Water Quality Fight: Nebraska and other Republican attorneys general are urging the EPA to classify the abortion pill mifepristone as a water contaminant, arguing it threatens waterways—while environmental health experts say there’s no clear harm shown to drinking water or aquatic wildlife. Public Health & Water Safety: Nebraska issued a harmful algal bloom health alert for Iron Horse Trail Lake and extended it for Rockford Lake, with microcystin levels above the state threshold; swimming beaches are closed and officials warn people to avoid swallowing water and keep pets out. Wildfire Watch (Panhandle): Updates on the South Fork Fire show rapid growth and shifting conditions, with containment rising in some reports and evacuation steps focused on Crawford and nearby areas, plus ongoing air support and road closures. Local Conservation: The Bow Creek Watershed Project plans a 2026 field day in Hartington focused on summer annual forages and small grains, including practical drill and grazing demonstrations. Energy & Land Use: A North Omaha town hall highlighted new Nebraska data center rules, including reporting on power and water use, as residents push for transparency amid rapid development. Livestock Health: Nebraska livestock producers are being warned about the return and spread of New World screwworm, a destructive pest that can affect animals and wildlife. Agriculture & Soil: Research and program coverage this week points to the difficulty of proving results for conservation programs, especially when enrolling farmers and ranchers takes time and staffing.