Ag and the High Plains Aquifer: Managing Water Use in Midwest Agriculture

May 5, 2026

The High Plains Aquifer plays a critical role in supporting U.S. agriculture—but how is it changing over time?

In this episode, we speak with Dr. James Butler, senior hydrologist at the University of Kansas, to examine current trends in aquifer levels, the factors influencing water use, and what the data tells us about long-term sustainability.

💧 In this episode, we explore:

• Key drivers behind High Plains Aquifer depletion
• The relationship between irrigation practices and groundwater levels
• Regional differences in water availability across the Midwest
• Ongoing research and strategies to improve water efficiency
• What sustainable water management could look like moving forward

This episode offers a data-driven look at groundwater management, agricultural sustainability, and resource planning—valuable for producers, policymakers, and anyone interested in the future of food systems.