Dateline: July 18, 2002

Aquifer levels decline in Donley County

By Roger Estlack, Clarendon Enterprise

Groundwater levels dropped in Donley County during the past year, according to a report released last week by the Panhandle Groundwater Conservation District.

The portion of the Ogallala Aquifer located in Donley County dropped by 0.6 feet, and the Blaine/Whitehorse/Quartermaster Aquifer declined by 0.8 feet.

District-wide the Ogallala increased by an average of 0.6 feet. The Blaine/Whitehorse/Quartermaster fell 0.1 feet.

In other groundwater news, summertime means the beginning of the district’s water quality season.

Almost 300 wells across the district are tested annually for water quality. The district also provides water quality testing free of charge for any resident.

For more information about water levels or water quality, call the district at 806-883-2501.