Average groundwater levels across Western and Central Kansas fell by more than a foot in 2021. That’s according to the Kansas Geological Survey. They say they greatest declines were in the Southwest part of the State. The survey measures about 1,400 wells every year to monitor the health of aquifers in Western and Central Kansas. Those measurements showed an overall average decline of over one foot last year. Most parts of the Region saw well below-average precipitation for the year, especially during the Summer growing season for agricultural crops. Add to that, an abnormally dry 2020 and a big drop occurred. The entire State of Kansas, despite recent snow fall and rainfall, is under some type of Drought Advisory.
The High Plains Aquifer is a network of water-bearing rock that extends to eight states. There are three aquafers in Kansas. The Ogallala Aquifer, the Great Bend Prairie Aquifer and the Equus Beds. The Ogallala Aquifer lies under most of Western Kansas.
