BORGER, Texas (KVII) — Having a better understanding of land management enables you to become a good steward of the Ogallala Aquifer.
An educational summit hosted by the Ogallala Commons in Borger at the Dome Civic Center helped people realize they can increase their water security for the future.
“We have a watershed that is in a degraded condition, and it rapidly drains the landscape, and so whenever we get water, it just kind of flash floods off, and we want to reverse that rapid drainage and retain the water longer so we can keep more and ultimately recharge the Ogallala Aquifer,” said Will Masters, environmental educator with Ogallala Commons.
The show-and-tell demonstration offered to the public showed them they are not powerless when it comes to extending the life of the Ogallala Aquifer.
“So, recharge is going to be very dependent on the area and the geology of the area,” said Ashley Ausbrooks, district hydrologist with Panhandle Groundwater Conservation District. “Recharge is most efficient in the area of the playa lakes.”
The Ogallala Aquifer is the largest and most critical aquifer in the country, 174,000 square miles across eight states, and is depleting at a much faster rate than the refill rate.
“It’s also important for us to collect data,” said Ausbrooks. “Our groundwater district collects a lot of data so that we can better understand what is happening to the aquifers.”
“Any efforts you can make in your personal life to plant drought-resistant plants to become mindful of the water you use helps, said Donovan Johnson, riverscape restoration technician. “Also, be sure to get out and experience these areas. Show the community that you do care about the water you have.”
Another educational summit and field day hosted by Ogallala Commons is scheduled for the month of May in Amarillo. There is also an event hosted by Ogallala Commons in Springfield, Colorado, on Thursday.
Degraded watershed and rapid drainage spur push to retain water and recharge Ogallala (KVII)