Exploring the Benefits: Nebraska Lawmakers Weigh Consolidation of Environmental and Natural Resources Agencies

Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen is supporting a plan to merge two state agencies: the Department of Natural Resources and the Department of Environment and Energy. The new agency will be called the Department of Water, Energy and Environment, or DWEE for short.

This merger is part of a bill known as LB317. Senator Tom Brandt, who leads the Natural Resources Committee, believes this change will improve communication and streamline operations.

Brandt explained that combining these departments will enhance collaboration on water planning and state investments in water projects. He aims to keep Nebraska at the forefront of resource management innovation.

There will be an upfront cost of $100,000 for the merger, but state budget administrator Jacob Leaver mentioned that there shouldn’t be any immediate cuts to state spending. He anticipated budget savings might come in the future.

Both departments are currently overseen by Jesse Bradley, who was appointed by Pillen. He is the interim director for both departments and supports the merger. Bradley believes a single agency will better serve its mission by reducing barriers created by separate identities.

However, some critics worry the proposal is moving too quickly. Jasper Fanning, who manages a natural resources district, compared the merger to a rushed wedding. He argued that careful planning is essential for addressing specific problems before making such significant changes.

Opponents point out that the current setup with two agencies has worked effectively, and blending them could lead to inefficiencies. Fanning emphasized that smaller agencies can be more agile and responsive, which has helped Nebraska be recognized as a model for collaboration in natural resource management.

The Natural Resources Committee will discuss whether to move the bill forward for further consideration by the full Legislature.