News Release

May 18, 2006	Charlie Perry	785-832-3549	cperry@usgs.gov
	Donita Turk	785-832-3570	dmturk@usgs.gov

Irrigation Systems in Kansas High Plains More Efficient But Water Use Not Reduced

A recent study conducted on the effect of irrigation practices on water use within the Kansas High Plains has concluded that water use has not decreased or increased significantly due to more efficient irrigation practices. The data show that even though efficiency of irrigation systems have improved, the total irrigated acres and acres of water intensive crops have both increased simultaneously. This study, done by the U.S. Geological Survey in cooperation with the Kansas Water Office, analyzed for trends in irrigation water use, acres irrigated, precipitation, irrigation system types, and irrigated crop types to determine the effects of irrigation practices on water use.

“The USGS study was done concurrently with a companion study by Kansas State University which examined water conservation of irrigation systems with farmstead level data. These studies are being used to re-evaluate the State cost share programs on irrigation systems as a water conservation tool,” said Susan Stover of the Kansas Water Office. “Our intent is to help irrigators conserve and extend the usable life of the aquifer.”

The following graph shows changing irrigation practices over the study period.

Irrigation Water Use, graph in thousands of acer-feet

Copies of Scientific Investigations Report 2006-5069, “Effects of Irrigation Practices on Water Use in the Groundwater Management Districts within the Kansas High Plains,” by Charles A. Perry, may be accessed online at http://pubs.water.usgs.gov/sir2006-5069/ or may be purchased from the USGS Information Services, Box 25286, Federal Center, Denver, Colo. 80225, or call 1-888-ASK-USGS.

The USGS serves the Nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.

To receive USGS news releases go to www.usgs.gov/public/list_server.html to subscribe.

**** www.usgs.gov ****