Kansas Farm Ended Irrigation Operations in 2008

The Arnold family transitioned their farm near Johnson City to dryland methods after rising costs.

Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Agriculture

Isometric editorial illustration showing a metal irrigation pivot resting in a vast, empty ploughed field, representing water conservation in agriculture. — Steve and Kathleen Arnold transitioned their Johnson City farm to dryland methods in 2008 due to rising irrigation costs and water scarcity. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In 2008, Steve and Kathleen Arnold discontinued irrigation on their farm located near Johnson City, Kansas. The couple shifted to dryland farming techniques after determining the costs associated with irrigation were too high.

Why it matters

The decision was prompted by the economic burden of irrigation and the difficulty of producing sufficient water in the region. This move illustrates how some agricultural producers have adapted to water scarcity and operational costs.

The farm currently relies on an annual average rainfall of 17.5 inches in the area. It has been 18 years since the Arnold family first opted to cease their irrigation practices.

The players

Steve Arnold

Steve Arnold is a farm operator who transitioned his agricultural business to dryland techniques.

Kathleen Arnold

Kathleen Arnold is a co-owner and operator of a farming enterprise that shifted away from irrigation in Southwestern Kansas.

The details

The Arnolds implemented conservation practices as they converted their operation to dryland farming. They had already stopped using three irrigation circles prior to making the full transition in 2008.

The Arnold family turned off their irrigation systems in 2008.
Rainfall occurred at the Arnold farm on June 2, 2026.

Market Landscape

This transition mirrors a broader industry trajectory where growers across the High Plains are moving toward dryland farming to combat water depletion. By abandoning irrigation, these producers position their operations to remain viable amidst long-term regional water scarcity.

Local residents and consumers may see changes in the types of crops produced as regional farms move away from water-intensive irrigation. These shifts can influence the types of produce available from area operations that prioritize conservation methods.

The takeaway

Transitioning to dryland farming requires significant changes to conservation practices and crop management. Farmers considering this shift must evaluate their local rainfall patterns to ensure the long-term sustainability of their land.