Water took center stage at the third annual Western Kansas Ag Summit, held on Dec. 9 at Fort Hays State University’s Robbins Center. Established by Kansas District 110 Representative Ken Rahjes, chair of the House Agriculture Committee, and Dr. Grady Dixon, dean of FHSU’s Werth College of Science, Technology, and Mathematics, the summit aims to address critical challenges facing Kansas farmers, ranchers, financial institutions, and ag businesses.

Dean Dixon opened the 2024 event by welcoming around 60 attendees, including agricultural business leaders, state legislators, and members of FHSU and affiliated schools.

“Reliable water availability and quality are essential for the success of western Kansas communities and businesses. It’s crucial for all stakeholders to understand what’s needed to maintain this resource,” Dixon stated.

Throughout the day, speakers explored pressing issues related to water scarcity and management, highlighting the growing challenges faced by the state’s agricultural sector.