Kansas launches livestock water initiative

The Kansas State Conservation Commission has allocated $500,000 for immediate assistance to Kansas livestock producers through a cost-share program to improve existing livestock water supplies.

Pastures that currently have limited or no existing water supplies are the primary targets for this initiative. Project applications should focus on restoration of existing ponds, well development, spring development or other water storage projects.

Producers who apply within 45 days are eligible to receive up to $2,000 per project and $4,000 per landowner. Cost-share projects will be considered and approved on a first-come, first-served basis.

Producers should work with their county conservation district to submit an application. The Division of Conservation will process and approve individual contracts.

Dams must be in satisfactory condition or the landowner must commit to bring the dam to a satisfactory condition and the pond must still be capable of serving a conservation use for stockwater. Cost-share funding can be used for sediment removal, principal spillway replacement, or embankment seeding.

Projects related to well development, spring development, and new ponds will follow current policy requirements.