Water policies that stood the test of time: a matter of perspective
Date
2009-02
Authors
Graves, Paul, author
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Abstract
This paper examines the effectiveness of several water policies in Kansas: 1) limiting appropriation of water to safe yield quantities (and a closely related policy of closing fully appropriated areas); 2) monitoring water use through metering points of diversion and requiring annual water use reporting; and 3) providing the opportunity to manage groundwater through Intensive Groundwater Use Control Areas, in which corrective controls can be tailored to address specific problems. These policies were selected on the basis of their profound effects on water resource management; their adoption more than 10 years ago, which provides a suitable period of record to judge their performance; and the ability to assess their performance in quantifiable ways. (In addition, these policies are likely to be of interest to individuals attending an irrigation conference.) The policies were evaluated and deemed to have continued relevancy, a record of accomplishing their objectives, and public acceptance.
Description
Presented at the 21st annual Central Plains irrigation conference on February 24-25, 2009 in Colby, Kansas.