AGP Executive Report

Plastics Fight in Court: Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers led a 17-state lawsuit asking a federal judge to block California’s new single-use plastics packaging law (SB 54), arguing it reaches beyond California and could raise prices nationwide; the coalition includes Iowa, Missouri, and others, with business group NAW joining as a plaintiff. Crop Health Watch: Tar spot has shown up early in parts of the Midwest, including Nebraska counties, but UNL Extension says don’t rush to spray yet—timing matters and early fungicide treatments often aren’t economical. Wildfire Update (Nebraska): The South Fork Fire is now estimated at about 39,696 acres, with a Type 3 incident management team taking over and Burned Area Emergency Response starting post-fire soil, watershed, road, trail, and wildlife habitat evaluations. Insurance & Storm Risk: A new analysis says severe convective storms are now the costliest insured hazard in the U.S., driving premium pressure in hail-prone states like Nebraska. Severe Weather (Region): Illinois continues a record tornado season, with experts noting the spike is unusual even compared with past years.

Plastics Fight in Federal Court: Nebraska Attorney General Mike Hilgers led a 17-state coalition (with NAW as the business plaintiff) suing to block California’s SB 54 “Plastic Pollution Prevention and Packaging Producer Responsibility Act,” arguing it delegates fee-setting to a private group and would raise costs nationwide. Nebraska Weather Impacts: Weekend storms brought uneven rain across Nebraska, with some areas getting meaningful moisture while others saw little; central Nebraska also saw hail and high winds that shredded crops and twisted grain bins. Home Insurance Pressure: A new poll of Iowa, Nebraska, and Kansas homeowners found 3 in 4 are worried about rising premiums, with most saying elected officials should do more to lower costs. Cybersecurity for Critical Infrastructure: Nebraska wrapped up Cyber Tatanka 2026, a two-week exercise testing defenses for regional critical networks. Corn Disease Watch: UNL Extension reports low-incidence tar spot in several Nebraska counties and says early fungicide treatment usually isn’t economical.

USDA staffing cuts and conservation strain: A new USDA Office of Inspector General report says Nebraska lost 15% of USDA staff in the first half of 2025, and the next federal budget could slash NRCS staffing in Nebraska from 68 full-time positions to 10—raising concerns for how farmers get help protecting soil, water, and wildlife. Drought pressure on Nebraska agriculture: Coverage highlights how drought is already forcing ranchers to rethink grazing and water planning, with Nebraska wheat facing major yield risk and possible abandoned acres as heat and dry conditions persist. Wildfire smoke and ozone impacts: Researchers report that wildfire emissions can worsen surface ozone pollution across the Midwest, reversing earlier air-quality gains and shortening lives—relevant to Nebraska’s wildfire season and public health. South Fork Fire updates: Fire managers report high containment and ongoing suppression repair work around Fort Robinson and nearby wildlife areas, with crews transitioning to a smaller organization as conditions allow. Weather watch for Nebraska: Forecasts flag severe storm potential across the Nebraska Panhandle and nearby areas, with hail, wind, and possible tornado risk.

Waste & Water Monitoring: Cities are testing wastewater for illicit drugs, using sewage sampling to spot spikes early and help target overdose prevention. Wildfire & Air Quality: New research links wildfire emissions to worsening surface ozone pollution across the Midwest, reversing years of ozone gains and raising health risks. Drought & Climate Signals: Forecasters warn a strong El Niño could worsen long-term drought and raise “mini-dust bowl” concerns, while Nebraska’s drought-stressed wheat outlook highlights how quickly conditions can hit yields. Nebraska Fire Response: The South Fork Fire update reports containment at 90% as crews continue perimeter patrols and suppression repairs, with management shifting to a Type 3 team. Groundwater Safety: Nebraska Extension is reminding private well owners to test drinking water regularly, emphasizing ongoing local risk management. Data Centers & Water Use: Reporting flags the growing environmental footprint of AI data centers, including major water consumption tied to a Nebraska facility. Local Land Stewardship: A Sandhills rancher credits decades of University of Nebraska research and Extension support for shifting grazing practices toward long-term grassland stewardship.

South Fork Fire Update: The South Fork Fire is now 90% contained (39,696 acres) after satellite mapping expanded the burn area; crews finished suppression repair on federal lands and are repairing state lands toward Fort Robinson, with the White River Trail reopened and the public asked to stay on designated roads and trails. Wildfire Smoke & Ozone: University of Iowa researchers say wildfire emissions are worsening surface ozone across the Midwest, reversing ozone gains and contributing to premature deaths, with a Nebraska National Forest blaze cited as nearby. El Niño, Drought, and Water Stress: Forecasters warn a strong El Niño could mean multi-year dryness for parts of the Plains, while data centers’ rapid growth raises new water concerns as drought risk climbs. Nebraska Sandhills Stewardship: A Sandhills rancher credits decades of UNL research and Extension for shifting management toward grasslands and long-term sustainability, including a new UNL interview-based research effort with ranch families. Nebraska Private Well Reminder: Nebraska Extension urged private well owners statewide to test drinking water for safety risks. Severe Weather Watch: The NWS Cheyenne office warns of hail, wind, and possible tornadoes Saturday for the Nebraska Panhandle and southeast Wyoming.

Wildfire Response: The South Fork Fire is now 90% contained, with acreage rising to 39,696 after satellite mapping found previously unseen grassy areas; crews have finished suppression repair on state lands from Soldier Creek campground to Fort Robinson, and the White River Trail has reopened with a reminder to stay on designated roads and trails. Air Quality: University of Iowa researchers report wildfire emissions are worsening surface ozone pollution across the Midwest, reversing ozone gains from 2003–2015 and contributing to premature deaths. Weather & Drought Watch: Forecasters warn El Niño could intensify long-term drought risk, with Plains dryness potentially persisting for years, while Nebraska and nearby states face a moderate flood risk this weekend. Nebraska Water Safety: Nebraska Extension urged private well owners to test drinking water for safety risks. Rangeland Stewardship: A Sandhills rancher says decades of University of Nebraska–Lincoln research and Extension helped shift management toward grasslands for long-term sustainability. Outdoor Learning: Nebraska Game and Parks shared July nature events, including birding programs and “Little Saplings” for young kids.

Wildfire & Public Lands: The South Fork Fire in Nebraska’s region continues to ease: all evacuations are lifted, containment is reported at 80%, and crews are shifting from suppression to repair work on federal and state lands. Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service warns of Saturday storms in southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle, with hail, damaging winds, and a possible tornado threat plus flash-flood risk. Drought Outlook: A new seasonal drought outlook says extreme drought is persisting in parts of southeast South Dakota and northeast Nebraska, with conditions expected to linger through summer. Air Quality & Wildfire Impacts: University of Iowa researchers report wildfire emissions can worsen ozone pollution across the Midwest, reversing years of ozone progress and raising health risks. Water Use & AI: Reporting highlights how large AI data centers can drive major water demand, adding pressure to local resources. Local Nature Access: Whitney Lake boat ramp reopened after a temporary closure tied to South Fork Fire aerial firefighting operations.

South Fork Fire Update: All evacuations are lifted as the South Fork Fire reaches 80% containment and about 39,057 acres, with crews shifting from suppression to repair work on federal and state lands near Soldier Creek and Fort Robinson. Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service warns southeast Wyoming and the Nebraska Panhandle could see large hail, damaging winds, and a conditional tornado risk Saturday, plus some flash-flood potential. Drought Outlook: A strong El Niño could mean multi-year dryness for parts of the Plains, while southeast South Dakota and northeast Nebraska remain in moderate to extreme drought expected to persist through summer. Air Quality From Wildfires: University of Iowa researchers say wildfire emissions are reversing ozone pollution gains across the Midwest, contributing to hundreds of premature deaths annually. Water Use and AI: Reporting highlights how AI data centers—including a major Google site in Papillion—are driving huge water demands, raising new concerns for Nebraska’s natural resources. Nebraska Conservation & Education: Nebraska Game and Parks lists July events, including birding programs and firefly-focused learning at state parks. Grasslands at Risk: A national look at prairie loss spotlights Nebraska’s Valentine National Wildlife Refuge as a key habitat for grassland birds. Local Governance & Costs: A poll of Midwestern homeowners links climate change to rising home insurance premiums, with Nebraska included in the survey.

Drought Watch: The National Weather Service says drought in southeast South Dakota and northeast Nebraska is likely to linger through at least late summer, with extreme drought now covering parts of Nebraska’s Cedar, Dixon and Knox counties. Private Wells: Nebraska Extension is urging private well owners to test now and every year, warning that clear, odorless water can still hide nitrate, coliform and other health risks. South Fork Fire Response: The South Fork Fire is at about 80% containment and roughly 39,057 acres; crews are repairing dozer lines and the public is asked to stay out of the fire area. Sandhills Stewardship: A UNL Sandhills ranch technician, John Nollette, received a University of Nebraska Board of Regents Kudos Award for supporting research, teaching and Extension on the Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory. Grassland Loss: A national report highlights how much prairie has vanished and why protecting remaining grasslands matters for biodiversity and grassland birds, with Nebraska’s Sandhills spotlighted as a key refuge. EV Policy Scorecard: A Brookings report finds Nebraska among states scoring near zero on electric vehicle readiness after federal incentives were rolled back. Insurance Pressure: A Midwestern homeowner poll (including Nebraska) links rising home insurance costs to climate-driven losses and calls for stronger accountability. Local Access: Whitney Lake’s boat ramp reopened after a temporary closure tied to aerial firefighting support during the South Fork Fire.

Grassland Birds & Prairie Loss: A new roundup highlights how Nebraska’s prairies can still shelter grassland birds, even as North America has lost about half its historic grasslands and native habitat keeps shrinking. Wildfire Response: The South Fork Fire remains at 80% containment and about 39,057 acres; officials say lines held through windy conditions and crews are now focused on repairs and mopping up around the perimeter. Recreation Access: Whitney Lake Boat Ramp reopened after a temporary closure so aerial scoopers could refill and support firefighting efforts during the South Fork Fire. Private Well Safety (Nebraska Extension): Nebraska Extension urges private well owners to test now and annually—especially for nitrate and coliform/E. coli—and to test for other common hazards like arsenic and uranium. Water & Waste Grants: Nebraska’s Department of Water, Energy, and Environment is accepting 2027 waste reduction, litter reduction, and scrap tire grant applications from June 24 to Aug. 5. UNL Plastic Research: UNL and UNO researchers show how microwaving plastic can release billions of nanoparticles, drawing national attention from a Washington Post reporter.

SNAP Update: Lawmakers are pushing to let shoppers buy hot rotisserie chicken with federal food benefits, a change that would expand what’s eligible at the point of sale. Wildlife & Conservation: Four three-year-old cheetah brothers have moved to the Little Rock Zoo, with officials saying the setup supports natural social behavior and long-term genetic health. Research Spotlight: UNL researchers are drawing national attention for work on how microplastics and nanoparticles can be released from plastic when microwaved, after a Washington Post reporter visited UNL and UNO labs. Public Lands & Habitat: Experts warn the U.S. has lost about half of its historic grasslands, with tallgrass prairies largely gone, threatening biodiversity and wildlife. Nebraska Water & Waste: Nebraska DWEE is accepting 2027 grant applications (waste reduction, litter reduction, and scrap tires) from June 24 to Aug. 5. Wildfire Watch: South Fork Fire updates report 80% containment and about 39,057 acres burned, with continued safety messaging for closures and evacuation status. Urban Nature: Omaha’s riverfront green space is adding pollinator habitat, including bird/bee boxes and insect motels, plus efforts to reintroduce disease-resistant elms. Outdoor Access: Nebraska Game and Parks is expanding its Open Fields and Waters Program, paying landowners for public walk-in hunting and fishing access.

Wildfire Response: The South Fork Fire in Nebraska remains at 80% containment and 39,057 acres, with 482 personnel assigned; officials say the fire was generally quiet but crews found heat spots and “ash devils” near Hwy. 20, and they’re watching burning cottonwood trees while keeping the Fort Robinson campus evacuation status at “SET” (Be Prepared). Flood Resilience: Southeast Nebraska’s heavy rains showed the value of flood control infrastructure: Lower Big Blue NRD says watershed structures prevented more than $1 million in estimated flood damage in Saline and Gage counties. Farm Risk Management: Nebraska Extension highlights a fast-approaching July 15 deadline for USDA Risk Management Agency Annual Forage insurance, which can pay out when precipitation falls below selected coverage levels for 2026-2027 forage planting. Wildlife & Ranching Policy: Sen. Pete Ricketts and others introduced the FENCE Act to let USDA include virtual fencing under the Emergency Conservation Program, aiming to give ranchers more flexibility as they recover from disasters. Public Health & Environment: A new review links pesticide exposure during pregnancy and early childhood to higher risks of childhood leukemia and brain tumors, with the strongest signals tied to prenatal exposure.

FENCE Act for ranchers: U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts and others introduced the FENCE Act to let USDA fund virtual fencing under the Emergency Conservation Program, aiming to help Nebraska producers rebuild after spring fires while also considering wildlife movement. Data center moratorium debate: Yankton County commissioners heard public pushback on a proposed up-to-12-month moratorium on large data centers and Bitcoin mining, with some urging faster study via the planning commission and others warning against slowing economic development. Nebraska energy policy: Lawmakers are advancing LB1010, creating a clear regulatory path for grid-scale battery energy storage so projects can move faster while still fitting Nebraska’s public power model. Water and abortion-drug fight: Republican AGs, including Nebraska’s, urged EPA to treat mifepristone as a water contaminant, arguing wastewater treatment may not remove it—while critics say there’s no proof of harm. Wildlife rules: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is set to consider tighter deer permit limits and other hunting regulation changes starting in 2027. South Fork Fire update: Containment reached 64% on about 39,057 acres, with crews securing lines and planning erosion-control repairs as fire weather conditions continue. Food truck rule in Omaha: Omaha officials moved to address concerns about a requirement that food trucks use a licensed kitchen daily, after owners said the rule went too far. Pesticides and kids’ cancer risk: A review linked prenatal and early-life pesticide exposure to higher risk of childhood leukemia and brain tumors, with Nebraska’s UNL researchers citing stronger associations during pregnancy.

Water for cattle: A UNL guide lays out practical water needs for beef herds, noting lactating cows typically need about 2 gallons per 100 pounds of bodyweight daily, while bulls and dry cows need roughly 1 to 1.5 gallons—then stresses that heat and drought can strain both water quantity and access, especially for calves. Abortion pill water fight: Republican state attorneys general, including Nebraska’s, are pressing the EPA to study and regulate mifepristone as a potential drinking-water contaminant, arguing expanded at-home use could send residues into waterways; environmental health groups counter that there’s no clear harm shown to water systems. Wildfire update (Nebraska): The South Fork Fire remains at 64% containment and about 39,057 acres, with crews securing the full perimeter and starting suppression repair and erosion control; officials warn the public not to stop near Hwy. 20 where crews are working. Data center pressure in rural Nebraska: Gage County is set to hold a hearing on whether to pause new data center development, with residents raising concerns about water, power, light, and noise impacts. Pesticides & kids’ cancer risk: A review links pesticide exposure during pregnancy and early childhood to higher odds of childhood leukemia and brain tumors, with the strongest signals tied to prenatal exposure.

Water & Health Policy Fight: Republican attorneys general, including Nebraska’s, are urging the EPA to classify the abortion medication mifepristone as a water contaminant, arguing it could threaten waterways as prescriptions rise; health and environmental experts say there’s no solid proof medication abortion harms water or people. Wildfire Response: The South Fork Fire in northwest Nebraska is at 55% containment with nearly 38,914 acres burned; officials warn warmer, drier conditions and Red Flag weather could stress containment lines, and they’re asking the public not to stop on Hwy. 20 near active work. Climate Extremes: A roundup of the most extreme temperatures recorded across U.S. states highlights how heat and cold extremes are becoming more frequent as the climate warms. Soil Conservation: Nebraska producers are being urged to stick with no-till and reduced tillage to prevent wind-blown topsoil losses after erosion events. Sandhills Spotlight: A feature looks at the Nebraska Sandhills’ grass-stabilized dunes and wetlands, emphasizing their ecological and grazing value. Livestock & Invasive Threats: Nebraska Extension is hosting a stocker/yearling tour focused on drought management, while coverage also flags the arrival of New World screwworm cases that could threaten livestock and pets. Water Stewardship by Industry: Google says it will replenish more water than it uses near data centers by 2030 and is funding hundreds of water projects. Local Community & Land Use: Nebraska’s data-center debate continues as local officials weigh tax impacts and zoning concerns, while a separate update notes neighborhood revitalization funding tied to development.

South Fork Fire Update: Fire managers report containment at 55% with about 38,914 acres burned, using line established around the full perimeter and warning that warmer, drier conditions and stronger winds through Wednesday will stress containment. Public Safety: Officials urge people not to stop on Highway 20 near active work areas, and note evacuation levels haven’t changed. Water & Health Policy: Republican attorneys general, including Nebraska’s, are pressing the EPA to classify the abortion medication mifepristone as a water contaminant, arguing it threatens waterways—while health and environmental experts say there’s no proof it harms people or aquatic life. Wildlife & Pollinators: The Riverside Discovery Center in Scottsbluff regained PlantNebraska accreditation and launched a pollinator garden. Agriculture & Biosecurity: Nebraska livestock producers are watching the spread of New World screwworm, with cases confirmed in New Mexico and Texas and emergency steps underway.