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9.4.01 M.U.D. agrees to $1 million wetlands plan The Metropolitan Utilities District will pay nearly $1 million for the construction of a backwater project on the Missouri River just below the mouth of the Platte River. The Omaha-based utility also will pay the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission $125,000 for possible loss of wetlands and recreational opportunities at Two Rivers State Recreation Area. M.U.D. also agreed to establish some wetlands along the Missouri just above the confluence of the Platte and Missouri Rivers. The payments stem from the proposed expansion of M.U.D.'s wellfield, a 2,230-acre project along the Platte River in Douglas and Sarpy Counties. Also planned is a new water-treatment plant to meet growing demand in the Omaha area. M.U.D. now serves about 170,000 water customers. The expansion project is not yet final, and the payments will be made only if the project is completed. Kevin Tobin, M.U.D. project manager, said the expanded wellfield could be in operation by 2008. "The backwater project is supposed to be in place and operational before we actually start operation of the wellfield, Tobin said. The project will be designed, constructed and maintained by the Game and Parks Commission and built on land that is adjacent to the Schilling Wildlife Management Area near Plattsmouth. "It will be connected to the Missouri and will provide for water to back up into the area, Tobin said. The backwater project will help offset possible impacts to pallid sturgeon and sturgeon chub due to Platte River depletion. The wellfield also is expected to draw down the levels of ponds at the Two Rivers State Recreation Area. |
Summer water use in metro area Construction Progress Photos Water Plant Wellfield: |
