The Kansas Water Office (KWO) was established in 1981 as the water planning, policy, coordination and marketing agency for the state.

The primary statutory function of the agency is the development and implementation of the Kansas Water Plan. State law requires the Kansas Water Office to "Formulate on a continuing basis a comprehensive State Water Plan for the management, conservation and development of the water resources of the state". KWO in coordination with the KWA, also reviews all water laws and makes recommendations to the Governor and Legislature for needed legislation to ensure water policies and programs address the needs of all Kansans.

As defined in Kansas Statute 74-2608

• Collect and compile information pertaining to climate, water and soil as related to the usage of water for agricultural, industrial and municipal purposes and the availability of water supplies in the several watersheds of the state;
• Develop a state plan of water resources management, conservation and development for water planning areas;
• Develop and maintain guidelines for water conservation plans and practices; and
• Shall establish guidelines as to when conditions indicative of drought exist.

Business Hours

The Kansas Water Office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except on State of Kansas holidays.

COVID-19 Operations – In accordance with Ad Astra Reopening Plan guidance, KWO continues agency operations in telework capacity with a limited office presence as needed. To contact the office please email kwo-info@kwo.ks.gov or call 785-296-3185 (toll free 1-888-526-9283) and KWO staff will answer if available and respond as soon as possible. 

For directions to our office, please click here.

Office of the Director

Earl Lewis, Director - BIO
Cara Hendricks - Assistant Director - BIO
Matt Unruh - Chief of Policy & Communications - BIO