Report on the Platte River Basin, Nebraska Level B Study

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10 made for consideration of suggested potential programs. Reports on both of these activities were prepared and are available on a limited basis. A study of nonpoint pollution caused by runoff from an agricultural area was also initiated as part of this study. Although a late start on data collec- tion and lack of sufficient runoff the first summer precluded input to this study, the activity is being continued by the University of Nebraska. PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Public participation was invited at all stages of study. The Plan of Study was reviewed with inter- ested representatives of public agencies and the public -at -large early in the study period. Sugges- tions for membership on citizens' advisory com- mittees were made and utilized in establishment of such committees. Study participants met with these citizen com- mittees on a regular basis and presented proce- dures, preliminary study results, and alternatives for consideration and review as they were developed. Task forces also held meetings in dif- ferent areas of the basin to determine local needs and concerns. Preliminary plans were reviewed by the planning board, planning team, and task force leaders as well as citizens' advisory committee members. Follow- ing these reviews, the preliminary plans were presented to the public at 12 meetings across the basin attended by approximately 1000 people. Comments made and questions raised were con- sidered and incorporated in the draft Recom- mended Plan where possible, but incorporation was sometimes constrained by the procedures and principles established at the beginning of the study. The draft Recommended Plan was presented at six public meetings attended by about 560 people before the field draft report was presented to the MRBC. Comments received at those meetings were considered and accommodated, where possible, in the field draft report.