Department of Natural Resources Surface Water
The Department has jurisdiction over all matters pertaining to surface water, rights for storage, irrigation, power, manufacturing, instream flows and other beneficial uses. This includes the distribution of available supply during times of water shortages and adjudication of established water rights. Any person who wishes to divert and use the waters of a natural stream or lake must first get a permit or water right from the Department. In water short areas of the state, the process for receiving a permit may include a formal hearing. These hearings are subject to review by the Nebraska Court of Appeals.
Holders of water rights must use the water in accordance with the provisions written on the permit. Failure to so use the water will result in the Department conducting a hearing to cancel or annul the permit. This process is called an "adjudication" and is subject to review by the Nebraska Court of Appeals.
Hydrographic Report and Station List (2008)
DNR Stream Gaging
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