Ground water is the primary water source for much of western Kansas.
In order to effectively manage ground-water use, changes in water levels and the associated saturated thickness in aquifers are regularly and accurately monitored. As part of a statewide program, about 1,380 wells in 47 central and western Kansas counties are measured annually. A larger view of this map is available. Techniques for measuring water levels are well established. A lead weight is attached to the end of a steel measuring tape.