KEARNEY, Neb. - Over 400 natural resource leaders gathered in Kearney this week for the annual Nebraska Association of Resources Districts (NARD) Conference, held Sept. 29 - Oct. 1.

The event provided a chance for boards and staff from across the state to connect, share strategies and learn about innovations in conservation.

Martin Graff, Director of the Middle Niobrara Natural Resource District in Valentine and President of NARD, said this year’s conference comes amid ongoing financial pressures.

“With our federal programs, probably our biggest challenge right now for all 23 NRDs is budget cuts, both state and national, trying to find funding sources to do our major projects like our WFBOs,” Graf said.

“So it’s difficult this year, but as always, we come together and figure out strategies and ways to continue to get our conservation work done.”

The conference also recognized leaders making a difference in conservation.

Attendees took part in workshops and breakout sessions covering soil and water conservation, wildlife habitat and the latest technologies in resource management, such as pivot monitors and ground moisture probes.

Awards were given for accomplishments in soil health, water conservation and education.

Graff emphasized the value of collaboration, saying “Learning what works for other entities, sharing what works for us, and then coming together with new plans and new approaches… those are major innovations that these boards come together and put their heads together and figure it out a way.”