Kansas Water Authority Approves $40 Million Capital Plan for Ogallala Aquifer Recharge and Irrigation Tech

TOPEKA, KS — The Kansas Water Authority voted unanimously to adopt the 2026–2027 State Water Plan Budget, approving a record $40 million investment dedicated to preserving the depleting Ogallala Aquifer and restoring critical groundwater recharge playa wetlands across Western Kansas.

Preserving Groundwater for the Next Generation of Agriculture

The funding program provides 75% state cost-share grants for agricultural producers transitioning center-pivot irrigation systems to precision mobile drip irrigation (MDI) and automated soil-moisture telemetry sensors, reducing agricultural water consumption by 25% while maintaining corn and sorghum crop yields. The plan also funds the voluntary retirement of over-appropriated groundwater water rights in Groundwater Management Districts (GMDs) 1, 3, and 4.

Governor Laura Kelly stated that saving the Ogallala Aquifer is essential to protect Kansas' agricultural economy and guarantee clean water security for rural communities.

Agricultural Coalitions and Conservation Stances

The Kansas Corn Growers Association and Kansas Farm Bureau praised the voluntary cost-share technology model for supporting farm productivity while achieving measurable water conservation.

Ducks Unlimited and conservation partners commended the playa wetland restoration funding for enhancing natural aquifer filtration.

Program Application Intake

Conservation grant intake opens through local conservation districts on September 15, 2026.