Western Kansas Wetlands: Playa Lakes

Many people do not think that wetlands exist in Kansas. They do!

Throughout western Kansas there are depressions in the fields which most people call mud holes, potholes, or wet spots when it rains. These small wetlands are more commonly known as “playa lakes.” These unique depression areas can range in size from a tenth of an acre to 50 acres or more. In western Kansas there are thousands of playa lakes.

Playa lakes may hold water for a very short period of time or for many months. Whichever the case, these playa lake wetlands are teaming with life. Playa lakes can be a great place to watch and photograph wildlife, support hunting opportunities, and just be a place to enjoy nature. The habitat is great for nesting/brooding, feeding, and cover for all wildlife. Playa lakes also play a very important part in the recharge of the Ogallala Aquifer. In addition, they provide natural pollution control by removing chemicals, nutrients, and sediments in an agricultural setting.

Farming these wet areas (playas) often results in a lost crop due to wet conditions. This can be frustrating and expensive with the high input costs of herbicides, fuel, fertilizer, and seed. Even though grain prices are much better now, the better economic choice may be restoring your wetland and save on high input cost gambling for a harvest.

The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) can help landowners with these wet areas by improving the wetland value through the planning process. There are many simple restoration practices such as grass planting, silt removal, and wetland improvements which will restore or enhance the wetland. There are several programs that can provide financial assistance to landowners such as the Continuous Conservation Reserve Program (CCRP) or the Wetlands Reserve Program (WRP). Depending on the program, the landowner(s) can receive cost-share assistance for restoration, rental payment(s), or even elect an easement payment.

For assistance and information about enhancing or restoring wetlands, please contact your local NRCS office or conservation district office located at your local county USDA Service Center.

For more information about NRCS programs, visit the Kansas NRCS Web site at www.ks.nrcs.usda.gov.

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Last Modified: 12/10/2008