AGP Executive Report

Water & Public Health: A new reminder about cholera’s deadly reach: even as cases have fallen in wealthy countries, the disease still surges where clean water and basic healthcare break down, with 2025 among the worst years in more than a decade. Community Health & Housing: Iowa’s cities are tightening enforcement around camping, with unhoused residents describing more frequent pressure and forced moves—an issue that echoes across the Midwest as homelessness rises. Air Quality & Permitting: Tenaska held an environmental open house in Virginia over a proposed power plant expansion, where attendees pressed for clearer health-impact study plans and questioned nearby air monitoring coverage. Nebraska Agriculture & Water: UNL Extension highlights how heat changes cattle water needs and why producers must check the whole water system—source, pump, storage, and tank temperature—to keep intake steady. Wildlife Access: Nebraska Game and Parks is taking grant proposals for Watchable Wildlife projects, including viewing decks, pollinator gardens, and visitor tools, with awards up to $6,000. Waste & Recycling Data: Nebraska released its 2025 Statewide Material Characterization Study to help communities and landfills plan diversion strategies, backed by EPA recycling infrastructure funding. Energy Reliability: The U.S. DOE authorized emergency backup power for 17 states during extreme heat, including Nebraska, to reduce blackout risk. Local Energy Storage: Lincoln’s microgrid is set to add a 3-MW/12-MWh zinc battery, boosting capacity and helping back up critical facilities. Agr Data Rights: Nebraska Corn Growers backed LB 525, which gives farmers ownership and control of key agricultural data and restricts sales without written consent.

Severe Weather & Flood Impacts: Lincoln’s Morrill Hall (UN State Museum) will reopen Wednesday after overnight thunderstorms flooded the first floor, with damage mainly to carpeting, flooring, and some display cases; the first floor stays closed the rest of the week as crews clean and assess. Heat, Grid Strain & Backup Power: The U.S. Department of Energy authorized emergency backup generation for 17 states, including Nebraska, to reduce blackout risk during a major heat wave; the order lets the Southwest Power Pool tap backup resources at data centers and other sites through Aug. 3. Data Centers, Power and Local Pushback: Cheyenne, Wyoming residents are collecting signatures to force a referendum on a 12–18 month pause on new data centers after a city annexation approved Microsoft expansion; meanwhile, Nebraska’s Lincoln Electric System is commissioning a first grid-scale zinc battery to boost a government microgrid by about 10%. Waste & Recycling Data: Nebraska released its 2025 Statewide Material Characterization Study to guide landfill and recycling decisions, funded through an EPA Solid Waste Infrastructure for Recycling grant. Farm Wetlands Mitigation: USDA is putting $3 million into wetland mitigation banking to help agricultural producers restore wetlands and generate credits for regulatory compliance. Health & Water Quality Discussion: A UNMC researcher urged Nebraska audiences to treat nitrate-in-drinking-water research as associations, not proof of cause, and stressed careful next steps. Nebraska in National Rankings: Nebraska placed No. 5 overall in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best States, ranking top-10 in infrastructure and fiscal stability.

Heat & Power Strain: A new heat wave is pushing extreme temperatures and heat-index values across the central U.S., including parts of Nebraska, raising health risks and stressing electricity grids already strained by rising demand. Wildfire Readiness: Federal wildfire preparedness has hit the highest level, meaning resources are stretched and new fires may be harder to respond to quickly. Nebraska Research Funding: The NSF awarded Nebraska’s EPSCoR $10 million over four years to expand statewide STEM partnerships and strengthen research capacity through the NSPIRE/NSPIRE-E-CORE effort. Local Air-Quality Permitting: Nebraska-based Tenaska is holding a required public information session in Virginia on a proposed power plant expansion and its PSD permit, with residents focused on air and water impacts. State Quality-of-Life Rankings: Nebraska placed #5 in U.S. News & World Report’s 2026 Best States, scoring especially well on infrastructure and fiscal stability. Agriculture Education: Husker Harvest Days will bring back a risk-free farm management skills challenge for producers, blending marketing and field decision training.

Heat & Power Strain: A sprawling heat wave is pushing Extreme Heat Warnings across 19 states, including Nebraska, while back-to-back hot spells stress electricity grids already facing rising demand from data centers. Wildfire Preparedness: Federal wildfire preparedness has hit the highest level (5 of 5), with agencies warning resources are strained as fire season ramps up. West Nile Watch: A new look at CDC West Nile reporting says the federal dashboard can lag by weeks during active season, urging Nebraskans to rely on more current local/state updates. Child Care Costs: Nebraska families are feeling a child care crunch that starts before birth and forces tradeoffs between careers and safe care, with First Five Nebraska estimating major economic losses statewide. University of Nebraska Assessment: The UN system is launching a systemwide assessment with Deloitte to improve alignment, coordination, and long-term effectiveness. Data Center Policy Pushback: Nebraska is part of a broader Midwest trend of local moratoriums and tighter rules as communities weigh electricity, water, and environmental impacts. Ag & Feed Quality: A report argues bagged silage can improve cow health, intake, and reproductive performance by reducing spoilage and nutrient loss. Lake Safety: Nebraska swimmers are being urged to watch for harmful algal blooms.

Heat Dome Watch: A dangerous heat dome is pushing extreme heat across the central U.S., with roughly 70 million people facing advisories and western Nebraska in the mix; Kiowa County, Colo., hit the highest advisory range in its heat event, underscoring how fast conditions can spike. Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality: Smoke from major fires in the Pacific Northwest is expected to travel far—potentially reaching the Plains and Nebraska as hazy, unhealthy air lingers. Data Centers vs. Water & Power: Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen signed an executive order ending large data center tax incentives, joining a broader national shift as states question electricity demand and water use; a Virginia study also urges tighter groundwater rules for data center withdrawals. Drinking Water Tools: Iowa reporting highlights how point-of-use reverse osmosis can reduce nitrates for some households, but experts warn it isn’t a one-size fix. Nebraska Research & Nature: UNL’s Great Plains Art Museum will open an immersive insect-focused installation, while a Husker-led project won Genesis Mission funding to boost AI-driven science discovery. Agriculture Economy: A USDA-based ranking puts Nebraska among the top states for agricultural production value, reinforcing how much the state’s farms drive the regional economy.

Heat Dome Watch: A second straight day of extreme heat put at least 40 million people under warnings across the central U.S., with heat indexes topping 100°F and parts of the Southwest forecast near 120°F; in Omaha, Nebraska, outreach workers said the humidity is “insane” and people are getting dangerously exhausted. Nebraska Data Center Policy: Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen defended an executive order pausing large data center applications tied to state business incentives, arguing there’s no need to subsidize big data centers when the state already has natural advantages. Water Rules for Data Centers: Virginia released a long-delayed groundwater study warning declines are likely in a key aquifer and urging tighter authority over industrial water withdrawal permits and stricter limits. Grid Costs vs. AI Growth: President Trump expanded a “Ratepayer Protection Pledge” to add utilities and tech firms, promising AI power needs won’t raise household bills—critics call it unenforceable. Public Health: A major cyclospora outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce has grown to nearly 2,000 cases across nine states, with officials warning numbers may rise. Wildfire Tragedy: A fourth firefighter died from injuries suffered in a Colorado-Utah border burnover in June; the incident killed three others.

Extreme Heat & Heat Dome: A dangerous heat dome is expanding across the central U.S., with forecasts of triple-digit temperatures and major heat risks for tens of millions, including western Nebraska where highs near 108°F were mentioned; forecasters warn overnight lows won’t cool enough, raising heat illness danger. Severe Storms After the Heat: As the heat fuels instability, a “Slight Risk” severe weather setup includes the Upper Midwest and extends southwest into Nebraska, with potential for large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes. Wildfire Safety in the Region: A fourth firefighter died after injuries from the Knowles Fire burnover near the Colorado-Utah border; the incident is under review, underscoring how fast conditions can turn deadly. Nebraska Grazing Land Planning: The Nebraska Grazing Lands Coalition will host a Farm & Ranch Legacy workshop in Broken Bow (Sept. 9) focused on estate planning and protecting land and operations through transitions. Data Centers, Water, and Power Costs: Nebraska is in the broader debate as federal and state leaders push “ratepayer protection” pledges for AI data centers, while other states face scrutiny over groundwater impacts from data-center cooling.

Heat Dome Watch: A major “heat dome” is expanding across the central U.S., with about 70 million people facing heat advisories and highs pushing past 100°F; western Nebraska is among areas forecast near 108°F, with dangerous overnight conditions and humidity making heat stress worse. Wildfire Tragedy: A fourth firefighter has died from injuries suffered during the June Knowles Fire burnover near the Colorado-Utah border; Nathan Matthews, 43, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was part of a Helitack crew and died Friday as an investigation continues. Public Health Alert: A large multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to recalled iceberg lettuce has reached at least 1,947 confirmed cases across nine states, with officials warning numbers may rise as testing and confirmations catch up. Nebraska-Adjacent Conservation: Audubon surpassed 20,000 acres of grassland restoration through its North Dakota Conservation Forage Program, with new funding aimed at more native habitat for grassland birds across the region including Nebraska. Data Centers & Costs: President Trump expanded a “Ratepayer Protection Pledge” at EPA, adding utilities and more stakeholders to argue AI data center growth won’t raise electricity costs—though critics question enforceability.

Heat & Public Health: The National Weather Service issued a heat advisory for Colorado’s Kiowa County Sunday, with temperatures expected to hit 100–105°F for much of the day, warning of heat illness risk. Grassland Conservation: Audubon surpassed 20,000 acres of grassland restoration in North Dakota through its Conservation Forage Program, with a new $2.5 million award aimed at restoring another 5,000 acres—important habitat work for grassland birds that rely on private lands. AI Data Centers & Nebraska Ratepayer Pressure: President Trump expanded his Ratepayer Protection Pledge at EPA, adding utilities, governors, and major tech firms to push a “build, bring, or buy” approach so data center companies cover new power infrastructure costs rather than shifting them to households—though critics call it non-binding. Clean Water & Local Impacts: A Virginia groundwater study tied to data center water use urges stricter rules on withdrawal permits and more authority for regulators, warning declines are likely for a key aquifer. Nebraska Politics & Rural Agriculture: Independent Senate candidate Dan Osborn rolled out a rural platform and pledged to visit all 93 Nebraska counties, framing agriculture and healthcare as worsening crises.

Data Centers & Nebraska Power Costs: President Trump expanded his non-binding “Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” adding 200-plus utilities, governors (including Gov. Jim Pillen), and major tech firms, aiming to keep AI data-center infrastructure costs from landing on household electric bills—though critics call it unenforceable. Water & Groundwater Watch: A Virginia study released this week warns groundwater declines are likely in a key aquifer as population and industrial use grow, urging tighter rules on water withdrawals. Severe Weather & Corn Belt Impacts: Scientists say moisture from Corn Belt fields and shallow groundwater—plus irrigation—helps fuel stronger, longer-lasting thunderstorm complexes that drive much of the region’s growing-season rain. Nebraska Wildlife Enforcement: LDWF agents cited three people tied to alleged turkey hunting violations, including transporting illegally taken turkeys across state lines. Public Health & Water Misinformation: A new report highlights claims about abortion pills contaminating drinking water, saying there’s no scientific support for the allegation. Nebraska Events: Grassland Gallery (Sept. 26) and UNL’s Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory open house (Aug. 19) spotlight Nebraska’s working landscapes and ranch research.

Data Center Cost Fight: President Trump expanded his non-binding “Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” adding 200-plus signatories—utilities, energy sellers, and data center firms—to argue Big Tech should pay for power and grid upgrades instead of households. Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen joined a White House EPA roundtable, as the coalition now claims coverage of about 80% of U.S. power delivered. Skepticism Over Enforcement: Critics say the pledge has no real teeth, and consumer groups question whether it will stop higher bills. Severe Weather & Heat Watch: Nebraska is set for showers and thunderstorms tonight into early Friday, then a dangerous heat return this weekend. Corn Belt Storm Science: A new study links Corn Belt groundwater and irrigation to more frequent and longer-lasting thunderstorm complexes—key for forecasting and for managing flood, hail, and tornado risk. Public Health—Cyclospora Questions: A new report revisits the Taylor Farms outbreak, arguing a hazard analysis may not have been done despite earlier FDA recommendations. Equine Health: USDA’s NAHMS Equine 2026 study will launch in August with a voluntary, confidential survey and on-site sampling to track disease risks and welfare trends.

Data Center Cost Fight: President Trump expanded his “Ratepayer Protection Pledge,” adding governors, utilities, and tech firms to push data-center energy and grid upgrade costs onto developers instead of households—Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen is among the signers, and the White House says the plan now covers about 80% of U.S. power. Water & Power Risk: Lake Powell is nearing the minimum power pool level for Glen Canyon Dam, raising the odds of reduced hydropower and potential ripple effects on electricity bills across the West. Drought Watch: The U.S. Drought Monitor reported Plains and parts of the Upper Midwest worsening, while rainfall improved drought in the South and parts of the East; eastern Colorado and southeastern Wyoming saw new degradations. Heat & Storms: Forecasters warn another heat dome could bring dangerous triple-digit conditions, while a separate outlook notes severe weather odds generally ease as summer deepens. Nebraska Agriculture Support: Nebraska Extension is offering confidential one-on-one financial consultations for Panhandle farmers and ranchers (Aug. 10–12) to help with debt and budgeting after weather stress. Local Sandhills Events: UNL’s Gudmundsen Sandhills Laboratory hosts an open house Aug. 19, and “Grassland Gallery” brings film and art to the Sandhills Sept. 26.

Data Center Cost Fight: The White House is expanding its Ratepayer Protection Pledge, adding utilities, governors, and developers and aiming to stop households from absorbing grid upgrade costs tied to AI power demand—though the pledge is nonbinding and enforcement hinges on federal rules. Nebraska Policy Watch: Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen signed onto the broader pledge, while separate state action continues to target data-center incentives and impacts. Heat Risk: A heat dome is set to push dangerous weekend temperatures across the Plains and Southwest, with heat index values climbing above 100°F in many areas. Nebraska Water & Recreation: Nebraska Game and Parks is adjusting low-water access at Lake McConaughy, including changes to boat ramps and beaches as water levels drop. Native Landscaping: UNK is expanding native grasses and wildflowers across campus to cut water use and maintenance while building a prairie-style identity. Agriculture Practical Tips: UNL guidance highlights smart grazing on cornstalk residue to stretch grazing and reduce feed costs. Wildlife/Outdoors: A Nebraska hike spotlight puts Devil’s Den in the spotlight for its dramatic sandstone formations near Harrison.

Waterfowl Rulemaking: Minnesota’s DNR is asking hunters to weigh in on an optional three-duck per day limit, aiming to reduce confusion that may be turning away new waterfowl hunters. Nebraska Prairie Landscaping: UNK is expanding native grasses, wildflowers and trees across campus to cut water use and maintenance while building a more cohesive “Nebraska identity.” Nebraska Hike Spotlight: A guide to Devil’s Den near Harrison highlights the state’s dramatic sandstone canyon hike and why it’s worth the trip. South Platte Water Fight: Sen. Pete Ricketts says Nebraska should pursue federal permitting for the Perkins County Canal in parallel with its Supreme Court case against Colorado. Game & Parks Maintenance: Grove Lake anglers may see temporary stained water and more aquatic vegetation during late-July/early-August maintenance at the Grove Trout Rearing Station. Agriculture Updates: Nebraska Extension urges scouting after beet armyworm is spotted in sugar beets, and USDA is modernizing Nebraska acreage reporting through a pilot in Seward County. Public Health Watch: The U.S. measles count hit 2,260 cases across 44 states, with summer travel driving new spread.

Wildlife Return: Researchers with the University of Minnesota’s Voyageurs Wolf Project say cougars are reproducing in Minnesota for the first time in more than a century, with trail-camera footage showing a female cougar and three large kittens in northern Minnesota—shifting the story from “passing visitors” to a possible reestablished population. Farm Program Updates: USDA’s Farm Service Agency is modernizing Nebraska acreage reporting through a pilot in Seward County, and producers are reminded to book appointments and file accurate crop acreage reports after spring planting. Conservation Enrollment: USDA accepted 359,695 acres in Nebraska into the Conservation Reserve Program for 2026, including General, Grassland and Continuous CRP options that support soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat. Pest Watch: Nebraska Extension is urging scouting after beet armyworm caterpillars were found in sugar beet in Scotts Bluff County, with guidance on when insecticide decisions should be based on defoliation and larval stage. Water Safety: Nebraska health officials lifted some harmful algal bloom alerts but warn blooms can return fast; swimmers should avoid affected areas and keep pets out. Data Centers: Gov. Jim Pillen signed an executive order ending state tax incentives for large data centers under the ImagiNE Nebraska Act and creating a task force to protect land, water and electricity impacts. Wildlife Viewing Grants: Nebraska Game and Parks Commission is accepting Watchable Wildlife Grant proposals (Aug. 3–Oct. 2) to fund hands-on projects that improve wildlife observation and nature-based experiences.

Data Centers in Nebraska: Gov. Jim Pillen signed an executive order ending ImagiNE Nebraska tax incentives for new data center projects and directing state agencies to review proposals with an eye on impacts to land, water, and electricity, plus creating a DWEE-led task force to recommend safeguards. Water & Recreation Safety: Nebraska health officials say harmful algal blooms can flare quickly at lakes; recent alerts at Maple Creek Recreation Area, Maskenthine Reservoir, and Rockford Lake were lifted, but residents are urged to avoid affected water and keep pets away. Wildlife Viewing Access: Nebraska Game and Parks will accept Watchable Wildlife Grant proposals Aug. 3–Oct. 2, funding projects like viewing blinds, pollinator gardens, and wildlife events. Agricultural Conservation: USDA accepted 359,695 acres in Nebraska into CRP for 2026, including new enrollments and re-enrollments aimed at soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat. Air Quality Watch: Smoke from wildfires pushed Siouxland air quality from “fair” to “moderate,” with guidance for seniors and people with respiratory conditions to limit strenuous outdoor activity. Hog Confinement Fight: Neighbors and environmental groups oppose a proposed 5,000-head hog barn near the Niobrara River, warning about groundwater and river contamination risks.