What About the Water?

Let’s be honest—water is everything out here. For ranchers, wildlife, small towns, and families, it’s a resource we can’t afford to take for granted. That’s exactly why the Sidewinder H2 Project has so many people worried. Hydrogen production uses a lot of water. We’re talking millions of gallons, drawn from a region that’s already dry and prone to drought. And yet, the public hasn’t been given clear answers about where this water will come from or what happens to it afterward.

Groundwater at Risk

Much of Niobrara County depends on groundwater. If that supply gets tapped too hard—or worse, contaminated—it’s not easy to fix. We’re not talking about a small well here. We’re talking about industrial-scale usage that could change the balance for everyone.

What Happens to the Wastewater?

The hydrogen process leaves behind byproducts and wastewater. Where does it go? How is it handled? No one’s explained that in detail yet. That should concern all of us.

Ranching, Wildlife, and People

Less water doesn’t just affect humans. Wildlife and livestock need it, too. Streams dry up. Grass doesn’t grow. Animals move on. Water is connected to every part of life here—and this project puts a big question mark over it all.