Role Of Western Kansas Mini-Wetlands On Farming, Aquifer Under A Microscope

By Tim Carpenter, Kansas Reflector

May 23, 2021

TOPEKA — New research on shallow depressions transformed into mini-wetlands by rainfall and runoff in western Kansas will examine consequences of planting crops on these patches and influence of that activity on the underground High Plains aquifer.

During wet periods these low spots in fields can hold water for weeks or months, host a variety of plants and attract eagles, swans, geese and pelicans. About four of every five of the 22,000 lagoon-like features in Kansas — called playas — have been cropped.

The Kansas Geological Survey and Kansas Biological Survey at the University of Kansas in conjunction with the University of Minnesota at Mankato and the University of Waterloo in Canada secured a $270,000 federal grant for a two-year research project. The idea is to consider the influence of farming on playas and to what degree agricultural activity altered recharge of the High Plains aquifer, also referred to as the Ogallala.

“Our study will provide information as to whether conserving or restoring playas could play a role in helping to reduce aquifer water-level declines,” said Tony Layzell, a Kansas Geological Survey assistant scientist who will oversee the project.

He said farming was known to increase playa sedimentation and diminish the volume of water these basins could hold.

“It’s possible these combined effects reduce recharge rates, thereby reducing the amount of water entering the High Plains aquifer,” Layzell said.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s investment recognized rainfall in western Kansas was insufficient to match pumping demand on the aquifer. Understanding the role of playas in recharging the aquifer could contribute to understanding of the aquifer’s health. It’s important to quality of life in especially dry regions of western Kansas because nearly all water used by cities, industry and agriculture must be pumped from the aquifer.

This story was originally published by Kansas Reflector. For more stories from the Kansas Reflector visit Kansas Reflector.