Why This Matters

• Protect Nebraska's water resources for future generations.
• Safeguard the Ogallala Aquifer, one of the world's largest freshwater aquifers and the primary water source for much of Nebraska.
• Preserve productive farmland, ranchland, wildlife habitat, and rural communities.
• Encourage responsible economic development that balances jobs with environmental stewardship.

Questions Nebraskans Should Ask

• How much water will each proposed data center use each day and each year?
• Where will that water come from, and will it affect local wells, farmers, or communities?
• How much electricity will the facility require?
• Will new power plants or transmission lines be needed to support it?
• Who pays for new roads, electrical infrastructure, and water systems?
• What happens if water supplies become limited during drought?
• What environmental reviews have been completed?
• How will wildlife habitat and farmland be protected?
• What long-term tax benefits will remain after incentives expire?
• What guarantees exist for cleanup or redevelopment if a facility closes?

Points to Consider

• Data centers can require substantial electricity and, depending on their cooling systems, may use significant amounts of water.
• Nebraska's economy depends on reliable water for agriculture, ranching, and communities.
• Major industrial developments should be planned with long-term sustainability in mind.
• Citizens deserve transparency regarding environmental impacts, infrastructure costs, and public incentives.
• Local communities should have meaningful opportunities to participate in decisions that affect them.

Petition Goals

"We respectfully ask Nebraska's elected officials to:

• Protect the Ogallala Aquifer and Nebraska's groundwater.
• Require transparent reporting of projected water and energy use.
• Conduct thorough environmental reviews before approving large industrial developments.
• Protect agricultural land, wildlife habitat, and rural communities.
• Ensure taxpayers are not left responsible for unnecessary infrastructure costs.
• Put Nebraska's long-term water security and natural resources first."

Closing Statement

Nebraska is our home. The land, water, wildlife, and open spaces we enjoy today are a legacy we hold in trust for future generations. We ask our leaders to make thoughtful, transparent decisions that protect these resources while supporting responsible economic growth.