Rural Water Systems
Increasing pressure on water supplies and more stringent Federal regulations for water quality have made it difficult for many smaller communities to maintain their own public water systems. Rural water systems are often a good alternative for these communities.
Working with USDA and local communties, the Lower Platte North NRD constructed its first two rural water systems in 2006, linking Bruno to David City and Colon to Wahoo.
Bruno-David City Rural Water System
Bruno's original water system was often unable to keep up with demand during hot, dry summers. This led to a cooperative project to run a 9-mile water line from David City to Bruno.
The NRD operates the water line, purchasing water from David City and delivering it to Bruno. Bruno's local water utility is still in operation, distributing the water from the rural water system to its customers.
The Butler County system cost $838,100. With a $626,000 grant from USDA, there were $212,100 in local costs. The system was completed in July 2006.
Colon-Wahoo Rural Water System
The original Colon water system often had trouble meeting Federal standards for nitrate and arsenic, leading to a cooperative project to run a 5-mile water line from Wahoo to Colon.
The NRD operates both the rural water line and the Colon water utility, purchasing water from Wahoo for delivery to Colon residents.
The sysem was completed in late summer 2006 for a total cost of $915,000. The system received a $250,000 Community Block Development Grant and a $500,000 USDA grant, leaving $165,000 in local costs.
Other Systems
The two existing rural water systems may be expanded in the future; currently the NRD is studying possibilities for adding Abie and Linwood to the Butler County system and Cedar Bluffs to the Saunders County system. A Richland-Columbus system is also under consideration.
More Information
For more information on rural water systems, please contact Rural Water Coordinator Mike Sousek.