Kansas State University's Kansas Center for Agricultural Resources and the Environment (KCARE) is taking significant strides to combat the impact of drought on farms in Kansas. With irrigation and water use research at its core, K-State is working relentlessly to provide solutions to the state's water challenges.
The state's agriculture heavily relies on approximately 3 million acres of irrigated land, but changing climate patterns could jeopardize this vital resource. The eastern part of Kansas enjoys ample rainfall, while the western side faces dry conditions and relies on the finite Ogallala-High Plains Aquifer for water supplies.
The Ogallala Aquifer, spanning eight states, including Kansas, is the largest underground reservoir in the US and crucial for sustaining agriculture, economies, and communities in the region. It is being depleted faster than it can replenish, making K-State's irrigation technology and water research all the more crucial.
Southwest Research-Extension Center in Garden City is focusing on water usage optimization through deficit irrigation management, advanced technologies, and irrigation scheduling systems. They are also exploring alternative water-efficient crops like cotton, which could thrive in Kansas.
This out-of-the-box approach has yielded promising results. Researchers are actively testing their technologies on real farms, partnering with sociologists to understand the cultural significance of water use in the region. Through these efforts, the perception of water conservation among Kansas producers has evolved positively over the years.
This work impacts agricultural industries, infrastructure, and supply chains in western Kansas, requiring multidisciplinary research, outreach, and education for the future of water resources. K-State is committed to educating the next generation of professionals.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-songbird839
Categories: Kansas, General