STATE FUNDS AVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE WELL OWNERS TO INSTALL REVERSE OSMOSIS SYSTEMS

The Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy has announced that funding will be available for private well owners to install reverse osmosis systems to address high nitrate levels in drinking water. Applications for the program will be accepted from January 1, 2023, through June 30, 2024, with installation required to be completed by September 30, 2024. Govt. Pete Ricketts signed into law, LB 1014e Section 51: Reverse Osmosis which gave the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy (NDEE) the responsibility to administer the funds to install reverse osmosis systems program for villages, cities, and private well owners. A portion of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 (ARPA) funds awarded to Nebraskans are being used to fund this program.

Information about the program requirements for eligibility can be found at the NDEE office website http://dee.ne.gov/Publica.nsf/pages/22-051 or at 402-471-2186. The Lewis and Clark Natural Resources District (LCNRD) is available to assist and provide information on the Reverse Osmosis Cost-Share program. Following is a summary of program eligibility:

• The well must be registered with the Nebraska Department of Natural Resources (NeDNR) including a $70 registration fee.
• A state laboratory water quality test dated no earlier than January 1, 2022, is required. Property owners will be eligible for the reverse osmosis system rebates if the domestic well water nitrate levels exceed 10 ppm. If the sample is returned for testing, only the analysis fee is charged.
• A cost estimate from a licensed plumber for the reverse osmosis system installation is required to complete the application.

Rebates will be provided for up to $4,000 per system and will be awarded on a first come first served basis. Stop at the LCNRD office or call to check well registration status or for assistance in registering the well with NeDNR.