Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas will receive $9 million from the federal Inflation Reduction Act for two drought mitigation projects. The Kansas Equus Beds Aquifer Recharge, Storage, and Recovery Project near Wichita will receive $7 million, crucial for supplying water to over 20% of the state’s users. The Kansas Voluntary Agreements Program will receive $2 million to support the Kansas Water Transition Assistance Program, aimed at conserving approximately 10,000 acre-feet of water.

Governor Kelly emphasized the need for federal funding to help local farms, towns, and wildlife cope with drought impacts. Representative Sharice Davids, who supported the Inflation Reduction Act, backed the funding as well. This investment builds on nearly $33 million previously allocated for water projects in Kansas. The Inflation Reduction Act overall includes $550 million for domestic water supply and $4 billion for water conservation in drought-stricken areas, contributing to over $2.5 billion in announced drought mitigation projects.

“I’m glad to see resources from the Inflation Reduction Act coming home to Kansas,” said Representative Sharice Davids. “The ongoing effects of drought are a persistent threat across our state. This investment is a critical step to protect Kansans’ livelihoods, support the work our farmers do to feed the world and protect the economic security of towns across Kansas.”