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On the wide, flat plains of northwest Kearny County, farmer Ryan Barnhardt has turned the least productive parts of his dryland fields into valuable wildlife habitat while supporting groundwater recharge through playa conservation, according to a release.

These natural, shallow depressions—called playas—were once just bare patches or flooded-out areas on Barnhardt’s land, unsuitable for growing crops. Over time, he discovered their role as temporary wetlands that collect rainwater, filter out contaminants, and help refill the Ogallala Aquifer, a key water source for western Kansas.

Roughly 10 years ago, Barnhardt enrolled his playas in the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) SAFE initiative. The program allowed him to stop farming these low-yield spots and surround them with native grass buffers—about three acres for every playa acre.

According to the release, the switch to conservation has improved water retention, reduced evaporation, and brought back wildlife, including upland game birds and migratory waterfowl. While the program doesn’t offer large profits, it provides steady income and lowers input costs on otherwise unproductive land.

Barnhardt encourages other farmers to consider the benefits. For more, visit playasworkforkansas.com.