APPENDIX G LAND USE INVENTORY STUDY REPORT

APPENDIX G LAND USE INVENTORY STUDY REPORT

Study 10.0 - Land Use Inventory Land Use Inventory

Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory August 26, 2010 2010 Loup River Public Power District Prepared by: Loup Power District 2404 15 th Street Columbus, NE 68602 With assistance by: HDR Engineering, Inc. 8404 Indian Hills Drive Omaha, NE 68114

STUDY 10.0 LAND USE INVENTORY... 1 1. INTRODUCTION... 1 2. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF STUDY... 1 3. STUDY AREA... 2 4. METHODOLOGY... 3 5. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION... 5 6. STUDY VARIANCE... 24 7. REFERENCES... 25 Figure 4-1. Existing Land Use List of Figures 2010 Loup River Public Power District i Initial Study Report

STUDY 10.0 LAND USE INVENTORY 1. INTRODUCTION The Loup River Hydroelectric Project (Project) is located in Nance and Platte counties, Nebraska, where water is diverted from the Loup River and routed through the 35-mile-long Loup Power Canal, which empties into the Platte River near Columbus. The Project includes various hydraulic structures, two powerhouses, and two regulating reservoirs. The Project passes through agricultural, commercial, and industrial land in Nance and Platte counties, through the community of Genoa, and near the communities of Monroe and Columbus; therefore, there are a variety of land uses adjacent to the Project. Based on the length of the Project and the variety of adjacent land uses, there may be incompatible land uses on adjacent properties (outside of the Project Boundary). The Loup River Public Power District (Loup Power District or the District) previously did not have a detailed inventory of land uses adjacent to the Project Boundary. Such a record could be used to assist the District in evaluating land use conflicts and determining the need for future resource management plans. Therefore, the District conducted a general land use inventory of all Project lands and of all adjacent properties. Land use information was plotted on maps and analyzed to identify potential conflicts and opportunities relating to Project operations, public access, recreation, aesthetics, and environmental resource protection. This information will be used in the development of a recreation management plan (see Study 8.0, Recreation Use). 2. GOALS AND OBJECTIVES OF STUDY The goal of the land use inventory is to determine specific land uses of Project lands and adjacent properties to identify potential conflicts and/or opportunities relating to Project operations, public access, recreation, aesthetics, and environmental resource protection. The objectives of the land use inventory are as follows: 1. To identify and record current and proposed future land uses of Project lands. 2. To identify and record current and authorized future land uses of adjacent properties. 3. To identify and map all existing public access points to the Loup Power Canal, regulating reservoirs, and defined recreation areas on Project lands. 4. To identify and map any areas on Project lands or adjacent properties having potentially incompatible or conflicting land uses. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 1 Initial Study Report

5. To identify and map potential opportunities for improving public access to Project lands and recreation areas. 6. To identify potential opportunities to improve aesthetics on Project lands and recreation areas. 7. To identify potential opportunities to enhance public safety on Project lands. 8. To identify potential solutions for any land use conflicts that may be identified. 9. To provide information on land use, land use conflicts, and access to be used in conjunction with the results of Study 8.0, Recreation Use, to develop a recreation management plan. 3. STUDY AREA The Project extends approximately 35 miles from the Headworks to the Outlet Weir, and the Project Boundary encompasses approximately 5,200 acres of land. Loup Power District owns all lands within the Project Boundary. It is District policy to allow public use of Project lands consistent with Project security and public safety considerations. No private facilities are allowed on District lands, although one private cottage still exists. The lease for this cottage will expire in 2013 and will not be renewed. A large portion of the Project consists of the Loup Power Canal, with a nominal width of 300 feet. The majority of adjacent land is agricultural and is considered compatible with the Project. Areas that may present conflicts or opportunities relating to Project operations, public access, recreation, aesthetics, and environmental resource protection include urban areas, public access points, the five developed recreation areas, and important environmental features or habitat. Specific land uses of Project lands and adjacent properties at the following sites were carefully evaluated: Headworks Park, including Headworks [Off-Highway Vehicle] OHV Park Lake Babcock Park (aka Loup Park) Lake North Park Columbus Powerhouse Park Tailrace Park Loup Lands Wildlife Management Area (WMA) (leased to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission) Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge (regulated by the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission) 2010 Loup River Public Power District 2 Initial Study Report

North Sand Management Area South Sand Management Area Siphons Areas with evidence of heavy informal usage Urban areas of Genoa and Columbus 4. METHODOLOGY The methodology for the land use inventory included three tasks, described below. Standard land use inventory methods were employed, with modifications to account for the size of the Project Boundary. Task 1 Data Collection For Project lands, existing Project maps were used, and the District classified land uses. The specific land use classifications that were used are as follows: Developed Recreation Area (includes campsites, picnic areas, playground equipment, and swimming beaches) Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail Wildlife Management Area Intensive Recreation Area (includes motorized boating and OHV activities) Restricted Operations Area Informal Recreation Area For adjacent properties, a preliminary land use inventory was completed using the existing Nance County Comprehensive Development Plan and Columbus Comprehensive Plan Update (Nance County, 1999; City of Columbus, October 2005). For areas not included in current comprehensive plans, 2009 National Agriculture Imagery Program, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic aerial photographs were used to identify land use. These aerial photographs were also used to verify the accuracy of land use information from the existing comprehensive plans. Adjacent properties within 500 feet of the Project Boundary were classified according to the following land use designations: Agricultural Land characterized by or used for the production of row crops or pasture. Agricultural land is sparsely populated but may include farmsteads, outbuildings, farm lanes, and animal holding areas. Open Space Unimproved land not used for crop production or pasture. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 3 Initial Study Report

Single-Family Residential Residential land use characterized by housing at a density greater than one (1) unit per acre. This applies to areas that are part of an incorporated town or city or developed as a subdivision. Mobile Home Residential A single parcel of land on which sites or mobile homes/trailers are leased to tenants. Mobile home developments offer single-family housing, but at densities significantly higher than conventional single-family residential zones. Commercial Land characterized by or zoned for office or retail use. Uses may include stores, restaurants, personal services, and lodgings. Institutional Land characterized by government or private institutional uses such as churches, schools, cemeteries, or hospitals. Industrial Land predominantly used for manufacturing, processing, or warehousing goods. Waste disposal sites and utility facilities are also considered industrial uses. Water Areas ordinarily covered by water. Transportation Right-of-Way (ROW) A regularly used paved or gravel public roadway. Field observations were completed to gather detailed land use information for developed areas and for any other areas for which review of aerial photographs provided insufficient information. Field observations included windshield and walking surveys. For the purposes of this study, a land use conflict is defined as an instance when typical activity or operations on adjacent parcels of land adversely affect the others. These effects may include: personal safety, environmental conditions, business operations, recreational enjoyment, or property rights. Task 2 Map Generation Land use maps were developed based on the findings from the data collection and field observations. The maps are at a 1" = 1,000' scale and are on aerial photographs to allow for land use identification and interpretation. Available electronic data were used, including 2009 National Agriculture Imagery Program, and Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic aerial photographs. Land use and other relevant information were digitized and color coded. These land use maps are included at the end of this report as Figure 4-1, Sheets 1 through 14. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 4 Initial Study Report

Task 3 Analysis Based on the data collection, including field observations, areas of current land use conflicts and potential future land use conflicts were identified. Any conflicts, including the specific land uses in conflict, the type of conflict (operational, environmental, nuisance, etc.), and possible mitigation measures to resolve the conflict, are described in Section 5, Results and Discussion. Through the land use inventory, opportunities for improving Project operations, public access, recreation, aesthetics, and environmental resource protection were evaluated and are explained in Section 5, Results and Discussion. 5. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION The Project has operated for more than 70 years in rural Nance and Platte counties. The Project is a complementary land use to the surrounding area, providing irrigation and recreation opportunities. Despite its 35-mile footprint, the Project s impact on surrounding land is minimal. The Loup Power Canal is a passive presence, running adjacent to private agricultural land for the majority of its length. Public interaction with the Project is concentrated at improved recreation areas, siphons, and major roadway intersections. These locations and other Project lands and adjacent properties identified in Section 3, Study Area, are described below from west to east by land use classification. In addition, public access opportunities are described. Recreation Areas Improved recreation areas, including land classified as Developed Recreation Areas, Bicycle and Pedestrian Trails, Wildlife Management Areas, and Intensive Recreation Areas, are the public s primary contact with land and uses within the Project Boundary. Recreation areas are well used and are recognized as enhancing the quality of life in the region as well as having a positive economic impact. Loup Lands WMA Loup Lands WMA is classified as a Wildlife Management Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheets 1 and 2). Within the Project Boundary, Loup Lands WMA is bordered by Open Space, the Loup River, and the Loup Power Canal. Outside of the Project Boundary, Agricultural land and Open Space lie immediately to the south of Loup Lands WMA. The WMA is accessible from Headworks Park, canal maintenance roads, and county roads. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 5 Initial Study Report

Headworks OHV Park/South Sand Management Area Headworks OHV Park is classified as an Intensive Recreation Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheets 1 and 2). The Loup Power Canal and Loup River separate Headworks OHV Park from other uses on Project lands, limiting the impact of OHV activity on the North Sand Management Area (classified as a Restricted Operations Area) to the north, Loup Lands WMA (classified as a Wildlife Management Area) to the east, and unimproved Open Space and Agricultural land to the south and west. Headworks OHV Park does not abut lands outside the Project Boundary. The District closes Headworks OHV Park from mid-march to mid-may and from mid-august to mid- September for dredging of the Settling Basin. Because Headworks OHV Park is separated from adjacent land uses by the Loup Power Canal and Loup River and because the District closes the park for dredging of the Settling Basin, the District has limited the impact of intensive recreation and Project operations on surrounding land uses and prevented land use conflicts at this location. Photo 1. Headworks OHV Park. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 6 Initial Study Report

Headworks Park Headworks Park is classified as a Developed Recreation Area located at the east, or downstream, end of the Settling Basin (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 2). The park includes several small lakes. It lies south of Open Space, Agricultural land, Nebraska State Highway 22 (classified as Transportation ROW), and an active UPRR rail line. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 2. Camping at Headworks Park. Lake Babcock Park (aka Loup Park) Lake Babcock Park is classified as a Developed Recreation Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheets 10 and 11). The park forms a portion of the northern Project Boundary. To the south, the park immediately abuts Lake Babcock. Suburban-style single-family homes (classified as Single-Family Residential) are located immediately to the north of the park. Lake Babcock Park does have some perimeter fencing and thus has limited public access from the adjacent residential areas. There are no recorded conflicts between recreation and residential land uses. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 7 Initial Study Report

Other land uses north of Lake Babcock Park are 83 rd Street/Lakeview Road (classified as Transportation ROW) and Agricultural. Two Lakes Trail (classified as a Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail) runs through the park and connects to Lake North Park (classified as a Developed Recreation Area) and Bob Lake Trail (classified as a Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail). There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 3. View of Lake Babcock from the south dike at the outlet. Lake North Park Lake North Park is classified as a Developed Recreation Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 11). The park forms a portion of the northern Project Boundary between Lake North and 83 rd Street/Lakeview Road (classified as Transportation ROW). The land opposite the park is in Agricultural use. Two Lakes Trail (classified as a Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail) runs through Lake North Park and connects to Lake Babcock Park (aka Loup Park). There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 8 Initial Study Report

Photo 4. View of Lake North from the boat launch area in the northeast corner. Photo 5. Camping at Lake North. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 9 Initial Study Report

Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge is classified as a Wildlife Management Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheets 10 and 11). The refuge is managed by Nebraska Game and Parks Commission (NGPC). It is partially located within the Project Boundary and consists of Lake Babcock, Lake North, and adjoining lands. Although the boundaries of Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge extend 0.5 mile beyond the Project Boundary, the primary portion of the refuge is Lake Babcock and adjoining land to the west. The refuge was established to provide and conserve waterfowl habitat. Hunting is prohibited, and boating and fishing are restricted on Lake Babcock during open waterfowl season but are allowed year-round on Lake North (163 Nebraska Administrative Code [NAC] 4-019). Because Lake Babcock and Lake North immediately abut Lake Babcock Park (aka Loup Park) (classified as a Developed Recreation Area), Two Lakes Trail (classified as a Bicycle and Pedestrian Trail), and Lake North Park (classified as a Developed Recreation Area), these areas, along with Agricultural land and residential subdivisions within 0.5 mile of the Project Boundary, all fall within the boundary of the Lake Babcock Wildlife Refuge. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 6. Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 10 Initial Study Report

Columbus Powerhouse Park Columbus Powerhouse Park is classified as a Developed Recreation Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 12). The park is located on the west side of the Loup Power Canal, between the Columbus Powerhouse (classified as a Restricted Operations Area) and the Project Boundary. Unimproved Open Space and Agricultural land lie immediately to the north and south of the park. Third Avenue (classified as Transportation ROW) separates Columbus Powerhouse Park and the Project Boundary from suburban-style single-family residential development (classified as Single-Family Residential) to the west. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 7. Columbus Powerhouse Park facilities. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 11 Initial Study Report

Photo 8. Columbus Powerhouse Park facilities. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 12 Initial Study Report

Tailrace Park Tailrace Park is classified as a Developed Recreation Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 14). The park is located at the southern end of the Tailrace Canal, on the east and west sides of the Outlet Weir, which is located at the confluence of the Tailrace Canal and the Platte River. To the south, the park is bounded by the Platte River; to the north and west, the park abuts Agricultural land; and to the east, the park abuts privately owned Open Space. The northeastern corner of the park abuts Southeast 16 th /River Road (classified as Transportation ROW) and a single residence (classified as Single- Family Residential). A rail line crosses the Loup Power Canal immediately north of Tailrace Park. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location; however, the relative seclusion of Tailrace Park results in vandalism (aesthetic) and safety concerns. Photo 9. Vandalism at Tailrace Park. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 13 Initial Study Report

Restricted Operations Areas North Sand Management Area The North Sand Management Area is classified as a Restricted Operations Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 1). The Loup River and Loup Power Canal form its southern boundary. Agricultural and unimproved Open Space uses lie to the west, north, and east. Preferred Rocks of Genoa removes sand from the North Sand Management Area at the rate of approximately one train every other day and 30 truckloads per week. During the nesting/fledging season of the piping plover (Charadrius melodus) and interior least tern (Sterna antillarum), dredging is halted and sand extraction activities are limited to prevent disruption of the piping plover habitat. These measures limit the potential impact of Project operations on habitat, and the operation of the North Sand Management Area does not conflict with adjacent land uses. Photo 10. Typical view of the North Sand Management Area. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 14 Initial Study Report

Monroe Powerhouse The Monroe Powerhouse is classified as a Restricted Operations Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 6). It is surrounded by unimproved Open Space and Agricultural uses. Unrestricted areas surrounding the Monroe Powerhouse are used informally for fishing. A 7-foot-high chain link fence topped with 1 foot of barbed wire separates the Restricted Operations Area from the public access areas. A caretaker lives onsite, so public access to restricted areas is unlikely. These measures limit the potential for safety conflicts in this location, and the operation of the Monroe Powerhouse does not conflict with adjacent land uses. Photo 11. View of the downstream face of the Monroe Powerhouse. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 15 Initial Study Report

Columbus Powerhouse The Columbus Powerhouse is classified as a Restricted Operations Area (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 12). It is surrounded by Columbus Powerhouse Park as well as unimproved Open Space and Agricultural uses. A 7-foot-high chain link fence topped with 1 foot of barbed wire separates the Restricted Operations Area from the public recreation areas and private properties. Gates are kept locked at all times except for the west gate, which is unlocked during daytime operations hours, from 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. These measures limit the potential for safety conflicts in this location, and the operation of the Columbus Powerhouse does not conflict with adjacent land uses. Photo 12. View of the Columbus Powerhouse from the Tailrace Canal. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 16 Initial Study Report

Informal Recreation Areas Siphons are structures which convey Loup River tributaries across the Loup Power Canal. They are areas within the Project Boundary with relatively high levels of informal recreation use. While not designated developed recreation areas, they are commonly known to be good fishing locations. Beaver Creek Siphon The Beaver Creek Siphon is classified as an Informal Recreation Area and is located just south of Genoa along South Park Street/Nebraska State Highway 22/39 (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 3). Canal Road/Benson Avenue provides direct access from Park Street to the Loup Power Canal. Agricultural and Open Space uses surround the siphon. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 13. View of the Beaver Creek Siphon. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 17 Initial Study Report

Railroad Siphon The Railroad Siphon is located just east of Genoa (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 4). There is public access to both sides of the Loup Power Canal from West Pawnee Road on the west and from the canal maintenance road on the east. The siphon itself is railroad ROW and should not be used for public access due to railroad safety concerns. Outside of the Project Boundary, Single-Family Residential and Agricultural uses surround the siphon. Photo 14. View of the approach to the Railroad Siphon at Genoa. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 18 Initial Study Report

Looking Glass Creek Siphon The Looking Glass Creek Siphon is classified as an Informal Recreation Area and is located just north of Nebraska State Highway 22 (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 5). The siphon can be directly accessed from 430 th Avenue and is surrounded on all sides by Agricultural land. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 15. View of the Looking Glass Creek Siphon. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 19 Initial Study Report

Dry/Cherry Creek Siphon The Dry/Cherry Creek Siphon is classified as an Informal Recreation Area and is located along the canal maintenance roads approximately 0.6 mile north of Nebraska State Highway 22, halfway between 370 th and 355 th Avenues (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 6). Access to Project lands around the siphon is limited to either side of the canal, with an extension to the south along an irrigation canal. This southern extension also allows for public access from 250 th Street, a minimum maintenance county road. The Dry/Cherry Creek Siphon is surrounded by Agricultural uses outside the Project Boundary. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 16. View of the Dry/Cherry Creek Siphon inlet. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 20 Initial Study Report

Oconee Siphon The Oconee Siphon is classified as an Informal Recreation Area and is immediately adjacent to 310 th Avenue (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 8). This allows the public direct access to the siphon, canal maintenance roads, and Project lands on which to fish. Outside the Project Boundary, immediately adjacent to the siphon, the land use is Agricultural. Railroad ROW runs parallel to the siphon to the east of the 310 th Avenue bridge over the Loup Power Canal. Photo 17. View of the Lower Power Canal at the Oconee Siphon. Public Access Opportunities Maintenance roads along both sides of the Loup Power Canal provide public access along much of its 35-mile length. Except for Restricted Operations Areas, the entire Project is accessible on foot. By vehicle, canal maintenance roads can be accessed from public ROW that intersects the canal. From the Settling Basin on the east to U.S. Highway 81 on the west, the Loup Power Canal is accessible by vehicle at least every mile along gravel section line roads. East of U.S. Highway 81, vehicle access is available at the following four access points over 9 miles: 63 rd Avenue, 48 th Avenue, 18 th Avenue, and 3 rd Avenue/53 rd Street East. South and east of 3 rd Avenue/53 rd Street East, canal maintenance roads cannot be accessed from public ROW. In addition to the roads listed above, the Loup Power Canal is accessible from the following major roads: 2010 Loup River Public Power District 21 Initial Study Report

Nebraska State Highway 22, southwest of Genoa Park Street/Nebraska State Highway 22 Cottonwood Street, just outside Genoa West Pawnee Avenue, east of Genoa 445 th Avenue Loup River Bridge at 370 th Avenue Public ROW provides access to the canal and maintenance roads. Agricultural and commercial land abuts this access point. Loup River Bridge at U.S. Highway 81 Public ROW provides access to the canal and maintenance roads. Agricultural land abuts this access point. Photo 18. Canal maintenance roads offer vehicle access along much of the length of the canal. Future Land Use Plans The Project runs through two jurisdictions with adopted comprehensive plans and future land use plans City of Columbus and Nance County. In Nance County, future land uses along the Canal are Agriculture and Institutional. In the City of Columbus, future land uses have been designated Single Family Residential, 2010 Loup River Public Power District 22 Initial Study Report

Commercial, Open Space, Institutional, Transportation ROW, and Agriculture. No future land uses conflicts are anticipated based on these plans. Possible Land Use Conflicts Industrial Uses Industrial uses are located adjacent to the Project Boundary at several points along the Loup Power Canal. District operations are compatible with adjacent industrial uses. There are several industrial uses that discharge into the canal or have storage ponds near the canal; these uses are permitted and regulated by local requirements and the Nebraska Department of Environmental Quality (NDEQ). In the event of discharge violations or contamination of canal waters by these industrial uses, the District would be notified by NDEQ. To date, no contamination has occurred. Columbus Rifle Range The Columbus Rifle Range sits immediately to the east of the Loup Power Canal at 78 th Avenue and Lakeview Road northwest of Columbus (see Figure 4-1, Sheet 9). There is no public vehicular access along the canal maintenance roads for 2 miles to the west and 1 mile to the east of the rifle range. There are signs at the rifle range warning passersby to Keep Out and be aware that shooting activities may be occurring. There are no observed land use conflicts at this location. Photo 19. Sign notifying public of rifle range. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 23 Initial Study Report

Conclusions The following conclusions have been reached regarding the land use inventory: In general, Project land use and operations were found to be compatible with adjacent properties. Future land use plans for Nance County and the City of Columbus do not indicate future land use conflicts. Restricted Operations Areas are safely separated from publicly accessible areas and do not conflict with recreation opportunities. Restricted Operations Areas total approximately 556 acres. Approximately 90 percent of the Project lands are accessible to the public from numerous locations improved recreation areas, Wildlife Management Areas, the Loup Power Canal, and siphons. 6. STUDY VARIANCE Changes to the Land Use Inventory study plan, which was approved by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in its Study Plan Determination on August 26, 2009, were relatively minor and were made to improve the consistency of findings and more accurately reflect the Project conditions and those of the adjacent properties: Land uses adjacent to the Project Boundary were classified for properties within 500 feet of the Project Boundary. The Land Use Inventory study plan did not define adjacent properties. The 500-foot distance was established to maintain a consistent evaluation along the length of the canal. Land use categories were revised to more accurately describe the uses adjacent to Project lands. Land uses were defined based on the predominant characteristics of the area surrounding the Project Boundary. Multi-family residential was not found adjacent to the Project Boundary. Mobile Home Residential is a more accurate description of higher-density housing adjacent to the Project Boundary. The Village of Monroe s jurisdiction does not extend within 500 feet of the Project Boundary, so it was not included in the study. In the Land Use Inventory study plan, hunting was listed as an intensive recreation use. Hunting, however, is allowed only on the Loup Lands WMA, so while hunting is an intensive use, the land is better classified as a Wildlife Management Area. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 24 Initial Study Report

7. REFERENCES 163 NAC 4-019. October 9, 1998. Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge. City of Columbus. October 2005. Columbus Comprehensive Plan Update. Available online at http://www.columbusne.us/commdev/columbus%20plan.pdf. Nance County. 1999. Nance County Comprehensive Development Plan. 2010 Loup River Public Power District 25 Initial Study Report

T17N-R5W T17N-R4W 36 31 North Sand Management Area 32 33 Settling Basin Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Nance 1 2 3 5 4 01 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet 6 Merrick Platte 7 8 9 Loup River Platte River Polk 10 11 12 13 14 Butler T16N-R5W T16N-R4W Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 06 Loup River Loup Lands WMA Intake Gate Structure Diversion Weir Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line Sluice Gate Structure South Sand Management Area & Headworks OHV Park Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 05 Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Sheet 1 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District DATE Loup Lands WMA Commercial Industrial Institutional FIGURE 04 Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water August 2010 4-1

Platte Nance 19 2 1 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River 12 13 14 20 21 22 Polk Butler Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture 30 31 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water Park Camp 29 32 Headworks Park Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic East Camp 22 Skimming Weir Settling Basin Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 28 Upper Power Canal 33 Trailhead Camp Private Property Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory Loup Lands WMA Loup River 27 34 Sheet 2 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District DATE FIGURE T17N-R4W August 2010 4-1

Nance 1 2 3 15 5 6 4 Merrick Platte 7 8 9 Loup River Platte River 10 11 14 12 13 14 Beaver Creek PARK ST. Genoa CHESTNUT ST. 13 T17N-R4W T17N-R3W 18 Polk Butler Water Treatment Lagoon Beaver Creek Siphon Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Upper Power Canal 22 27 23 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 26 22 22 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 24 COTTONWOOD ST. 25 Existing Land Use T17N-R4W Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 19 T17N-R3W Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area 30 Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Sheet 3 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District Nance County Commercial Platte County Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

01 Platte 06 05 04 Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River 12 13 14 Polk Butler Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 12 13 Upper Power Canal T17N-R4W WEST PAWNEE AVE. 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Railroad Siphon T17N-R3W Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 18 07 Nance County Platte County 445 AVE. Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line Loup River 08 17 Looking Glass Creek Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture 09 16 Sheet 4 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

Platte Nance 2 1 31 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River Polk 12 13 14 Butler 32 33 34 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 06 T18N-R3W T17N-R3W 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Looking Glass Creek Siphon Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic Looking Glass Creek 430 AVE. Upper Power Canal 05 22 03 04 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 09 415 AVE. Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Sheet 5 10 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

27 Platte 26 25 30 Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River Polk 12 13 14 Butler Dry/Cherry Creek Siphon Monroe Powerhouse Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 34 03 400 AVE. 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet 35 Upper Power Canal Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 02 385 AVE. 36 22 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 01 T18N-R3W T17N-R3W Monroe Existing Land Use 370 AVE. Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 31 Lower Power Canal T18N-R2W T17N-R2W 06 Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Sheet 6 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

Platte 916 Siphon Maintenance Only Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River 12 13 14 30 Polk Butler 29 28 Lower Power Canal 27 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 265 ST. 31 T18N-R2W 355 AVE. 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 32 340 AVE. Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 33 Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 34 Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Sheet 7 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

22 23 310 AVE. 295 AVE. 27 26 Oconee Siphon Wilkinson WMA 25 30 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Nance 1 2 3 34 5 4 Merrick Platte Loup River Platte River Polk 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Butler Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 35 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line Lower Power Canal 36 Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory T18N-R2W 31 Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area T18N-R2W Agriculture Sheet 8 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

Shell Creek SHELL CREEK RD. Wilkinson WMA 30 29 Lower Power Canal 28 27 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Nance 1 2 3 31 5 4 Merrick 81 Platte Loup River Platte River Polk 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 Butler Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 32 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 33 LAKEVIEW RD. Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory Columbus Rifle Range 34 Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area T18N-R1W Agriculture Water DATE Sheet 9 of 14 August 2010 FIGURE 2010 Loup River Public Power District Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW 4-1

Platte Bob Lake Trail Commercial Robert White Trail Industrial Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River 12 13 14 Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water 27 Polk Butler 26 25 30 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 34 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Lower Power Canal Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 63RD AVE. 35 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 48TH AVE. 83RD ST. Sawtooth Weir Bob Lake Trail Lake Babcock Park (Loup Park) 36 Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 36TH AVE. Two Lakes Trail Lake Babcock 31 T18N-R1W T18N-R1E DATE Sheet 10 of 14 August 2010 FIGURE 2010 Loup River Public Power District 4-1

25 30 29 Two Lakes Trail Platte abcock Park up Park) Lake Babcock Lake North Park Lake North Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River Polk 12 13 14 Butler Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Bob Lake Trail Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail 36 Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet T18N-R1W T18N-R1E 31 Robert White Trail 18TH AVE. 32 Intake Canal 05 06 01 04 Commercial Industrial Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic Lake Babcock Waterfowl Refuge Includes Lake Babcock and Lake North and extends: 1/2 Mile North of 83rd Street 1/2 Mile East of 18th Avenue 1/2 Mile South of 65th Street 1/2 Mile West of 48th Avenue Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory Sheet 11 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District 33 DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

Intake Canal Platte 05 04 53RD ST. EAST 03 Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 02 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River 12 13 14 Columbus Powerhouse Polk Butler Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct Lost Creek Flood Control Channel Bob Lake Trail Columbus 08 Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Columbus Powerhouse Park 17 Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Commercial Industrial Institutional Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 3RD AVE. Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water 09 38TH ST. 16 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line EAST 14TH AVE. Columbus 10 Tailrace Canal 15 Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory Sheet 12 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District 11 14 T17N-R1E DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1

Platte Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River 16 Platte River 12 13 14 15 14 13 Polk Butler 23RD ST. 30 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 28 Bob Lake Trail Robert White Trail Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area T17N-R1E Wildlife Management Area Agriculture 21 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Commercial Industrial Institutional Columbus Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 22 27 Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 24 23 Tailrace Canal 8TH ST. 26 25 DATE Sheet 13 of 14 August 2010 FIGURE 2010 Loup River Public Power District 4-1

Platte Bob Lake Trail Commercial Robert White Trail Industrial Nance 1 2 3 5 6 4 Merrick 7 8 9 10 11 Loup River Platte River 12 13 14 ADM Tailrace Canal Two Lakes Trail Developed Recreation Area Intensive Recreation Area Restricted Operations Area Wildlife Management Area Agriculture Institutional Mobile Home Residential Open Space Single-Family Residential Transportation ROW Water 28 Polk Butler 27 26 25 Z:\Projects\Loup_Power_District\37104_LPD_FERC_Relicensing\map_docs\mxd\Landuse_Landcover\Existing_Landuse_Inventory_2009.mxd,tct 33 T17N-R1E 1,000 500 0 1,000 Feet Aerial Imagery: 2009 National Agricultural Inventory Project, Nance and Platte Counties Mosaic 34 Lost Creek Siphon Maintenance Only RIVER ROAD Tailrace Park Platte River Approximate Project Boundary Corporate Limits County Line Section Line 35 Outlet Weir Lost Creek SE 16TH ST. Existing Land Use Loup River Hydroelectric Project FERC Project No. 1256 Study 10.0 Land Use Inventory 36 Sheet 14 of 14 2010 Loup River Public Power District DATE FIGURE August 2010 4-1