Carla McCullough Dittman
(NON)
Biographical Information
Education
B.S. Biology, Marquette University. B.S. Biological Systems Engineering, Iowa State University. M.S. Environmental Science, West Texas A&M University
Volunteer experience
Lincoln Public Schools. Friends of Wilderness Park. Lincoln Earth Day. Adopt-A-Highway Program. Prairie Plains Institute Youth Naturalist Program.
What specific solutions will help improve water quality and quantity, and reduce soil erosion in the NRD?
Specific solutions to help improve water quality and quantity include assistance programs for well decommissioning, cover crops, vegetative filter strips, conservations easements, installation of water and fertilizer meters, soil sampling, tree-planting, wellhead protection planning for safe drinking water, and landscaping projects that improve stormwater flow. Educational programming for both youth and adults is essential for the long- and short-term success of these efforts.
What measures can the NRD take to manage watersheds for both drought and excess rainfall events?
Holding water and soil in the uplands of the watersheds and promoting healthy soils helps to buffer the impacts of both drought and excess rainfall. Measures that can be taken to promote healthy soils and hold water and soil in the uplands include assistance for best management practices such as cover crops, filter strips, terraces, grassed waterways, diversions, and water/sediment control basins. Through partnership programs with federal and state agencies, cities and towns, the NRD can leverage funds for watershed planning, drinking water protection, and cost-share assistance for these best management practices.
How can the NRD assure public access to recreation where flood control projects have attracted developers?
To assure public access to recreation for flood control projects, tools may be utilized such as conservation easements and cooperative agreements with partner agencies.