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Drought conditions are prevalent throughout parts of Kansas heading into the summer season. The Kansas Water Office (KWO) develops and maintains guidelines for water conservation plans and practices.

The Water Conservation Plan Guidelines define drought declarations, water system drought stage, and drought stage triggers, goals, and response actions for public water suppliers. The guidelines were updated in 2023 using more current water use data for communities and Rural Water Districts. The guidelines, along with other useful drought information, can be found on the Climate and Drought page on the KWO website.

The guidelines can be used by public water suppliers to assist them in preparing a water conservation plan. Municipal Water Conservation Plans are tools for managing both long-term water use efficiency and short-term drought response.

Several Kansas Statutes require up to date water conservation plans for anyone: (1) purchasing water from the State Water Marketing Program, (2) participating in the Water Assurance District Program, (3) sponsoring or purchasing the public water supply portion of a Multipurpose Small Lakes Program project, (4) transferring water under the Water Transfers Act, or (5) applying for a loan from the State Revolving Fund.

The drought response section highlights information about drought stages and responses.

The KWO also provides a guide for city, county and water system officials within Kansas that advises on local planning and coordination, as well as disaster declarations and state and federal assistance. 

The water conservation plan guidelines provided in this document are intended for use by public water suppliers who are described as municipal water users in the Kansas Water Appropriation Act

All public water suppliers are encouraged to develop and implement water conservation plans. Contact the Kansas Water Office at kwo.info@kwo.ks.gov with any questions.