University of Kansas Groundwater Monitoring: Tracking Water Levels in the High Plains Aquifer
Why Groundwater Monitoring Matters in Western Kansas
Water is the lifeblood of agriculture, industry, and communities across the United States. In the western portion of the state, the High Plains aquifer—an extensive underground reservoir that spans eight states—provides the primary source of water for irrigation, livestock, and municipal use. As climate variability and growing water demands intensify, understanding the health of this aquifer has become a national priority. The University of Kansas, through its Kansas Geological Survey (KGS) and partnership with the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s Division of Water Resources (DWR), leads a comprehensive monitoring program that delivers critical data to stakeholders.
Annual Groundwater Level Measurements: A Snapshot of Aquifer Health
Each January, a dedicated crew from KGS and DWR visits roughly 1,400 wells across 48 counties to record the depth to water. This timing is intentional: measuring in the off‑season reduces the influence of short‑term pumping spikes that occur during the growing season, providing a clearer picture of long‑term trends. In 2026, the crew will focus on 569 wells monitored by KGS and an additional 824 wells measured by DWR field offices in Garden City, Stafford, and Stockton.
Key Locations and Their Significance
- Colby – January 2
- Goodland – January 3
- Elkhart – January 4
- Liberal – January 5
These sites represent a cross‑section of the aquifer’s geography, from the Ogallala portion in the western third of Kansas to the Equus Beds around Wichita and the Great Bend Prairie aquifer near Pratt. By covering such a diverse range, the program captures variations in recharge rates, pumping intensity, and geological characteristics.
What the Data Reveal About the High Plains Aquifer
Historically, the Ogallala aquifer has experienced a steady decline in water levels since the mid‑20th century, largely due to increased irrigation withdrawals. Recent precipitation patterns, however, have introduced new dynamics. Brownie Wilson, KGS water‑data manager, notes that the 2025 growing season saw timely rains that should raise water levels in south‑central Kansas. Yet, in the western third of the state, results are expected to be mixed: some counties may see stable levels, while others could continue to decline.
Interpreting the Numbers
When the crew measures depth to water, they record the vertical distance from the well’s surface to the water table. A smaller depth indicates a higher water level, which is generally favorable for water‑dependent activities. Conversely, increasing depths signal a lowering aquifer, raising concerns about long‑term sustainability. By comparing annual measurements, scientists can identify trends, assess the effectiveness of water‑management policies, and forecast future conditions.
Implications for Farmers, Water Managers, and Policy Makers
For producers, reliable groundwater data informs irrigation scheduling, crop selection, and investment decisions. Water managers use the data to adjust allocation plans, enforce withdrawal limits, and design recharge projects. Policy makers rely on the findings to draft regulations that balance economic growth with environmental stewardship.
Case Study: Adaptive Irrigation in Goodland
Goodland’s irrigation district recently adopted a variable‑rate irrigation system that adjusts water application based on real‑time groundwater levels. By integrating KGS data, the district can reduce water use during periods of low aquifer recharge, thereby extending the life of the resource while maintaining crop yields.
How to Access and Use Groundwater Monitoring Data
The KGS website hosts a searchable database of historical annual measurements for each well. Researchers, students, and the public can download data sets, visualize trends, and incorporate the information into hydrological models. The data are available at KGS Water Levels.
Getting Involved: Volunteer and Professional Opportunities
- Volunteer Fieldwork – Local residents can assist with well access and data collection during the January survey.
- Academic Research – Graduate students in geology, hydrology, or environmental science can collaborate on data analysis projects.
- Policy Advisory – Water‑resource stakeholders can join advisory committees that review monitoring results and recommend policy changes.
Future Directions: Enhancing Groundwater Resilience
Beyond annual measurements, the University of Kansas is exploring advanced monitoring techniques such as remote sensing, real‑time sensor networks, and machine‑learning models to predict aquifer responses to climate change. These innovations aim to provide stakeholders with earlier warnings of critical thresholds and enable proactive management.
Collaborative Initiatives
Partnerships with federal agencies, such as the U.S. Geological Survey, and private sector firms are expanding the scope of monitoring. Joint projects are underway to assess the impact of large‑scale irrigation projects on aquifer recharge and to develop cost‑effective recharge strategies.
Take Action: Protecting the High Plains Aquifer
Stakeholders across the region can play a pivotal role in safeguarding this vital resource. By staying informed, adopting efficient water‑use practices, and supporting research initiatives, communities can ensure that the High Plains aquifer continues to support agriculture, industry, and daily life for generations to come.
Submit your application today to join the University of Kansas and contribute to cutting‑edge groundwater research.
Explore related articles on groundwater management and climate resilience on the KU News website.
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