Playground reopens with all-inclusive upgrades

Hope Crisis Center chief chats with county commissioners about funding, services

Hope Crisis Center executive director Carmen Hinman is touting her organization's successes but isn't shying away from its funding struggles in her conversations with county boards this summer.

‘Every parent’s worst nightmare’: Norfolk man sentenced on federal child porn charges

’It’s an honor’: Korean War veterans receive medallions in Norfolk

State

Uncle testifies against nephew in Wayne County murder case

Data centers can guzzle serious water. As some Nebraskans worry, tech giants seek solutions.

Norfolk will advertise for bids for Ta-Ha-Zouka softball improvements project

New sculpture installed at Victory Road roundabout

Columbus Sertomaland Playground reopens with all-inclusive upgrades

Hope Crisis Center chief chats with county commissioners about funding, services

‘Every parent’s worst nightmare’: Norfolk man sentenced on federal child porn charges

’It’s an honor’: Korean War veterans receive medallions in Norfolk

State

Uncle testifies against nephew in Wayne County murder case

More than memories: UNK counseling students help local seniors find connection

North Platte man charged in death of 4-month-old girl

Hands-on livestock education

Norfolk council approves extreme blight study for part of south Norfolk

Nebraska Diaper Bank expands services to Grand Island through new Hope Harbor partnership

Sports

Basketball all-stars balance competitive edge with fun, ahead of NCA Basketball Senior Showcase

NCA Volleyball All-Star game set to highlight the best high school volleyball in Nebraska

Hastings College Gears Up for Inaugural Women's Flag Football Season

Bobcat basketball misses 2026 tournament goal

State Little League tournaments in Kearney sets participation record

Nebraska Select soccer team earns trip to national tournament

Ag & Outdoor

Outdoor notes: Birding Bowl inspires generous next step

Outdoor notes: Tips for enjoying water safely this summer

Outdoor notes: Rare lake sturgeon made 681-mile swim

Outdoor notes: Low water affecting Nebraska boaters this summer

Ag notes: Cattle placements rise 6% during April

NGPC still offers grazing, haying opportunities