MEAD — Researchers shared their findings after studying the impacts of the AltEn ethanol plant on the Mead community.

Scientists from UNL, UNMC and Creighton University held a town hall at the Mead Fire Hall Monday evening, noting that their studies of the area’s air, soil and water show that pesticide concentrations remain higher than normal, though they have declined since AltEn’s closure two years ago.

Researchers indicated that bee colonies have seen increased survival rates since AltEn’s departure, which came under pressure from the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy.

More studies will be released in the coming months, with presenters cautioning that while it appears there has been a “recovery,” little research has been done on the air quality and the effects of constant esposure. They also noted water quality continues to be impacted by the effects of the AltEn plant.

Newly elected county supervisor for Saunders County District 3 Bill Reece was among those in attendance. Reece's district includes the area of Saunders County in which AltEn resided.

"Hopefully we can learn from it and something like this doesn't happen again," Reece said.