Ogallala Dry-Up
The Aquifer is Dying
Ogallala Aquifer
The Ogallala aquifer is drying up and we can save it. The aquifer supplies water for many farmers in the south and could be a serious problem if it runs dry. About 30% of the aquifer's water is being used, but it's also being misused. The aquifer is almost drying up faster than we can fill it, and something needs to change.
Ogallala Aquifer
This is a image of what the aquifer layers look like. There is a thick layer of dirt between the ground and the actual aquifer.
Rate of Depletion
This shows the rate of depletion in the few past years. The water levels have gone down quite a bit since 1985.
aquifer's Location
This image tells where the aquifer is located, mostly in the southern states.
Water Usage
Without the aquifer, many of the nations crops will die. The aquifer is used by many farmers and also recreational use, but mostly misused or overused. If we stop overusing the water the Ogallala aquifer could be full once again.
Location
This shows the location of the aquifer, mostly .in southern states.
Ground Layers
This image represents how far a well has to be dug to be able to reach the water.
Rate of depleting
This graph shows the rate of the depletion in the states with the aquifer. It shows that Nebraska has used the most of Ogallala's water
What happens if we can't solve this problem?
The Aquifer's Future Years
If the aquifer doesn't fill in the next few decades, there will be a significant impact on food production because the crops would be unable to grow without the water. According to a study by engineering professors at Kansas State, the aquifer will be 60% depleted by 2060 unless water use is reduced now.
How Could We fix this?
Solutions to The Aquifers Depletion
If society doesn't realize the problem soon, the problem will just get worse. If we can cut back on water usage by 20% today, it will improve the waters life which over all improves the crops life in the future years. Farmers are also finding ways to preserve the water in order to keep the aquifer alive.
Lifeblood of Farming | Ogallala Aquifer