LINCOLN - Gov. Jim Pillen expects to sign a bill into law next week to merge the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources with the Department of Environment and Energy.

In a statement following the Legislature’s passage of LB 317 the governor called water our lifeblood.

Pillen: “As a farming and ranching state that is growing, this is the right time for Nebraska to create a modern model of stewardship and double-down on our work to protect and enhance our water resources. The newly structured Department of Water, Energy and Environment allows us to prioritize the management of both water quantity and water quality under the same leadership – while also streamlining duplicative government and cutting red tape. This legislation is a win-win for our state.” 

In February, Gov. Pillen appointed Jesse Bradley to serve as interim director to both DEE and DNR. He will lead the restructured agency. 

https://rivercountry.newschannelnebraska.com/story/51720323/governor-calls-for-unified-leadership-for-nebraskas-water-nitrate-issues