The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (OLLI at UNL) is hosting the upcoming fall symposium, “Global and Regional Water Issues: Challenges & Solutions,” on Saturday, Sept 27, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at UNL’s East Campus Union, 1705 Arbor Drive, Lincoln. The symposium is open to the public, with options to attend in person or via Zoom. The cost is $20 for in person attendance, which includes lunch, or $15 for virtual participation. OLLI membership is not required to attend and participate. The registration deadline is September 11.
Water is one of the most critical resources for sustaining life, agriculture, and economic development. Challenges such as scarcity, pollution, climate change, and equitable distribution continue to threaten water security worldwide and right here in Nebraska.
This symposium will begin with an overview of global water issues. Then, the focus will move to a more regional approach, with presentations and discussions exploring such topics as groundwater depletion, agricultural runoff, and the sustainability of the Ogallala Aquifer. Experts will examine policies, conservation strategies, and scientific advancements aimed at securing water resources for future generations.
This event is essential for researchers, farmers, policymakers, and anyone concerned about water’s role in shaping the future of our environment and economy.
Featured Speakers:
Jahyang So –A member of Steering Committee of the Global Water Partnership, a global action network with over 2,800 partner organization in 179 countries.
Deborah Bathke, Ph.D. – Climate scientist and research associate professor at University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL)
Chittaranjan Ray, Ph.D. – Managing director of the Water for Food Institute at UNL.
Anthony Schutz, J.D. – Professor of Agricultural Law at UNL
Katie Cameron – Survey hydrogeologist and assessment at the Lower Platte South Natural Resources District in Lincoln.
Ethan Freese – Producer and photographer at the School of Natural Resources at UNL
Dan Snow – Research professor at the School of Natural Resources at UNL.
Marty Stange – Retired environmental supervisor at the Hastings Utilities in Hastings, Neb.
Download a flyer and register for the symposium online at https://olli.unl.edu Everyone must sign in to an existing account or create an account to register for this event, or call the OLLI office to register at 402-472-6265.
The symposium is sponsored by the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNL and supported by Central Valley Ag; Bridge to Better Living with offices in Lincoln and Omaha; HoriSun Hospice; Eastmont; and Changing Spaces SRS.
The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at UNL is a member-driven organization committed to providing and promoting superior-quality learning experiences, events and travel opportunities designed for adults 50 years old and older who believe that "curiosity never retires."
More details at: https://olli.unl.edu