Kansas is recognized nation-wide for its proactive practices of conserving water for future generations. We recognize that without sufficient water, agriculture will not be able to continue to drive the state’s economy.
Located directly above the Ogallala Aquifer, the world’s largest underground water supply, Kansas has existing water rights available and is implementing proactive water conservation practices allowing farmers and ranchers to manage their own water while still preserving the aquifer for generations to come. Because of the state’s proactive water laws, Kansas has a bright future for water availability compared with other regions that also depend on the Ogallala Aquifer.
Kansas is currently working on the Vision for the Future of Water in Kansas, which will align the priority of growing the economy with the strategies and actions necessary to ensure a reliable water supply is available to support that growth. We recognize that dairies and feedlots are the economic driver of western Kansas. As we move forward with searching for ways to conserve our water supply for future generations, our conservation practices will concentrate on methods best suited to operating successful livestock operations.