Neighbors, environmental groups oppose hog confinement planned near scenic Niobrara River

By: Paul Hammel

Outlets: Nebraska Examiner

Published: July 21, 2026

Words: 982

Last Updated: 4 weeks, 2 days ago

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Concerns are growing about a 5,000-head hog confinement barn being planned near Valentine, 2.7 miles from the scenic Niobrara River, one of Nebraska’s top tourist destinations.

Critics say the area’s sandy soils and shallow groundwater make it highly susceptible to contamination from hog manure leaching into groundwater or washing into the river, threatening float trips for the 60,000 paddlers who visit the Niobrara each year.

“We don’t really think it’s going to be possible …

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