Cambridge, southwestern Nebraska | The problem is real as in groundwater declines and streamflow declines. The other factor is Nebraska, Colorado, and Kansas are all in a 3 state compact and there is a set amount of water that Kansas, being the down stream state has to receive. The compact was written in the 1940's. With changes in farming techniques and conservation measures such as dams and terraces, we just don't have the run off that we used to have. But, our streamflows are directly related to groundwater pumping and when the groundwater levels decline then streamflows are reduced. It's been in a down trend since wells were drilled in the 60's.
So, to answer your question, it's some of both...regulation and an actual problem. |