DiscoverWater

1954: Before extensive pumping, major droughts cause declines in groundwater and streamflow, with flows as low as 7.0 ft³/s.
1974 - 1979: Modest dry period produces extremely low streamflows at 0.2 ft³/s. The consequences of center pivot irrigation on streamflow are revealed.
Sept - Nov 1983: Second highest recorded pumping corresponds with second lowest groundwater level while streamflow remains normal at 83.3 ft³/s.
1992 - 2001: Long mostly wet period allows streamflow and groundwater to recover.
2003 - 2006: Pumping during a moderate drought leads to smaller steamflows of 1.4 ft³/s than occurred in the more severe 1950’s drought.
2010 - 2014: Pumping during severe drought leads to lowest recorded streamflow of 0.01 ft³/s.

An Interactive Visualization of Water Resources in Western Kansas